Legend: Movie Review

Writer/director Brian Helgeland is responsible for what is probably my favorite gangster flick of the 1990’s, “Payback” starring Mel Gibson. Admittedly, I was not a fan of the director’s cut of that film which was released on DVD seven years later. Regardless, I was looking forward to the filmmaker’s return to the genre and having Tom Hardy play the real life Kray twins seemed quite brilliant. With the exception of Hardy’s performance, especially as Ronnie Kray, there isn’t much in “Legend” to get excited about.

Identical twins Ronnie and Reggie Kray (Hardy) were the most notorious gangsters in British history. Reggie was a former street fighter who had dreams of making a name for himself and loved the respect, attention and money that came with being a gangster. However, he referred to himself as a business man or club owner. Reggie was smart and focused. His brother Ronnie however was insane and would still be in a mental institution if Reggie hand not strong-armed the doctor for his brother’s release.

With the help of their business partner Leslie Payne (David Thewlis), the Krays wind up taking over East London and also partner with the organized criminals from the United States through Angelo Bruno (Chazz Palminteri). Things are going good for the brothers, but Reggie’s new bride Frances (Emily Browning) feels like she is losing her husband to his criminal ways. It doesn’t help that Ronald is uncontrollable and has a thirst for violence.

“Legend” does feature a solid performance from Hardy, and Browning is great as well, but the film just seems to go nowhere. Much like “Black Mass” which was released a few months ago, “Legend” lacks energy and it’s just not very interesting. The story of the Kray’s is an interesting one, and deserving of a better film.

By: Marc Ferman