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9

StevenFSep 17, 2013

A darkly funny and fast-paced style of filming has the underbelly of a drug story involving a group of friends as they combat drug addiction, sexual partners and tragic circumstances of drug-induced decisions. We follow Renton (EwanA darkly funny and fast-paced style of filming has the underbelly of a drug story involving a group of friends as they combat drug addiction, sexual partners and tragic circumstances of drug-induced decisions. We follow Renton (Ewan McGregor), a young Scottish lad who is on and off heroin with his group of friends, he narrates throughout the film as he struggles to find meaning other than drugs, we are introduced to his friends, equally lacking ambition, including Sick Boy (Jonny Lee Miller), Tommy (Kevin McKidd) and Begbie (Robert Carlyle), Renton seems to come with the attitude that he is surrounded by idiots and simpletons, not necessarily the case, but he certainly surrounded by unique individuals indeed, they all have regular lives yet are drawn together by having a group 'hit' on regular occasions, here the film chronicles the type of routine and obstacles that an addict may face, whether its finding a job, trying to get clean or taking on selling the product they put into their bodies, it deals with friendship, love and also what is holding such emotional attachments together, is it real or is it drugs that keep friends being friends in the film? We are offered different insights into the question, while we also have a witty and humorous film from start to finish, McGregor plays an unsure and immature young person who goes with the flow, McKidd is driven to a life of drugs after a relationship breakdown while Begbie is maniacal and hot-headed individual a long history and a short temper, with Carlyle delivering a very broad Scottish accent to heighten is highly unpredictable character.
The real arc of 'Trainspotting' is someone who isn't getting into the world of drug dabbling, but someone who is in it and is trying to get out of it, this is particularly intriguing for the fact that he is a young man who seems to hold some sort of intelligence but can't kick his habit. The various highlights of the film are easily the performances along with the edgy and in-depth directing of Danny Boyle, easily one of his finest films and more so one of the best British films to appear, it explores and invites controversy at every turn but manages to make the characters relatable and often thoughtful about their actions, giving the viewer more reason to be involved. Danny Boyle knows how to make each character equally as important as the last, Trainspotting does this in funny, tragic, emotional and inventive ways.… Expand

5 of 5 users found this helpful50

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9

Isaac_SharkOct 6, 2011

One of the only films that works just at hard to disgust you as it does to entertain you. Even if you wanted to take your eyes off the screen, you can't. Every scene is fantastically written, acted, and shot. Don't miss this film.

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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9

JatsDec 6, 2013

aaaah! super duper funny! i prefer the book, as every time. but this movie look soooo good. this is one of the various reasons cause i'm a ungrammatical spaceship....

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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9

AkumaJackOct 30, 2017

One of my favorite film ever. The cast is great, especially McGregor as the main character. The Soundtrack is also on point with songs from Velvet Underground, Iggy pop and so on. Like in Welsh's book. Is a cult movie worth seeing at leastOne of my favorite film ever. The cast is great, especially McGregor as the main character. The Soundtrack is also on point with songs from Velvet Underground, Iggy pop and so on. Like in Welsh's book. Is a cult movie worth seeing at least once in your lifetime.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

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10

smartmartSep 21, 2015

"Trainspotting" is a quite wonderful film. It is both darkly funny at times, and also extremely sad at others. It is visually spectacular to look at,and all of the performances are very well done, especially the performance of Scottish actor"Trainspotting" is a quite wonderful film. It is both darkly funny at times, and also extremely sad at others. It is visually spectacular to look at,and all of the performances are very well done, especially the performance of Scottish actor Ewen McGregor. He plays a heroin addict who tries getting off the stuff, but is eventually addicted once again. the rest of the film is just a series of events, from the horribly disturbing and sad, to the very funny and entertaining. A must see.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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9

surrealismedMar 20, 2012

Despite being one of the most vile movies I've ever watched, Trainspotting is also one of the most charming. While only about 90 minutes, the film feels much faster. It's broken up into vignettes, which give it a brisk, almost manic narrativeDespite being one of the most vile movies I've ever watched, Trainspotting is also one of the most charming. While only about 90 minutes, the film feels much faster. It's broken up into vignettes, which give it a brisk, almost manic narrative style. The cast is also fantastic, with Ewan Macgregor and Robert Carlyle being my favorites. The soundtrack is predictably excellent. Not recommended for the squeamish, but it's worth a look regardless. Negatives include the generally absent plot and lack of focus, but those are only minor annoyances.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

SpangleJul 5, 2014

Overall, a very good film. It is a disturbing and sad tale, but a very well told one with great acting. Now, in terms of films on addiction, this one is much lighter than a film such as Requiem for a Dream and easier to get through for sureOverall, a very good film. It is a disturbing and sad tale, but a very well told one with great acting. Now, in terms of films on addiction, this one is much lighter than a film such as Requiem for a Dream and easier to get through for sure (though I do prefer Requiem for a Dream to this one). This "lightness" is thanks to good dark comedy elements and the hopefulness you feel for a better future at different times during the film. However, that does not mean this one is not dark as there are many scenes that are extremely haunting and really make you feel one with the characters as they went through these situations. Ewan McGregor is great in this film, though really the entire cast is phenomenal as everybody pulls their weight equally. Danny Boyle's direction is frenetic and fabolous. In addition, the script is awesome. Every line is dripping with quality. Ultimately, Trainspotting is a great and almost sympathetic and hopeful look at addiction and what causes people to spiral out of control. Really good film.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

StaticSpineAug 10, 2014

Pretty cool and stylish movie with some awkwardly stupid moments. It's all about addiction. Sometimes the movie is disgusting and disturbing, sometimes it is funny. The cast and filming are really nice.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

GoombaJMRAug 31, 2016

Excellent movie that really shows the life of men gone wrong with the use of drugs. If you have a kid or are interested in learning about the (most-likely) outcomes of drug abuse, then check this movie out.

Lots of swearing, some violenceExcellent movie that really shows the life of men gone wrong with the use of drugs. If you have a kid or are interested in learning about the (most-likely) outcomes of drug abuse, then check this movie out.

Lots of swearing, some violence and blood, weird dreams and some sex for notice, but the movie is R rated for a reason so take note of that.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

reviewfrom19842Feb 4, 2017

Trainspotting is just amazing . .

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

alejandro970May 21, 2017

Whimsical, deranged nosefall tour-de-force into the pointless life of Edinburg junkies. Lots of dark humor and references to first James Bond. Look carefully to Irvine Welsh cameo and tribute to Clockwork Orange. The sequence of "worst toiletWhimsical, deranged nosefall tour-de-force into the pointless life of Edinburg junkies. Lots of dark humor and references to first James Bond. Look carefully to Irvine Welsh cameo and tribute to Clockwork Orange. The sequence of "worst toilet of Scotland" is for anthology. A mandatory of 90´s.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

BeatrixKiddoSep 18, 2019

This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It was really a hell of a movie. Really well directed, darkly funny and Ewan McGregor's acting was the best thing in the film. Maybe his best performance of all his career.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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8

FilipeNetoSep 12, 2019

A badly appreciated and misunderstood movie that uses wry humor to convey a serious and dramatic message against drug use.

I confess that I began to see this movie with little expectation about it. I knew it was one of the most acclaimedA badly appreciated and misunderstood movie that uses wry humor to convey a serious and dramatic message against drug use.

I confess that I began to see this movie with little expectation about it. I knew it was one of the most acclaimed movies in cinema for many. Even so, I was not enthusiastic about it. And I ended up enjoying the style of the movie.

