Fans of gritty crime dramas and the hit BBC series Line of Duty have a compelling reason to revisit a standout film from 2013, which is now readily available for streaming. The movie, a biographical crime story featuring a powerhouse performance from Martin Compston, is being celebrated by critics and audiences alike for its authentic portrayal of the Glasgow underworld.
Critical Acclaim for a Gritty True Story
The film in question is The Wee Man, a 2013 biographical drama that traces the life of reformed Scottish gangster Paul Ferris. The movie has garnered impressive reviews on platforms like IMDb, where viewers have praised its intense narrative and strong character work.
One reviewer awarded the film an 8/10, calling it a "very good thriller and gangster film" that was held together by outstanding performances. They emphasised that the story kept their attention throughout, highlighting its good plot and strong characters as key strengths. Another viewer went further, giving a perfect 10/10 score and declaring it a "damn near perfect film" in its true-to-life depiction of Glasgow's criminal landscape.
A Standout Lead Performance
At the heart of the film's praise is the lead performance by Martin Compston, who portrays Paul Ferris. Long before his fame as Steve Arnott in Line of Duty, Compston took on this challenging role, with critics describing his turn as "compelling" and "utterly compelling".
The film follows Ferris from his bullied childhood in the Blackhill area of Glasgow through his recruitment into the criminal world as a mob enforcer during the 1970s and 80s. The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring John Hannah (The Mummy), Denis Lawson (New Tricks), and Patrick Bergin (Patriot Games).
Where to Stream The Wee Man
For those keen to see this acclaimed performance, The Wee Man is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime Video. It is also offered for free on the ad-supported platform Tubi. The renewed interest in the film underscores the lasting appeal of well-crafted British crime cinema and the standout work of its cast.
With its foundation in true events and a magnetic central performance, The Wee Man stands as a significant entry in the gangster genre and a must-watch for fans of Martin Compston's earlier work and hard-hitting dramas alike.
