My Name Is Lenny

The life of notorious East End hardman Lenny McLean received decent documentary treatment with The Guv'nor in 2016. Here, fictional flesh is put on a fascinating snapshot from the big man's story: the forging of his fearsome reputation as a pugilist after the trio of ferocious fights with unlicensed boxing champion Roy "Pretty Boy" Shaw in the late 70s. However, as co-writer Martin Askew confessed, director Ron Scalpello's film is no "cockney thugfest". It's as much about McLean's twin demons of alcohol and a childhood brutalised by his vicious stepfather (played by Askew), as it is grisly punch-ups. Aussie actor Josh Helman (the young Stryker in a couple of X-Men films) does wonders imitating the McLean mannerisms and growling menace, but he also pulls off more tender moments alongside Chanel Cresswell (Bafta winner for This Is England '90) as his loyal and loving wife, Val. Add classy support from Nick Moran (as his trainer), Rita Tushingham and John Hurt (in his final role); a fine score from Ian Arber; and authentic Hoxton locations, and you have a serious take on a local (if not untarnished) hero.