You Won’t Believe Tom Hardy’s Insane Transformation in ‘Legend’

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One thing that often captivates both Hollywood and its audience is witnessing a beloved actor radically change their appearance on-screen, giving an outstanding dual performance as two starkly distinct characters. Many iconic films showcase actors playing double roles, such as Lindsay Lohan in “The Parent Trap,” Nicolas Cage in “Adaptation,” and Lupita Nyong’o in “Us.” In 2015, Tom Hardy joined this esteemed group with his lead role in the biographical drama “Legend.

The movie “MobLand” delves into the ascension of the notorious Kray twins, English gangsters, and their complex bond with one another. In this captivating production, Hardy portrays both Reggie and Ron, identical brothers, as they assert control over London’s criminal underworld during the 1960s. Fans of Hardy will be enthralled by his performance in this riveting drama on the occasion of the film’s 10th anniversary celebration.

‘Legend’ Explores the Krays’ Stormy Relationship

1960s London serves as the backdrop for the story of twin brothers Reggie and Ronnie Kray, who aim to rule the criminal underworld. In their quest for power, they clash with rival gangs, relying on intimidation and brutal force. This gripping tale is depicted in the 2015 crime drama “Legend,” which is inspired by John Pearson’s book The Profession of Violence. The film explores the criminal exploits and personal lives of the Krays, with Reggie, a charismatic yet volatile character, trying to court Frances Shea (Emily Browning) while managing his increasingly unstable brother Ronnie.

In unity, the pair mastermind their seizure of the city and criminal dominion, eventually emerging as relentless rulers, ready to go to great lengths to acquire what they desire. However, the brothers’ strikingly distinct methods of asserting control result in significant discord. As Ronnie grows increasingly unstable and suspicious, Reggie endeavors to tidy up his twin’s chaos, which unfortunately draws the formidable Detective Leonard “Nipper” Read (Christopher Eccleston) into the picture. This determined officer is intent on apprehending them for their wrongdoings.

Brian Helgeland served as both writer and director of “Legend,” having previously worked on biographical dramas, including the Jackie Robinson-centric film “42” with Chadwick Boseman. Similarly, Tom Hardy was already familiar with the gangster biopic genre, having made a lasting impression as Charles Bronson in the 2008 film “Bronson.” In fact, so eager was the actor to portray Ronnie Kray that he humorously informed Helgeland that if given the role, he would play his twin brother Reggie at no cost.

Hardy’s Tour De Force Dual Performance in ‘Legend’

Prior to taking on the movie direction, Helgeland had previously interacted with someone linked to the Krays. Specifically, he had encountered their associate Freddie Foreman in the past, which fueled his curiosity about delving into the lives and enduring impact of these twin gangsters. In an interview with the LA Wave, Helgeland shared, “I had drinks with him at his local hangout. When we wrapped up, he got up to leave and they celebrated him at the bar. I asked him about the bill, and he responded, ‘We don’t pay.'” Helgeland was particularly interested in using the project as a means to depict Reggie’s efforts to manage Ronnie’s escalating psychotic behavior.

In this movie, Hardy took on the roles of both twins for a span of 35 days. He filmed scenes involving more dialogue with one brother first, then went back to hair and makeup to transform into the other Kray twin. Notably, there was a particularly intense fight scene where he had to battle himself, depicting the violent altercation between the brothers. During this fight, Hardy’s stunt double, Jacob Tomuri, stepped in, with Hardy explaining to Entertainment Weekly that it wasn’t just him playing both twins, but also Jacob, making things tough for poor old Jacob.

The movie titled “Legend” was first released on September 9, 2015. For seven consecutive weeks, it ranked among the top ten highest-grossing films in Britain, earning $43 million against a production budget of $25 million. Critics had mixed feelings about the film, with many praising Tom Hardy’s impressive dual performance but criticizing the movie’s script and pacing. Despite these criticisms, Hardy received numerous awards for his powerful portrayal, including the BIFA and Toronto Film Critics Association Best Actor accolades. In an interview with the Bristol Post, Hardy described playing the twins as the most challenging task he had undertaken in his career, stating that it was “the hardest thing that I’ve tried to do in my career.

Direct paths seem rather complex to me since they don’t actively do anything. Instead, events occur around them and they react to their surroundings. It feels quite monotonous, like a steady plodding along, and I find it somewhat dull. However, playing Ronnie is simpler because there’s an element of unpredictability in him. This unpredictability stimulates my brain to respond creatively in a dynamic environment that such an unpredictable mechanism provides.

How To Watch Tom Hardy in ‘Legend’

Lovers of Tom Hardy’s acting and gritty gangster movies can stream the often overlooked crime flick titled “Legend” on Peacock and witness firsthand the incredible talent and versatility of this captivating actor. “Legend” is also available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango.

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2025-04-21 03:32