In the late 1970s, Cockney crime boss Harold Shand, a gangster trying to become a legitimate property mogul, has big plans to get the American Mafia to bankroll his transformation of a derelict area of London into the possible venue for a future Olympic Games. However, a series of bombings targets his empire on the very weekend the Americans are in town. Shand is convinced there is a traitor in his organization, and sets out to eliminate the rat in typically ruthless fashion.
Harold Shand, a London gangster with aspirations of becoming a legitimate businessman, plans a lucrative deal with American associates. However, his empire is violently disrupted by a series of brutal attacks that threaten his life and his plans. As Harold tries to uncover the source of the betrayal and maintain control, he confronts the dark underbelly of his own organization and the changing criminal landscape of London.
The Long Good Friday is widely acclaimed as a masterpiece of British cinema, celebrated for its gritty realism, intense performances, and potent exploration of power and betrayal. It garnered significant critical praise upon its release and has since become a cult classic, often cited for its unflinching portrayal of organized crime and its iconic lead performance.
Google audience: Audiences consistently praise Bob Hoskins's unforgettable portrayal of Harold Shand, highlighting the film's gritty authenticity and compelling narrative. Many appreciate its realistic depiction of London's criminal underworld and its enduring impact on the crime genre.
Bob Hoskins received a BAFTA Award nomination for Best Actor for his role. The film is recognized for its significant cultural impact and is often listed among the greatest British films.
The film's release was famously delayed by over a year due to disputes over its perceived violence and political themes, only being released in 1981 in the UK, despite being filmed in 1979 and intended for an earlier release.
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