Sammy-Jo Cervantes There are moments that feel comical, some horrific, and some downright inspiring but the tonal shifts hardly matter as the end results come to a film that's perfect for this time.

Asad Almond A clunky actioner with a handful of cool moments.

Tobias Burrows It's easily one of the freshest, sharpest and most enjoyable films of this year.

Scotty Burke It is interesting even when nothing much happens, which is for most of its 3-hour running time. Read full review

TheLittleSongbird Found '24 Hour Party People', telling the story of Tony Wilson and the rise and fall of the Manchester Factory Records, an absorbing and very well done biographical comedy-drama. Not a flawless film or among the best biopics or overall films ever seen but there is a lot to admire.'24 Hour Party People' may go on a little longer than necessary and the final parts are not as strong as the rest of the film, with a sense that it ran out of gas. It would help if one knew and had knowledge of Wilson and the music and mania of the Madchester years, that way they would find that it would make more sense. As a documentary-like film or a biopic it is inaccurate and strays far from the truth, but as it is common in biopics it didn't feel as big an issue.For its flaws, there is a lot to recommend with '24 Hour Party People'. It is a good-looking film with a good amount of authenticity, and having the touch of Wilson often telling the tale talking directly to the camera was quite a masterpiece. The vintage music is just great.The script is also strong, with an adept balance of irreverent and genuinely funny comedy, gripping conflict and poignant drama. The story has a huge amount of evocative energy and is always absorbing.It's very well cast, with a brilliant Steve Coogan who plays Wilson with gleeful relish and expert comic timing.Overall, very well done. 8/10 Bethany Cox

grantss Brilliant, innovative telling of the Madchester story.The story of the emergence of Manchester as a major musical centre in the late-1970s and 80s. The story is told through the eyes of Tony Wilson (played by Steve Coogan), Grenada TV presenter/journalist, owner of The Hacienda, a famed Manchester club, and founder of Factory Records. We see the where it all started - the Sex Pistols first gig in Manchester and the emergence of bands like the Buzzcocks and, most importantly, Joy Division. We see how New Order formed from Joy Division and later we meet the Happy Mondays... Wonderfully entertaining yet edifying. It helps if you're into bands like Joy Division and the Happy Mondays, as I am. Even if you're not, it is worth watching to gain a better knowledge of musical history and the importance of what took place in Manchester in the 80s.This movie could easily have degenerated into a dry, linear history lesson. However, director Michael Winterbottom keeps the audience engaging and entertained through many innovative methods: breaking the fourth wall, humour, Wilson's narration and some interesting visual effects.As you would expect, there is a lot of music in the movie, and it is all great. Well chosen and timed too, as the music gives the movie its momentum.Solid performance by Steve Coogan in the lead role. While mostly a dramatic role, there are quite a few comedic moments, and Coogan is in his element there. Good supporting cast too.

Gordon-11 This film recounts the birth of a record label in Manchester, and its journey to lift Manchester as the place to be for modern music.Initially I found "24 Hour Party People" quite boring. It was probably because I was not familiar with the music of Joy Division, New Order, or the Happy Mondays. Hence, the film becomes a quasi documentary of a businessman and his drug fuelled musicians who live hedonistic lives. As I do not know the background history, I find the plot not so interesting or captivating.The parties in ""24 Hour Party People" are not the sort of parties I had in mind when I watched this film. Maybe this led to the disappointment I felt.

DVD_Connoisseur Watching "24 Hour Party People" was a nostalgic experience for me, bringing back memories of nights many moons ago. From beginning to end, the film is a genuine treat for anybody who experienced the Madchester scene or who has an appreciation for the music that came out of it.Steve Coogan's portrayal of the late, great Anthony H. Wilson is marvellously entertaining. Every scene is a joy to behold and the dialogue is hilariously true to life.The scenes around Manchester are superbly staged and there's a smörgåsbord of familiar faces in the movie. On top of this, the soundtrack and the recreation of the Hacienda's final night are too good to miss.9 out of 10. Not a perfect film but a genuine pleasure to view.