Harold Shand, is a study in contradictions - violent, feared but also self-conscious and insecure.
As Harold is about to close a major deal, a spate of bombing attacks bring negotiations to an abrupt halt.
He must find out who would dare attack criminal London 's most powerful man. Or has somebody already taken his place?
It's the study of someone who is facing ruin in a short time, from being one of the most fearsome, powerful 'mob' bosses in London, to being one of the most powerless, fearful person at once.
But it's also a big finger to the government at the time of the films release, and the greed here could be a reflection of the greed of politicians, and other powerful influences at the time......anybody will do anything to line their pockets......
Hoskins makes a star turn here as Shand, powerful, happy, and confident when we are first introduced, but as the film and the narrative progresses, we learn it's not him who has the power or the influence, it's his wife, the one who is the foundation and the brains of the outfit.
But Harold has the final say, or so he thinks, as his wife does influence him on occasion, and keeps everything smooth. And it's to the film makers and Mirrens credit for not making Mrs Shand a one dimensional moll, she is the most fleshed out character in the film.
As Harold realises that he is losing the battle,the film becomes more quickly paced, as if the editing is becoming more frequent, the more Harold becomes vulnerable.
It's a tent pole in British cinema, showing a grittier, seedier side to us Brits, and we love it.
As Harold is about to close a major deal, a spate of bombing attacks bring negotiations to an abrupt halt.
He must find out who would dare attack criminal London 's most powerful man. Or has somebody already taken his place?
It's the study of someone who is facing ruin in a short time, from being one of the most fearsome, powerful 'mob' bosses in London, to being one of the most powerless, fearful person at once.
But it's also a big finger to the government at the time of the films release, and the greed here could be a reflection of the greed of politicians, and other powerful influences at the time......anybody will do anything to line their pockets......
Hoskins makes a star turn here as Shand, powerful, happy, and confident when we are first introduced, but as the film and the narrative progresses, we learn it's not him who has the power or the influence, it's his wife, the one who is the foundation and the brains of the outfit.
But Harold has the final say, or so he thinks, as his wife does influence him on occasion, and keeps everything smooth. And it's to the film makers and Mirrens credit for not making Mrs Shand a one dimensional moll, she is the most fleshed out character in the film.
As Harold realises that he is losing the battle,the film becomes more quickly paced, as if the editing is becoming more frequent, the more Harold becomes vulnerable.
It's a tent pole in British cinema, showing a grittier, seedier side to us Brits, and we love it.