The script follows the marginal trajectory of a group of young people from the Scottish suburbs. Everyone, in one way or another, is linked to heavy drug use and crime. And everyone, one way or another, pays for it. Thought of as a light film, it is more serious than it looks and addresses strong themes in an innovative and intelligent way. Contrary to popular belief, the film is not a comedy at all, nor is it a favorable view of the drug world. Quite the opposite. The movie is much more serious, there are truly tragic moments (such as the dying baby, almost symbolizing all innocents, suffering and indirect victims of the drug, by the hands of those who get involved and addicted to the drug) and a clear anti-drug message. drugs by showing how each young person suffers the consequences: years in prison, death ... Although drug use is clearly shown to be recreational in the movie, and the characters take pleasure in the drugs, the movie also shows how their lives (and those of people who love them) are ruined by addiction.

The characters are complex and intense. Each has its own characteristics and psychological profile. The dialogues are excellent and the use of a Scottish accent carried by Scottish actors gives it some authenticity and originality. Ewan McGregor got his springboard here for well-deserved stardom, and he might not have been the renowned actor he is today if he had not participated in this movie. With a controversial and unpleasant character, he is the star of the movie. Along with him, a number of actors who each had their own opportunity and talent to shine: Ewen Bremner, Robert Carlyle, Kevin McKidd, Kelly Macdonald, Jonny Lee Miller ... there's room for each to stand out at the right times, and I believe that their careers have taken full advantage of this.

Technically, the movie is flawless. Without ever taking the focus off the storytelling or exaggerating putting style ahead of content, the film features groundbreaking features in photography, film angles and soundtrack, considered by many to be one of the most interesting in contemporary cinema with tracks. by Iggy Pop, Lou Reed, New Order and other rock names.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

geewahJan 21, 2021

One of the best movies of the 1990's.
For a movie that is as gritty, disturbing and sad as this is, it is also a thrilling, darkly hilarious, extraordinary piece of work.
Original, spellbinding, must see cinema.

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

Libation70Aug 5, 2021

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1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

TrisolaranFeb 19, 2022

A masterclass in character study, Trainspotting depicts the lives of heroin addicts as they struggle to distract themselves until they can get their next 'hit' with sex, mayhem, and other substances. All the characters come alive withA masterclass in character study, Trainspotting depicts the lives of heroin addicts as they struggle to distract themselves until they can get their next 'hit' with sex, mayhem, and other substances. All the characters come alive with superbly crafted dialogues and performances from the entire cast, and coupled with a frantically-paced style of direction from Danny Boyle that combines apt pop music inserts with innovative dream sequences, the viewer is presented with a piercing look inside the mind of a junkie.

There were some sentiments surrounding the movie about how it glamorises drug use, but if one were to look just a little deeper it's easy to see that's not the case at all. The film pulls no punches when it comes to depicting tragic events and sickening actions from various characters due to their drug use. For that I believe this is actually the perfect anti-drug film: beneath all the humour and catchy songs, what the viewer gets is an honest and convincing depiction of what drugs do to someone, nothing more and nothing less.

Overall, an unforgettable dark comedy that expertly balances the ‘dark’ and the ‘comedy’ that will have you reeling from laughter to disgust from one scene to the next. A must-watch.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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10

MichaelL.Mar 4, 2008

A visceral and involving masterpiece of a movie. Every scene is pitch-perfect and you won't take your eyes off the screen until the credits roll. Well, unless you made the mistake of turning away as Renton dives headlong into a filthy, A visceral and involving masterpiece of a movie. Every scene is pitch-perfect and you won't take your eyes off the screen until the credits roll. Well, unless you made the mistake of turning away as Renton dives headlong into a filthy, cloggged toilet, only to temporarily emerge in an underwater fantasy world. Takes the excellent source novel and narrows and tightens it in just the right ways for the screen.… Expand

