A Very British Gangster
This is another fascinating documentary on a Manchester personality (see also Joy Division).
Economic difficulties have made the inhabitants of the industrial hub of England determined to emancipate themselves and improve their lot: some by becoming musicians, and others, via a life of crime.
Falling into the latter category is Dominic Noonan. Noonan changed his name to Lattlay Fottloy, an acronym for: “Look After Those That Look After You, F*ck Off Those That F*ck Off You”.
That pretty much sums up the credo that cements organised crime syndicates together: loyalty equals solidarity. Solidarity equals belonging. For poor, disenfranchised young men, this is understandably appealing.
Noonan’s criminal activity peaked during the eighties and nineties. He now runs a security firm.
Exposé journalist turned filmmaker Donal McIntyre was very fortunate to have been granted such broad and candid access to Noonan, who, it seems, probably saw the opportunity to show a different side of his persona to the public.
There seems little doubt that Noonan has had a positive effect on those around him. Part thug, part social worker, he is the go-to man for locals looking to solve problems and resolve conflict. He appears to be a genuinely caring man, towards his colleagues, his handsome young acolytes (who look like models), and his son. Indeed, people tend to trust him more than they trust the police, probably because he understands exactly what they are experiencing, and because he is a renowned figure in their community.
Nevertheless, there are chilling undertones in this film. Noonan may now have a clean record, but there seems no doubt that he has had a violent past. Plus, there are elements to the arrangement of his crew that closely resemble the functional hierarchy of a gang.
On the other hand, he seems genuinely pleasant and (believe it or not), decent – even fair. And given the socioeconomic challenges facing the people in his neighbourhood, it’s not hard to understand why people would seek protection under his burly wing.
A Very British Gangster is frightening, amusing, visually slick and utterly compelling.