David Brent: Life on the Road (Review)

David Brent: Life on the Road (Film Review) 2016

Directed by: Ricky Gervais
Starring: Ricky Gervais and Doc Brown
Genre: Mockumentary

Brent is back, the star of the British mockumentary TV show The Office.

The film is definitely funny. While some laughs are a little low quality, David Brent: Life on the Road definitely achieves the goal of being a good comedy. Ricky Gervais' wit shines through in this character.

A major issue with the film is its pacing. Once Brent begins his Reading gigs, the movie slows down and becomes repetitive. It feels as though the cast are really getting nowhere, the plot likewise. I really enjoyed the office scenes and lead-up to the band's playing.

Some of the on-camera interviews seemed quite forced, mainly the interviews with the other band-members. Unlike with Gervais and the office crew, the band's comments felt forced and unnecessary.

I really enjoyed the style of the film, with some interesting visual choices. The documentary spoof seems very natural, save a few mistimed interviews, almost convincing the audience that David Brent is an actual person.

Although the plot was relatively predictable, it's still a fun and witty film that I would recommend if a laugh is what you're after.

7/10.

Rated 16, runtime 85 minutes.