Pixie (2020) – Movie Review

“Pixie” is a lesser-known film despite its star-studded cast. When I first saw the trailer, my initial impression was that it was simply “Alec Baldwin and the Irish.” But Pixie is more than that.

Directed by Barnaby Thompson and starring Olivia Cooke, “Pixie” is a darkly comedic heist film set against the rugged landscape of Ireland. Cooke plays Pixie O’Brien, the clever stepdaughter of a small-time gangster who embarks on a chaotic road trip after a botched heist. She’s joined by two unlikely accomplices, played by Ben Hardy and Daryl McCormack, as they attempt to sell a bag of drugs that accidentally ends up in their possession. Along the way, they encounter gangster priests, gunfights, and plenty of Irish black humor, blending action with surreal comedy.

The best part of Pixie is the chemistry among its three leads. Cooke, Hardy, and McCormack are perfectly cast and play off each other with ease. Cooke’s portrayal of Pixie is especially notable, infusing the character with charm and confidence. Her sharp-witted, street-smart persona keeps the plot moving, even through an energetic but sometimes convoluted storyline.

Beyond Alec Baldwin’s standout role as a menacing priest, the film also features Colm Meaney ( “Tolkien” ), Dylan Moran (“Black Books”), Turlough Convery (“Poldark”), and Ned Dennehy (“Peaky Blinders”), each bringing a distinct presence to the film.

“Pixie” has its drawbacks, particularly its reliance on familiar heist tropes and occasional juvenile humor. As a film inspired by the crime comedies of Guy Ritchie, comparisons to Snatch or Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels are inevitable. However, while Pixie may not reinvent the genre, it offers a fun, escapist experience with a charismatic lead and a uniquely Irish twist.

Movie Rating: 65/100


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