It seemed like Tom Bell tried hard to salvage this unremarkable account of London’s notorious gangsters, but ultimately it fails to spark much interest. It might be due to the performances of Martin and Gary Kemp, as neither seems particularly convincing or threatening in this rather bland biographical film that runs for two hours. “Reggie” (Martin) and his brother “Ronnie” (Gary) are set on making their mother (Billie Whitelaw, who isn’t given enough to do) proud with a criminal operation that flourished while the nation recovered from World War II. One positive aspect is the portrayal of the criminal underworld that existed in what was essentially a lawless East End of London; where protection schemes, prostitution and illegal trade were widespread, and these two men were even viewed by some as something like Robin Hood figures within their community. Perhaps the film’s awkward attempts to romanticize the violence they used to control the streets could be considered its one saving grace. The public didn't react with the shock we would expect today to their violent actions—though there isn’t nearly enough action in general. Steven Berkoff appears occasionally, but his naturally unpleasant demeanor only highlights the lack of that quality in the Kemps, who looked good in their suits but not much else. It’s just another forgettable movie, really.

Source on TMDB