Do you ever think what is the true difference between the criminally inclined and the everyday/work a day types like you and me? Mr Nice like most films which wrap themselves around criminals and criminal lifestyles, takes you to the point where you have taken the tour of the criminal psyche and you end up at your own self designated STOP sign. What I was reminded of by this film is that the point at which I stop caring for the criminal, or no long feel I could live the life is my own such plateau.
Howard Marks is the central character and career criminal played effortlessly by Rhys Ifans, a welsh school boy turned big city student and pothead. We see Marks transformation through a series of off beat scenes in which director Bernard Rose reflects on Marks' humble, dull yet honest origins. Then our protagonist through a combination youthful substance experimentation and a fateful convergence of circumstances is established as an international Drug smuggler.
We are gradually introduced to a plethora of interesting characters that vary from casual love interests to drug dealing allies, who materialise as Ifans travels deeper into Marks' world of dope, dealing and debauchery. Amongst the group are fine supporting efforts notably from David Thewlis who delivers the hilariously cranky IRA terrorist turned middle man Jim. Chloë Sevigny convinces as the overly supportive wife and mother Judy and Omid Djalili sparkles intermittently as the Pakistani pusher Saleem Malik.
The film journeys through the tumultuous times of sex, drugs, betrayal, greed, prison and pot which Marks and his merry men navigate their way through against a lush backdrop of 70's pastiche. The central themes (a part from the obvious pro pot messages) of trust and loyalty feeds the relationships between the characters and their own motives which is heightened by superb cast.
Final bit of credit must go to director Bernard Rose who delivers a mesh of crass humour, abstract visuals whilst capturing authentic human emotions and behaviours. Best British film of year to date.
8/10
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