The Criminal
Jasper Rawlins, a none-too-successful musician, finds himself chatting with a beautiful woman at his neighborhood bar. She goes home with him, direct and frank in answer to his nervousness. During the night, someone breaks into his flat and cuts her throat. He runs into the arms of the police, who dismiss his story, but release him while they search for the weapon. He investigates the crime, and over the next few days, meets a knowing pornographer, hit men, and other schemers. As dead bodies pile up wherever he goes, the police are soon looking for him with guns drawn. As he discovers secrets about a shadowy corporation, the police close in. Can he find someone to trust?
Insights
Plot Summary
A British convict, Marcus, is released from prison after serving time for armed robbery. He is immediately drawn back into the criminal underworld by a charismatic crime boss named Rome. Rome offers Marcus a lucrative but dangerous proposition: to impersonate a recently deceased architect and infiltrate a high-security building to steal valuable information. Marcus navigates a treacherous path, battling his own desires and the constant threat of betrayal.
Critical Reception
The Criminal received mixed to positive reviews, with many critics praising its gritty atmosphere, stylish direction, and John Paul MacLeod's performance. Some found the plot convoluted, but the film was generally seen as a competent and tense crime thriller.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its stylish direction and neo-noir atmosphere.
- John Paul MacLeod's performance as the conflicted protagonist was a standout.
- Some critics found the plot somewhat predictable or overly complex.
Google audience: Audience reception information is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film marked the return of director Mike Hodges to filmmaking after a significant hiatus since his acclaimed 1971 film 'Get Carter'.
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