Film of the Day – "Stuart: A Life Backwards": The Movie That Introduced Audiences to Tom Hardy

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An underrated film with incredible emotional power. Featuring young Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Hardy.

What the film is about

This 2007 British TV movie adapts Alexander Masters' biographical book about his unlikely friendship with homeless Stuart Shorter.

The story begins when young writer Alexander ( ) meets Stuart ( ), a homeless alcoholic and drug addict suffering from muscular dystrophy. They meet during a campaign to free shelter workers wrongly accused of drug dealing.
Young Tom Hardy and Benedict Cumberbatch standing against a brick wall
Still from Stuart: A Life Backwards
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The writer asks his new acquaintance to share his life story and suggests telling it backwards — "like a detective story, figuring out what killed the boy I used to be." This non-linear approach lets viewers gradually understand how a kind, caring child became someone with such a tragic fate.

What critics are saying

The film earned high marks from both professional critics and audiences. Rotten Tomatoes critics note: "This true story is deeply sad and often terribly funny. It's a joy to see young Cumberbatch and Hardy."

On IMDb the film holds a 7.6/10 rating, while Kinopoisk shows 51 positive reviews out of 53. Viewers particularly highlight the "masterclass in character creation" and Tom Hardy's "extraordinary performance."

Why you should watch

First off, the acting is absolutely stunning, notes zoomboola.com. Back in 2007, Hardy and Cumberbatch weren't global superstars yet, but their talent was already on full display. Tom Hardy called this role his best film work at the time, a milestone in his career. Viewers agree: "In later films you can fall in love with him, but here you realize just how good he is as an actor."

Telling the story in reverse creates the effect of diving into a detective investigation. Each revelation changes how you see the character and makes you rethink previous scenes.
Stuart: A Life Backwards – fan trailer
The film reminds us that behind every apparent outcast lies a complex human story. It teaches us not to judge people by appearances and circumstances. Despite the heavy subject matter, it doesn't leave you feeling depressed — thanks to the natural humor and optimism of the main character.

"Stuart: A Life Backwards" is an intimate drama that stays with you long after the credits roll. It doesn't offer easy answers or happy endings, but gives you something more valuable — an understanding of human complexity and the importance of compassion.