Lucky Number Slevin (18)

Directed by Paul McGuigan
Written by Jason Smilovic
On general release (not FACT) from 24th February 2006

Reviewed by Helen Grey

If you like the kind of film where eight people are shot within the first ten minuets then Lucky Number Slevin is for you. Fortunately, the director does not rely on shock tactics alone to sustain the film, instead using a series of plot twists and clever storylines that will definitely give you an ‘ah, so that’s what going on’ moment.

Josh Hartnett plays Slevin, a twenty-something man who is in the wrong place at the wrong time on what seems like several occasions. Due to a case of mistaken identity, he finds himself in the debt of two warring New York gangsters, the Rabbi (Ben Kingsley) and the Boss (Morgan Freeman). Slevin's situation rapidly deteriorates; after being in the city for less than twenty-four hours he owes one crime lord $33,000 and is asked by another to become a hit man. An unsettlingly calm Slevin is helped out by his neighbour Lindsey, played by Lucy Liu. Thrown into the mix is Goodkat (Bruce Willis) who sulks around in the shadows undoubtedly up to no good.

The cinematography is slick and clean, offering sweeping camera views and stunning sets. This is supported by a strong script and convincing deliveries. It is a little like an American version of a Guy Richie film, but if you’re willing to suspend your disbelief for an hour or so you could be pleasantly surprised. Try to ignore the somewhat weak attempt at the exploration of revenge and good and evil, and let the plot carry you away.