I admit that I didn’t know what to expect from Stan & Ollie, although familiar with the name Laurel and Hardy, I am ashamed to say I had never previously encountered their work… and being more familiar with the work of stars Steve Coogan and John C. Reilly, I knew that the film could go one of two ways… either it would be a complete failure or an exceptional triumph … thankfully it was latter!

If, like me, you’re unfamiliar with the titular duo, the film has you covered with a dynamic opening sequence set in their cinematic hey-day, which reveals both the Laurel & Hardy people knew on-screen (comedy geniuses in perfect sync) and the individuals they were off-screen (a man chafing at his position in the industry and a bankrupt romantic).

Jumping forward to 1953, we’re reintroduced to the duo as they’re rediscovering who they are after time apart while embarking on a UK tour in the hopes of funding a new cinematic adventure.

It’s here the film comes alive, as it explores the depths of the duo’s friendship, damaged by perceived betrayals and the fleeting nature of fame, as they play to half-empty theatres and reminded that a new generation of comics have stepped into their spot in the limelight (Norman Wisdom, Albert & Costello).

Laurel and Hardy might be the heroes of the film, but Coogan and Reilly are the star players, delivering stand-out, and potentially career-best performances as they beautifully recreate the sketches and acts which made the duo famous (and still get a laugh today) as well as delving behind the personas to deliver two well-rounded characters struggling to get ahead in a world that has left them behind.

In particular, Coogan’s portrayal of Stan Laurel is breath-taking, in just a look or a gesture he reveals the depth of a man who was always creating and yet never truly got what he felt he was owed by the industry to which he had given so much.

Jon S. Baird and co have delivered a beautiful and surprisingly emotional film that honours its subjects, while never forgetting that they were human too, making Stan & Ollie a must watch for fans of Laurel & Hardy and newcomers alike!