John Connor [Celluloid 01.18.16] action thriller crime



Craig Fairbrass, who has firmly positioned himself as an intense and formidable leading man in UK genre films recently, expertly heads taught and brawling thriller, Breakdown, along with a cast of other seasoned British talent including Game of Thrones’ James Cosmo Emmett J. Scanlan, Mem Ferda and Tamer Hassan (The Business).

In what is certainly a gripping debut feature by writer director Jonnie Malalchi, Breakdown tells the story of Alfie Jennings (played by Craig Fairbrass, Rise of the Footsoldier, St George’s Day), a loving father, faithful husband and professional contract killer who spirals out of control when he’s haunted by visions of his violent past. With his work compromised, he reaches breaking point as he is forced to shield his family from his merciless employers.

Mem Ferda (Pusher, Hyena), who also delivers a great performance as Hakan Abaci, commented that, "audiences that have become nullified by the British gangster genre films of late will be pleasantly surprised by Breakdown. It’s intelligent, intriguing and very entertaining’.


Breakdown delivers as a crime thriller on many fronts, injecting some insightful attention to detail that sets it apart from the bevy of British crime films we see each year. It’s layered with exploration into the psychology of a hired killer, it has great performances all round, it’s got wonderful locations that are stylishly shot. Breakdown sets a precedent that I hope to see future indie British crime films live up to.


Breakdown has substance in abundance and stands as some of a point of difference from your usual British crime film. See it where you can if you’re a fan of urban crime actioners. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.




Recommended Release: Rise of the Footsolider

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