Review of Twenty8K (2012) by The Reluctant G — 12 Sep 2012

Amidst a background of property development, council planning committees, conspiracy, corruption and prostitution Twenty8k does not pull any punches. Although it appears to be a simple case of a gang killing as the plot unfolds you immediately can tell that all is not as it seems. In fact Twenty8k is a clever well-put together piece of drama with an intricate plot that will keep you guessing. It is intense, exciting and very current.

The cast in the film are a great example of the fantastic talent Britain has to offer. Parminder Nagra's (Bend it Like Beckham, ER, Alcatraz) portrayal as the gutsy sister determined to prove her brother's innocence is very convincing and Kaya Scodelario (Skins, Wuthering Heights, Clash of the Titans) is on point as the tragic Sally projecting innocence and street cred all at once. Twenty8k is Sebastion Nanena's debut as Vipon and by the looks of his performance this lad's got a successful career ahead of him.

The one major character that lurks quietly but impressively in the background, is London itself. Set in Southwood East London, Twenty8k has great aerial shots of the capitol. Canary Wharf, so recognisable, pops up a few times as does the O2 and Olympic stadiums. But the close-ups of apartment blocks, streets, alleyways and the criss-crossing fly-overs certainly give anyone who has never visited a flavour of the capitol.

Twenty8k is not a sentimental story or one that tries to ram morals down the viewer's throat but a harsh portrayal of a messed up world where those who hold the power eliminate anyone that gets in their way. Expect violence, harsh language and sex but also great acting, thumping beats and thrilling camera work.