DirtyMoney is a very understated and simple film that manages to stay true to the Gangster film norms without ever falling foul of its clichés.

Rather than exaggerate the life of an urban criminal with extensive gunplay, car chases and witty one-liners the film takes a serious and considered look at highs and lows of (mostly) victimless crime.

Those extremes aren't a Goodfellas type romp; the voice-over tells us more than the images, and there's a quiet satisfaction supported by only muted displays of extravagance. Similarly the lows are captured in the expressions of the actors more than their actions, letting the audience empathise rather than be a voyeur.

This could have made DirtyMoney a great film, something Anthony Welsh's performance deserves. Unfortunately it instead left me detached, observing without participating in the film and its story, and at times confused by the actions and motives of key characters.

Overall it's worth watching and a fine alternative take on the classic British gangster genre. Just not one to watch a second time.

The drama genre is a broad category that features stories portraying human experiences, emotions, conflicts, and relationships in a realistic and emotionally impactful way. Dramas delve into the complexities of human life, often exploring themes of love, loss, morality, societal issues, personal growth, with the aim to evoke an emotional response from the audience by presenting relatable and thought-provoking stories.

Mahershala Ali and Alex R. Hibbert in Moonlight (2016)

The thriller genre features suspense, tension, and excitement. These stories are known for keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and delivering intense emotional experiences by revolving around high-stakes situations, dangerous conflicts, and the constant anticipation of unexpected events.

One young man's journey into London's criminal underworld.

DIRTYMONEY (2013)  Anthony Welsh, Elsa Mollien and   Mem Ferda.  Directed by Adam Tysoe

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Mem Ferda as Ilir Duka in DIRTYMONEY  (2014)  

Anthony Welsh, Mem Ferda and Max Wrottesley in DIRTYMONEY  (2014)  Dir: Adam Tysoe

Max Wrottesley and Anthony Welsh "Dirty Money"

Dirtymoney

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