Jez (Glenn Salvage) is a small-time gangster operating a ‘dodgy car’ scheme for a larger mob somewhere in Essex. His life is riddled with various issues, ranging from financial struggles to more complex problems like dealing with Clive's (Dean Leon Finlan) terrible jokes and Davyboy's (Marcus Langford) drug addiction. Jez is fed up with barely scraping by while the crime bosses live lavishly off his hard work.
With the help of another comrade, Andy (Adam Collins), Jez devises a plan to rob one of these crime kingpins in broad daylight. It's a straightforward ambush, but nothing goes as planned. When the group reunites at their garage to lie low and count the stolen money, it's mysteriously vanished. Frustrated and desperate to uncover the truth, Jez spirals into madness, suspecting betrayal among his comrades.
Essex Heist is a low-budget flick that almost makes you forget it’s an indie film. This film is surprisingly gritty and suspenseful, utilizing a small set and cast to make the viewer feel trapped along with the other gangsters as Jez begins to torture the information out of his former comrades. Essex Heist will appeal most to fans of the Grand Theft Auto video game series, as it shares a similar humor and aesthetic. But those who love crime drama and action won’t be left out. The intrigue of the entire situation is incredible, if just a bit poorly written.
Both Jez and his team and the viewer are sent on a ride when what should be a heist is revealed to be a trap. Who set it and why? You’ll have to watch to find out. The action, too, is fantastic. Those actors involved in the fight scenes are trained in martial arts, helping them to create some very painful-looking moments that will have viewers cringing. Those seeking to expand indie film collections looking to add more crime drama will want to look at Essex Heist first. Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Essex Heist would be at home both among crime drama and Grindhouse films.
What type of patron would enjoy this film?
Essex Heist shares many elements with popular crime-related video games like the Grand Theft Auto and Payday series.