Review of Villain (1971) by Stephen C — 27 Jul 2008

Mean as a rattlesnake, Burton's gangster at times walks a fine line between precise character study and unintentional parody. Tuchner's idea of the dark London underworld in contrast with conservative morality is a little one dimensional at times, which is where Burton's time to shine brings the picture up to the standards expected from this genre.

Ian McShane has an early role as a streetwise type, mingling amongst the usual recognisable faces while looking like he might just crack under the intensity. Overlooked, which despite its flaws, is rather a shame.