When we think about gangster films, there are plenty that are worth the time investment of watching (and plenty that are not). There are the classics such as The Godfather trilogy or Goodfellas, then there are the British classics such as The Italian Job and The Long Good Friday, but the comedic British gangster films have also carved out their own unique niche in the gangster genre, blending dark witty humour with gritty crime. With colourful characters with equally colourful and fun names, witty dialogue, and a distinctively British sense of humour, these films are fun to watch. Classics such as Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch have set the standard for the genre, showcasing the talents of directors like Guy Ritchie and actors like Jason Statham and Vinnie Jones, although one of my favourites is still Love, Honour and Obey with Ray Winstone, Jonny Lee Miller and Jude Law among its star-studded cast. These films are known for their clever plots, memorable comedic one-liners and sometimes slapstick capers. They have the ability to find fun and humour in the most unexpected ways and places. They capture the essence of British culture, with a fun focus on the criminal underworld and the colourful characters that operate within it. One of the latest additions to this genre is Bermondsey Tales: Fall of the Roman Empire, a story that is based on true events.
Bermondsey Tales: Fall of the Roman Empire stars Frank Harper, Maisie Smith, Alan Ford, Charlie Clapham, Daniel O’Reilly, Adam Deacon, Vas Blackwood and John Hannah. Written and directed by Michael Head, it is rated 18 and has a running time of 1 hour and 39 minutes.
Bermondsey Tales: Fall of the Roman Empire is set in and around Bermondsey in the south London borough of Southwark and follows the story of the Roman family. The Romans are a south London crime family struggling to maintain their power amidst internal strife as well as external threats. Crime boss and patriarch, Mick Roman (Gary Webster), is deathly ill, and the family is danger of breaking down as they search for a suitable successor. With limited options in an aging consigliere (Michael Head) or an impulsive enforcer (Charlie Clapham), neither of whom seem fit to take the throne, things aren’t going to go well. But as the family deals with these challenges, they must also contend with The Postman (John Hannah), the return of a rebellious niece (Maisie Smith), and a drug-fuelled business meeting in Amsterdam. The film is packed full of deceit, ambition, and infighting with plenty of humour and chaos.
Overall, Bermondsey Tales: Fall of the Roman Empire is a fun, and at times even silly, British gangster comedy film. Boasting a talented cast, including my favourites John Hannah as The Postman and Vas Blackwood as Edgar (with his very dodgy syrup). And then there are plenty of faces that you will recognise from other British gangster films.
As the film is made of the ‘tales’ of the characters, you do have to pay attention to what is happening or it will be quick to get confused as to what is going on. And as it’s a London gangster film there is use of Cockney Rhyming Slang.
The film explores themes of loyalty, family, and the struggle for power. Delving into the dynamics of the Roman family, the film highlights the tensions and conflicts that arise when power is up for grabs. The interactions of the characters is excellent, filled with dark humour and witty banter, although you wouldn’t expect anything less from a British gangster comedy film.
Bermondsey Tales: Fall of the Roman Empire is a delightful fun to watch if you pay attention. Packed with engaging characters that can be as silly as they are fun, plenty of witty dialogue, and a plot that is filled with twists and turns, the film offers a fresh and entertaining take on the world of British crime.
Provides plenty of laughs and thrills. Is this the fall of the Roman Empire?
Rating: 4/5
Available to buy on DVD and Blu-Ray from Amazon here.