The Rise of the Krays

The Rise of the Krays, released in 2015, is a gritty and ferocious depiction of two of London's notorious gangster brothers, Reggie and Ronnie Kray. This British crime thriller film, directed by Zackary Adler, presents a riveting narrative about the underbelly of London's 1960s crime world.

Starring Simon Cotton (as Ronnie Kray), Kevin Leslie (as Reggie Kray), and Matt Vael (as Dickie Hart), the movie operates within the backdrop of London's post-war street battles. The actors convincingly inhabit the gritty roles, driving the narrative forward with their stellar performances and vividly realized personas.

The Rise of the Krays is an intriguing exploration of the culture and history of East End London and the beginning of the violent reign of the Kray twins. The movie focuses on their rise, the initiation into the world of crime, and the creation of an 'empire' notoriously feared. It delves into an impressive period piece presenting the grim ambiance of post-war London, a city recovering from the ravages of war and suffering from grave socioeconomic disparities.

Simon Cotton and Kevin Leslie as Ronnie and Reggie Kray, respectively, carry the narrative on their shoulders with aplomb. Cotton skillfully portrays the more violent and unhinged Ronnie, showcasing his capacity for sadistic violence and unpredictable temperament. On the other hand, Leslie gives a nuanced rendition of Reggie, the more controlled of the two, oscillating between moments of stability and sudden violent outbreaks – a testament to his precarious mental state influenced by his dangerous lifestyle.

These performances are well-complemented by Matt Vael's Dickie Hart, the loyal henchman who becomes entangled in the Kray's rise to power. His portrayal of a man torn by allegiance and personal moral values adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative.

The Rise of the Krays builds up suspense and tension, capturing the turbulent times of the Kray brothers' merciless climb to power. It encapsulates the brutal and bloody path leading to their eventual dominance of the London gangland scene in the 1960s. There's an unflinching depiction of their ferocity, their remorseless violence used as a means to consolidate power and influence.

Director Zackary Adler masterfully captures the chaotic and grim landscape of London's streets during the 50s and 60s. The cinematography is sharp and gritty, matching the tone of the narrative impeccably. The film's stylistic choices and the use of an authentic period setting help set up an immersive and gritty cinematic ambience.

The Rise of the Krays also successfully combines elements of suspense and drama in its storytelling, providing a deep dive into the psychology of these infamous characters. These psychological explorations humanize the Kray twins, offering the audience a glimpse into their lives, their motivations, their struggles, and their unfaltering aspiration for power.

Moreover, the movie harmoniously blends factual events and cinematic storytelling. It bolsters the narrative with historically accurate events and elements, providing a realistic portrayal of the dangerous duo's exploits. The script is sharp, dialogue authentic, and the pace gripping enough to keep the audience engaged throughout.

In essence, The Rise of the Krays reignites the legend of London's most dangerous twin brothers in a riveting manner. It's more than a crime-drama; it's an in-depth exploration of human nature, ambition, power, and the brutal cost of achieving it.

The Rise of the Krays is not an everyday run-of-the-mill gangster movie. For those who crave a well-told, visually captivating story about the history of organized crime in London, this film is worth experiencing. It's a deeply thought-provoking exploration of infamous characters that will leave a lasting impression in the psyche of the viewer. It is a testament to the talented ensemble cast and the director's deftness, providing a striking portrait of one of the most infamous criminal stories in modern British history.