Broken Law is a 2020 Irish crime drama film directed by Paddy Slattery. The film stars Tristan Heanue as Dave, Graham Earley as Joe, and John Connors as Liam. The movie tells the story of two estranged brothers who have taken different paths in life. Dave is a police officer who is dedicated to upholding the law and protecting his community, while Joe has turned to a life of crime and is continually getting into trouble with the law.
Despite their differences, Dave and Joe are brought together by circumstances beyond their control. Joe is the prime suspect in a high-profile armed robbery, and Dave is the lead investigator on the case. As Dave delves deeper into the case, he discovers that his loyalty to the law is at odds with his loyalty to his brother.
The film is set in Dublin, and the gritty urban setting serves as a backdrop for the intense drama that unfolds. The cinematography is excellent, capturing the essence of the city and the stark contrast between the law enforcement and criminal worlds.
Tristan Heanue delivers an impressive performance as Dave, portraying the character's inner turmoil with subtlety and nuance. Graham Earley is equally compelling as Joe, the troubled brother who is at the center of the film's conflict. John Connors, who is best known for his work in Cardboard Gangsters, brings his trademark intensity to the role of Liam, a criminal kingpin with a personal vendetta against Joe.
One of the strengths of Broken Law is its character development. The film takes its time to explore the complex relationships between the characters, and the result is a gripping tale of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption. The film doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of its subject matter, but it also has moments of humor and tenderness that add depth and texture to the story.
Another notable aspect of the film is its realistic portrayal of the police force. Unlike many Hollywood films, Broken Law doesn't glorify law enforcement or present them as infallible heroes. Instead, the film acknowledges the flawed and often stressful nature of police work and the strains it puts on the officers.
Overall, Broken Law is a well-crafted crime drama that is both intense and emotionally resonant. The film's impressive performances, authentic setting, and complex characters make it a must-see for fans of the genre.
Broken Law is a 2021 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes.
It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.