Where can I watch Gangster No. 1?

In the gritty crime drama Gangster No. 1, released in 2000, we are plunged into the dark underbelly of London's criminal world through the eyes of an unnamed gangster, portrayed with chilling intensity by Paul Bettany. The film begins with the old gangster reflecting on his life as he learns that Freddie Mays, the feared kingpin he once idolized, is about to be released from prison after thirty long years. This revelation sends him spiraling into a visceral memory lane, where we witness his rise from a lowly street punk to a ruthless enforcer in Freddie’s gang. The narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, expertly blending past and present to paint a portrait of ambition, envy, and betrayal.

The film brilliantly explores themes of power and loyalty, as the unnamed protagonist grapples with his complicated feelings towards Freddie—admiration intermingled with a desperate need to usurp him. As we delve deeper into the protagonist's psyche, we see how his obsession with Freddie ultimately leads to his own moral decay, revealing the brutal consequences of a life steeped in crime. Gangster No. 1 is not just a tale of gangsters; it's a haunting character study that examines the fragility of loyalty and the lengths one will go to achieve greatness in a world that thrives on betrayal. With its stylish direction and gripping performances, particularly from Bettany and David Thewlis as Freddie, the film leaves viewers questioning the true cost of ambition in the unforgiving landscape of crime.