The Long Good Friday

A London gangster is about to sign a large deal with American partners to redevelop the docklands. That same weekend his men start being killed and his premises bombed. The film draws its tension from not knowing who is attacking and shows him losing control step by step. The narrative brings late nineteen-seventies London, the changing docks and the Irish question directly into it. John Mackenzie directed, with Bob Hoskins and Helen Mirren. The television company that financed it wanted it shortened and dubbed; in the end it was released in cinemas in its original form. Who it's for: those who like British gangster cinema. Who it's not for: viewers wanting fast action; the film gives its weight to talk and to a long final shot of a face.