4K Ultra HD Bewertung – Legende (2015)

      Legend, 2015.

      Directed by Brian Helgeland.

      Cast: Tom Hardy, Emily Browning, Christopher Eccleston, Chazz Palminteri, David Thewlis, Tara Fitzgerald.

      SYNOPSIS:

      Identical twins Ronnie and Reggie Kray wreak havoc in London’s East End during the 1960s.

      Legend is the 2015 biographical film about the infamous twin gangsters Ronnie and Reggie Kray, not to be confused with the 1980s fantasy film featuring Tom Cruise. In reality, these two films are vastly different: Ridley Scott’s richly crafted, darkly dreamlike narrative contrasts sharply with Brian Helgeland’s energetic recounting of the Krays’ ascent and descent. Any comparisons could revolve around the ‘nature of evil,’ but that's where it ends, as aside from sharing a title and some vivid scares, the films have little in common.

      Now, turning to the film itself. A decade ago, I found it to be a strong addition to the Krays’ narrative, and I still hold that view. Helgeland effectively weaves together well-known stories from the infamous criminals’ exploits, such as police detective ‘Nipper’ Reid (Christopher Eccleston) diligently following the twins’ illicit activities, including their turf wars with South London’s Richardson gang, which culminated in Ronnie’s cold-blooded murder of associate George Cornell at the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel.

      However, it’s the brutal murder of Jack ‘the Hat’ McVitie at the hands of Reggie that significantly destabilized the twins’ criminal empire. The film’s graphic violence may deter some viewers, and the 18 certificate is well-deserved. The criminal underworld of 1960s East End was a nightmarish reality for those involved, and the film does not shy away from this portrayal. Yet, it also highlights the allure and excitement of amassing wealth and attempting to escape personal demons through style and a lavish lifestyle.

      Prior to those grisly murders, the film effectively explores the complicated psychology of Ronnie and Reggie. Tom Hardy’s captivating portrayal of both characters drives the film forward, and even when his accent and voice fluctuate, he remains compelling to watch. His presence is undeniably magnetic.

      The heart of the film is the romance between Reggie and Frances Shea (Emily Browning, who narrates the connecting voiceover), alongside Ronnie’s struggles with paranoid schizophrenia. This results in a film that oscillates between sentimental moments and raw, violent gangster drama, often without restraint. As a result, it proves to be extremely engaging.

      While it is not a somber film, it does stumble slightly when real tragedy occurs, as the tone feels a bit off. Nevertheless, for much of its runtime, the almost exaggerated antics of the twins create a fast-paced dark comedy horror across East London.

      As with anything related to the Krays, there has been much debate over the accuracy of the depiction in Legend. Some have challenged the portrayal of Reggie as the ‘sane’ twin and Ronnie as clearly suffering from mental illness. Furthermore, some reports indicate that both brothers were bisexual, contrary to the film’s depiction of Reggie as heterosexual and Ronnie as homosexual. Regardless, the movie provides a stylish insight into a version of the twins' life, showcasing Hardy’s captivating star power throughout.

      Studio Canal’s 4K restoration Blu-ray perfectly commemorates the film’s tenth anniversary, featuring numerous extras including an insightful audio commentary by director Brian Helgeland, interviews with cast and crew, and, most entertainingly, an interactive map of East London that marks the real locations featured in the film, such as the Krays’ favored café, E Pellicci’s in Bethnal Green.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Robert W Monk