Sandy’s Kitchen

Based on the book by Ken Bruen, London Boulevard is the story of a man newly released from prison who falls in love with a reclusive young movie star and finds himself in a duel with a vicious gangster.

London Boulevard is a remarkable British crime drama full of interesting plot twists that will keep viewers wanting more. You get what is expected from an English/British gangster type of film – violence and witty dialogue.

The movie stars Colin Farrell as Mitchell, a South London criminal who’s just been released from prison after serving three years behind bars. Determined not to be sent back from where he just came, Mitchell does what he can to steer clear of trouble and that includes resisting getting involved in the criminal enterprises of longtime friend Billy, played by Ben Chaplin.

So when he’s offered the job of bodyguard to protect young model and film star Charlotte (Keira Knightley), he takes it in hopes that it marks the start of his wanting to turn his life around. Of course, things don’t always go as planned and what he wants doesn’t matter to crime boss Rob Gnat (Ray Winstone), who has other ideas for Mitchell and pursues him to become part of his gang.

The antagonist is a flawed hero who is likeable and brutal when he needs to be, but not ruthless. Mitchell also manages to achieve his goals, but as we’ve come to see in most English gangster movies, an unfortunate event prevents the happily ever after.

London Boulevard hits the ground running. William Monahan’s directorial debut is a fast-paced thriller romance that will satisfy any audience. The dialogue is smart, the acting is believable and the cast is phenomenal.