I for one was happy to see content from our locals outside of the gang stuff. We’ve scared the world enough, let’s show them we can do other things, and we did here. The concept was great, cast was ok, production amazing… execution? Terrible! Story and plot wise everything seemed all over the place and very jumbled. It leaves so many unanswered questions but there isn’t enough substance to care or want to know the answers to those questions. In essence it’s a grooming story. It showcases the contrast of positive and negative role models in little Benji’s life. Some of the cinematography pushes this narrative where there’s a split screen scene which shows Izi and Benji in separate locations but getting ready almost identically. I liked that.
The performances are what keep you engaged and there aren’t many. Kano having a mini breakdown in trying to decide what flat he wants was a good scene, death of The Kitchener funeral was another powerful scene. That’s what we are left with… pockets of emotional scenes that don’t translate all the way through. Staples for example is an almost local Robin Hood type character who takes in kids and grooms them into bike riding hooligans… except they break into legit running businesses which defeats the Robin Hood title. The film leans heavy on loss and grief whilst touching on subjects like fatherhood, ambition, brotherhood, death etc. We have another lackluster ending which is obvious to the T and a weak attempt at a cliffhanger… but as I said, by this time you won’t care! By all means I’m happy for the boys and their directorial debuts but this isn’t one that will be remembered for the history books. It’s ok if you skip this, Just let them use this for experience and let’s look more forward to their next films.
Would this have been better as a series? Perhaps helped with the character development? Does it need a sequel? How did uncle Ian do on his debut? Were you happy with that ending? React and comment below…
