Big respect to everyone here and all your comments. They're all well noted. Link for the book below guys, would love yous to read it and let me know what you think. To buy Stephen's new book - www.amazon.co.uk/Extraordinary-Stephen-Gillen-Search-Living-ebook/dp/B0CY9W268Y/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2YL53UCOLDI06&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KDpU6tre8-ZNG69c6AuKiVk_Lpbr3ochWXxm4JODs_g6Db954eCSNnNph3im6HhTjpn2iKWdztdtbgY1GrOwFcfdxVhqO9sHtBXMvDC6uAtk3KfNj_UtPljcYqg-H_X5O0gmf_k9i1bpxrJ9jMznpQ.DQSUCQNVFBRkQTXqMY9L4h-pzuv4p2IxcuOCiB9M-V0&dib_tag=se&keywords=stephen+gillen&qid=1712593811&sprefix=stephen+gillen+%2Caps%2C63&sr=8-1
I met Ben Kingsley a few years ago coming through Heathrow airport. Had a little chat with him for a few minutes. He was an absolute gentleman, very friendly, very proud of Sexy Beast. Gave me a few minutes of his time when he really didn't have to, what a nice guy.
Ben is an incredible actor. One of the few real character actors who does leading roles. So many different characters and he makes them all interesting.
To see Ben Kingsley go from playing Ghandi to one of the most frightening, intense and sociopathic British gangsters and you believed him and you don't see Ben Kingsley, you see the character, just goes to show you how absolutely amazing he is as an actor!!!!!!!
I like the way Ben Kingsley described this story. He said, “Once upon a time, there was a man who thought he was happy (Gal). So, the gods sent to him the saddest man in the world (Don Logan).”
'Sexy Beast' has long been my favourite movie. I don't think I've ever seen a more perfect film - in every respect (acting, script, direction, photography - everything). The cast is absolutely solid - every single one of them acquits themselves superbly. This is a 10/10 - a film I keep coming back to, time after time.
Phillip this was a great film. Until I saw Robbery with Stanley Baker I had no idea that the British could extraordinary mob films. Then there was The Long Good Friday and then Sexy Beast. With Kingsley, Winston and McShane. First saw McShane in one of my favorite comedies If It’s Tuesday This Must Be Belgium. But McShane as Mr.Black Magic was as good as Kingsley and Winston’s.
Absolutely class film! Ben Kingsley playing the part of Don Logan trying to get Ray Winston aka Gal to do the job is just great to watch, Dons an absolute psycho! I never get tired of watching this film, it’s one of my favorite films of all time...
This film is a perfect example of why British cinema shts on Hollywood - brilliant characters well played, dialogue and situation driven scenes, no reliance on big explosions, 20-minute shootouts, 30-minute car chases with indestructible cars or fight scenes where everyone is a 7th Dan Karate black belt!
Those 2 were great , but Ian McShanes character “Teddy Bass” was far more intimidating than Kingsley . The look on Winstone’s face when he sees him get out of the car lol : th-cam.com/video/b-C97G1R8OQ/w-d-xo.html
Many Thanks Stephen, great film, still holds up nearly 23 years later! Up there with The Long Good Friday which was made 20 years before Sexy Beast! I had the pleasure of meeting Mr Bob Hoskins back in 2004, an absolute Gentleman. Peace From London. 🙏🙏
Gal made the classic mistake of lying more than necessary. If you're trying to deceive someone, every lie out of your mouth is a liability so you should do so a little as possible. Saying that Don phoned him wasn't necessary for the fabrication Gal was trying to create, he could've just said Don left in a taxi and that was the last he heard from him - it was that additional (unnecessary) lie that landed him in trouble.
And Don made the mistake of letting Gal know that he "quite likes" Jackie, in that bar seen, which completely throws Gal. Needless to say Gal later uses that bit of info to send Don packing.
I agree the scene when Gal is eating and Teddy walks in is exceptional. The way he just starts talking at Gal, no introduction, brilliant script writing. Like you said its not was they say its what they dont say that really tells us the audience all we need to know. Best scene in the film In my opinion, closely followed by the scene when Teddy drops Gal off after basically letting him know how close to being rubbed out he came.
Obviously Kingsey as Don Logan is electric and deserved the oscar nomination.. But Mcshane as Teddy is more threatening and I'd love to see him play more roles like this
Great to hear someone involved in this life analyse this film. It's in my top 10 list of favourites. Jonathan Glazer is a superb director. There's another deep dive on youtube where the physical placement of characters is discussed and how interesting it is to see Winstone, who always plays overbearing characters, is put into a position of submission in this. The scene where he's just literally cowering in the corner of the kitchen while Don is shouting right in his face, how his body is all tensed up in a frozen position is amazing physical acting. Love love this film, might have to watch it again tonight.
One of the sickest things ever is Teddy laughing with Gal at breakfast at the hotel!! Hahaha! As if he has no idea what is going on. Bollocks! Then "Good luck tonight" haha!
Such a classic, firmly in my top 10 all time films since it came out, every element of it is exceptional. Your review and answers to the questions were very good also. If your're taking film requests for future videos, it would be great to see a review on the characters of 'Dead Mans Shoes', another british classic, though a bit more psychological and less about the high life of gangsters, I feel this holds some worthy, strong characters relatable to in real life. If you haven't seen it, it really is one of the best.
