Cardboard Gangsters

I felt like I was looking through a time machine into the suburb I grew up in. Everyone trying to make a fast buck no matter what side of the law they fall on. No respect for cops. A major struggle. Lots of eccentric characters. Yes the acting is average but I think this adds to the gritty nature of the film. Worth the watch if your not a pompous moron keyboard warrior who thinks they're some kind of movie specialist.

I didn't read any reviews before watching I just stumbled accross the movie on Netflix and figured I'd give it a go. The story is okay but it's been done a million times before. I do think they did a good job with it though overall. The acting is okay too nothing brilliant. If you're in to films like this though I'd definitely reccomend giving it a watch. I wasn't bored at all watching the whole film which is quite unusual for me. I also developed a liking for the main character.

I enjoyed it, but you have to forgive a lot in the story telling. A lot of it is very random. But overall it's entertaining.

Watched it many times since released. Love these types of low-budget UK/Irish/Scottish criminal/hooligan films as even though low budget they are far superior to the high-budget films as you don't expect much from them. Defo worth the watch.

The only downside is, that I enjoyed the music in the film yet no soundtrack was ever released and trying to find the complete tracklist, I give up in the end. Would love this to be released.

I was surprised to see so many negative reviews for Cardboard Gangsters, I personally thought it was extremely impressive. Many of these council estate gangster movies are far too excessive and unrealistic, but this movie feels authentic and believable thanks to a really solid cast. John Connors' lead performance was particularly impressive and should be a sign of good things to come for him.

What impressed me most was its ability to capture the horrifying bleakness of life on these estates while never becoming too heavy or overbearing. Being ninety minutes long certainly helps, as does a strong soundtrack and engaging characters.

I appreciate that this type of story has been done many times and that there was nothing particularly original about the plot. But despite that, the combination of strong acting, powerful cinematography and excellent pacing makes this a thoroughly impressive production.