Four friends lose at cards and have less than a week to find half a million pounds

Rating: 10/10 (1 October 1998)

Just when you thought that movies were all about the American dream and watching beautiful people do obviously scripted things along comes a film that restores the faith. You don't need big names, a big budget, breath-taking set pieces or a vast array of special effects. Memorable movies can get away with the basics, like a good story, good characters, an unbelievable plot, great one-liners, an excellent soundtrack and an unrelenting soundtrack. It's loud, it's violent, it's funny, it's thoughtful, it's a glimpse into an unreal world. In the best tradition of "The Full Monty", "Secrets and Lies" and "Four Weddings" it's taken on the mantle of "best British film for years" and means it.
"It's Kosher. As Christmas."