Original Gangster

Original Gangster is a compelling action dusted with a taste of the thriller genre, a heart-wrenching drama that delves into the underbelly of London's criminal underworld. This 2020 movie, directed by Savvas D Michael, features an incredible cast that effectively embodies the characters they portray, including Steve Guttenberg, Vas Blackwood, and Adam Deacon.

The plot unravels seamlessly to showcase the life and journey of our central character, Castor. He is portrayed by rising talent Alex Mills, who beautifully encapsulates and delivers the raw and emotional turmoil of a young boy flung unexpectedly into a chaotic environment. We follow Castor, an orphan who falls into the clutches of London's underground criminal network, a world teeming with violence, drugs, and an almost feral drive for power, where human life is negotiable on the scales of profit and territory control.

Here, 'Original Gangster' introduces us to a host of intriguing personalities like Steve Guttenberg's "Major", a notorious figure who navigates the dark alleys of organised crime with the precision of a predatory cat. His ally, and sometimes adversarial comrade, is the rough and ready thug "Crusher", played by Vas Blackwood. Known for his imposing figure and ruthless methods, Blackwood's portrayal of Crusher offers a balance of menace and humour.

Further, Adam Deacon steps into the shoes of "Banksy", a nefarious and unflinching character that supplements the already fierce aura of the Major's criminal entourage. Each character is a cog in this underworld machine, spinning in their designated orbit, their flaws and motivations adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

The life Castor has unwillingly taken part in starts to weigh heavily on him, as he begins to question his circumstances and the trail of violent activities he gets pulled along. An inner battle ensues as Castor battles the desire to break away from this life of crime, to seek redemption and make something more of his life.

Director Savvas D Michael's vision is clearly etched in this gritty and raw presentation of London's criminal underbelly. The storyline wraps perfectly with the well-crafted character arcs, painting a riveting "rise, fall and redemption" narrative that keeps you glued to your seat. The screenplay, although heavy, is laced with quick-witted dialogue and finite moments of levity that heightens the overall cinematic experience.

The cinematography complements the overall tone of the movie. It beautifully encapsulates the grim reality of London’s underworld, hurling the audience into the thick of the sultry clubs, shadowy alleyways, and luxurious illegal dens that host shady transactions. The chaos and tension of this world are mirrored in the film's music score, a seething tapestry of menacing tones that build suspense throughout the movie.

Original Gangster is not just a chronicle of criminal activity. It powerfully explores themes such as morality, the constant struggle between right and wrong, and the impact of our actions on our conscience. It delves into the deep psychological trauma sustained by its protagonist, painting a harrowing picture of a young man's struggle to break free from his circumstances.

Despite the seemingly bleak narrative, the film is also a hopeful tale about survival and redemption. It paints a world where the protagonists are driven by their circumstances, yet yearn for change. It shows the audience that even in the darkest situations, one can always strive to find the light.

In conclusion, 'Original Gangster' is a movie that not only offers a gripping narrative but also leaves its audience with deeper questions. With its stellar cast, superb direction, and thought-provoking storyline, it effectively takes the viewer on a roller coaster ride through London's criminal underworld, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.