Directed by John Mackenzie in 1980, this is arguably the best British gangster film ever made. Crime boss 'developer' Shand (Bob Hoskins) personifies the film's deathly, intoxicating glamour and menace. Adding to the heavy atmosphere of Thatcherite Britain are local IRA activities and a growing mafia interest in docklands - a deadly mix.

Screenwriter Barrie Keeffe was a reporter in east London; some of the criminals he met even have minor roles here. And cinematographer Phil Méheux excels in depicting 1980s London's grubby glitziness.

The Long Good Friday features Bob Hoskins, Helen Mirren, Kevin McNally, Pierce Brosnan, Eddie Constantine, Stephen Davies, and Patti Love. It is certificate 18 and lasts 114 minutes.

Image courtesy of Park Circus.