Director Brian Helgeland's take on the Kray twins story is slick, larger-than-life and, for the most part, mightily entertaining.
Legend delves into the well-known story of the infamous gangster twins who came to prominence in 1950s East End London, where they presided over a much-feared gang who were involved with protection rackets, armed robberies, arsons and murders.
Tom Hardy is mesmerising in a dual performance as Reggie and Ronnie Kray and his portrayal is worth the ticket price alone. Reggie has a charming swagger and handsome demeanour which masks a temperament that is quick to sour. Ronnie is unpredictable and prone to brutal violence but also sensitive - a medicated schizophrenic who romanticises the gangster life and is fiercely loyal to his brother.
Their ascension in the criminal underworld, including dalliances with the Mafia, is explored, while Ronnie's delicate mental health begins to take it's toll on their fraught brotherly relationship.
The backdrop of the story is Reggie's love story with Frances (Emily Browning), as she tries to persuade him to go straight and make a life together free from crime, while they are being doggedly chased by Detective Superintendent Nipper Read (Christopher Eccleston).
The plot ticks along nicely in this handsomely-shot, impressively-acted crime thriller which provides a very glamorous interpretation of the timeless story but is wholly enjoyable nonetheless.
Sarah McIntyre
