It is rare that evil has been so ably and perfectly played as Ben Kingsley does in “Sexy Beast.” In a performance sure to be recognized come awards-time, Kingsley plays Don Logan, a psychotic and vicious British gangster, who travels to Spain to lure Gal, also superbly plaid by Ray Winstone, out of retirement for a big bank heist back in Britain. Winstone is a lovable bad boy, think a nicer Tony Soprano with bleach blond hair, and we root for him from the opening moment when he is seen tanning his corpulent body and cracking jokes by Spanish poolside.
One quarter of the way into the film, this particular version of gangster domestic bliss is turned upside down when Kingsley strides into the Spanish retreat and announces that he has to take a piss. Non-stop browbeating, insulting, and physical abuse ensues, as Kingsley will not accept Gal’s retirement. Kingsley is even more convincingly evil than Ralph Fiennes’ Nazi Amon Goeth in “Schindler’s List.” Not wishing to give away too much of the plot, Winstone eventually does return to England for the heist with unexpected consequences. The supporting cast of British crooks are all deliciously decadent, and Gal’s crew of friends and lovers back in Spain are also all wonderful character studies. The director, Jonathan Glazer, has some interesting camera angles and techniques which round out this complete ensemble effort. “Sexy Beast” is a great film and is a good addition to the pantheon of gangster greats.
By Matt Saha
4.5 / 5 Stars
Starring: Ben Kingsley, Ray Winstone, Ian McShane
Director: Jonathan Glazer
