It's fascinating how certain figures lodge themselves in the public consciousness, becoming almost mythical. The Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie, are certainly in that category. Their story, a potent mix of ambition, violence, and a peculiar kind of charisma, has been retold in various forms, but Brian Helgeland's 2015 film, 'Legend,' offers a particularly striking portrayal.
What immediately sets 'Legend' apart is its central performance. Tom Hardy tackles the monumental task of playing both Ronnie and Reggie Kray, and he does so with a technical brilliance that's truly something to behold. It's not just about looking the same; it's about embodying two distinct personalities, two halves of a formidable whole, and Hardy nails it. You feel the tension between them, the brotherhood, and the eventual, inevitable friction.
The film, narrated by Emily Browning as Reggie's wife, Frances Shea, takes us through the 'golden years' of the Krays' reign in 1950s and '60s London. Frances, in her retrospective view, paints a vivid picture: Reggie as the 'gangster prince of the East End,' charming and seemingly in control, while Ronnie is described as a 'one-man mob,' a force of nature with a darker, more unpredictable edge. The narrative weaves through their rise to power, their dealings with the American Mafia, the constant shadow of police investigation, and the internal struggles that ultimately led to their downfall.
'Legend' doesn't shy away from the era it depicts. It’s a period piece that captures a time when gangsters could operate with a certain brazenness, fronting legitimate businesses while running their criminal enterprises. There's a sense of them being public figures, albeit feared ones, who could still command respect and even offer a strange form of patronage to their local community. The film highlights Ronnie's openly gay identity, noting that it didn't diminish his criminal prowess, though it does hint at a rarely seen, softer side.
However, the movie is unflinching in its depiction of the uglier aspects of their lives, leading to a tragic conclusion. It distinguishes itself from earlier portrayals by focusing more intensely on their peak years, rather than delving deeply into their childhood or broader family dynamics. The film also plays with the idea of 'Affably Evil,' particularly with Reggie, who could be charming and seemingly concerned for his community, even as he engaged in brutal acts. Ronnie, on the other hand, leans more towards the psychopathic, though even he has moments of affection for those few he held dear.
There are, of course, instances of artistic license. The film portrays Ronnie as strictly gay, whereas historical accounts suggest he was bisexual. The timeline of Reggie and Frances's marriage is also slightly adjusted for dramatic effect. These are minor points, perhaps, in the grand sweep of the narrative, but they're worth noting for those familiar with the true story. The film also touches on the 'All Girls Want Bad Boys' trope, with Frances hoping Reggie would reform, a hope that ultimately proves futile.
Ultimately, 'Legend' is a compelling look at two of Britain's most notorious figures, brought to life with a powerful central performance and a narrative that balances the allure of their criminal empire with the grim reality of their destructive path. It’s a story that, even with its dramatic embellishments, captures the essence of their rise and fall, leaving a lasting impression.
