The critically acclaimed, yet divisive, London-set crime drama “Legend,” starring Tom Hardy in a dual role as the notorious Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie, has found a new prominent streaming destination across the United Kingdom. This development places the 2015 film squarely on the radar for fans of gangster biopics and compelling character studies.
Tom Hardy’s Mesmerising Dual Performance
At the heart of “Legend” is Tom Hardy’s transformative portrayal of both Ronnie and Reggie Kray. Critics widely lauded Hardy’s electrifying performance, often singling it out as the film’s strongest asset. The ability to seamlessly inhabit two distinct, yet equally menacing, personalities earned widespread praise, with many reviewers noting that Hardy’s dual acting tour-de-force elevates the material, making for “mesmerizing viewing.” Despite the film’s narrative complexities and occasional pacing issues, Hardy’s commitment to capturing the essence of the infamous East End twins remains a compelling draw for audiences.
The Rise and Fall of London’s Infamous Twins
“Legend” chronicles the rise and fall of the Kray twins, who dominated the criminal underworld of 1960s London. The movie delves into their dual lives as feared gangsters and flamboyant personalities, their involvement in protection rackets, nightclubs, and their eventual entanglement with the law, spearheaded by Detective Superintendent Leonard “Nipper” Read. Based on John Pearson’s insider account, “The Profession of Violence,” the film boasts an impressive supporting cast including Christopher Eccleston, Taron Egerton, David Thewlis, and Emily Browning. While the movie captures the glamour and grit of its era, it has also faced criticism for potentially glamorizing the twins’ violent lifestyle, a point often debated in reviews.
New Streaming Homes in the United Kingdom
Following its recent broadcast on BBC One, “Legend” is now readily available for streaming on BBC iPlayer for a limited period of 28 days. For those without a TV licence or seeking alternative access, the movie is also available on Amazon Prime Video in the United Kingdom. This dual availability ensures that a wider audience can access the film, catering to different streaming preferences and subscription models. The addition of “Legend” to these platforms reflects the enduring interest in the Kray twins’ story and Tom Hardy’s significant contribution to the crime drama genre.
Crime Dramas Continue to Trend
The news of “Legend’s” streaming availability arrives at a time when crime dramas continue to captivate television audiences. The United Kingdom, in particular, has a deep-seated fascination with gritty crime narratives, from historical gangster sagas to contemporary police procedurals. The popularity of shows like “Peaky Blinders” and the ongoing interest in true crime stories underscore the market’s appetite for such content. The inclusion of a high-profile movie like “Legend” on major streaming platforms aligns with this trending genre.
A Compelling Watch for Crime Aficionados
“Legend” remains a significant piece in the British crime movie landscape, primarily due to Tom Hardy’s tour-de-force performance. While its critical reception was mixed, the film offers a potent mix of historical drama, intense characterisation, and a deep dive into the criminal history of London. Its newfound availability on BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime Video provides an excellent opportunity for viewers across the United Kingdom to experience this portrayal of one of Britain’s most infamous criminal duos.
