Brighton Rock

Tells the story of Pinkie, a rebellious youth in 1960s England who courts trouble, gets mixed up with crime syndicates, and has a terrifying relationship with a young waitress named Rose (Andrea Riseborough), who is the unknowing witness to one of Pinkie’s crimes. Sam Riley is quite good as Pinkie; he looks like a young Kyle MacLachlan and sneers for the entire film. The ever-busy Helen Mirren is along for the ride as Ida, Rose’s boss and confidante. Director Rowan Joffe (who also penned the screenplay) adds some nice period touches, including a moment on a pier that erupts into a battle between the Mods and Rockers. It’s very Quadrophenia.