The Gentlemen: Anything but Gentle

The Gentlemen (2019), image provided by PINKVILLA

“If you wish to be the king of the jungle, it’s not enough to act like a king. There can be no doubt because doubt causes chaos and one’s own demise.”

- Mickey Pearson, The Gentlemen

Guy Ritchie strikes again! The Gentlemen is a must-see for anyone with functioning eyes and ears. If Sherlock Holmes and American Gangster had a love child, this movie would be it. It is a cinematic roller coaster; stay in your seat until the end of the ride, which means no bathroom breaks. I fought the urge; it was worth it.

The movie explores the drug empire of Mickey Pearson. He is an aging gangster that commands respect. Pearson’s work ethic reminds me of the quote, “if you stay ready, you won’t have to get ready.” The lion is referenced a few times throughout the movie, and it got me thinking. Why are lions nick-named “the kings of the jungle” when tigers are larger and stronger? Why aren’t tigers considered the kings? The answer is simple. Lions are more strategic than tigers. Pearson is a lion. Tigers are also more independent; they prefer to operate alone. Lions are more family-oriented. They gain the respect of various jungle creatures and in return, they help protect the lion. Similar to what you see in Walt Disney’s, The Lion King, animals live by a code. You respect me and I’ll respect you. You protect me and I’ll protect you too.

I was inspired to start my empire, non-drug-related of course, after watching this movie. This movie has more layers than a Pillsbury grand-layer biscuit; each layer is better than the last. Do yourself a favor and see this movie. You will be glad that you did.