Reviewed by Robert Hull
Stars Les Falco, Bobby Reading, Jimmy Tibbs, Victor Dark,
Mickey Gonella, Mickey Taheny, Mickey Goldtooth,
Roy Shaw, Alan Mortlock
Written by Nicola Collins
Certification UK 15
Runtime 83 minutes
Directed by Nicola Collins
London’s East End has to be one of the most identifiable and infamous areas of the capital. But what do you really know about it, and how do you separate the truth from the film and TV clichés? Documentary-maker Nicola Collins, and her producer-sister Teena, look to have the inside track on the reality as their father, Les Falco, was born and bred within the sound of Bow bells – a proper Cockney with a tale to tell.
The fact that Les and his friends have more than ‘a bit of previous’ in the crime department, whether organised villainy, unlicensed fight promoting or debt collection, should only serve to add spice to proceedings. Yet, what could have given insight into a part of London many feel they know, but which has changed beyond recognition as it adapts to ethnic diversity, becomes a checklist of tired stereotypes.
It’s a shame because the basis of Collins’ story is fascinating. The East End suffered terribly during the bombing Blitz of the second world war, and in rebuilding the area a definite spirit was developed and maintained. There wasn’t much money but there was camaraderie.
The fact the ‘Cockney’ appears to be a dying breed is never properly explored in a film that’s full of candid talking head shots – unfortunately it’s invariably crime or violence being discussed. And there’s only so much talk of naughtiness, rogues, blades, claret, bank jobs and geezers with hearts of gold that you can hear before you realise important topics have been avoided or missed.
All of this is summed up beautifully when Mickey Goldtooth, Victor Dark, Jimmy Tibbs and co tell you the East End wasn’t like what you’ve seen in the movies, and are then asked to name their favourite actor – they all say Robert De Niro.
If you think EastEnders’ Mitchell Brothers paint the real picture of life in East London then The End will have you engrossed. My complaint is that the characters Nicola Collins shows you are often good storytellers, there’s just a real problem with the stories they’re telling. If stereotypes exist for a reason is it because they’re true? I hope not.