Shivangi Sinha
Jonathan Glazer’s feature directorial debut, ‘Sexy Beast’ stands as a cinematic legend, a 2000 crime thriller that captivates audiences with the intensity of its storyline and memorable characters. The film introduces us to retired safecracker Gary “Gal” Dove (Ray Winstone), who is enjoying a tranquil life in Spain with his wife Deedee (Amanda Redman). However, their peaceful existence is shattered when an unwelcome visitor arrives. Don Logan (Ben Kingsley), is a relentless and psychopathic gangster who demands Gal’s involvement in a heist. The remarkable success of ‘Sexy Beast’ extended beyond the confines of cinema, giving rise to a series created by Michael Caleo bearing the same name.
A prequel to the acclaimed film, The Paramount+ series unfolds the intriguing backstory of the iconic characters Gary and Don, shedding light on their ascent in the criminal underworld. Viewers are immersed in the early lives of these characters, witnessing the formation of their connections with the formidable criminal boss, Teddy Bass. Portrayed in their youth, the characters undergo development and initiation into the world of crime, providing a narrative that explores the roots of their complex relationships and criminal endeavors.
The Realism in Sexy Beast
The universe depicted in ‘Sexy Beast’ is not grounded in a true story. Written by the duo of Louis Mellis and David Scinto, the film unfolds in a fictional world and draws no direct inspiration from real-life individuals or events. Despite its fictional nature, the believability of the characters and the world they inhabit is heightened through various components. Chief among them is the outstanding performance of the actors, with particular emphasis on Ray Winstone and Ben Kingsley portraying British gangsters. In fact, the latter’s compelling performance also earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
Another layer of authenticity in ‘Sexy Beast’ emanates from the portrayal of gangster characters who exhibit sociopathic and perverse tendencies. In real life, some infamous gangsters have exhibited similar traits, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. For instance, figures like Al Capone, known for his ruthlessness and manipulation, or James “Whitey” Bulger, who combined cunning tactics with a propensity for violence, seemingly share certain attributes with the characters in the film. This depiction adds a gritty realism to the film, showcasing the darker facets of criminal life.
In the cinematic exploration of organized crime presented in ‘Sexy Beast’ and its TV series prequel, a rich tapestry of hierarchy, power dynamics, and the pervasive influence on individuals and communities unfolds. These narratives delve into the structure of criminal organizations, highlighting the roles played by leaders, enforcers, and foot soldiers. Loyalty, a cornerstone of organized crime, is portrayed as both a source of strength and a potential catalyst for internal strife. The projects skillfully depict the reverberations of criminal activities, revealing the impact not only on those directly involved but also on the lives and relationships of innocent bystanders.
The exploration of these themes goes beyond the surface, delving deep into the psychological and societal implications of organized crime, offering a fresh perspective on its far-reaching consequences. Transporting viewers back to the gritty streets of 1990s London, the TV series impeccably recreates the era through its meticulous attention to sets and costumes. The authenticity of the sets lies in the intricate details that capture the essence of the time – from the atmospheric lighting of dimly lit pubs to the graffiti-strewn alleyways.
The costumes, a crucial element in illustrating the British gangster culture, reflect the fashion of the era with oversized tracksuits, gold chains, and distinctively bold patterns. James McArdle, Emun Elliott, and Sarah Greene, with their compelling performances, breathe life into characters that embody the swagger and tenacity of British gangster culture. The attention to detail in creating the universe of both the film and the TV series is exemplified by the commitment of the actors to capturing even the smallest nuances.
A striking illustration of this dedication is found in the depiction of the character Gal Dove. Ray Winstone, who appears as Gal Dove in the film, reportedly went to great lengths to achieve the perfect bronze tan. He would fly to Spain to ensure he got the right depth of tan for his character. In the TV series, James McArdle, who took on the role, had to follow suit and maintain a similar tan. McArdle even had a sunbed installed in his house. He was constantly reminded by the make-up department to get into the sunbed and get the right skin tone.
While ‘Sexy Beast’ and its TV series counterpart may not draw direct inspiration from real-life events, the efforts invested in crafting the film and series contribute to a captivating and believable universe. The immersive world-building, coupled with powerful performances, resonates with audiences, creating characters that transcend fiction. The power of such storytelling and filmmaking makes this fictional world feel remarkably genuine.
Read More: Sexy Beast: Where is the TV Show Filmed?
