7/10
a true British gangster classic
20 August 2011
So I just saw the classic British gangster flick "the long good Friday" from 1980, starring Bob Hoskins and a very cute Helen Mirren. So was it good, I think it was bloody terrific. I have always been a fan of British gangster flicks, I don't know if it is the accents or the propensity for violence mixed with smart dialog, but everything from "sexy beast" to one of my favorite films of all time "lock stock and two smoking barrels" I find just wonderful. So speaking of "lock" the actor who played one of my favorite characters from that film "hatchet Harry" (P.H. Moriarty) plays a great thug named "razors" in this film. This is one of those films where you are better off not knowing the plot at all, this film is a roller coaster ride and a mystery wrapped up in one violent package. All I can say is outside of the very 80's theme song (which wasn't completely horrible) I loved this film. It is stylish, has a very simple but original story line, has great acting, and has a very very satisfying ending. Any movie that I can watch where I can't predict what's coming next is generally pretty good in my opinion. In addition to all this movie has going for it look for a very young Pierce Brosnan in one of his first roles ever. He plays a critical part in this film, but does not even speak one line, which is ironic for a man known as much for his voice as he is for his looks. There is one other thing, being a bit of an anglophile, I can understand both accents and obscure references related to the British, but there were times I wish there were subtitles in this film. Look if you love gangster flicks or violent crime dramas in general, I don't see why you won't like or even love this film. Outside of no one being on cell phones and that very very 80's theme song (which actually I kind of enjoyed though I am not proud to admit this) I think this is a gangster classic that has stood the test of time. if you like concise reviews of interesting films please read my other reviews at http://raouldukeatthemovies.blogspot.com/
1 out of 1 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed