The Next Reel Film Podcast

“This was not intended to be a book-of-the-month club lunch.”
A British Heist Film That Set Early Genre Standards
In 1958, John Boland published his novel The League of Gentlemen, which quickly caught the attention of British filmmakers. Director Basil Dearden, known for his work with Ealing Studios, saw potential in this story of ex-military men planning an elaborate bank robbery. Working with screenwriter Bryan Forbes, who also took a role in the film, Dearden assembled an impressive cast including Jack Hawkins, Richard Attenborough, and Nigel Patrick. Join us – Pete Wright and Andy Nelson – as we return to our Heist Films series with a conversation about Dearden’s 1960 film The League of Gentlemen.
Breaking Down This Military-Precision Heist
The film follows a group of former military officers who, feeling cast aside by society (and kicked out of the military), band together to execute a sophisticated bank robbery. As we discuss the film, we explore how it handles character development within its large ensemble cast. While some characters receive more attention than others, the film mostly effectively balances its numerous players. Furthermore, we examine how the film's visual elements, particularly the smoke-filled heist sequence with gas masks, create memorable and striking imagery in black and white.
Exploring Themes and Cultural Context
Throughout our discussion, we delve into several fascinating aspects of the film:
  • The military hierarchy that naturally reasserts itself among the characters
  • The film's commentary on post-war soldiers struggling to find their place in society
  • The blend of comedy and crime elements that would influence future heist films
  • The impressive performances, particularly from Jack Hawkins and Richard Attenborough
  • The film's innovative use of practical effects, especially during the climactic heist sequence
  • The cultural attitudes and gender relations reflected in the film
A Must-Watch Early Heist Film
The League of Gentlemen stands as an important early entry in the heist film genre, arriving the same year as the original Ocean's 11. While some character development opportunities may have been missed due to the large cast, the film succeeds in delivering both entertainment and social commentary. We both thoroughly enjoyed this British crime caper, particularly appreciating its technical achievements and ensemble performances. We have a great time talking about it, so check it out then tune in. The Next Reel – when the movie ends, our conversation begins!
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Creators & Guests

Host
Andy Nelson
With over 25 years of experience in film, television, and commercial production, Andy has cultivated an enduring passion for storytelling in all its forms. His enthusiasm for the craft began in his youth when he and his friends started making their own movies in grade school. After studying film at the University of Colorado Boulder, Andy wrote, directed, and produced several short films while also producing indie features like Netherbeast Incorporated and Ambush at Dark Canyon. Andy has been on the production team for award-winning documentaries such as The Imposter and The Joe Show, as well as TV shows like Investigation Discovery’s Deadly Dentists and Nat Geo’s Inside the Hunt for the Boston Bombers. Over a decade ago, he started podcasting with Pete and immediately embraced the medium. Now, as a partner at TruStory FM, Andy looks forward to more storytelling through their wide variety of shows. Throughout his career, Andy has passed on his knowledge by teaching young minds the crafts of screenwriting, producing, editing, and podcasting. Outside of work, Andy is a family man who enjoys a good martini, a cold beer, a nice cup o’ joe. And always, of course, a great movie.
Host
Pete Wright
#Movies, #ADHD, & #Podcasting • Co-founder @trustory.fm🎥 The Next Reel Family of #Film Podcasts @thenextreel.com🎙️ Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast @takecontroladhd.com📖 Co-author of Unapologetically ADHD • https://unapologeticallyadhdbook.com

What is The Next Reel Film Podcast?

A show about movies and how they connect.
We love movies. We’ve been talking about them, one movie a week, since 2011. It’s a lot of movies, that’s true, but we’re passionate about origins and performance, directors and actors, themes and genres, and so much more. So join the community, and let’s hear about your favorite movies, too.
When the movie ends, our conversation begins.