The Hatton Garden Job

The Hatton Garden Job is an intriguing 2017 British crime thriller that takes us into the murky underworld of crime. Directed by Ronnie Thompson and starring seasoned actors like Matthew Goode, Phil Daniels, and Larry Lamb, the movie is inspired by true events, providing a gripping depiction of England's largest burglary in history.

In the heart of London's jewelry district, Hatton Garden, a group of seasoned thieves plans a daring heist that goes down in the annals of British crime history. The film focuses on the spring break of 2015, where the robbers, with their years of criminal expertise, take advantage of the Easter Bank Holiday to pull off an audacious burglary.

The ensemble cast includes Matthew Goode, known for his roles in Downton Abbey and The Imitation Game. He plays the character of the mysterious 'XXX,' a suave and cunning outsider recruited for his unique skills and connections in the London underworld. He is the mastermind behind the ambitious plan and is integral in assembling the crew of charismatic crooks.

Phil Daniels, recognized for his roles in Quadrophenia and EastEnders, plays the role of Danny Jones, the professional armed robber whose local knowledge and criminal expertise are vital to the gang. On the other hand, Larry Lamb, known for his brilliant performances in EastEnders and Gavin & Stacey, portrays Brian Reader, the oldest of the group. With a criminal career spanning over six decades, his vast criminal knowledge and criminal contacts become crucial to their daring plan.

The film doesn't just focus on the heist and its execution but also gives viewers an insight into the planning stages, where a disparate group of crooks with their unique skills works together to crack the impenetrable vault. It highlights meticulous planning, pre-heist reconnaissance and the tension within the gang and their struggle with personal quirks and clashes, all the while trying to evade the probing eyes of the law enforcement.

Meanwhile, we see an interesting dynamic unfold within the group as the experienced gang members team up with the relative newcomers. Thoroughly embedded in the East London milieu, the film effectively portrays their ordinary lives before this extraordinary crime, making the characters relatable. Despite their criminal undertaking, it subtly hints at their individual motivations and circumstances that drive them to be part of such a risky endeavour.

The movie is teeming with dramatic tension and embedded in a murky reality, deeply grounded in the criminal underbelly of London. Yet, it brilliantly interlaces a vein of British humor that provides refreshing moments of levity without undermining the seriousness of the narrative.

The narrative builds tension as the days count down to the heist, delineating the conflicts within law enforcement and growing suspense as the crew's plan is almost jeopardized. Ronnie Thompson's tight direction and script reflect the tense, under-the-surface, high-stakes subtext that runs throughout the film. His handling of the heist sequence, especially, envelops the viewers with excitement, anxiety and a sense of impending danger.

The Hatton Garden Job beautifully juxtaposes the scenic cityscape of London with the grubby and gritty criminal fringes. Cinematographically, the film never lets you forget that beneath the shiny persona of the city lurks a seedy underworld. The aesthetic of the film echoes elements of classic heist films, and the soundtrack adds to the overall atmosphere of suspense and excitement.

This film is an intriguing viewing experience and a captivating narrative that delves into one of the most heavily reported crimes of the decade. It does not glorify crime but provides a realistic and riveting portrayal of a crime so audacious that it baffles law enforcement and amazes the public. The bottom line is that The Hatton Garden Job is more than just another heist movie; it is a deftly spun story of hardened criminals, gritty realism, rich characterization, and an enthralling plot with a dash of classic British humour, making it a must-watch for any crime thriller aficionado.