THE SMALL WORLD OF SAMMY LEE is a grim and gritty British character drama following a single day in the life of the titular character, a wiseguy and raconteur - as well as compere of a seedy strip club - played well by Anthony Newley. Newley finds himself in hot water due to his gambling debts, and has just a few hours to get together enough money to satisfy the thugs on his tail. It's a bit like a film version of CAN'T PAY? WE'LL TAKE IT AWAY; I jest, but it did remind me of THE LONG GOOD FRIDAY, especially towards the inevitable climax. The film isn't particularly suspenseful or thrilling, but its strength lies in the broad tableau of life that it presents within its confines. As usual, there's a fine supporting cast of talent to bring things enjoyable to life, and Newley proves a sympathetic lead.
Review of The Small World of Sammy Lee
