Snatch – Movie Reviews by Ry!

Snatch – Shining of Misfits, A Diamond’s Journey

The art of writing lies within the intangibles of one’s mind.   Looking at the unknown, a writer’s imagination flows to bring about a foundation for character, plot and progression.  No matter the medium, once the story starts, it can be wonderful journey.  In this old school rewind review, I look at a British Crime/Drama that showcases those intangibles, Snatch.  With unique characters trapped in a journey of lust, Snatch shows how the light of circumstance can shine bright.

In a world of underground boxing, violent gangsters and incompetent robbers, a priceless gem shows up to throw London into disarray.  In the end, who will win the prize?  Written and directed by Guy Ritchie, the script showcases his ability to create a plot driven by circumstances.  The sporadic nature of characterization and subplots are centralized around an unexpected diamond heist.  This unique ‘slice of life’ mantra is driven by the colorful cast that create irony out of obvious plot devices.  From characters like Turkish (Jason Statham), Mickey (Brad Pitt), Bullet-Tooth Tony (Vinnie Jones) and Boris the Blade (Rade Serbedzija), there is a layering of criminal archetypes driven by misfit like personas.  The genuine feeling is gradual because of character interactions that drive home the brashness of social ambiguity.  No matter if its to win a boxing match, take out the competition or luck of the draw, the audience is on an imaginary ‘roller coaster’ of folly situations, witty dialogue and unexpected events surrounded by the ultimate McGuffin, an 86-carat diamond. 

The elusiveness of the script is because of the unnerving of the first act.  From the beginning, everything Is left unexplained on purpose.  Starting from two far ends, the direction brings fragments together by placing characters on a path of narrow straights.  This leads to a second act of witty confrontations and structure mayhem.  The typical style over substance has depth because of the enigmatic dialogue.  The unbridled nature of the unknown leads everyone relying on their own vices.  As bullets fly and unexpected deaths occur, the final act creates a place where circumstance brings consequences for those thinking they are ‘safe’.  This leads to a fulfilled but welcomed climax.  Snatch is a British crime/drama that showcases how creativity can blossom into genuine storytelling.  If you’re a fan of Guy Ritchie, pure creative writing and characters of circumstance, this is a film for you.  It is available on blu-ray and streaming, but if I could watch this again in the theaters … I’d pay the full price of admission.

Full Score – 4 out of 5 (Full Price)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *