Old Movie Review

Last summer, I mentioned that I owned a bucket-load of DVDs that I still haven't seen. And yes, I realize that buying a movie before I watched it is asinine, but I do it anyway. Welcome to my world.

Last night, I figured I'd break out another of my "Haven't Yet Seen" DVDs on a cold winter night. My choice: "Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels." A 1998 crime caper directed by Guy "Mr. Madonna" Ritchie, who also directed one of my favorite films, "Snatch."

Short version: It kicks ass.

Not-So-Short Version: Eddy enters himself into a high stakes poker game, bankrolled by him and his three friends (including "Bacon," -played by Jason Statham, who is great in almost everything). Unfortunately for the four, the game is rigged, and Eddy loses his money, his friends' life savings, and his father's bar. Did I mention Eddy's father is played by Sting? Yes, that Sting.

Crime Lord Harry the Hatchet gives Eddy a week to come up with the rest of his winnings and dear old daddy's bar, or he'll receive a visit from "Big Chris," played by the great Vinnie Jones (pictured above). What happens next is a cornucopia of dubious schemes, violent gun play, and sweet revenge. It's definitely a winner. If you liked Snatch, then this film will make your day.