Tom Hardy Shines in Guy Ritchie’s Dull Gangster Epic ‘MobLand’

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Guy Ritchie is often associated with a minimum of energy and thrill. Although some perceived his initial films (“Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” and “Snatch”) as imitations of Tarantino’s Cockney style, Ritchie demonstrated a stronger aptitude for raw action and excitement than given credit for. In fact, he surpassed many directors in the same genre with his gunfights, brawls, and chases, ensuring that even when things became cheesy or over-the-top, they remained exhilarating and enjoyable. However, this isn’t true of “MobLand“, which is a more somber and dramatic production compared to Ritchie’s other work, including his successful Netflix series, “The Gentlemen“.

In this production, Ritchie demonstrates his exceptional ability to direct actors, showcasing their talents superbly. Tom Hardy takes the lead as a character who, on paper, seems like a typical “fixer” and right-hand man for a criminal boss. However, Ritchie does not significantly elevate this role; instead, it’s Tom Hardy who shines exceptionally bright.

As I delved into the world of “MobLand,” it was challenging to pinpoint just one aspect that stood out – was it the enigmatic politeness (and his peculiar way of expressing gratitude) that shrouded this matter-of-fact and violent character? Was it his unexpected flashes of intellect and wisdom? Or perhaps a sense of weariness, as if the man was a harried father juggling work, family, and life, much like Al Bundy, but in a hitman’s world. Whatever it may be, Hardy delivers an outstanding performance, and the same can be said for the entire cast. Regrettably, “MobLand” is a predictable gangster series with a familiar plotline that often feels mundane.

In essence, the narrative unfolds with the young men from two competing yet interconnected gangs socializing together. A night filled with cocaine and alcohol leads them to a nightclub where an altercation ensues between the arrogant, blond Harrigan boy of the dominant gang and an unidentified individual after a heated exchange. This unfortunate incident results in the disappearance of the son from the Stevenson gang, pushing his father towards the brink of igniting a full-blown gang conflict. With the addition of fentanyl and overinflated egos, it seems we have all the ingredients for a violent storm brewing ahead.

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2025-03-28 10:01