Film Review: Sexy Beast (2000)
The author of this review is accustomed to critically acclaimed films that leave underwhelming or utterly disappointing impression. Sexy Beast, 2000 British crime drama, directed by Jonathan Glazer, represents one such example.
The protagonist is Gary “Gal” Dove (played by Ray Winstone), former English jewel thief who has abandoned both his rainy homeland and criminal career in order to enjoy sunny weather at Spanish Costa del Sol which he enjoys together with beloved wife DeeDee (played by Amanda Redman), former porn star. The idyllic life is suddenly interrupted by arrival of Don Logan (played by Ben Kingsley), sinister figure from Gal’s past. Don works for London’s crime boss Teddy (played by Ian McShane) and his mission is to recruit Gal for major heist. Gal has promised Dede that would never go back to the old life, which only infuriates Don and leads to battle of wills, intimidation and violence.
The script, penned by Louis Mello and David Scinto, is inspired by two 1990s trends - British gangster films that depict the working-class milieu of English organised crime as something exotic and "cool”, and Tarantinoesque crime comedies. However, the treatment of the script by Glazer, a first time director, is hardly original, and it often falls into cliches.
The most valuable aspect of the film is the excellent cast, most notably Ben Kingsley, who was probably delighted with opportunity to play character which is complete opposite the saintly figures he played in Gandhi and Schindler's List. He delivers an incredibly strong and energetic performance as Don, and the portrayal of the psychopathic foul-mouthed gangster would have been more impressive if not for Kingsley's character disappearing relatively early in the film. Winstone, who has built career by playing heavies, is much more subdued but more effective in the role of a gangster trying to leave his violent past behind. His performance is the highlight of the film, and he brings a sense of authenticity to the character that is missing from the rest of the cast.
Glazer as a director plays too much emphasis on style over content, which is best seen in the visually stunning but over-symbolic scene featuring a boulder and a pool. The ending is overcooked, too stylish, and somewhat confusing, leaving the audience with more questions than answers. Ray Winstone claimed that he had to prepare for his role by getting tan and extra weight, making production one of the most pleasant experiences of his career. Sadly, the audience who watches Sexy Beast is unlikely to share the same enthusiasm. In 2024 Sexy Beast received prequel in the form of 8-part miniseries starring James McArdle and Emun Elliott.
RATING: 4/10 (+)
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