Marching Powder

I'm probably the demographic that this film is aimed at, middle aged male who loves the match, dressing in good clobber and has enjoyed his fair share of lads nights out and away days.

But... Marching Powder is a deceiving film. The lad culture in the film feels very shoe horned in (because it's a Nick Love film it's got to have that I suppose) it didn't add anything ti the film itself other than to give them a reason to have the main character in court - which they could've done a thousand different ways. Not Dyer or Love's greatest, but maybe that was the point. The character was too old for all that bollocks. It's time to grow up.

Marching Powder starts off strong with a captivating animated opening that effectively sets up its backstory with vibrant visuals and a hint of humor, providing a foundation for the rest of the film.

However, the tone shifts abruptly with a rapid-cut, handheld fight scene that becomes uncomfortable to watch, especially on the big screen. The frantic pacing and shaky camera work is disorientating, pulling you out of the otherwise immersive experience.

Despite what the trailer might suggest, there's much more to this film than meets the eye, and a large part of its emotional depth comes from the character of Dani, the wife. Her story and emotional journey add a layer of nuance to the narrative, making the film more than just a spectacle. Her strength and resilience give the movie a heart that might otherwise be lost amidst the chaotic scenes.

In summary, Marching Powder is an unexpected gem with a unique opening, jarring but necessary fight sequences, and a powerful emotional core thanks to Dani's character. Don't let the trailer fool you-there's a compelling story here beneath the surface.

Powered by copious amounts of lager and cocaine, Marching Powder will do little to quell the stereotyping of middle-aged football hooligans but does admittedly provide the occasional laugh amidst the gratuitous violence and drunken punch-ups. In some regards, it feels like it's harkening back to the early days of Guy Ritchie, however, not even Danny Dyer's boyish charm and undeniable screen presence - when he does manage to recapture the raw intensity that made him a star in the first place - can redeem Director Nick Love's script. Maybe one day I'll actually bring myself to watch his remake of The Sweeney if only for the car chase the Top Gear lads directed. For all the foul-mouthed aggro, the predominant tone is one of mollycoddled smugness, aiming to shock by reviving taboo language and jokes about sitting on Gary Glitter's lap, it's more toothless than dangerous but I can't deny I still had a degree of fun watching Marching Powder. It's awful, don't get me wrong, but in that oh-so-special way that makes it endearingly crap than outright crap but maybe Danny Dyer should stick to popping up on Celebrity Gogglebox now and then.

Anyone paying to watch this movie should be very aware of 1. What type of movies the director has previously put out, and 2. What type of movies Danny Dyer has put out. If you are keen on the rough, close to the bone language and violence, you will enjoy this movie. It's akin to football factory but with a better, more grown up storyline. If you're rating Marching Powder low, then the mistake is on your part. It's exactly what you should expect, and was very enjoyable.

The supporting characters are all spot on and add to the Essex gangster no nonsense script.

Danny Dyer, legend of the Dickie.

'Marching Powder' is exactly what one would expect from a Danny Dyer (and Nick Love) movie. I'm a little split on how I feel about it though. Most of the comedy is quite lazy and forced, though a couple of jokes did get a chuckle out of me; e.g. Dagenham.

The fourth wall breaking is questionable, it kinda works for a few moments but is mostly ill-fitting and cringey. On the other hand, there is surprisingly one touching scene; it involves Kenny Boy on the blower, I genuinely felt it in the feels - very unexpected for a movie of this sort.

As for the cast, Dyer is mostly good in the lead role; far from perfect, but he gives largely what you'd anticipate. Stephanie Leonidas does well, while Calum MacNab is initially iffy as the aforementioned Kenny but ends up being one of the better aspects of this 2025 release.

All things considered, I think I do have to file this one under 'average' - rather than 'good'. It's somewhat of a close call granted, but I do believe that the cons outweigh the pros. The deciding factor is the plot, which basically finishes as it starts; barely any progress is made.