Don't Walk

A young criminal is taught to walk away from a crime scene and never run by his Uncle, a hitman. However he is a purse snatcher and soon learns that it is better to run away instead. He continues his trade with success until he steals a bag full of drugs belonging to a local crime lord. Can he turn to his uncle at this time for advice? Well, no, cause his uncle has been hired to punish him for the theft.

I have seen plenty of British Gangster short films since `Lock, Stock' and all that stuff started making money and becoming fashionable again. Most have been copies and poor ones at that. Or have lifted the style but added good content. This does the latter but does it well enough that you forget comparisons and just enjoy it on it's own merits. First off the plot is good enough to fill the running time (not always the cause, even with shorts) and is clever and funny enough to be thoroughly enjoyable.

The comedy lays itself out in the opening scene where we meet the bald uncle in the shadows in a clear Apocalypse Now moment. This clever humour continues and veers into slightly more absurd - the Chinese/Scottish/Scouse gang lord and the hitman's `amazing' disguises - but it never stops being at least amusing. The film never takes itself too seriously and is fun to watch.

Part of the success is Craig Charles' narration. His laid-back voice (over tense scenes) sets the mood and it really fits well. The lead is good but most of his work is done by Charles, while Sayle is really funny in a small but central role.

Overall this is worth watching as it has all the style, wit and fun of the GOOD modern British gangster films without just being yet another copycat trying to hitch a free ride on the coattails of Guy Ritchie.