Not only a great gangster movie but a masterful cinematic work in its own right, with the boulder and the pool as a metaphor for the entire story. Love your videos, bud
Great video, with a lot of insight, Stephen. Sexy Beast totally caught me off guard when I first saw it. Ben Kingsley was incredible - I couldn't believe the same actor played Gandhi. I'd love to see your take on Get Carter. It's my favorite Michael Caine movie.
Good film but, Ive always thought Sexy Beast has an undertone which relates to men shagging men by brute force. Mentally and or physically. Have you ever considered why its called 'Sexy Beast' , not exactly a hardman gangster title is it, and some of the scenes with the young lad around the pool always somehow seemed a bit odd.
I'm by no means a 'gangster' but i've run in circles with 'characters' reasonably high up in the game. i've met these type of geezers many a time, both frightening and quite bizarrely sound, but fuck me they can turn on a sixpence. Been lucky, never got collared, or when i did blagged mesen out of it with being 'non the wiser' (ignorance is bliss is a powerful tool)...It never fails to make me smile how surprisingly daft the powers that be are😉
One of my favourite films, never get tired of watching it. Brilliant casting, acting, script, characters, plot and direction. I love the analysis too, especially from someone with first hand experience of that life. Thanks you mr Gillen, a very intelligent, articulate and charismatic chap you are!
I think this film and "The Business" made the most impression on me. Growing up in the '70s and '80s you met these kind of people in passing. Sometimes dangerous, often funny and fascinating, but good role models for a young man? I'm not so sure.
Great review Stephen. Thank you. The lesson to learn here is that the average punter never really knows when they are facing a Don Logan or Teddy Bass until it's way, way too late.
I'm so pleased that you rated the hotel restaurant scene between Teddy and Gal as the best in the film. That was always my opinion also. That smile from Teddy still sends a shiver down my spine, even after several viewings.
I was doubting you at first glance but then I watched the vid and your analysis, you know your shit you got a sub, and congrats on changing your life and thanks for sharing
My favourite British gangster film, all 6 main characters at top of game with brilliant script, I have seen and been around characters of all levels, from lowest to highest , in Glasgow in 80s and 90s. Brilliant film, and very good analysis from you Mr gilligan. You are very good narrator....Good luck to you big yin 👍
Nailed this. Don Logan exists and I knew men like him. Gary exists I knew men like him. Probably the most realistic character portrayals of London gangsters even on screen
“Poison Dwarfs” This type of character was like the ones Joe Pesci portrayed in Casino & Goodfellas. Very dangerous people. The young Spanish child is interesting because he senses the dangers around the Don Logan character.
I think you should review The business. That is a good film Stephen. Just found your channel yesterday and im loving your content. Ive subscribed. Keep up the good work. I think you're very good at analysing character portrayal and the scenes that capture the capture them characters too. Fantastic 👍
No joke Don Logan was genuinely the only character in any film that i have ever seen that actually gave me shivers and had me on tenterhooks(shi#ing myself)and thats 100% true i was scared of him and i was in my forties when the film came out lol not a kid,absolutely amazing performance from Ben Kingsley.
Watched it again recently; that scene in the restaurant when Jackie and Aitch announce Don’s pending arrival feels even more tense when you know why they’re anxious about his visit - put a shiver down my spine! 😬
Great video thank you, very interesting insight. The quote I remember form Sexy Beast is Gal's when he talks about life in the UK " Everyone(changed) with a long face shuffling about complaining"
Thank you for your review,. I weren't too keen on this film when I first watched it,. But since watching it again, I'm absolutely hooked.. All the actors and actresses are amazing!! (RIP CAVAN KENDALL) X
I ran a bar on Caledonian Rd, one of the locals was Don Logan with hair. We had a hotline to the local bobbies specifically for him. He was barred a fortnight every month. He could flip a sentence from friendly to deadly and made me shit my pants a few times. We had a Rockweiler come over to the beer garden on occasion, this fella threatened to break the dog's legs and rip its heart out.
Wow, what a tale. Proves that there really are people like this out there. Same with Blue Velvet....Frank is from a documentary! Even Dennis Hopper said he had to play the role since he WAS Frank! That's how insane that fucker was.
Ben Kingsley also played Meyer Lansky in Bugsy. A very different type of gangster, but terrifying. Ray Winston plays himself, but he does it so well. He really gives himself away in that scene when Teddy Bess meets him for breakfast. Such a good script.
Ay up Stephen, already subbed as i like your honesty kidda. I've got a cavalcade of movie suggestions, but here's one you've probably seen already (unless you were banged up?) but it's still hailed as one of the British greats...The Long Good Friday.
Fantastic film and loved your analysis on the characters. I worked with a charge nurse while I too worked on a secure unit for the mentally ill and he uses to work in ashworth. The stories he told me was unreal,said Charlie was in there for a spell. Would love your analysis on Craig fairbrasses pat tate rise of the footsoldier movie and characters within the amazing movie. Great video look forward to more,liked and subbed.
Get Carter, the 1973 one. What do you think about that one? after the movie i read the book too.Great reading. Thanks for this video, it's always puzzling to pinpoint reality in a bizarre world such as that one.
Cool to see Ian McShane as Teddy Bass as well as Ben Kingsley and Ray Winstone. Lovejoy was his baby but a million miles away from this. His physicality lent more menace to the character, as McShane has quite an intense face. I can't think of many actors who can come close to that.
This is the first time I've heard of you and this movie, I will definitely watch this film. You seem like a stand up guy, doing a 17 stretch is absolutely mental, take care brother and God bless you.
amazing film. I saw it when it came out at the cinema in Leicester Square. came out buzzing. still think the acting, the script and JG's directing is insane.
