Tom Hardy’s Rated Crime Thriller Legend Is Officially Streaming Strong 11 Years Later
Hardy takes on the Kray twins
In Legend, Hardy portrays Reggie and Ronnie Kray, leaders of London’s criminal underworld during the 1960s. The story draws on John Pearson’s book The Profession of Violence and follows the twins’ ascent and eventual downfall.
Hardy gives the brothers distinct temperaments. Reggie is presented as charming and controlled, while Ronnie is volatile and unpredictable; their differences strain both their relationship and criminal operation.
A performance at the center
Hardy’s portrayal is widely regarded as the film’s standout feature. The challenge of making the two brothers feel like separate people gives his dual role much of its impact.
Box office and critical response
Legend earned $42.9 million worldwide, described as a decent box office result. Its Rotten Tomatoes rating is 60% from critics and fans alike. The critics’ consensus praised Hardy’s work while finding fault with the film as a gangster biography. It called the movie deeply flawed in that respect, but said Hardy’s dual role nearly lived up to the title.
Key points
- Tom Hardy plays both Reggie and Ronnie Kray in Legend.
- The film follows the twins’ rise and fall in 1960s London.
- Legend earned $42.9 million worldwide and has a 60% Rotten Tomatoes rating.
- Brian Helgeland directed the crime drama, based on John Pearson’s book.