Burke and Hare

Both characters of the men and their efforts personally fascinated me to write a short story. I told myself, why not watch the film adaptation of their destinies, where I was guaranteed that it would be a more lighthearted spectacle. This was truly confirmed. This is exactly the type of film that doesn't impress or offend. Occasionally, a good joke slightly disrupts an otherwise stagnant level of mediocrity. (30.11.2013)

I wish Simon Pegg had contributed to the screenplay. I’m sure it would have added a lot of black humor and cynicism. The film could definitely use some. I found it a bit bland and slightly boring. The story is based on real events in which both men killed quite a few people, so I think the filmmakers didn’t make the most of the potential. (04.10.2016)

It's a crying shame that Landis didn’t take this more seriously because there aren’t many topics as strong as the life stories of the Burke/Hare duo and those around them. Even though in the end it wasn’t what I expected (something like Sweeney Todd), I can’t say I didn’t have fun. Rather than making you laugh out loud, it lifts the corners of the mouth into a goofy smile. (19.02.2011)

Comparing the two most recent films starring Simon Pegg, I can safely say that what I didn't get from the Alien Paul, Mr. Burke and Mr. Hare gave it to me in spades. This cute black-humored plaything about stealing, selling and, of course, making corpses was successful. John Landis doesn't mince his words, he's obviously still in touch with the comedy genre and his humor is often pleasantly old-world, as some of the scenes seem to have fallen out of the heads of the Monty Pythons. Add to all this a great period atmosphere and music. As for the actors, Simon Pegg is slightly restrained but reliably plays what you expect from him. I was surprised, however, by Andy Serkis, who reminded me many times of Rowan Atkinson's black comedy creations. Excellent. The film is also packed with stars and starlets (Bill Bailey, Tim Curry, Christopher Lee... Ray Harryhausen), some of whom I might not have noticed if it weren't for the end credits. In short, a very solid four stars. (21.06.2011)