I watched Sexy Beast for the first time 3 months ago, I was bored looking through Paramount+, big fan of sir Ben Kingsley, Ray Winstone, Ian McShane and decided to give it a go. Its now easily in the top 10 films I have ever seen, wished I watched it back in the day.
Fantastic movie and, as usual, a top notch review! You filled my Easter entertainment void with the discovery of your channel! I don't know if you watch 'The Sopranos" or not but in one of the episodes, one of the Sopranos meets Ben Kingsley and keeps referring to "Sexy Beat" to Sir Ben and keeps making an ass out of himself! A good watch if you got the chance..... That might make a good video, compare an American show like The Sopranos with the guys in your former crew...how's it different, how's it similar...just a thought. Keep up the GREAT work!
I have always made it a priority to just stay away from these sorts of people. You have no idea what you might be getting into. I've brushed up against some bad people and, recognizing it immediately, I quickly moved on. There is no way I'd ever give someone that sort of authority over me.
One of my favorite movies of all time. Beautiful cinematography, great actors, and the tension is so thick in places that I was literally holding my breath. Great review as always! Cheers! ❤
I grew up on a council estate not far from WHU in the 60/70`s, I would say this is easily my favourite gangster film of all time, the characters played by Ben & Ray were very accurate & true to life from that period, Kingsleys acting of a pychopath & schizo is quite scary, whilst Ray`a Gal typified the smooth cool likeable jack the lad east end naughty boy of the 80`s/90`s that ended up on the Costa Del Sols of this world + also a mention must be given to the late great Cavan Kendall who played `Aitch` (Gals mate in Spain)...............so funny & droll.
Aitch's story at the end about the pill that gives monkeys new Beatles do's and all that...but it's reversible...has me crying laughing each time I watch this! Also "The man's a nightmare...this is a nightmare." LOL
This dynamic of those two in criminal groups where I come from in the U.S. is very familiar. I love that term, " Poison dwarf"... every group has one. Damnit If that ain't true and when you all love that bastard it makes it hard to wrangle them in and make them see reason. If they can't intimidate everyone into pulling off their gig, they'll accuse everyone of turning their back on them. A legend where im from, Anthony Allen, thats doing life for murder in Kentuckys north point prison... was one of our tribes "poison dwarfs" I've spent days arguing with him telling him no no no. They don't hear the word "no".
Thanks for this, it is so great to hear that a film comes close to what it is really like to be in organized crime. I'm fascinated by the life, as are many. It will always be this deep, mysterious life that many of us will never experience. So, thank you for taking us on a journey and showing us just a hint of what you've seen.
Huh! I've watched this film 16 times! One of the reason it resonates is that I lived on the Costa Del Crime in the 80's for five years amongst all the criminals who lived out there. We didn't know one person who wasn't on the run!
I once knew a big guy who was extremely violent & over nothing much. He was in and out of prison and didn’t care either. I learned never get into an argument with someone who has nothing to lose.
Just finally watched this again on DVD two nights ago: I didn't realize when I first saw it, that it was partially based upon the real heist from the 70s or whatever where they excavated into the bank vault that was supposedly impregnable. Was the subject of two films already and a book. Also of course, Ian McShane is in BOTH films. No accident there. All these jobs are about preparation but also exposure time. Something can always go wrong, however. The people who mastermind it are probably facing the most time inside. Gal is terrified not only of Don, but of never being able to retire, and even more so of getting banged up again, this time for good, probably. As depicted in HEAT by Michael Mann, things ALWAYS go wrong, such as somebody fucking up and hiring fellow pure psycho serial killer Waingrow to be an extra man on the armored car job that opens the film. He pops one of the guards when he was told to not do so, disregards instructions, is not terribly bright, and the job goes off but not without complications: now they have a rogue psycho to worry about who can get to the crew, but also they realize they stole from a problematic, dangerous figure who is not pleased about it. (the bearer bonds) Anyway, if the job goes wrong, Gal is fucked. Either he'll end up dead, or banged up. To me the most terrifying line in the film is nothing Don says, but what Teddy says to Gal: "I might have to pop round to pay my respects sometime." Corrrrrrr! Fuck me that is scary. Though Ted already tells Gal he would have punished him or offed him if he actually had any connection to Don Logan. Luckily Logan was just another bloke he needed to get the job done. If this were an America mafia thing where you killed some made guy, or somebody's brother, whatever, you are fucking done, my son! Gal is lucky to get out of it A. maybe retired now B alive and C. with the diamond earrings! And D. not facing prison time.
Stephen, you asked for things you might look at for future videos. What about the 2005 Australian film The Magician, and its more fleshed-out form the TV-show Mr. Inbetween? For me, Scott Ryan's work has the same indie-like character realism as Sexy Beast.
Growing up (and still living on) on some rough South London estates, you inevitably end up knowing people, or families, in the life. I avoided it, and have always lived a straight life, but know heads who are on the fringes, and fully in the life, on street / lower levels. I worked as a barman / shift manager at a notorious club round here, for a proper family, which was an eye opener! I always thought Sexy Beast was on point as entertainment and also in terms of authenticity. Seeing a proper geezer give it 9/10 for authenticity has just made it go up even higher in my estimation. Oscar worthy performance from Ben Kingsley, and a great understated performance from Ray Winstone.
