The Gentlemen (2020) is a British crime comedy film written and directed by Guy Ritchie, known for his stylish, fast-paced storytelling and witty dialogue in films like Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. This film is no exception, offering a mix of dark humor, complex characters, and a web of crime and betrayal.
Set in London, the story centers around Mickey Pearson (played by Matthew McConaughey), an American expat who has built a successful marijuana empire in the UK. He wants to sell his business and retire, but the deal becomes complicated when a series of criminals and power players try to get a piece of the action. The film unfolds with a variety of twists, including blackmail, shady deals, and rivalries, all while exploring themes of loyalty, greed, and ambition.
The movie is told through a layered narrative structure, with one character—Ray (Charlie Hunnam), Mickey’s right-hand man—telling the story to a tabloid editor (Hugh Grant). This framing device adds an element of humor and intrigue as the characters’ motivations and schemes are slowly revealed.
The cast also includes Colin Farrell, who plays Coach, a boxing coach with his own set of colorful characters, and Henry Golding, who plays a rival with his eyes set on Mickey’s empire.
The Gentlemen is a fun, stylish film that plays with genre conventions, blending crime thriller elements with Ritchie’s trademark flair for fast-paced dialogue and twists. While the plot may be intricate, it’s driven by strong performances and sharp writing, making for an engaging and entertaining watch. The film received generally positive reviews for its humor, stylish direction, and memorable characters.
If you enjoy films that mix action, crime, and sharp wit with some cool British swagger, this one’s for you. It’s got that classic Guy Ritchie feel—slick, funny, and just the right amount of clever.
