Looking for a quick burst of adrenaline without committing to a full-length feature? Our curated list of short crime films offers just that. These gems, all with British dubbing or subtitles, pack a punch in under 90 minutes, delivering suspense, twists, and a dash of dark humour. Whether you're a fan of heists, cons, or gritty urban tales, this collection is your ticket to a thrilling cinematic experience.

The Limey (1999)
Description: Steven Soderbergh's film about a British ex-con seeking revenge in Los Angeles, known for its non-linear storytelling and intense performances.
Fact: The film's narrative structure was inspired by the editing techniques of the French New Wave cinema.


The Bank Job (2008)
Description: This film is a masterclass in how to execute a heist with precision and style, making it a must-watch for any crime film enthusiast.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life 1971 Baker Street robbery in London. The actual details of the heist remain largely unknown, adding to the film's mystique.


Sexy Beast (2000)
Description: A retired gangster is forced back into the life by a menacing figure, leading to a tense and darkly comedic confrontation.
Fact: Ben Kingsley's performance as the terrifying Don Logan earned him an Academy Award nomination.


Snatch (2000)
Description: Guy Ritchie's fast-paced narrative and eclectic cast make this film a standout in the crime genre, showcasing the underworld of London in all its chaotic glory.
Fact: Brad Pitt's character, Mickey, speaks in an unintelligible Irish accent, which was a deliberate choice to make his dialogue hard to understand.


The Business (2005)
Description: Set in the 1980s, this film dives into the world of British expats in Spain, exploring the drug trade with a mix of nostalgia and gritty realism.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Spain, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.


The Sweeney (2012)
Description: A modern take on the classic British TV series, this film captures the essence of London's Flying Squad in a compact, action-packed narrative.
Fact: The film's title is derived from the Cockney rhyming slang for "Sweeney Todd," which means "Flying Squad."


The Guard (2011)
Description: This Irish-British co-production blends dark comedy with crime, following a local policeman who teams up with an FBI agent to solve a drug smuggling case.
Fact: Brendan Gleeson, who plays the lead, improvised much of his dialogue, adding to the film's unique charm.


The Hitman's Bodyguard (2017)
Description: While not strictly short, this film's brisk pace and sharp dialogue make it feel like a quick, thrilling ride through the world of hitmen and bodyguards.
Fact: The film features a record-breaking number of F-bombs, with over 400 uses of the word.


Layer Cake (2004)
Description: Matthew Vaughn's directorial debut, this film is a stylish, twisty tale of a drug dealer looking to retire, only to be pulled into one last job.
Fact: The film's title refers to the layers of the criminal underworld, each more dangerous than the last.


Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
Description: This film is a whirlwind of comedic crime, where four friends get in over their heads with a local gangster, leading to a series of hilarious and dangerous events.
Fact: The film was initially titled "Two Planks and a Passion," but was changed to avoid confusion with another film.