If you listen to how Stephen speaks, you just know, he's a 'real one'. I've been around younger men, particularly in the 90's, around the time being a gangster became fashionable, and you would meet someone, and just the sound of their voice would betray them as a pretender. When you're around real ones, you really need to watch yourself...
The film never really got the praise that it deserved compared to say, Layer Cake. Crammed full of Britain’s greatest talent, great script and first class direction. Reminiscent of Costa del Crime in the 80s/early 90s. Although I have no knowledge of that life, to me, it seems to be the one of the most authentic of all gangster films, along with Gomorrah and City of God.
Would love to have your take on Nicky's character in Casino. There's a similar scene to the restaurant one here where he intimidates away two rivals in the lobby pretty much by saying nothing. It taught me alot when I was working as a bouncer, how to turn the tables by saying as little as possible.
Everyone did a great job with the acting, but what I always felt hard to believe was that someone the size of Ray Winstone would be frightened of Ben Kingsley. Ray must be two inches taller and about 10 years younger.
Gal isn't portrayed by the director as a thuggish violent type, and even if he had been at one time he's definitely not now. He just wants to protect his quiet lifestyle. But when push comes to shove, differences in physique are irrelevant when violent rage is unleashed. It's absolutely realistic to believe Don would have killed Gal and walked away.
I used to run a bar in the 99s and met characters like this. One guy was a used car dealer and used to import cannabis in sofas from Spain. There were others too. One thing they had in common was they were all incredibly charismatic but they were not governed by the social norms like you or I. One guy was sat at the bar and after a disagreement with an acquaintance he smacked him round the head with a cut glass ashtray.
Hey stephen i would love to hear about the firms in london such as green street/west ham united firm and the other firms involved as well love the hooligans story
It is a scary but great film - villainous people I've known would be the most charming but then click into a groove that you could see coming miles off, the answer to anything you said was already writen in their heads when they clicked! Great acting by Ben kingsley.
I've seen a lot of movies in my lifetime, but if I tell you this movie had me from the start. First of all was the fantastic location, I'm guessing it was Majorca, Spain, or is it South Africa, or Australia maybe New Zealand I didn't get to see the credits. Somebody help me. I fell in love with this movie. The symbolism and cinematography was extraordinary. How come I'm just now seeing it. I feel so out of the loop guys.
If you'd included the vhs-tape wind sound effects, I wouldn't be able to tell this apart from an actual Insider "How .... actually works" video. Well done.
I'm over the moon to agree with everything Stephen says about this film as he's a person I'd hate to ever have to disagree with retired from that life or not.
Big respect to everyone here and all your comments. They're all well noted. Link for the book below guys, would love yous to read it and let me know what you think.
To buy Stephen's new book - www.amazon.co.uk/Extraordinary-Stephen-Gillen-Search-Living-ebook/dp/B0CY9W268Y/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2YL53UCOLDI06&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KDpU6tre8-ZNG69c6AuKiVk_Lpbr3ochWXxm4JODs_g6Db954eCSNnNph3im6HhTjpn2iKWdztdtbgY1GrOwFcfdxVhqO9sHtBXMvDC6uAtk3KfNj_UtPljcYqg-H_X5O0gmf_k9i1bpxrJ9jMznpQ.DQSUCQNVFBRkQTXqMY9L4h-pzuv4p2IxcuOCiB9M-V0&dib_tag=se&keywords=stephen+gillen&qid=1712593811&sprefix=stephen+gillen+%2Caps%2C63&sr=8-1
I met Ben Kingsley a few years ago coming through Heathrow airport. Had a little chat with him for a few minutes. He was an absolute gentleman, very friendly, very proud of Sexy Beast. Gave me a few minutes of his time when he really didn't have to, what a nice guy.
I think he wrote about you in his memoirs recently, your name looks familiar 😎
@@qanondon2100lol what!
Ben is an incredible actor.
One of the few real character actors who does leading roles.
So many different characters and he makes them all interesting.
@@qanondon2100 ..........OMG i seen his name too! Well spotted!
Thats Sir Ben to you
To see Ben Kingsley go from playing Ghandi to one of the most frightening, intense and sociopathic British gangsters and you believed him and you don't see Ben Kingsley, you see the character, just goes to show you how absolutely amazing he is as an actor!!!!!!!
Yes, yes, yes, yes!
Top quality comment :)
He’s brilliant in the sopranos too
From a loving character to one that gives you nightmares. LMAO
@@StoutProper those meatheads are just funny.
I like the way Ben Kingsley described this story. He said, “Once upon a time, there was a man who thought he was happy (Gal). So, the gods sent to him the saddest man in the world (Don Logan).”
Great quote. About redemption i suppose.
'Sexy Beast' has long been my favourite movie. I don't think I've ever seen a more perfect film - in every respect (acting, script, direction, photography - everything). The cast is absolutely solid - every single one of them acquits themselves superbly. This is a 10/10 - a film I keep coming back to, time after time.
Phillip this was a great film. Until I saw Robbery with Stanley Baker I had no idea that the British could extraordinary mob films. Then there was The Long Good Friday and then Sexy Beast. With Kingsley, Winston and McShane. First saw McShane in one of my favorite comedies If It’s Tuesday This Must Be Belgium. But McShane as Mr.Black Magic was as good as Kingsley and Winston’s.
Absolutely class film! Ben Kingsley playing the part of Don Logan trying to get Ray Winston aka Gal to do the job is just great to watch, Dons an absolute psycho! I never get tired of watching this film, it’s one of my favorite films of all time...
Same here. It’s top class. I’ve been around people like this when I was growing up. I felt the movie to be very accurate.
