In the Loop (Iannucci, 2009) – Movie Review

In the Loop (Iannucci, 2009) is a spin-off movie from the BBC produced political drama- The Thick of It (2005-2012). The movie stars various reprising their shows from the film as well as some new additions, particularly American politicians.

In the Loop Details

Movie: In the Loop (Spin off of The Thick of It (2005-2012)

Distributor: Optimum Releasing
Production Companies: BBC Films, UK Film Council, & Aramid Entertainment

Director: Armando Iannucci
Producers: Kevin Loader & Adam Tandy
Scriptwriters: Jesse Armstrong, Simon Blackwell, Armando Iannucci, & Tony Roche
Main Cast: Peter Capaldi, Tom Hollander, Gina McKee, James Gandolfini, & Chris Addison

Released: 17^th April 2009 (United Kingdom) & 22^nd January 2009 (Sundance Film Festival)
Running Time: 105 Minutes
Certificate: 15

The Story of In the Loop

The story of In the Loop follows the regular cast of the series, such as Malcolm Tucker and Ollie, contemplating war in Iraq. Showing the inner workings of politics or at least the inner personalities at work, whilst they work with representatives in America regarding the situation in Iraq. This introduces new characters representing American politicians and people of power. With the creative team’s usual satirizing comedic qualities coming through the seemingly bland story theme.

Analysis of In the Loop

Like the TV series In the Loop’s cast does not disappoint with every single character providing at least one solid cinematic moment. I personally really liked the dynamic the American General had with everyone, particularly Malcolm Tucker. It was extremely entertaining to finally see someone quite frankly dismiss Tucker whilst throwing a belligerent barrage of abuse back at the usual verbal abuser.

The differences of the UK and US political personalities blend so well together with the UK scenes displaying a more nuanced environment whilst the US don’t seem to limit themselves like this. Often letting themselves off the handle rather than hesitating whilst they conjure up the “correct” response. This of course applying to all the UK politicians apart from Tucker and Jaimie who are the most entertaining two of the whole universe, TV series, movie, whatever media these two stand out as the best to watch. 

Style of In the loop

In the Loop is shot almost entirely like a mockumentary with the fly-on-the-wall feel throughout the film. With the style making it feel like you truly are observing the story unfold. Much like The Office this style of cinematography makes it feel more raw, more believable to the audience. Just like when you’re cringing from watching Michael Scott be Michael Scott, you find yourself glued to the action unfolding even more because of that sense of believability. The constant back and forth in the movie highlights the talents amazing acting prowess and ingenuity to what must have been at least a little bit improvised on the spot.

With a cast like this one you don’t need big flashy action sequences or to improve the quality of the tv show for the big screen. They did exactly what they should have. Used the money to bring in more talent to highlight what is special about the show, the dynamic between the characters. As well as how the story made us feel like we were truly apart of it while it was unfolding, something that the mockumentary format excels at.

Summary of In the Loop

Tucker and Jamie exhibit a form of ballet like verbal abuse similar to TV personality Gordan Ramsey, that never seizes to entertain the viewer. The story is a bit bland, but the entertainment comes in how the politicians socialize with each other, usually barraging with insults and abuse.

Overall Rating: 7 – Respectable!

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