Brilliant, but let down by Tim Roth...

Rating: Null/10 (7 June 2000)

A fine movie, although a little immature. Foul-mouthed guys in sharp suits with guns - this is a 'guy' movie. In fact, there are no female speaking parts in this movie. And all that macho swearing and posturing. I think the characters in the film (and the director) protest a little too much, if you know what I mean.
There's one almost unwatchable scene too - I won't spoil it, but you'll know it when you see it and it's not quite as bad as you think it's going be. No wonder so many women walked out of almost every cinema showing (except my wife, but I think that was because I had the car keys!).
However I think Tim Roth was a poor choice for Mr Orange. In fact, I don't think I've ever seen a good performance out of him. He always comes across as really irritating in all his films. I think his particular style of (over)acting is much better suited to the stage. That's the kindest way I can put it.
Everyone else gives really natural performances which is the film's strongest feature. You really feel like this could be a fly-on-the-wall documentary in parts.
I also disagree with the British censors' views that this sort of film glamorizes violence. If there is one film that shows the inevitable consequences of giving guns to men who are unsure of their sexual identity, then this is it.
Well worth watching, but watch that subtext!