Review of Sexy Beast (2001) by Stuart K — 24 Mar 2011
Maybe the best gangster film of the new millennium, and it's British too. The cinematic debut of advert and music video maker Jonathan Glazer, and produced by Oscar winner Jeremy Thomas. This is an original spin on the well worn gangster genre, but the key to it's success is a very well selected cast, and it's very offbeat in it's direction too.
Ex-con Gary "Gal" Dove (Ray Winstone) is now retired, and living a quiet life in his villa in Spain with his wife Deedee (Amanda Redman). But his peaceful retirement comes to an end when an old associate shows up in Spain, the psychopathic Don Logan (Ben Kingsley), who wants Gal back for one more job.
It involves breaking into an underground safe via a neighbouring swimming pool, masterminded by Teddy Bass (Ian McShane). Gal says no to the job, as he prefers his life in Spain, but everytime he says no, Don becomes more and more angry and mentally unstable, as he already told Teddy that Gal would do it.
Eventually, Gal has a difficult decision to make, but he has to get past the force of nature that is Don Logan. It's very well made, and despite the violence that occurs, it's very relaxing in Spain, and becomes suspenseful out in London.
Kingsley nearly steals the film, and Winstone is his usual self but always great.
This review of Sexy Beast (2001) was written by Stuart K on 24 Mar 2011.
Sexy Beast has generally received very positive reviews.
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