Who Needs Enemies – Film Review

A Brit-style Pulp Fiction wannabee, this London lowlife no-budget debut by writer-director Pete Stylianou really impresses, both story-wise and acting-wise, but also especially visually.

There are the usual bantering, cocky, unpredictably violent Essex boy villains and a familiar story about paedophile customers, a dodgy gentlemen’s club, underage sex slaves and incriminating photos. But, through talent, imagination and a fresh visual and story-telling take, Stylianou and his well-cast sparky actors make it seem fresh all over again.

Ian Pirie stars as London gangster and ex-boxer Tom Sheridan, who sets off all the bloody mayhem when he agrees to hire his strip club out to lifelong buddy and crime colleague Ian Levine (Michael McKell).

As a film made for £8000, it’s absolutely faultless, a remarkable achievement. Often, even if you can manage a good script and flash camerawork and editing, the acting lets low-budgeters down, Not so here. Everyone deserves a little nod. Of approval, that is. If there’s a no-budget award, they can certainly have one.

(C) Dererk Winnert 2013 derekwinnert.com