Much Better, Mr. Ritchie

Rating: 9/10 (8 May 2001)

After seeing and loathing Guy Ritchie's previous effort, "Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels" I was hardly looking forward to this, his follow up of a similar nature. However, I was very surprised by the film, because I enjoyed it immensely. The story was not especially original but I thought the acting talent was a huge improvement and the comedy moments a good deal funnier. Of the actors involved I was especially impressed by Alan Ford, who was suitably intimidating as Brick Top and also Stephen Graham, who I'd never seen before but I'm sure I'll be seeing him elsewhere in the future. Best of all, however, is Dennis Farina whom I found hilarious in the role of Cousin Avi and felt he lit up every scene he was in. Of course, the traces of the "Lock Stock" bad acting regime was still there, with Jason Statham just appallingly bad as Turkish. I shudder in recollection of it. Vinnie Jones just plays himself as usual but I'll admit he has improved slightly since "Lock Stock". Who knows, ten films down the line, he might border on competent.
I recommend the film to anyone, even if they hated "Lock Stock" as I did. It aint perfect but it's an enjoyable film all the same, if you can put up with the tiresome, self-indulgent camera tricks that Ritchie uses throughout.