MovieChat Forums > I'll Sleep When I'm Dead (2004) Discussion > And I thought Croupier was boring.

And I thought Croupier was boring.


The protagonist is a lost-soul, living a life of guilt. He has killed before. He had left his family for a better life. He returns home only to find his brother dead and gripped with vengeful anger, he’s out for blood… any other clichés Mike Hodges? Why not have him join a ragtag baseball team that enters a series against a rich and ill-mannered group of yuppies? Why not dress the rich team in matching uniforms, (complete with surname embroideries,) and pit the two against each other in a championship? A championship that will take heart to win, not skill or money. A championship in which the seemingly inept faction of misfits rise to an inconceivable victory in the form of a full count ninth inning homerun, crushed deep into the stands at the swing of Clive Owen’s steady bat. If that troop in the sandlot pulled it off…

Save youself the four bucks and rent The Limey instead.

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I agree that THE LIMEY is a better picture overall - yet also a revenge plot - both quite simple. Yes, I"LL SLEEP has its problems - mostly the script I felt though. I think Clive Owen gives a wonderful, understated performance and of course, you're entitled to your opinion, but I think CROUPIER is a marvelous film. One of the best films Ive ever seen on writing and writer's block (aside from all the casino stuff).

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I didn't think this film was too cliched. Every revenge movie that I've seen has the main charcter going on a rampage while looking extremely cool in a leather jacket and sunglasses. This movie here, however, focuses not just on revenge but on wasting your life. I loved Clive Owen's performance. Everything was in his eyes. I've yet to see Croupier because the local rental place doesn't carry it which I'll have to purchase it. Anyways, while "I'll Sleep When I'm Dead" isn't perfect, I have to admit that I found it thought-provoking and some of the performances were good.

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I think this movie is VERY good, and if you've heard the ebert & roeper review, you probably would think it deserved better. All of the characters were either bad, evil or just plain monsters.

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CLIVE 'Always' Delivers!!!!! I LOVE 'Croupier', own the DVD. Also like this Film (Esp. JRM!!!!!!!!) Takes a 'Few' screenings to 'get it' I guess. Mr. Hodges has his own style, and perhaps, is a bit of an 'Acquired Taste'.

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I agree. The Limey was much better.

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i agree whith ennis_jackever. really enjoyed the film. subtle themes and class acting. and i'm meeting mike hodges tomorrow, YAY!! lol. but, really did enjoy the film. easier to follow then the like of get carter, and the violence (though a little in your face) worked well.

....so there!

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