THE BANK JOB/FIGURE IT OUT

Heist movies tend to make good value DVDs. Full of pace and complexities, they can reward second, third, even 30th viewings. And The Bank Job falls into that category.

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it has several things that make it more worthwhile than most for home viewing.

One, the period detail. It is set in the early 70s and the costumes, cars, scenery and language are all spot on, ready to be savoured.

Secondly, it is a true story, so worth enjoying not only for suspense but also for some insights into crime and the government were intermingled at the time.

Or, at least, it is based on a true story. The fact is that the government rather hushed up the aftermath of the original Bank Job / Robbery, so details are sketchy.

But this film offers a convincing version of the likely events, including cover-ups to protect the Royal Family and police corruption.

In essence, back in September 1971, an extraordinary robbery took place at a bank on Baker St, central London.

The thieves tunnelled into the bank vaults and looted safety deposit boxes containing cash and jewellery worth hundreds of millions of pounds along with, accidentally, a host of secret documents and other material of danger to some of the country’s most powerful people.

None of the goods have ever been recovered and nobody has ever been arrested, partly because the UK Government quickly gagged the press with a ‘D‘ Notice, apparently to cover up a royal scandal.

It is an intriguing story, admirably played by top British actors, including strong man Jason Statham as a small-time thief, Terry; an old flame, Saffron Burrows; and lovely Keeley Hawes.

The DVD and Blu-ray Disc went on sale on June 30, 2008 for £19.99 and £29.99 respectively.

Extras include audio commentary with Director Roger Donaldson and Jason Statham; extended scenes; snippets from the World Premieres; and an intro to the fabulous Storys, who provided the soundtrack.

Posted July 9, 2008.