The Long Good Friday: Why It’s Still the Ultimate British Crime Classic

A Gangster Film That Defined British Cinema

Few films capture the raw energy of Britain’s criminal underworld quite like The Long Good Friday. Released in 1980, this gritty, pulse-pounding thriller remains one of the most celebrated British crime dramas of all time. Starring the legendary Bob Hoskins as the ruthless yet charismatic Harold Shand, the film delivers a brutal, stylish, and politically charged story that continues to resonate over four decades later.

But what makes The Long Good Friday such an enduring classic? Why does it still hold a firm grip on fans of gangster cinema? In this deep dive, we’ll explore the film’s legacy, its impact on British crime films, and why it remains essential viewing for any lover of sharp storytelling and powerful performances.

The Plot: A Crime Boss on the Brink

Set in London during the late 1970s, The Long Good Friday follows Harold Shand, a ruthless mobster with grand ambitions. Harold envisions transforming London’s Docklands into a financial hub, legitimizing his empire through an investment deal with the American Mafia. But his dreams quickly unravel when an unseen enemy begins systematically dismantling his operation with bombings, assassinations, and betrayals.

As the bodies pile up and paranoia sets in, Harold is forced into a desperate battle to save his empire, uncover the mysterious force working against him, and reassert his dominance over London’s underworld. The film’s shocking twists and unforgettable final scene—featuring a silent but deadly Pierce Brosnan in one of his earliest roles—cement its place in crime cinema history.

Why The Long Good Friday Still Holds Power Today

1. Bob Hoskins’ Iconic Performance

Few performances in British cinema are as electric as Bob Hoskins’ portrayal of Harold Shand. From his bullish charm to his explosive temper, Hoskins delivers a masterclass in acting, making Harold one of the most compelling antiheroes in film history. His ability to switch between menacing gangster and visionary businessman adds layers to a character who could have easily been one-dimensional.

2. Helen Mirren’s Understated Brilliance

While Hoskins dominates the film, Helen Mirren’s role as Victoria, Harold’s sharp and sophisticated partner, provides the perfect counterbalance. She brings a level of intelligence and composure to the film, portraying a woman who is both deeply loyal and fiercely independent. Her performance elevates the narrative, offering a glimpse into the power dynamics between crime bosses and their inner circles.

3. Gritty Realism and Social Commentary

Beyond its thrilling crime story, The Long Good Friday also serves as a powerful political and social commentary on late 1970s Britain. Themes of economic uncertainty, political instability, and the rise of terrorism weave seamlessly into the plot, making it more than just a gangster flick. The film boldly tackles the presence of the IRA, the shifting nature of London’s criminal landscape, and the city’s push toward modernization.

4. One of the Most Tense Climaxes in Cinema History

If there’s one scene that cements The Long Good Friday as a classic, it’s the haunting final sequence. Without a single word spoken, Bob Hoskins delivers one of the most unforgettable expressions in film history—his slow realization of defeat, captured in a series of close-ups, is nothing short of cinematic perfection.

5. A Blueprint for Future British Crime Films

Modern British crime dramas owe a huge debt to The Long Good Friday. Without it, we might not have seen films like Guy Ritchie’s Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels or Snatch, both of which channel its mix of sharp dialogue, brutal action, and charismatic villains. Even more recent films like Legend (2015) and TV series like Peaky Blinders carry its DNA.

6. The Excellence of the Soundtrack

One of the most underrated aspects of The Long Good Friday is its electrifying and atmospheric soundtrack, composed by the brilliant Francis Monkman. The score is a perfect reflection of the film’s tension, urgency, and evolving tone, blending elements of synth-heavy suspense and orchestral grandeur to match Harold Shand’s rise and fall.

From the pulsating main theme, which builds a sense of momentum and inevitability, to the haunting, melancholic undertones in the film’s final moments, Monkman’s work is nothing short of iconic. The score’s use of electronic textures was ahead of its time, influencing later crime thrillers and heightening the film’s mood of paranoia and impending doom.

For fans of crime cinema, The Long Good Friday’s soundtrack remains a standout, demonstrating how music can elevate a film’s impact, intensify its themes, and create a lasting impression. If you haven't given the soundtrack a dedicated listen, it’s well worth experiencing on its own.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Long Good Friday

1. What inspired The Long Good Friday?

The film was inspired by the real-life London crime scene of the 1970s, particularly the emergence of organized crime families and their attempt to transition into legitimate business ventures.

2. Who was originally supposed to play Harold Shand?

Bob Hoskins wasn’t the first choice—producers initially considered Richard Burton. However, Burton turned it down, and Hoskins was eventually cast, delivering a career-defining performance.

3. Why is the ending so famous?

The film’s final scene, featuring Harold silently contemplating his inevitable demise as he’s driven away, is considered one of the greatest endings in British cinema history. It’s a masterclass in visual storytelling and raw emotion.

Conclusion: Why You Need to Watch (or Rewatch) The Long Good Friday

Over 40 years since its release, The Long Good Friday still stands as one of the greatest British crime movies ever made. From Bob Hoskins’ legendary performance to its sharp political undertones and timeless storytelling, the film is a must-watch for crime cinema enthusiasts.

If you haven’t seen it yet, now is the perfect time to experience one of the most gripping crime thrillers ever made. And if you have, a rewatch will remind you just how powerful and ahead of its time The Long Good Friday truly is.