Capsule Review: Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)

The British crime caper gets a fresh coat of paint thanks to the impressively stylish visuals and dialogue from newcomer Guy Ritchie. While sometimes criticized for his one-note writing style, Ritchie has a knack for creating memorable characters, and finds a mix of humor and violence that transcends the Tarantino-disciples of the time. Good performances and a great soundtrack certainly help things along. Ritchie followed with Snatch, which covers similar territory and might be even better.