No no no no no no no fucking no
Great movie 🎥🍿 I can remember when this came out same time as
Chopper movie's
Classic
You were not gangster in the 1990s Stephen.
You were a petty criminal who did shop lifting, and pick pocketing!
This film is a perfect example of why British cinema shts on Hollywood - brilliant characters well played, dialogue and situation driven scenes, no reliance on big explosions, 20-minute shootouts, 30-minute car chases with indestructible cars or fight scenes where everyone is a 7th Dan Karate black belt!
I don't give a fuck if he's Muhammed I'm hard Bruce Lee
So you didn't like 'Bullitt'?
Hahaha. I hate all that faff too
Ian McShane’s “Teddy” character in that film is just chilling.
Ray Winston & Ben Kingsley
Two top class British actors👏
Great analysis of a proper British gangster film 👍
Those 2 were great , but Ian McShanes character “Teddy Bass” was far more intimidating than Kingsley . The look on Winstone’s face when he sees him get out of the car lol : th-cam.com/video/b-C97G1R8OQ/w-d-xo.html
Many Thanks Stephen, great film, still holds up nearly 23 years later!
Up there with The Long Good Friday which was made 20 years before Sexy Beast!
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr Bob Hoskins back in 2004, an absolute Gentleman.
Peace From London. 🙏🙏
Gal made the classic mistake of lying more than necessary. If you're trying to deceive someone, every lie out of your mouth is a liability so you should do so a little as possible. Saying that Don phoned him wasn't necessary for the fabrication Gal was trying to create, he could've just said Don left in a taxi and that was the last he heard from him - it was that additional (unnecessary) lie that landed him in trouble.
And Don made the mistake of letting Gal know that he "quite likes" Jackie, in that bar seen, which completely throws Gal. Needless to say Gal later uses that bit of info to send Don packing.
I absolutely love sexy beast but I always wonder why gal lied to teddy so much for when he really didn't need to
I agree the scene when Gal is eating and Teddy walks in is exceptional. The way he just starts talking at Gal, no introduction, brilliant script writing. Like you said its not was they say its what they dont say that really tells us the audience all we need to know. Best scene in the film In my opinion, closely followed by the scene when Teddy drops Gal off after basically letting him know how close to being rubbed out he came.
Obviously Kingsey as Don Logan is electric and deserved the oscar nomination..
But Mcshane as Teddy is more threatening and I'd love to see him play more roles like this
Gal looks so scared he can barely chew that bit of sausage.
@@bengough6955
Agreed! He was equally as terrifying but in a quite, calm measured way.
Great to hear someone involved in this life analyse this film. It's in my top 10 list of favourites. Jonathan Glazer is a superb director. There's another deep dive on youtube where the physical placement of characters is discussed and how interesting it is to see Winstone, who always plays overbearing characters, is put into a position of submission in this. The scene where he's just literally cowering in the corner of the kitchen while Don is shouting right in his face, how his body is all tensed up in a frozen position is amazing physical acting. Love love this film, might have to watch it again tonight.
Ian McShane is so menacing in this.
Teddy Bass the smiling psycho 😂
One of the sickest things ever is Teddy laughing with Gal at breakfast at the hotel!! Hahaha! As if he has no idea what is going on. Bollocks! Then "Good luck tonight" haha!
He was brilliant. Honestly the whole cast was on another level. The new tv show has a decent story, but the actors don't have any of the gravitas.
I always say to people you think Don is the Devil?
Then you meet Teddy Bass.
Such a classic, firmly in my top 10 all time films since it came out, every element of it is exceptional. Your review and answers to the questions were very good also. If your're taking film requests for future videos, it would be great to see a review on the characters of 'Dead Mans Shoes', another british classic, though a bit more psychological and less about the high life of gangsters, I feel this holds some worthy, strong characters relatable to in real life. If you haven't seen it, it really is one of the best.
The acting from sir Ben Kingsley and mr ray winston is this film is legendary and epic. One of my favourite movies to watch
Not only a great gangster movie but a masterful cinematic work in its own right, with the boulder and the pool as a metaphor for the entire story.
Love your videos, bud
Great video, with a lot of insight, Stephen. Sexy Beast totally caught me off guard when I first saw it. Ben Kingsley was incredible - I couldn't believe the same actor played Gandhi.
I'd love to see your take on Get Carter. It's my favorite Michael Caine movie.
I’ve always said that this film is disguised as a heist film, but that in actuality, it is a story about the redemptive power of love.
Good film but, Ive always thought Sexy Beast has an undertone which relates to men shagging men by brute force. Mentally and or physically.
Have you ever considered why its called 'Sexy Beast' , not exactly a hardman gangster title is it, and some of the scenes with the young lad around the pool always somehow seemed a bit odd.
I guess that’s one way to interpret it. I always thought that the kid represented Gal finding his youth again through his love for Didi.
@@Ada..Dnonce vibes?0
I'm by no means a 'gangster' but i've run in circles with 'characters' reasonably high up in the game. i've met these type of geezers many a time, both frightening and quite bizarrely sound, but fuck me they can turn on a sixpence. Been lucky, never got collared, or when i did blagged mesen out of it with being 'non the wiser' (ignorance is bliss is a powerful tool)...It never fails to make me smile how surprisingly daft the powers that be are😉
The dialogue in these intense scenes is so well written and so well delivered. You just don’t know which way things will turn and twist.
