Would Be Kings

"Would Be Kings" is a gripping exploration of corruption, power, and familial loyalty built within the intensely gritty realms of the narcotics division of the police force. At the core of this compelling narrative are two police officer cousins, battling against each other and their own moral quandaries in a world steeped in chaos, crime, and relentless moral compromise.

Leading the line is Currie Graham, best known for his roles in "Suddenly Susan" and "NYPD Blue", who delivers a captivating performance as Jamie, a well-intentioned officer who slowly sinks into the murky depths of corruption. Opposite him is Ben Bass, of "Rookie Blue" fame, portraying Jamie's cousin and partner-in-crime, Patrick. Their chemistry fuels the rich conflict and turbulent dynamics throughout the narrative as they grapple with crossroads that challenge their ethical boundaries and threaten to shatter their familial bonds.

Veteran actor Robert Forster, celebrated for his gritty performances in "Jackie Brown" and "Breaking Bad", adds another layer of complexity to the storyline. He plays Uncle Kellan, a seasoned officer who is essentially the patriarch of the clan and a wielder of significant influence and authority. Forster's portrayal demonstrates his mastery in character studies, as he infuses Kellan with a mix of charm and menace, tying together the underlying themes of power, corruption, and family.

"Would Be Kings" reflects a disquieting reality of narcotic officers while constructing a potent crime drama. The narrative, driven by the complex relationship between Jamie and Patrick, is accompanied by a riveting ancillary cast that brings to life the characters' universe, filled with addiction, power dynamics, and the compelling paradoxes of the human nature.

Directed by David Wellington, known for his work on "Saving Hope" and "Vikings", "Would Be Kings" showcases his ability to maintain tension, suspense, and a raw emotional trajectory throughout the series. Wellington creates a haunting, yet mesmerizing underworld, blurring the lines between right and wrong, heroes and villains, while centering on human frailty and the bonds of family.

The film unravels as a multi-layered exploration of family ties strained by power, professional ambition, personal loyalties, and a vast erosion of ethical boundaries. Jamie’s descent into the dark world of corruption is propelled not merely by the lure of power, but by the desperate need to provide for his family. Meanwhile, Patrick is driven by a complex mix of familial affection, career aspirations, and ethical wrestling, caught in the thorny mesh of dubious choices and divided loyalities.

The complex relationships within the ranks of the narcotics division, as well as within the family, coupled with brilliant performances, result in a powerful film that explores the dynamics of power, corruption, and brotherhood. Underlining its crime plot, "Would Be Kings" considers the moral implications of their actions, portraying an intense, consequential ripple effect on their respective home lives, and reverberating deeply within their personal relationships.

The compelling topography of conflict and compromise penned by Esta Spalding and Tassie Cameron interestingly mirrors real-life dilemmas, painting a striking portrait of the abuse of authority, moral decay and redemption. The writing duo, known for their work on TV series like "Rookie Blue" and "Flashpoint", fit pieces of this complex puzzle together seamlessly, producing a riveting narrative that keeps audience gripped until the very end.

On the technical front, the film successfully creates a haunting atmosphere that encapsulates the characters' turbulent world. The sterling cinematography presents a series of contrasts - the stark, cold unforgiving world of crime juxtaposed with the warmth of family gatherings, creating an ebb and flow in the wrangles of deformation and redemption.

In summary, "Would Be Kings" is a formidable representation of the thin blurry line between corruption and heroism, a raw portrayal of addiction and a disquietingly authentic view into the life of cops in the narcotics division. Anchored by strong performances from Currie Graham, Ben Bass, and Robert Forster, the film leaves the audience contemplating long after the movie ends. It's a tale of power, ambition, complex moral choices, loyalty, and the intricate dance between corruption and redemption that raises questions and effectively sticks with the viewer.