Britain's twin gangsters...The Krays!

Rating: 8/10 (18 August 2016)

Bloodthirsty, cruel, illogical, paranoid and funny is this biopic of Ronnie and Reggie Kray (Tom Hardy), identical twins that had a brief flamboyant run at ruling London's underworld in the 1960's. Writer-Director Brian Helgeland takes it fast and loose in this highly interesting story of the gangster twins, who fell just a little short of becoming respectable businessmen. The brothers had totally different personalities and handled business in almost polar opposite different manners. They were night-club and casino co-owners in London's East End and practically ruled the city as they rubbed elbows with politicians, singers and beautiful starlets. They actually turned themselves into characters bigger than life. They frustrated authorities while terrifying the public before their inevitable downfall. The Kay's empire slowly collapsed while their exploits became Legendary! Very strong and graphic violence is accompanied with a fantastic soundtrack featuring: Booker T. & the M.G.s, The Meters, Eric Clapton, Billy Preston, Herman's Hermits, Major Johnson Finley, Ramsey Lewis Trio and Duffy.
Mr. Hardy is masterful in the dual role. Other players include: Paul Anderson, Emily Browning, Christopher Eccleston, Adam Fogerty, Joshua Hill, Nicholas Ferrell, Stephen Bender, Mel Raido and Colin Morgan.