THE GENTLEMEN (2019) REVIEW

 

The Gentlemen is like a pub tale spun by a cheeky raconteur who expects you to pick up the tab, and honestly, you might just oblige after this wild ride. Hugh Grant steals the show as Fletcher, a sly private eye with a penchant for blackmail and a screenplay titled "BUSH" that's juicier than a ripe tomato. The plot? It's a tangled web of British aristocrats, American billionaires, and Chinese-Cockney gangsters all vying for a slice of the marijuana pie before legalization hits. With Mickey Pearson (Matthew McConaughey) leading the pack and characters like Roz (Michelle Dockery), a "Cockney Cleopatra," and Colin Farrell as "Coach" thrown into the mix, it's a recipe for chaos.

Grant's performance as Fletcher is pure gold, turning exposition into entertainment with his wry delivery and impeccable timing. His antics, from inappropriate knee-touching to hilarious facial expressions, had me in stitches. And let's not forget the humor—like the running gag about "funny-sounding names" and the not-so-subtle stereotypes that had me chuckling despite myself.

But it's not all laughs and giggles. The film veers into darker territory with scenes that feel gratuitous and uncomfortable, like the threatened rape and the cringe-worthy stereotypes. It's like trying to find the punchline in a bad joke, unnecessary and cheap.

Yet, amidst the chaos and controversy, Grant shines bright, showcasing his evolution from affable leading man to formidable character actor. His portrayal of Fletcher is a masterclass in charisma and wit, proving that even in a sea of gangsters and thugs, a conniving private eye can steal the spotlight. So, grab your popcorn and settle in for a wild ride with "The Gentlemen" just be prepared to foot the bill at the end.