The Angels' Share (2012)

Two Geeks and a GIT Classic Movie Reviews

The second film in our pairing of Scottish cinema reunites director Ken Loach and writer Paul Laverty, this time for a dramedy heist film that still has all the working-class pathos Loach is famous for! In "The Angels' Share," the story begins by showing us a series of individuals all getting sentenced to "community payback" (community service) for their particular crimes: Robbie (Paul Brannigan), Albert (Gary Maitland), Rhino (William Ruane), and Mo Jasmine Riggins). They meet when they report for their first day under supervisor Harry (John Henshaw). Robbie is about to become a father and is determined to turn his life around. After witnessing Robbie getting beaten by his partner Leonie's (Siobahn Reilly) brothers and father, Harry takes Robbie under his wing. When Robbie and Leonie's son Luke is born, Harry treats Robbie to a toast with a glass of very old and expensive whiskey, which also reveals that Robbie has a very evolved sense of smell, allowing him to detect all the subtle notes and nuances of the drink. Later no, after a trip to a whiskey tasting where the group learned about the discovery of a very old and rare cask from Malt Mills distillery, Robbie hatches a plan to make them all very rich. The only problem is actually pulling off the plan without getting caught! Also starring Roger Allam. And the trio reveal which two films will make up their tribute to the late, great actor Gene Hackman!