Good review,your opinion on The Long Good Friday would be interesting
One of my favourite films, never get tired of watching it. Brilliant casting, acting, script, characters, plot and direction. I love the analysis too, especially from someone with first hand experience of that life. Thanks you mr Gillen, a very intelligent, articulate and charismatic chap you are!
I think this film and "The Business" made the most impression on me. Growing up in the '70s and '80s you met these kind of people in passing. Sometimes dangerous, often funny and fascinating, but good role models for a young man? I'm not so sure.
Was gonna say he should review the Business and maybe Layer Cake
2 good films layercake being the better ov the 2 but not a patch on sexy beast ray a much better actor then dyer hassan and craig.
Great review Stephen. Thank you.
The lesson to learn here is that the average punter never really knows when they are facing a Don Logan or Teddy Bass until it's way, way too late.
Rubbish
Ben Kingsley nails this part so well I love this movie
Absolutely, hard to imagine that this is the same guy who played ghandi.
I'm so pleased that you rated the hotel restaurant scene between Teddy and Gal as the best in the film. That was always my opinion also. That smile from Teddy still sends a shiver down my spine, even after several viewings.
Saw this as a kid. With that title, i didn't know what to expect. Always stuck w me. Fantastic acting, great cinematography as well!
I was doubting you at first glance but then I watched the vid and your analysis, you know your shit you got a sub, and congrats on changing your life and thanks for sharing
The funny thing is that Ray Winston is a real-life tough guy and ex-professional boxer.
And an East LDN boy.
The DADDY!
Never a professional
@@t.d6379
Good amateur boxer... But I'm with you, he never boxed professionally and he'd happily admit that.
Bs
My favourite British gangster film, all 6 main characters at top of game with brilliant script, I have seen and been around characters of all levels, from lowest to highest , in Glasgow in 80s and 90s. Brilliant film, and very good analysis from you Mr gilligan. You are very good narrator....Good luck to you big yin 👍
Nailed this.
Don Logan exists and I knew men like him.
Gary exists I knew men like him.
Probably the most realistic character portrayals of London gangsters even on screen
“Poison Dwarfs”
This type of character was like the ones Joe Pesci portrayed in Casino & Goodfellas. Very dangerous people.
The young Spanish child is interesting because he senses the dangers around the Don Logan character.
Well, you'd have to be dead not to sense the menace coming off Don Logan!! From 10000 yards. The kid senses instinctively they're all in grave danger.
You do really good film reviews mate. You know your stuff. I like the way you express your opinion about the scenes. Very well presented mate. 👍
Yes. Best moment in the film is that moment with Ted. I think it’s Ray Winstone’s finest moment of all.
I think you should review The business. That is a good film Stephen. Just found your channel yesterday and im loving your content. Ive subscribed. Keep up the good work. I think you're very good at analysing character portrayal and the scenes that capture the capture them characters too. Fantastic 👍
No joke Don Logan was genuinely the only character in any film that i have ever seen that actually gave me shivers and had me on tenterhooks(shi#ing myself)and thats 100% true i was scared of him and i was in my forties when the film came out lol not a kid,absolutely amazing performance from Ben Kingsley.
Watched it again recently; that scene in the restaurant when Jackie and Aitch announce Don’s pending arrival feels even more tense when you know why they’re anxious about his visit - put a shiver down my spine! 😬
Grow a pair
@brian-jv9bt Look I'm a coward,no more no less if I want to s##t myself I will s##t tell myself,end off.
@@johngreenhorn8853 ok friend.
Great video thank you, very interesting insight. The quote I remember form Sexy Beast is Gal's when he talks about life in the UK " Everyone(changed) with a long face shuffling about complaining"
One of the best acting performance's ever by Ben Kingsley as Don.
This gentleman is so cool! Really like his accent! Also really admire anyone that had a life of Crime, and managed to turn it around x
i aint seen this for years, kingsley on the plane is hilarious hahaaaa. gonna watch it again tonight now.
Absolutely love these movie break down by the you stephen proper class 👏
Thank you for your review,. I weren't too keen on this film when I first watched it,. But since watching it again, I'm absolutely hooked.. All the actors and actresses are amazing!! (RIP CAVAN KENDALL) X
I ran a bar on Caledonian Rd, one of the locals was Don Logan with hair. We had a hotline to the local bobbies specifically for him. He was barred a fortnight every month. He could flip a sentence from friendly to deadly and made me shit my pants a few times. We had a Rockweiler come over to the beer garden on occasion, this fella threatened to break the dog's legs and rip its heart out.
Wow, what a tale. Proves that there really are people like this out there. Same with Blue Velvet....Frank is from a documentary! Even Dennis Hopper said he had to play the role
since he WAS Frank! That's how insane that fucker was.
Ben Kingsley also played Meyer Lansky in Bugsy. A very different type of gangster, but terrifying. Ray Winston plays himself, but he does it so well. He really gives himself away in that scene when Teddy Bess meets him for breakfast. Such a good script.
Fantastic film. One of my all time favourites. The tension is just riveting.
Really appreciate your insight as someone who lived that life and came out on the other side. It's an invaluable perspective.
Ay up Stephen, already subbed as i like your honesty kidda. I've got a cavalcade of movie suggestions, but here's one you've probably seen already (unless you were banged up?) but it's still hailed as one of the British greats...The Long Good Friday.
Such a great movie. Thanks for this one!
Fantastic film and loved your analysis on the characters.
I worked with a charge nurse while I too worked on a secure unit for the mentally ill and he uses to work in ashworth.
