Legend

REVIEW:

“Legend,” directed by Brian Helgeland, offers a captivating yet misleading portrayal of the infamous Kray twins. Those expecting a detailed chronicle of their rise to power in London’s criminal underworld might find the plot synopsis on IMDb and Google somewhat deceptive. Rather than focusing on the twins’ notorious criminal activities, the film delves into their personal lives, as seen through the eyes of Reggie Kray’s wife, Frances Shea, who narrates the story. This biographical approach adds a unique and intimate perspective, which, as long as viewers are aware of this going in, results in an engaging and enjoyable experience.

While the film does not skimp on violence, the heart of “Legend” lies in the complex relationship between Reggie and Ronnie Kray. Tom Hardy’s dual performance as both twins is nothing short of extraordinary. Hardy masterfully differentiates the suave, controlled Reggie from the unpredictable and volatile Ronnie, making them feel like distinct individuals. This feat of acting prowess is crucial to the film’s success and elevates it above a standard crime drama. Without Hardy’s compelling portrayal, the movie would lack the same impact.

One notable shortcoming of the film is the underutilization of Christopher Eccleston, who plays Detective Leonard “Nipper” Read. Eccleston’s character is tasked with bringing the Kray twins to justice, yet he is given surprisingly little screen time and development. This is a missed opportunity, as a greater focus on his relentless pursuit could have added a more dynamic and thrilling cat-and-mouse element to the narrative. His limited role feels like a disservice to both the actor and the story.

The movie is not without its technical flaws, though they are few and forgivable. There is a moment when the twins pose for a photograph with Detective Read, and the CGI used to place Hardy’s face on Ronnie is noticeably poor. Fortunately, this moment is fleeting and does not detract significantly from the overall immersion. For the most part, the visual effects and cinematography convincingly transport the audience to 1960s London, capturing the era’s atmosphere with impressive detail.

The script of “Legend” stands out for its sharpness and wit, peppered with moments of dark comedy that offer levity amidst the tension. One of the film’s most memorable lines comes towards the end, when Reggie, having just committed murder, tells Ronnie, “because I can’t kill you, no matter how much I fucking want to.” This line encapsulates the deep, conflicting emotions that define their relationship, and Hardy’s delivery—full of hatred yet tinged with love—is a testament to his talent. His ability to convey such complexity with just his eyes is remarkable and adds depth to the characters’ bond.

Overall, “Legend” brilliantly recreates the look and feel of 1960s London, immersing viewers in the twins’ world. While the narrative may not align with expectations set by its synopsis, those who approach it as a biopic centred on the Krays’ personal lives will find much to appreciate. With Tom Hardy’s exceptional performance at its core, “Legend” manages to balance character study with enough action and intrigue to keep audiences thoroughly entertained.