4 of 5 users found this helpful

10

HalfwelshmanMay 28, 2012

With the extraordinarily talented Danny Boyle at the helm, unflinchingly honest social commentary, a great cast and a fantastically funny script by regular Boyle collaborator John Hodge, Trainspotting, adapted from Irvine Welsh's iconicWith the extraordinarily talented Danny Boyle at the helm, unflinchingly honest social commentary, a great cast and a fantastically funny script by regular Boyle collaborator John Hodge, Trainspotting, adapted from Irvine Welsh's iconic Scottish novel is a true masterpiece of British filmmaking. Following the turbulent and troubled lives of a group of young Scottish heroin addicts, the film takes a sympathetic view of the problem of drug addiction - rather than chastising them for the situation they find themselves in, it is sympathetic to the addicts' struggle and the vicious circle that traps them and slowly destroys their lives. It's among the most poignant and dramatically effective films discussing drug addiction, and Boyle is extremely adept at getting under the skin of his characters and showing what really makes them tick. The characters are an entertaining group of misfits, of particular note is central protagonist and narrator Renton (Ewan McGregor), a young man with aspirations of stability, and of happiness in his life, but who is utterly unable to survive without "one more hit", the violent and psychotic Begbie (Robert Carlyle), who refuses to take heroin but makes up for not doing drugs by "doing people" instead, and the childlike Spud (Ewan Bremner), the innocent fool of the group, and the most vulnerable to peer pressure. The cast make the very most of John Hodge's script, which channels the spirit of Irvine Welsh in a glorious explosion of heavily Scottish-accented sweary magnificence. As with many of Boyle's films, Trainspotting is a balancing act of light and shade. You'll have tears of mirth rolling down your cheeks one moment, when Renton is forced to make an emergency visit to "the worst toilet in Scotland", and you'll be devastated at the utterly tragic loss experienced by the characters a few scenes later. The film really does take you on an emotional rollercoaster - its a journey of highs and lows, and you can really feel for everything, both good and bad, that the characters go through. The film's nightmarish, appropriately trippy visuals (particularly in Renton's "cold turkey" montage), a memorable rock and dance-tinged soundtrack and Boyle's undeniable ability to maintaining the story's momentum and manic energy seals Trainspotting's position as a striking, emotional and affecting viewing experience. It's far more than a film about drug addiction - Trainspotting is about life, death and finding your place in the world. It's also, quite unexpectedly, one of the all-time great feelgood movies, and if you don't take anything else from the film, then take its unabashedly positive moral to heart, and "choose life".… Expand

4 of 5 users found this helpful41

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8

ragekoiDec 21, 2013

Trainspotting is a film about five young miscreants and their drug-induced, illegal, and overall frowned-upon shenanigans in Edinburgh, Scotland. The main character of the film is a good-hearted guy named Mark Renton, who wants to clean hisTrainspotting is a film about five young miscreants and their drug-induced, illegal, and overall frowned-upon shenanigans in Edinburgh, Scotland. The main character of the film is a good-hearted guy named Mark Renton, who wants to clean his life up and become a good person, However, this task is incredibly difficult due to the unchangeable nature of so-called mates. Sick Boy seems to just to terrible things just to get a thrill out of it, Spud does them because he's unintelligent and cannot emerge from his addiction, and Begbie does it because he's a violent psychopath wrecking anything that gets in his way. The movie doesn't explain too much about each character, but their inhumane actions mostly define them so they never feel underdeveloped. The plot also supplies a lot with a little, because it's essentially just a guy's life. Even though the movie is very good, it's certainly not for everyone. This film is the modern-day version of "A Clockwork Orange", as their are multiple "gross-out" moments that are meant to make you cringe. There's sex (underage and homosexual), nudity, teenage angst, ultra-violence, drug use, toilet plunging, and the death of a baby. Trainspotting not only has excellent cinematography, but an equally great if not better soundtrack. The songs used in the film are often times giving off polar opposite vibes then what you're viewing, which is a technique I'm personally a big fan of. Pacing is never an issue in this film. There are no points where I was bored are waiting for something to happen next. The writing is very strong, and the ridiculous Scottish accents enhance the delivery of each f-word that much more enjoyable. Acting is also very strong. Ewan McGregor leads a cast of very talented Scottish actors, each with great range and commitment. Overall this movie is a cautionary tale showcasing horrors of doing drugs and having an addiction, and probably would be received better if the content within the film was more universally enjoyable.… Expand

