The Sweeney Review

9th Sep 2012

The Sweeney finds Ray “fackin” Winstone in territory he was born to play, Nick Love stretch his directorial abilities to the next level, and a slew of British character thesps get in on the big smoke set reimagining of the television classic. Dragged along the way whether we like it or not is newbie music star Ben Drew as Regan’s partner.

Winstone we have to rely on heavily to carry the weight of the film (which of course he does fairly effortlessly). Drew on the other hasn’t quite got the knack for this sort of racket yet. But the two of them PC Plod their way from one crime scene to another taking plenty of time out to swear, shout, threaten and clobber the odd eurovillain.

Nick Love tries to emulate the likes of Michael man’s Heat in Trafalgar square but more often than not comes up a little bit short with his technical abilities. But at least he is trying to grow and has probably learnt a thing or two about how to go big. Sadly the finale couldn’t have been smaller or less thrilling when we get to the caravan park chase. There may be enough here though with the characters and the banter to get people through.

If there are any hopes at turning this towards franchise they may want to rethink part of the casting next time round. Plan B indeed.