Calling all Tom Hardy fans! The BBC has added Legend to its roster of movies, and it’s definitely worth a spot on your watchlist if you love gangster or crime dramas.
Originally airing in 2015, the London-set movie explores the true story of the Kray twins, who operated in organised crime throughout the late 1950s until their arrest in the late 1960s.
Directed by Brian Helgeland (A Knight’s Tale, L.A. Confidential), the drama sees Tom take on a dual role as both Reggie and Ronnie Kray, alongside Emily Browning, David Thewlis, Christopher Eccleston and Taron Egerton.
If you’re a huge fan of Tom Hardy and have yet to see Legend, now is the time. Not only did Tom’s leading performance earn him a British Independent Film Award for Best Actor, but it is also considered one of his most impressive roles to date.
Intrigued? Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Legend, which is available to watch on BBC iPlayer for the next 28 days.
What is Legend about?
Adapted from John Pearson’s 1972 book, The Profession of Violence: The Rise and Fall of the Kray Twins, Legend tells the true story of two of London’s most notorious gangsters in history, Reggie and Ronnie Kray.
The synopsis reads: “As the brothers rise through the criminal underworld, Ronnie advances the family business with violence and intimidation while Reggie struggles to go legitimate for local girl Frances Shea.
“In and out of prison, Ronnie’s unpredictable tendencies and the slow disintegration of Reggie’s marriage threaten to bring the brothers’ empire tumbling to the ground.”
Who stars in Legend?
Tom Hardy leads the movie in a dual role as Ronnie and Reggie, while Emily Browning plays Frances Shea.
© Alamy Stock PhotoThey’re joined by David Thewlis as Leslie Payne, Christopher Eccleston as Nipper Read, Taron Egerton as Mad Teddy Smith and Tara Fitzgerald as Mrs Shea.
Rounding out the cast are Chazz Palminteri as Angelo ‘The Gentle Don’ Bruno, Paul Anderson as Albert Donoghue, Colin Morgan as Frankie Shea, Mel Raido as Ian Barrie and Kevin McNally as Harold Wilson.
What have viewers said about Legend?
While the movie received mixed reviews from critics, earning a 60% score on Rotten Tomatoes, many viewers were quick to praise Tom’s performance.
“Outstanding Tom Hardy portrayal of both brothers. Interesting story,” wrote one viewer, while another said: “Legend is chaotic, fast-paced and visually impressive, with Tom Hardy delivering his best performance to date.”
© Alamy Stock PhotoMeanwhile, a third added: “Legend offers a gripping portrayal of the infamous Kray twins, brought to life through Tom Hardy’s remarkable dual performance. His ability to distinctly embody both Ronnie and Reggie Kray is nothing short of impressive, showcasing his exceptional range as an actor. The dynamic between the twins is both fascinating and chilling, making this a compelling crime drama worth watching.”
Legend is available to watch on BBC iPlayer for the next 28 days.
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