Review of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) by Oliver J — 25 Apr 2011

This isn't just a brainless film full of guns, swearing and accents as some may claim.

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels masters multiple genres. As well as having slick gangster comedy throughout it is a web of action and violence which fits together like a jigsaw. Nick Moran nails his role as Eddy and other actors Jason Statham, Vinnie Jones, Jason Flemyng and Dexter Fletcher also work well in their roles within the film. After the four friends, Eddy, Soap, Bacon and Tom put a £100,000 stake together Eddy (who has a natural gift with cards) enters a high stake card game, however, he loses and they are then in debt by £500,000 to Harry (P.H.Moriaty). After over hearing another gang (who happen to be Eddy's neighbours) talking about a marijuana heist on some dealers / growers, they plan to steal from the thieves to get their money and save themselves. The story also features two antique shotguns with their own side story! This is a brilliant gangster film, a great British film, a good comedy, a fantastic action film with a satisfying plot. Superb watch!