A sequel for Trainspotters only
A plot which diverts substantially from its source – Irvine Welsh’s follow-up novel is threadbare in parts, but Boyle’s energetic direction, beautiful set design and some engaging vignettes – notably an uproarious heist mounted by Renton and Sickboy upon the unsuspecting punters in a loyalist pub – hold the attention.
Boyle and screenwriter John Hodge chose to keep the onceiconic, now much copied ‘‘choose life’’ speech, but this time it’s less viciously political and much more personal, meandering off into Renton’s own individual lament on life.
Boyle says the film has hope, and it does, surprisingly, for
Spud, but really it’s about the loss of hope, the disappointment of realising it’s too late in life to fulfil your potential.
McGregor, his feud with Boyle now over, has his star power, but actually the highlights are a remarkable turn from Miller, angry, frustrated and angular, and Bremner, who uses all his physical traits to deliver a performance both funny and poignant.
A heavy reliance on flashback will entrance fans of the original, but exclude newcomers; similarly the soundtrack offers hints of the first time, before closing with a rendition of the signature piece, Iggy Pop’s
Boyle wanted to dodge the curse of the sequel. He’s managed that – but the price is a movie that will be loved by those who loved the original, but which may be irrelevant to those too young to care.