Okay so 1984 has been and gone and we didn't end up like that, but that doesn't take anything away from this very gritty and grim portrayal of George Orwell's famous novel. The destruction and bombed out streets of London, the poverty and the debauchery are all excellent realised. Hurt gives an excellent performance as the hero Smith as he struggles to fight against a system that is just too big for him to be able to beat. All praise must go to Burton in his last film performance for such an understated and sinister portrayal of O'Brien. Never raising his voice but captivating with his performance throughout. A fantastic end to a distinguished career.