Legend, released on November 20, 2015, is a biographical crime drama directed by Brian Helgeland. The film stars Tom Hardy in a dual role as the infamous Kray twins, Reggie and Ronnie Kray, who were notorious gangsters in London during the 1960s. The narrative is based on John Pearson's book The Profession of Violence: The Rise and Fall of the Kray Twins and explores their rise to power in the criminal underworld, as well as their eventual downfall.
The plot begins with Reggie Kray, a former boxer who becomes a key figure in London's organized crime scene. After securing the release of his mentally unstable twin brother Ronnie from a psychiatric hospital, the two brothers unite to control significant portions of London's criminal activities. Their operations include extortion and violence, particularly focusing on local nightclubs.
As the story unfolds, Reggie's relationship with Frances (played by Emily Browning) is highlighted, showcasing the personal struggles he faces as he tries to balance his criminal life with his desire for a normal relationship. The film delves into themes of loyalty, madness, and the consequences of their violent lifestyle, particularly as Ronnie's paranoia and erratic behavior create tension within their empire.
Legend received mixed reviews from critics. While Tom Hardy's performances were widely praised for their depth and range, the film itself was critiqued for its pacing and somewhat formulaic gangster narrative. It has a runtime of 131 minutes and grossed approximately $43 million worldwide against a budget of around $25 million.
Overall, Legend serves as both a character study of the Kray twins and a portrayal of London's criminal underbelly during a tumultuous era. Its combination of strong performances and stylish direction makes it a notable entry in the crime drama genre, particularly for fans of biographical films.