We Still Kill the Old Way

We Still Kill the Old Way is a durable, appealing, and thrilling gangster flick from the United Kingdom, released in 2014. Directed by Sacha Bennet, the movie embodies a delightful blend of crime, drama, and thriller genres, all centered on a story rooted in a struggle between different generations of gangsters. Its title insinuates a return to tradition, a look back into past ways, and true to this, the movie elegantly flips between old values and contemporary crime culture.

The movie marks the stylish comeback of Ian Ogilvy, a well-known British actor who plays the leading role of Richie Archer, a notorious, old-school East End gangster. Archer, who had once dominated the criminal underworld of London's East End, had relocated to Spain but is pulled back to his roots when tragedy befalls his brother. His quest for justice is the epicenter of the plot, permeating the narrative with suspense that keeps the audience hooked.

Alongside Ogilvy, stand Alison Doody, Danny Hatchard and Lysette Anthony in crucial roles. Doody delivers an impressive performance with a tough character sketch, Hatchard's performance brings in the contemporary gangster element, and Anthony’s theatrical caliber paints an appreciable landscape to this narrative.

The movie starts in the criminal underbelly of the East End of London, captivating the audience with a sense of realism and authenticity. After learning about his brother's brutal murder, Richie Archer, returns to the streets of London to investigate the tragic event and possibly avenge his brother. This return to his old turf brings forth a clash between Archer's 'old-school' crime principles and the chaotic, barbaric, often unprincipled tactics of the new generation of criminals.

This delightful clash of the old and new gangster eras becomes an underlying theme as Archer and his comrades find themselves up against a new breed of violent, ruthless gang members. The narrative highlights the stark contrast between the gangster codes of conduct as practiced by Archer’s generation and the lawless, chaotic environment driven by the youthful energy of Hatchard's gang.

Their approach to crime, violence, and even honor, paints a vivid picture of how London's criminal world has evolved. The glory and respect that once followed Archer into every room now symbolize an era that is fading, its memory barely flickering in the face of the new-age criminal recklessness. The dichotomy between Archer's well-planned, strategic approach and the impulsive, unorganized tactics of the new generation of criminals serves as the battlefield upon which this engaging narrative plays out.

The movie does not shy away from exploring the backdrop of the modern concrete-jungle landscape studded with gritty pubs, graffiti-laden streets, and rundown buildings. The community and the characters bring out various social issues, reflecting the transformation of London's East End.

However, the narrative remains consistently personal. Archer, in uncovering the layers of his brother's murder, also uncovers the drastic alterations within his old turf. His slow, simmering anger toward the perpetrators blends with an avalanche of disappointment at the unruly evolution of his old reign. The movie provides a captivating exploration of the 'old ways' versus the new ones, solidifying its drama with heartrending performances from the lead actors.

Grounded in its gritty and grinding urban environment, We Still Kill The Old Way stands as an engaging crime thriller with its dynamic characters, high-scale gangster milieu, and inventive storytelling. With the classic East End ganglands offering a fascinating backdrop, the film masterfully weaves a poignant tale about evolving crime syndicates, the shifting social fabric, and a personal thirst for justice.

An essential wink to classic British gangster films, the movie presents its characterization, storytelling, and cinematography within a contemporary context. Sacha Bennett’s direction and the screenplay by Dougie Brimson and Gary Lawrence expertly immerse the viewer in this exhilarating and grim world of crime and vengeance.

We Still Kill the Old Way is undoubtedly a mesmerizing watch for crime-thriller enthusiasts. There’s blood, brutality, poignant moments, subtle humor, and amidst it all, old London trying to stand its ground in the new world of crime. It offers a dramatic ride into a world that blends cool, classy old-school gangsters with the chaotic, reckless, and violent new breed, reinforcing the timeless nature of core human emotions, values, and motivations.