Roger Daltrey is remarkable as arch-criminal John McVicar in this completely satisfying and riveting crime drama from TV director Tom Clegg (The Sweeney). Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of his performance is his ability from the get go to make you completely forget that you're watching a bonafide rock star in the lead role. Daltrey portrays the character as a cross between a London wide boy and a sharp dressed mod--check out the hounds-tooth check jacket he wears after his escape--and though I don't know much about the real life McVicar, Roger's portrayal is thoroughly convincing. Even the presence of a handful of lung-shredding Who-style numbers layered somewhat awkwardly atop the action can't distract from Daltrey's remarkable on screen presence. The film also benefits from an utterly charming performance by Adam Faith, and though the story is fairly predictable, it's never less than interesting and enjoyable. One of the best British crime films--ever.