3 of 4 users found this helpful31

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10

frankenstone420Feb 9, 2013

This is the best movie. Awesome soundtrack, brilliant script, and excellent acting. Both funny and totally messed up. Arguably the best performances of all the actors in their first rolls. Cannot say that I have seen a better motionThis is the best movie. Awesome soundtrack, brilliant script, and excellent acting. Both funny and totally messed up. Arguably the best performances of all the actors in their first rolls. Cannot say that I have seen a better motion picture, it's truly Danny Boyle at his finest… Expand

8 of 11 users found this helpful83

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10

rodericrinehartAug 14, 2010

This is a great movie. You will be shocked, and you won't want to turn away. Possibly one of the only English movies ever that might need subtitles. Superb beginning and ending.

4 of 6 users found this helpful42

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10

coxyclanApr 11, 2013

The best british film i've ever seen and should be shown to all teenagers as an anti-drug film. Brilliantly filmed and acted, this showed to true potential of Danny Boyle.

2 of 3 users found this helpful21

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8

TubieNov 2, 2010

This movie will talk to many people because some of us can relate, we all have our addictions maybe some are less dangerous than others but that feeling of being trapped and trying to escape is something many of us can relate to. The bestThis movie will talk to many people because some of us can relate, we all have our addictions maybe some are less dangerous than others but that feeling of being trapped and trying to escape is something many of us can relate to. The best part of this movie is the cast and the excellent job they do.… Expand

2 of 4 users found this helpful22

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10

NFWJun 25, 2015

TRAINSPOTTING is a film about brutal honesty that respects it's subject matter, and is far more effective than some "don't do drugs" education video in school.

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

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1

warrenworldMay 4, 2014

This film presents a great reason why rehab is the thing to do. You go there, pour your feelings out, listen to what the doctors tell you, take the things you need to get healthier, leave there, and try to forget that you ever saw this movie.

1 of 8 users found this helpful17

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10

LuiggiR.Feb 16, 2007

Truly an epic film. The soudtrack itself was amazing. All characters were well developed and interesting. A real out of the body experience.

0 of 1 users found this helpful

9

Iky009Sep 16, 2015

Trainspotting is certainly one of the biggest independent films of all time, there is nothing that compares to this masterpiece, which often shows a mild form, but even more frightening, the devastating causes of drug abuse.

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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7

FranzHcriticJan 18, 2015

The drug story is somewhat compelling; the narration will weaken everything about any film. And the dark comedy fell somewhat flat. Not completely, but it wasn't as funny of exhilarating as I expected it to be. You should still watch it, butThe drug story is somewhat compelling; the narration will weaken everything about any film. And the dark comedy fell somewhat flat. Not completely, but it wasn't as funny of exhilarating as I expected it to be. You should still watch it, but it may be a little too weird for some. Off putting for me.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

MovieGuysJan 8, 2014

Trainspotting is hard to watch, raw, and in your face, in the best way. The movie is so true to the life of heroin addicts and how they "function" in society (or as Renton says, he doesn't actually live in a society). This is one of EwanTrainspotting is hard to watch, raw, and in your face, in the best way. The movie is so true to the life of heroin addicts and how they "function" in society (or as Renton says, he doesn't actually live in a society). This is one of Ewan McGregor's best performances, and one of Danny Boyle's best movies.… Expand

