Buster

Released 23rd November 1988, Buster follows the story of 1963’s Royal Mail train robbery from the perspective of Buster Edwards, one of the criminals involved. As a British made film, the production value, notably lighting and camera, is lower but actually better-fit for the story and setting of poorer London. By following Buster Edwards, the film delves into the themes of wealth, family and crime. One thing that I like about the narrative is that it makes a greater emphasis of the crime’s aftermath as oppose to the lead up and actual crime itself. This is interesting as it is able to make use of the specific crime and how it provoked the legal system in unique ways while also emphasising its themes in relation to Buster’s life after the crime.

Buster is portrayed by musician Phil Collins who actually does a great job in the role. He is not oscar-worthy but he reacts to every scenario naturally while also providing a lovable charisma which kept you engaged through Buster’s positive and negative beats. Julie Walters delivers a sympathetic performance as Buster’s submissive wife June. While Buster does not intentionally suppress June’s life, you understand how June feels she has to act as her wife; she wants to be a part of Buster’s dream but also interjects for the benefit of their daughter Nicky (who is represented by the weak child actor Ellie Beaven). Besides Collins and Walters, the remainder of the cast are unimportant and fail to enhance the drama of the narrative; that said, Larry Lamb’s Bruce Reynolds is an interesting comparison to how Buster desired his post-heist lifestyle to turn out.

With Phil Collins as the lead actor, all of the licensed music is provided by him; the music used is gratuitous and fails to enhance scenes through lyrics or general tone and Anne Dudley’s soundtrack is serviceable but ultimately forgettable. As stated earlier, the visual atmosphere feels very grounded with its barebones lighting and shooting. This is also aided by the use of practical effects at every point. Overall, Buster is your typical British crime film with a lead who is charismatic enough to make it feel unique amidst its oversaturated sub-genre.