The Krays: Best Movies About The Infamous Gangsters
\Hey guys! Are you fascinated by true crime and gangster stories? Then you've probably heard about Ronnie and Reggie Kray, the notorious twin gangsters who ruled London's underworld in the 1960s. Their story is so compelling that it has been brought to the big screen several times. In this article, we'll dive into the best movies about the Kray twins, exploring how these films capture their complex relationship, their violent exploits, and their ultimate downfall. So, grab some popcorn, and let's get started!
Why the Krays Still Fascinate Us
The Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie, remain figures of intense fascination for several reasons. Their story isn't just about crime; it's a complex tapestry woven with elements of family, power, and the dark underbelly of 1960s London. The Kray twins carved out a significant place in British criminal history. They weren't just common thugs; they were entrepreneurs who built a criminal empire that touched various aspects of London society. Their ability to mix with celebrities and politicians added another layer of intrigue, blurring the lines between the criminal world and the upper echelons of society. This is a key reason why the Krays' story continues to captivate audiences.
The twins' dynamic is also incredibly compelling. Ronnie, openly homosexual and diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, was the more outwardly violent and unpredictable of the two. Reggie, on the other hand, was seen as the more stable and business-minded brother, though he was certainly no saint. This contrast in personalities, combined with their unbreakable bond, creates a narrative ripe for dramatic interpretation. Their relationship was both their strength and their weakness, a duality that filmmakers have often explored to great effect. Moreover, the Krays' era is romanticized. The 1960s in London were a time of cultural revolution, and the Krays were, in a way, a dark reflection of that era. They embodied a certain rebellious spirit, albeit one twisted by violence and criminality. This period setting adds a layer of nostalgia and intrigue to their story, making it all the more fascinating.
Their downfall is equally captivating. The fact that they were eventually brought to justice after years of evading the law provides a sense of closure, but it also raises questions about the nature of justice and the consequences of a life of crime. The story of the Kray twins is more than just a gangster saga; it's a study of human nature, ambition, and the price of power. That's why their story continues to be told and retold, captivating audiences with its dark and compelling narrative.
The Kray Twins in Cinema: A Look at the Films
When it comes to portraying the notorious Ronnie and Reggie Kray on the big screen, filmmakers have taken different approaches, each offering a unique perspective on the twins' lives and crimes. Several films have attempted to capture the essence of these infamous gangsters, and each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Let's take a look at some of the most notable ones and see how they stack up.
The Krays (1990)
Starring real-life brothers Gary and Martin Kemp (from the band Spandau Ballet), this film is often considered the definitive Kray twins movie. What sets The Krays (1990) apart is its focus on the psychological dynamics between the twins and their overbearing mother, Violet, played brilliantly by Billie Whitelaw. The movie delves deep into their upbringing and explores how their mother's influence shaped their criminal trajectory. The Kemp brothers deliver compelling performances, capturing the chilling intensity and complex relationship of the Krays. Gary Kemp's portrayal of Reggie is nuanced, showing both his charm and his capacity for violence, while Martin Kemp embodies Ronnie's unpredictable and psychopathic nature with frightening accuracy. The film doesn't shy away from the brutality of their crimes, but it also explores the emotional landscape of their lives, making it a more rounded and human story. One of the film's strengths is its attention to detail in recreating the atmosphere of 1960s London. From the smoky pubs to the seedy nightclubs, the film immerses you in the world the Krays inhabited. The soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring music that perfectly complements the mood and setting. However, some critics have pointed out that the film romanticizes the Krays to some extent, focusing more on their personal lives than on the impact of their crimes on their victims. Despite this, The Krays (1990) remains a powerful and memorable cinematic portrayal of the Kray twins, and is a must-watch for anyone interested in their story. Its exploration of family dynamics and psychological complexities sets it apart from other gangster films, making it a truly unique and compelling piece of cinema.
Legend (2015)
In Legend (2015), Tom Hardy takes on the daunting task of playing both Ronnie and Reggie Kray. This film takes a different approach, focusing more on the spectacle and the sheer audacity of the Krays' criminal enterprise. Hardy's performance is the main draw here, and he delivers a tour-de-force, creating two distinct and memorable characters. His Reggie is suave and calculating, while his Ronnie is utterly unhinged and unpredictable. The film revels in the glamour and violence of the Krays' world, showcasing their rise to power and the decadent lifestyle they enjoyed. Legend does a great job of portraying the atmosphere of the 1960s London underworld, with its sharp suits, smoky nightclubs, and ever-present threat of violence. The supporting cast is also strong, with Emily Browning delivering a poignant performance as Reggie's wife, Frances Shea. However, some critics have argued that the film sacrifices depth for style, focusing more on the surface-level aspects of the Krays' story than on the underlying motivations and consequences of their actions. The film has been accused of glorifying the Krays, portraying them as charismatic anti-heroes rather than the ruthless criminals they were. Despite these criticisms, Legend is an entertaining and visually stylish film that offers a unique perspective on the Kray twins. Tom Hardy's performance alone is worth the price of admission, and the film's depiction of 1960s London is both captivating and immersive. While it may not be the most accurate or nuanced portrayal of the Krays, it is certainly one of the most memorable.
Other Notable Mentions
While The Krays (1990) and Legend (2015) are the most well-known films about the Kray twins, there have been other attempts to bring their story to the screen. These include documentaries, TV series, and lesser-known movies that offer different perspectives on the Krays' lives and crimes. While they may not be as widely seen as the two main films, they can still provide valuable insights into the Kray twins and the world they inhabited. For example, some documentaries offer interviews with people who knew the Krays, providing first-hand accounts of their personalities and activities. TV series can delve deeper into specific aspects of their story, exploring the intricacies of their criminal empire and the impact it had on London society. And lesser-known movies may focus on different periods of their lives, shedding light on their early years or their time in prison. While these other films may not have the same star power or production value as The Krays and Legend, they can still be worth watching for anyone who wants to learn more about the Kray twins and their legacy.
How the Actors Portrayed the Twins
One of the most fascinating aspects of these Kray twins movies is how the actors interpret and portray the complex personalities of Ronnie and Reggie. Each actor brings their own unique approach to the roles, and their performances can greatly influence how we perceive the twins. Gary and Martin Kemp in The Krays (1990), for instance, brought a sense of authenticity to their roles, perhaps because they were real-life brothers. Their chemistry on screen was palpable, and they captured the intense bond between the twins with remarkable accuracy. Gary Kemp's Reggie was smooth and calculating, while Martin Kemp's Ronnie was menacing and unpredictable. Tom Hardy in Legend (2015) faced the unique challenge of playing both twins, and he rose to the occasion with a stunning dual performance. His Reggie was suave and charming, while his Ronnie was a terrifying force of nature. Hardy's ability to differentiate between the two characters, both physically and emotionally, was truly impressive. Other actors who have portrayed the Krays may not have received as much attention, but their performances still contribute to our understanding of the twins. Each actor brings their own interpretation to the roles, highlighting different aspects of the Krays' personalities and relationships. By comparing and contrasting these performances, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity of the Kray twins and the challenges of portraying them on screen.
Accuracy vs. Entertainment: How the Films Balance Reality
When it comes to making movies about real-life figures like the Kray twins, filmmakers often face the challenge of balancing historical accuracy with the need to create an entertaining and engaging story. It's a delicate balancing act, and different films take different approaches. Some prioritize accuracy, meticulously recreating events and details from the Krays' lives. Others take more creative liberties, embellishing certain aspects of the story for dramatic effect. The question then becomes: How much historical accuracy is necessary, and when is it okay to sacrifice it for the sake of entertainment? It's a debate that has been going on for as long as movies have been made about real-life events. On one hand, filmmakers have a responsibility to be truthful to the historical record, especially when dealing with sensitive subjects like crime and violence. On the other hand, movies are, first and foremost, works of fiction, and filmmakers need to create a compelling narrative that will keep audiences engaged. Ultimately, the best Kray twins movies are those that strike a balance between accuracy and entertainment. They are well-researched and respectful of the historical record, but they also know how to tell a good story. They don't shy away from the violence and brutality of the Krays' crimes, but they also explore the complex motivations and relationships that drove them. By finding this balance, filmmakers can create movies that are both informative and entertaining, shedding light on the Kray twins and the world they inhabited.
Conclusion: Which Kray Twins Movie Should You Watch?
So, which Kray twins movie should you watch? Well, it depends on what you're looking for. If you want a more psychological and character-driven story, The Krays (1990) is the way to go. If you're in the mood for a stylish and visually stunning film with a powerhouse performance from Tom Hardy, Legend (2015) is a great choice. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to watch both and see which one resonates with you more. Both films offer unique and compelling perspectives on the Kray twins, and both are well worth watching for anyone interested in their story. And who knows, you might even find yourself fascinated by these infamous gangsters and their dark and captivating world!
