Trainspotting tells the tale of 5 friends living in Scotland surrounded by drugs and alcohol and their lives. Renton (Ewan McGregor) is the narrator of the story and we see most of the story from his perspective which includes his hallucinations and visions when he is high on heroin, or trying to recover from heroin. I can’t think of anything more to say about the films plot which would not spoil it.
I went in, not seeing a trailer and only having a vague idea about the actual story. This, i feel, helped me enjoy the film more and it is what i suggest you do if it is your first time viewing it.
THE ACTORS
Wow. The 5 main actors in this are superb, you really believe that these are addicts and/or psychopaths. Ewan McGregor, being our narrator throughout the film is pitch perfect, he is the best drug user i have ever seen portrayed on screen. The other supporting actors, outside the group of friends are all great and solidify the realistic tones of the movie.
THE DIRECTOR
Danny Boyle you clever f**k. The way Boyle films the hallucination scenes are by far the most memorable parts of the movie and are extremely well done. Besides the hallucination scenes everything else is great, the camera work, the editing, the whole style of the movie. Danny Boyle is just a great director.
This is an odd yet powerful movie. Great acting, great directing, an amazing screenplay but, for me, there was just something lacking which would have given it a better score. However it is definitely recommended and a must see movie. Not everyone will love it, but everyone will be affected by it.
MY SCORE
8/10