Technical assessment: 3
Moral assessment: 2.5
Rating: V18
In the
1960s, Frances (Browning) tells the story of twin brothers Reggie (Hardy), her
husband, and Ronnie (Hardy) Kray as they lord over the criminal underground
world of London. Suave former boxer Reggie and psychotically unstable Ronnie
muscle-in on the control of a local club through brutality and blackmail. Their
kingdom expands when an American syndicate approaches them for protection in
exchange for half profits of London’s underground gambling profits. However,
Ronnie psychotic violence continues to cause problems with the authorities
subjecting them to an investigation and eventually their arrest. The story is
narrated between the tragic love, abuse and suicide of Frances as she stands
witness to the rise and fall of the Krays.
There is always an enthralling
quality in crime films done particularly well. From a purely technically stand,
Legend has a charm that captivates
audiences mainly because of Tom Hardy’s impeccable interpretation of Reggie and
Ronnie. He methodically manages to keep the personalities defined and balanced
with so much chemistry. The script is funny and engaging and the presentation
is grippingly entertaining. Pope and Hegeland perfect photography of Hardy’s
dual performance easily makes audience forget that they are watching only one
person. Browning is a little disappointing because her delivery lacks depth in
its omnipresence.
The
lines of morality are often blurred for people who misinterpret crassness and
vulgarity with candor and being real. There is guilty pleasure over the smooth
moves of criminality and nervous laughter with outrageous behavior.
With such propositions, the audience of the film should be equipped with a
strong moral sense and Gospel-shaped conscience and realize that while some
people may escape punishment or enjoy the shortlived benefits of criminality,
it is never worth it because the misery, pain and punishment it brings will
always outweigh whatever pleasure it gives. The film is for mature
adults because of mature themes and several disgustingly violent scenes.
