Top 10 Films About Police Work in British Cinema

Description: While not exclusively about police, it features a compelling portrayal of a gangster's dealings with corrupt police officers, offering a gritty insight into the underworld of London.

Fact: Bob Hoskins' performance as Harold Shand earned him a BAFTA nomination, and the film has been hailed as one of the greatest British gangster films.

Description: This neo-noir film involves a British ex-con seeking revenge in Los Angeles, with significant interactions with the local police force, showcasing the cultural clash and the complexities of law enforcement.

Fact: The film was directed by Steven Soderbergh and features a non-linear narrative structure, which adds to its unique storytelling.

Description: Based on the true story of the 1971 Baker Street robbery, this film delves into the police investigation and the political intrigue surrounding the heist, offering a thrilling look at police work under pressure.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real event, but many details were changed to protect the identities of those involved.

Description: This action-comedy film follows a top London cop, Nicholas Angel, who is transferred to a seemingly quiet village where he uncovers a sinister conspiracy. It's a brilliant blend of British humour and over-the-top action, making it a standout in the police genre.

Fact: The film was inspired by classic action movies like 'Bad Boys II' and 'Point Break', but with a distinctly British twist. It also features a cameo by Peter Jackson, the director of 'The Lord of the Rings'.

Description: Based on the iconic 1970s TV series, this film brings back the hard-hitting, no-nonsense Flying Squad of London's Metropolitan Police. It's a gritty, fast-paced look at the life of detectives Regan and Carter as they tackle crime in the capital.

Fact: The title 'The Sweeney' is derived from the Cockney rhyming slang for the Flying Squad - 'Sweeney Todd', which rhymes with 'Flying Squad'. Ray Winstone, who plays Regan, was also a fan of the original TV series.

Description: Although it started as a TV series, its long run and numerous feature-length episodes make it a notable entry. 'The Bill' offers an authentic look at the daily grind of police officers at Sun Hill station.

Fact: It holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running police drama on British television, with over 2,400 episodes.

Description: While primarily a TV series, its cinematic quality and intense police procedural narrative make it worthy of mention. It follows AC-12, an anti-corruption unit, as they investigate police officers suspected of criminal activities.

Fact: The series has been praised for its realistic portrayal of police corruption and has won numerous awards, including a BAFTA for Best Drama Series.

Description: This biographical crime drama focuses on the notorious Kray twins, with significant scenes involving their interactions with the police, highlighting the challenges of policing in the 1960s.

Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the lives of the Krays in depth, and it features a dual role performance by Gary and Martin Kemp, members of the band Spandau Ballet.

Description: This film, set during the Irish War of Independence, features a police officer caught between duty and personal loyalty. It's a poignant look at the moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement in times of conflict.

Fact: The film was directed by Basil Dearden, known for his socially conscious films, and stars John Mills, who was a prominent British actor of the time.

Description: A classic British police drama that follows the life and tragic death of PC George Dixon, it set the tone for many police dramas to come with its realistic portrayal of police work.

Fact: The character of PC George Dixon was so popular that he was brought back in the TV series 'Dixon of Dock Green', which ran for over 20 years.