Anti-Social

Anti-Social is a 2015 British crime thriller directed and written by Reg Traviss. The film stars Gregg Sulkin, Meghan Markle, and Josh Myers in leading roles. The narrative revolves around the opposing lives of two brothers living in London, illuminating the dichotomy between aspirations of artistic relevance and the wanting allure of criminal activity.

Dee (portrayed by Gregg Sulkin) is an accomplished and promising street artist, constantly trying to make a name for himself in the urban art scene. Known for producing masterpieces juxtaposing socio-political commentary and gritty realism, Dee becomes somewhat of an underground sensation, moderating his life with a rebellious stance against societal norms. Sulkin's performance is earnest and relatable; his portrayal of a street artist struggling to hold on to his creativity amidst chaos is commendable and forms the heart of the story.

Marcus (portrayed by Josh Myers) is Dee's older brother, who embarks on a drastically different path. Unlike his younger brother, Marcus falls into the dangerous underworld of London's organized crime scene, unable to resist the quick and lavish lifestyle fetched by jewelry heists and high-end burglaries. Myers presents an engaging portrayal of a conflicted individual torn between familial bonds and unlawful obligations.

Meghan Markle, popularly known for her role in the television series Suits and her association with the British royal family, plays Kirsten, Dee's American girlfriend. Kirsten is a fashion model, and her interaction with Dee adds a further layer of complexity to his character. Through her character, Markle brings a chic sophistication and sensitivity, gripping us with her poise and charisma.

The world of Anti-Social is shrouded under a gritty, grim gray aura of London; one that effectively communicates the mood and tension of the narrative. The movie exposes viewers to two very different, but interlocking worlds—the underground art scene layered with rebellious creativity and the dangerous world of organized crime ruled by power and cash.

The dynamic relationship between the two brothers is at the heart of the film. Despite their diverging paths, their brotherly bond remains a significant aspect, effectively brought out by the intense performances of Sulkin and Myers. The raw, unfiltered display of their love, care, and concern for each other adds a touch of authenticity and earnestness to the narrative, making the characters relatable and nuanced.

Throughout the course of the film, Dee gets sucked into his brother's criminal world, seemingly against his will. As he strives to stay true to his aspirations and maintain his artistic integrity, the risk and allure of Marcus's world begin to take a toll on him. This sets off a chain of events that influence the characters' lives, causing them to question their choices and confront their fears.

Besides the gripping main plot, another highlight of Anti-Social is its sound design and score that add to the intense mood of the film. The music incorporates elements of hip-hop and electronic music, reflecting the movie's urban setting and blending seamlessly with its narrative elements.

Moreover, director Reg Traviss deserves acclaim for managing to construct a balanced narrative straddling between intensified crime drama and a documentation of an artist's journey amidst societal chaos. The script, also written by Traviss, is filled with engaging dialogue and pulls no punches when it comes to showing the gritty reality of street life, without romanticizing or trivializing it.

In conclusion, Anti-Social stands out as an intriguing exploration of the ethics of survival, the nature of art, and the deep ties of brotherhood. The movie offers a vivid examination of lives on the margins and the circumstances that often necessitate crossing lines. With its strong performances, distinctive visual style, and engaging plot, it presents a compelling portrayal of a world where art and crime collide.