The stories he told me was unreal,said Charlie was in there for a spell.
Would love your analysis on Craig fairbrasses pat tate rise of the footsoldier movie and characters within the amazing movie.
Great video look forward to more,liked and subbed.
Get Carter, the 1973 one. What do you think about that one? after the movie i read the book too.Great reading. Thanks for this video, it's always puzzling to pinpoint reality in a bizarre world such as that one.
Very insightful, great watch 👍
Cool to see Ian McShane as Teddy Bass as well as Ben Kingsley and Ray Winstone. Lovejoy was his baby but a million miles away from this. His physicality lent more menace to the character, as McShane has quite an intense face. I can't think of many actors who can come close to that.
Klaus Kinski.
This is the first time I've heard of you and this movie, I will definitely watch this film. You seem like a stand up guy, doing a 17 stretch is absolutely mental, take care brother and God bless you.
amazing film. I saw it when it came out at the cinema in Leicester Square. came out buzzing. still think the acting, the script and JG's directing is insane.
Hi Stephen, loved the reaction. Can you do the Krays next the Spandu ballet version
Still my all time favourite film. Cool, tense, funny, even a romance element that one can get behind without feeling gay.
I watched Sexy Beast for the first time 3 months ago, I was bored looking through Paramount+, big fan of sir Ben Kingsley, Ray Winstone, Ian McShane and decided to give it a go. Its now easily in the top 10 films I have ever seen, wished I watched it back in the day.
What a great film.Don Logan has got to be one of the most intimidating characters,the other for me is Frank Booth.
Fantastic movie and, as usual, a top notch review! You filled my Easter entertainment void with the discovery of your channel!
I don't know if you watch 'The Sopranos" or not but in one of the episodes, one of the Sopranos meets Ben Kingsley and keeps referring to "Sexy Beat" to Sir Ben and keeps making an ass out of himself! A good watch if you got the chance.....
That might make a good video, compare an American show like The Sopranos with the guys in your former crew...how's it different, how's it similar...just a thought.
Keep up the GREAT work!
I have always made it a priority to just stay away from these sorts of people. You have no idea what you might be getting into. I've brushed up against some bad people and, recognizing it immediately, I quickly moved on. There is no way I'd ever give someone that sort of authority over me.
Nice one Stephen. Maybe do Long Good Friday next?
At 8:20 when Stephen smiles and says "I know, tell me again"
I get a feeling he has done this before. And it didn't end well for the other guy 😂
One of my favorite movies of all time. Beautiful cinematography, great actors, and the tension is so thick in places that I was literally holding my breath. Great review as always! Cheers! ❤
One of the best films I've ever seen--beautifully shot, as well.
I grew up on a council estate not far from WHU in the 60/70`s, I would say this is easily my favourite gangster film of all time, the characters played by Ben & Ray were very accurate & true to life from that period, Kingsleys acting of a pychopath & schizo is quite scary, whilst Ray`a Gal typified the smooth cool likeable jack the lad east end naughty boy of the 80`s/90`s that ended up on the Costa Del Sols of this world + also a mention must be given to the late great Cavan Kendall who played `Aitch` (Gals mate in Spain)...............so funny & droll.
Aitch's story at the end about the pill that gives monkeys new Beatles do's and all that...but it's reversible...has me crying laughing each time I watch this! Also "The man's a nightmare...this is a nightmare." LOL
My fave British movie! Thanks for this! Love the house and Costa del Sol.
This dynamic of those two in criminal groups where I come from in the U.S. is very familiar. I love that term, " Poison dwarf"... every group has one. Damnit If that ain't true and when you all love that bastard it makes it hard to wrangle them in and make them see reason. If they can't intimidate everyone into pulling off their gig, they'll accuse everyone of turning their back on them. A legend where im from, Anthony Allen, thats doing life for murder in Kentuckys north point prison... was one of our tribes "poison dwarfs" I've spent days arguing with him telling him no no no. They don't hear the word "no".
Ray Winstone Ben Kingsley and Ian McShane are Classic British 🇬🇧 Actor's 😎👍
Thanks for this, it is so great to hear that a film comes close to what it is really like to be in organized crime. I'm fascinated by the life, as are many. It will always be this deep, mysterious life that many of us will never experience. So, thank you for taking us on a journey and showing us just a hint of what you've seen.
Huh! I've watched this film 16 times! One of the reason it resonates is that I lived on the Costa Del Crime in the 80's for five years amongst all the criminals who lived out there. We didn't know one person who wasn't on the run!
I once knew a big guy who was extremely violent & over nothing much. He was in and out of prison and didn’t care either. I learned never get into an argument with someone who has nothing to lose.
In the top 10 of my favourite films,brilliant stuff from Winstone,Kingsley and McShane.
Just finally watched this again on DVD two nights ago: I didn't realize when I first saw it, that it was partially based upon the real heist from the 70s or whatever where they excavated
into the bank vault that was supposedly impregnable. Was the subject of two films already and a book. Also of course, Ian McShane is in BOTH films. No accident there. All these jobs
are about preparation but also exposure time. Something can always go wrong, however. The people who mastermind it are probably facing the most time inside. Gal is terrified
not only of Don, but of never being able to retire, and even more so of getting banged up again, this time for good, probably. As depicted in HEAT by Michael Mann, things ALWAYS
go wrong, such as somebody fucking up and hiring fellow pure psycho serial killer Waingrow to be an extra man on the armored car job that opens the film. He pops one of the guards
when he was told to not do so, disregards instructions, is not terribly bright, and the job goes off but not without complications: now they have a rogue psycho to worry about who
can get to the crew, but also they realize they stole from a problematic, dangerous figure who is not pleased about it. (the bearer bonds) Anyway, if the job goes wrong, Gal is fucked.
