Gritty and very funny.

Rating: 9/10 (3 February 2001)

This finger snapping, episodic comedy is very well done. Lots of graphic violence and a total dearth of P.C. hypersensitivity punctuate an intelligent, albeit cynical, screenplay. I was particularly impressed with its use of real Brit pleb-speak without subtitles. (Three American 20 somethings behind me were left utterly and amusingly clueless.) I enjoyed watching Dennis Farina in a character part that was perfectly suited to him. Brad Pitt's gypsy was great, and suitably folded into the story to mute his superstar/superhunk appeal. There were too many great characters to name, but Alan Ford, as Brick Top, had that remarkably funny and sadistic edge of Hopkins as Hannibal. Likable henchmen, a squeaking pit bull, no silly romantic subplots, and fast pacing make this a fast and giddy ride through the seedy side of the UK. A great film to see in a large audience. Lots of raucous laughter.