Anyone who doubts Bob Hoskins as an actor need look no further than this film to affirm he is one of the greats. This film is your typical stabbing in the back gangster tale which goes against the grain of most gangster films. Rather than opting for the "from humble beginnings to rise to power" struggles, this film reverses that, showing Hoskins at the height of his power and losing his grip. Iconic moment: A young Pierce Brosnan (who doesn't utter a single word in the film) points a gun at Hoskins as he is driven away to certain death. A lingering shot focuses on Hoskins as his face tells you all you need know as an audience; he is screwed. The entire running time concludes one thing: no matter how powerful you are in the criminal underworld, never mess with terrorists, especially the IRA.