Either he'll end up dead, or banged up. To me the most terrifying line in the film is nothing Don says, but what Teddy says to Gal: "I might have to pop round to pay my respects
sometime." Corrrrrrr! Fuck me that is scary. Though Ted already tells Gal he would have punished him or offed him if he actually had any connection to Don Logan. Luckily Logan
was just another bloke he needed to get the job done. If this were an America mafia thing where you killed some made guy, or somebody's brother, whatever, you are fucking done, my son!
Gal is lucky to get out of it A. maybe retired now B alive and C. with the diamond earrings! And D. not facing prison time.
Great review, nice presentation. Regards from Canada.
Stephen, you asked for things you might look at for future videos. What about the 2005 Australian film The Magician, and its more fleshed-out form the TV-show Mr. Inbetween? For me, Scott Ryan's work has the same indie-like character realism as Sexy Beast.
Even Little Carmine and Christopher Moltisanti thought he was the man.
Love you channel brother. Keep up the great work
Growing up (and still living on) on some rough South London estates, you inevitably end up knowing people, or families, in the life.
I avoided it, and have always lived a straight life, but know heads who are on the fringes, and fully in the life, on street / lower levels.
I worked as a barman / shift manager at a notorious club round here, for a proper family, which was an eye opener!
I always thought Sexy Beast was on point as entertainment and also in terms of authenticity.
Seeing a proper geezer give it 9/10 for authenticity has just made it go up even higher in my estimation.
Oscar worthy performance from Ben Kingsley, and a great understated performance from Ray Winstone.
Which family?
Ben's just playing Gandhi again and Ian's just playing Lovejoy. Surely. 😇
There's a Sexy Beast prequel series being made.👍
Great numbers watching Stephen … very well deserved!!
Everyone always talks about how scary Don is but for me Teddy is far more intimidating.
Because Teddy controls Don lol
I get chills every time I see Teddy in this movie.
Hi, just became aware of your chanel, I would like your opinion of The long good Friday, my favourite film .
If you listen to how Stephen speaks, you just know, he's a 'real one'. I've been around younger men, particularly in the 90's, around the time being a gangster became fashionable, and you would meet someone, and just the sound of their voice would betray them as a pretender.
When you're around real ones, you really need to watch yourself...
I expected this to be a load of bollocks, but I enjoyed it. Stephen comes across as honest and authentic.
Fantastic editing by Stevie Wonder here. Bravo ! 👏 👏 👏
I've always though that Eastender London accent intimidating. Ben Kingsley pulls if off incredibly well - what an actor.
The film never really got the praise that it deserved compared to say, Layer Cake. Crammed full of Britain’s greatest talent, great script and first class direction. Reminiscent of Costa del Crime in the 80s/early 90s. Although I have no knowledge of that life, to me, it seems to be the one of the most authentic of all gangster films, along with Gomorrah and City of God.
Much Better than later cake..its simple not a lot happens but so compelling, every time, Kingsley kills it. Shouldve got an oscar
Would love to have your take on Nicky's character in Casino. There's a similar scene to the restaurant one here where he intimidates away two rivals in the lobby pretty much by saying nothing. It taught me alot when I was working as a bouncer, how to turn the tables by saying as little as possible.
Everyone did a great job with the acting, but what I always felt hard to believe was that someone the size of Ray Winstone would be frightened of Ben Kingsley. Ray must be two inches taller and about 10 years younger.
Gal isn't portrayed by the director as a thuggish violent type, and even if he had been at one time he's definitely not now. He just wants to protect his quiet lifestyle. But when push comes to shove, differences in physique are irrelevant when violent rage is unleashed. It's absolutely realistic to believe Don would have killed Gal and walked away.
I used to run a bar in the 99s and met characters like this.
One guy was a used car dealer and used to import cannabis in sofas from Spain. There were others too. One thing they had in common was they were all incredibly charismatic but they were not governed by the social norms like you or I.
One guy was sat at the bar and after a disagreement with an acquaintance he smacked him round the head with a cut glass ashtray.
Hey stephen i would love to hear about the firms in london such as green street/west ham united firm and the other firms involved as well love the hooligans story
It is a scary but great film - villainous people I've known would be the most charming but then click into a groove that you could see coming miles off, the answer to anything you said was already writen in their heads when they clicked! Great acting by Ben kingsley.
Teddy Bass is fantastic!!
I've seen a lot of movies in my lifetime, but if I tell you this movie had me from the start. First of all was the fantastic location, I'm guessing it was Majorca, Spain, or is it South Africa, or Australia maybe New Zealand I didn't get to see the credits. Somebody help me. I fell in love with this movie. The symbolism and cinematography was extraordinary. How come I'm just now seeing it. I feel so out of the loop guys.
I was so surprised seeing Lovejoy in this role😉.
Thought he was brill! A great film.
Did you like Deadwood? He was great in that too as a pimp/brother owner
This is where Ian McShane comes into his own as a quality character actor. Much more meaty role than Lovejoy.
If you'd included the vhs-tape wind sound effects, I wouldn't be able to tell this apart from an actual Insider "How .... actually works" video. Well done.
I'm over the moon to agree with everything Stephen says about this film as he's a person I'd hate to ever have to disagree with retired from that life or not.