Try finding this movie its certainly not easy...
This was apparently a 1980s Channel 4 production, it certainly has some of its hallmarks. It is most definitely a London 1980s time capsule of a film. Its hyper-stylised which would probably have given this quite a strong impact when it first came out. While its billed as a gangster movie, it has very little to do with actual gangsters until the final act.
The actual story is split between a number of groups of individuals with a nightclub called the Empire State at the centre of the narrative. A problem with the narrative however is that some of the characters simply seem to exit the movie halfway into the story. The most famous face in the movie could have easily been removed from the story, which would have been welcome as this clocks in at one and three quarter hours. In terms of the main actors, you probably haven't seen any of them before or after this, although a few better known faces do appear in bit parts, recognisable from Eastenders. There is also a nightclub scene and I swear I saw the lead singer from Depeche Mode on the dancefloor.
Its actually difficult to describe the story as there are too many characters in the fray and many of their stories simply do not resolve. The final act however is about a young upstart yuppie trying to challenge his old boss, with an underground MMA style fight which still seems over the top in brutality and gore to this day. That is basically what Channel 4 thought was "edgy" at the time. That and lots of gay content as well as heavily featuring of rent boys, which will no doubt put off a lot of the typical London Gangster Geezer genre fan. I don't think there was any heterosexual sex in the entire movie, I lost count of the gay scenes however and its was in the main pointless. Although one look at the directors other projects may explain why. The screeching Communards style soundtrack isn't exactly easy on the ear either, although I suppose in some circles that was music trendy at the time.
I can certainly see why this sunk without a trace, although it has had a recent digital re-release. You cant really market a London Gangster movie which has the under current of not so much gay sex, but the implication being that gangsters are all either rent boys or use their services, to fans of this genre.
Its best viewed as a snapshot of the 80s London clubbing scene, where dress codes meant suits and shoes, designer drugs like ecstasy had just arrive, acid house was round the corner and yuppies make a financial killing. Hard to recommend other than as a curiosity as its certainly not a decent or satisfying watch.