0 of 3 users found this helpful03

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1

Potarto72Dec 21, 2014

I know. I know. I'm so, so sorry. This is a completely beloved film, and I absolutely hate everything about it.
Once again, I have to admit, I only got about 60% of the way through this awful film. Let me recite everything I remember.
EwanI know. I know. I'm so, so sorry. This is a completely beloved film, and I absolutely hate everything about it.
Once again, I have to admit, I only got about 60% of the way through this awful film. Let me recite everything I remember.
Ewan McGregor swims into a disgusting toilet full of turds to retrieve his heroine. It's supposed to be a metaphor, but all it really is is a stomachache. I suppose it may just be a metaphor for what McGregor did when he got the lead role in this film. Next, McGregor's character Renton and one of his friends are at a park. They shoot a dog with a BB gun, so it will get angry and violently attack its owner. Why? Ha! F**k you! We just like to hurt people! Boyle isn't even trying now. Then, some guy in a bar gets kicked in the groin and gives those dumb over-acted reactions actors give when their characters get hit in the groin, which only happens in the first place because the writers are lazy as **** Anyway, I couldn't take it anymore, so I stopped watching. I've heard other reviews of the film. Apparently the heroine addicts have a friggin' baby, and it dies of thirst after being neglected. Woohoo! Movie night!
Listen, you can make a film that has horrifying imagery if your goal is to warn the audience. George Orwell understood that. Tarantino understands that. Danny Boyle? Didn't seem to understand it here. You can do it, but not when you give your film this weird comedic wrapping that Trainspotting has. It acts like a comedy, which to me, is insulting and cruel.… Expand

0 of 13 users found this helpful013

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8

RalfbergsJun 23, 2017

I can definitely see why this is one of those cult movies - it has that realistic vibe to it and basically talks about really serious things, but at the same time it has comedic elements and even though you feel disgusted with all theI can definitely see why this is one of those cult movies - it has that realistic vibe to it and basically talks about really serious things, but at the same time it has comedic elements and even though you feel disgusted with all the narcotics and heroin they are taking, the movie draws you in with it's storyline… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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10

PanchogulJul 25, 2020

Veo cierta influencia de Tarantino, pero logrando un resultado único y controversial para la época, los personajes son entrañables y Ewan McGregor presenta una de sus mejores actuaciones, la cual parece tener cierta influencia de MalcolmVeo cierta influencia de Tarantino, pero logrando un resultado único y controversial para la época, los personajes son entrañables y Ewan McGregor presenta una de sus mejores actuaciones, la cual parece tener cierta influencia de Malcolm McDowell en La Naranja Mecánica pero sin extrema violencia pero si en cierta forma su postura frente a la vida. Un verdadero clásico de culto.… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

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8

vulvuratMay 13, 2017

Graphic, disgusting and at the same time dramatic, Trainspotting is both entertaining and frightening. After watching 90 minutes of such misery and low-life suffering- for after all, the dreamy extasy of heroin eventually always results inGraphic, disgusting and at the same time dramatic, Trainspotting is both entertaining and frightening. After watching 90 minutes of such misery and low-life suffering- for after all, the dreamy extasy of heroin eventually always results in suffering- I must say this is the best drug warning anyone can get. This film should be watched by every high-school kid as dru prevention. The performances- especially of Ewan McGregor are great, and the brilliant directing of Danny Boyle make you feel drugged yourself. Though it has some flaws, I must say it is a good and "useful" movie.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

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7

JackLJul 29, 2007

It is a good movie and surely people love it. Stylish and cool!!! Good cinematography. However, I don't find any new and vibrant concept or message.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

AkhilKAug 24, 2005

An absolute blast! McGregor is at his best here and dare i say - in his element? Pun aside, Trainspotting is as funny as it is scary. The nightmare scene itself would give anyone a chill before using the vile drug. It's a tad bit on the An absolute blast! McGregor is at his best here and dare i say - in his element? Pun aside, Trainspotting is as funny as it is scary. The nightmare scene itself would give anyone a chill before using the vile drug. It's a tad bit on the boring side at times, but at its best (which is 99% of the time) the film deserves the acclaim it has received.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

10

jimm.Dec 29, 2006

Such a great movie for so many different reasons.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

AlexS.Mar 16, 2007

It dealt with even the most difficult subjects in a humoristic fashion.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

7

TyranianJul 10, 2019

A very well-made film though very ugly. Performances, writing and music are very strong.