Synopsis: A multi-character thriller set in London’s criminal underworld. Tom Wilkinson plays Lenny, an old school gangster who gets involved in a shady property deal with Abramovich-like Russian billionaire Uri (Karel Roden), only for Uri’s priceless “good luck painting” to go missing while under Lenny’s care. Starring: Gerard Butler, Thandie Newton, Jeremy Piven, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges Director: Guy Ritchie Guy Ritchie’s “RocknRolla” is a multi-character high-speed cruise through the London underworld marked by audacious use of the camera and a fluid narrative style. It is well-cast and well-made. It is also devoid of anything like real feeling. The plot is too convoluted to examine in detail. Basically, Gerard Butler and his pal Idris Elba are deep in debt to underworld Lenny Cole (Tom Wikinson.)Gerard Butler’s girlfriend, Stella looking devesting as well-heeled lawyer, informs him that Lenny is borrowing millions from Russian gangster Uri (Karel Roden.) Gerard Butler intercepts not only the money but also Uri’s precious “good luck” painting, which the Russian is lending to Lenny as a show of good faith. Lenny goes ballistic, not so much over the loss of the money as the painting. If he cannot return it to Uri, a bloody gang war will ensure. The painting and the cash pass from hand to hand while Lenny’s thugs tear the city apart searching for them. Along the way we were introduced to a couple dozen characters, among them Lenny’s estranged former rock star son, Tony Kebbell, a city functionary on the take, Jimi Mistry, Lenny’s super suave Lieutenant, Mark Strong and a couple of music producers, Jeremy Piven and Ludacris inexplicably sucked into the mess. There are some moments of humour and action, but few of the actor/actors are on the screen long enough to establish a genuine character. If you like hilarious, great chase scenes and bumbling hotshots do not miss “RocknRolla.” It is an enjoyable well made crime caper that should delight fans. Wait until you hear the soundtrack!!! Wow! Highly recommended.
