Sexy Beast (2000)
Directed by Jonathan Glazer
Starring: Ray Winstone, Ben Kingsley, Ian McShane, Amanda Redman
Gary Dove (Winstone) is retired from a life of crime. Living in Spain, he spends his days soaking up the sun and drinking alongside his wife Deedee (Redman). When Don Logan shows up at their Spanish villa he is an unwelcome visitor from their past. His arrival is an attempt to convince Gary to come back for one more heist. Gary’s resistance only guarantees that no one will come out ahead.
Director Jonathan Glazer (Birth) took on this project with a unique style. His vision brought together a heist film that is less about the heist and more about the people behind it. The cast includes Academy Award winner Ben Kingsley (Schindler’s List), Ray Winstone (Hugo), Amanda Redman (Richard’s Things), and Ian McShane (Deadwood).
From an acting standpoint you can’t ask for much more than Glazer got from the cast. This film earned Ben Kingsley an Oscar nomination. In addition, Ray Winstone gives a powerful performance. The rest of the cast does a great job as well. Ian McShane brings his own gruff and intense personality to his part in this one. The acting from the rest of the cast is also nicely done.
This movie also has a nice visual feel. The camera work takes full advantage of the sets and the locations the film was shot on. Unfortunately, the script asks for some rather odd moments that seem to distract from an otherwise awesome story. These distractions play out in a very odd way on the screen. Glazer might have been looking for a unique touch to this film, but ultimately it just feels weird.

Overall, this is an interesting film. If you’re interested in seeing a great acting performance I definitely recommend this one. Ben Kingsley’s performance makes up for a lot. Fans of heist films or crime dramas will probably appreciate this one. I give this one 3 out of 5 stars.
One comment