See it!

I loved this movie.

The characterizations are spot-on for the leading actors. Ben Kingsely was so convincing it made me think hard about how I would deal with someone as unhinged and as driven as him (talking him out of it is no option). Ray Winstone (called 'Gil' - an abbreviation of some name or nick-name) was superb, and easily identified with. Ian McShane was also a delight as the un-emotional version of Kingsley - without the personal hang-ups, but with the same complete disregard for others. He must have practiced not-smiling for a month before he did the role - he appeared dead in face and eye even when he WAS smiling. Very menacing.

Yes, the gangster themes are familiar to Brits (I am one) - the story of the individual who is NOT leading the action. We start with a character who appears to be shallow, shady, insular-minded (without being racist) and of low ambition (get a tan, go to the pub with friends). Soon that character is being tested and we want to know if he has any integrity, and if so, can two evil people break it?

Yes the opening event is a very strong parallel of the movie - so what?

I liked the movie a lot.