Once Upon a Time in London

Once Upon a Time in London is a British crime-drama film that was released in 2019. Directed by Simon Rumley, this gritty gangster drama casts a detailed look at the murky underworld of the country's capital in the mid-20th century. The story threads its way through a turbulent period, laying down a narrative that stretches from 1930 through to the late 1950s. It offers a captivating study of organised crime and its evolution in London, set against the backdrop of a changing city and society.

The film features a strong slate of British actors; Terry Stone, known for his memorable roles in many crime dramas, embodies the lead role of Jack 'Spot' Comer. Alongside him, Andy Beckwith and Josh Myers create an enthralling ensemble, gracing the screen as prominent characters from the badlands of London's criminal history.

Once Upon a Time in London primarily centres around the dynamics of power and rivalry. It masterfully charts the paths of two of the most infamous gangsters of this era in the city's history - Jack 'Spot' Comer and Billy Hill. The duo are portrayed as cold, cunning, and tough individuals, rapidly rising up the criminal ranks and leaving a trail of violence in their wake. The film delves into their lives, from their early days on the streets of London through to their solid establishment within the realm of organised crime.

Terry Stone, as Jack Comer, is particularly compelling in his portrayal; a boutique blend of brutal savagery and business-like calculation. Comer’s character is depicted as a man who might have been a successful entrepreneur in other circumstances, but the streets dictated a very different path. Stone’s portrayal is nuanced and arresting, showing compelling depths to Comer as he oscillates between a ruthless crime boss and a flawed human being.

Characters portrayed by Andy Beckwith and Josh Myers are also very notable. Beckwith emerges as a villain in his own right, while Myers offers a character, whose loyalty and brutality are key components of Comer and Hill's rise to power.

A running theme in Once Upon a Time in London is the constant struggle for dominance in a world where loyalty is bought and sold, and where betrayal can be as swift as it is lethal. The film does not shy away from portraying the violent aspects that come with such a territory, effectively showcasing the gritty reality of the criminal underworld.

The cinematography in Once Upon a Time in London is stirringly lush while also being grim where necessary. It portrays a version of the iconic cityscape that is far removed from the usual glossy postcards of London landmarks, instead showing a more grim, grimy, and gritty reality. This, paired with an immersive soundtrack, invokes a palpable atmosphere intrinsic to the period, making the film as much about the city as about its characters.

The film further enhances its immersive experience with its diligent period detailing, and detailed costume designs. We see an atmosphere that reflects both the wealth and glitz derived from criminal enterprise, and the grim and somber reality of life at that time.

In essence, Once Upon a Time in London is a masterpiece in the realm of crime dramas. It is more than just a gangster flick - it reaches into the world of historical biopics by grounding its storyline in factual characters and events. The film offers outstanding performances, particularly from Terry Stone and a well-crafted narrative. This is not just a tale of violence, but also a story of power, betrayal, loyalty, and the unforgiving world of organized crime. Vivid, emotionally resonant, and impeccably crafted, Once Upon a Time in London provides a fascinating, if sometimes brutal, view into London's underbelly during a time of significant change.