Stuart: A Life Backwards Reviews

Funny, and touching.

Tom Hardy is absolutely phenomenal in this film. He really needs to start receiving the accolades that he so deserves.

In this sad take of a homeless alcoholic/drug addict there is a remarkable performance from Tom Hardy and further evidence to suggest he is the finest British actor of his generation.

Tom Hardy gives a career best performance as Stuart a homeless, sometimes violent alcoholic who also indulges in drugs from time to time. Benedict Cumberbatch co-stars as Alexander a writer who also works as a carer for the homeless to make a it more pocket money.


The story like the novel is told backwards so from the off we learn that Stuart has passed away and Alexander narrates the story like the book and tells the humorous and heartbreaking tale of his good friend Stuart. When the owners of the homeless hostel Alexander works at and Stuart visits are arrested the two meet at a meeting to free the couple and strike a bond when Alexander realizes that there is more to Stuart than meets the eye as he proves himself to be intelligent and he even comes up with a way of peaceful protest that leads to the carers being released. When Alexander decides to write a book about Stuart the two begin to bind and develop a loving friendship and as Alexander learns more about Stuarts past he comes to realize why the seemingly intelligent young man ended up becoming homeless but Alexander also has to put up with Stuarts drinking and his rage of violent outbreaks that occur. Hardy plays

Based on a novel that was also a true story Stuart: A life backwards is easily one of the best independent films I have ever seen largely due to the chemistry between the leading men, Hardy's performance as Stuart is so convincing and strong it is amazing that not that many people know about this film and it is a shame that the film was made for television and not given a wide release as he would have won numerous awards for his portrayal, he goes from dark to joyful at the click of the finger sometimes and makes you care so much for the character, Benedict Cumberbatch is also very good in his role as Alexander but this is Hardy's movie from start to finish and he makes the most of it.

Tom Hardy's most impressive role, as Stuart Short. An incredible story told backwards.

Tom Hardy's best work yet.

A remarkable performance by Tom Hardy & Benedict Cumberbatch, that tells the backward story of Stuart Shorter.

An amazing amazing movie. It can be funny, but sad at the same time and really gets to me. The performances are amazing, especially Hardy's.

One of my favourite films of all time. Stuart: A Life Backwards is a tale of a writer played by Benedict Cumberbatch penning a novel about a local homeless hero called Stuart, portrayed by a superb Tom Hardy. The story, like the title suggests, is played backwards and is narrated by Cumberbatch. Based on a true story this is a hidden gem.

One of the best movies I've seen in such a long time

This movie is a roller coaster, just like Stuart himself. It will make you laugh, cry, feel good and scared. At times you'll love it, and hate it. But in the end, with great performances by Tom and Benedict. This movie will hit the spot with its charm, story and unique way of presenting itself. One of my all time favourits. A truly great movie.

Tom Hardy's acting is unbelievable in this unforgettable film. It has easily become one of my favorites, even though it made me cry.