Watch How I Became a Gangster

How I Became a Gangster is a gripping crime drama that takes its audience deep into the murky underworld of organized crime. Directed by Maciej Kawulski, the 2019 Polish film tells the story of a man's relentless climb through the ranks of the criminal hierarchy, illustrating both the allure and the perilous nature of life within the gangster milieu. The movie's narrative unfolds through the eyes of its unnamed protagonist, vibrant brought to life by Marcin Kowalczyk, whose powerful performance captures the complexities of a hardened criminal driven by ambition and survival.

The film starts with a young boy, who early on gets a taste for the seductive power of having authority over others. His journey into the world of crime is depicted with an unflinching candor as he gradually transforms from a small-time delinquent into a formidable gangster. The story chronicles his life over several decades, documenting the pivotal moments that mold his character and elevate his status in the criminal organization.

As he climbs the ladder, the protagonist encounters a variety of characters that shape the story's direction, including Tomasz Wlosok, who plays a pivotal role in the gangster's life. Natalia Szroeder also stars, adding a layer of complexity as a key figure whose relationship with the protagonist adds emotional depth to the narrative. The strong supporting cast is instrumental in portraying the intricate network of loyalties and betrayals that define the gangster's existence.

The movie's atmosphere is one of its standout features, with finely crafted scenes that ooze style and tension in equal measure. The cinematography captures the grit and glamour of the gangster's world, contrasting the opulent lives of the crime bosses with the stark, violent streets where their power is enforced. The film's gritty realism is enhanced by its setting, which takes viewers on a tour through the post-communist era of Poland, a backdrop that adds historical context and authenticity to the narrative.

The soundtrack complements the intensity of the visuals, with a score that underpins the film's most dramatic moments and highlights the protagonist's internal struggles. The rhythmic beats and pulsating music become a character in their own right, setting the tone for the unfolding drama and keeping the viewer's pulse racing.

How I Became a Gangster delves into themes of loyalty, power, and the high price of ambition. The protagonist's ruthless pursuit of control within the gang is a central motif, as he makes and breaks alliances, navigates the dangerous politics of the underworld, and faces the consequences of his actions. The exploration of these themes is done with a moral ambiguity that keeps the audience questioning the nature of right and wrong, sympathy and revulsion, as they follow the main character's odyssey.

A notable aspect of the film is its intricate plot. The narrative is complex, with multiple layers of deceit and strategy that illustrate the intelligence and cunning required to survive and thrive in the criminal landscape. The storytelling is both linear and reflective, providing a historical perspective that enlivens the protagonist's motivations and choices. The director manages to skillfully weave these strands together, creating a tapestry of a life led in the shadows but constantly reaching for something more.

While the movie steers clear of glorifying the criminal lifestyle, it does not shy away from showcasing the allure it holds for those who feel marginalized by society. There's a raw appeal in the sense of belonging to something greater, of commanding respect and wielding power, that's portrayed with an honest lens. However, the film equally doesn't sugarcoat the steep cost of such a life, depicting the physical and psychological toll it takes on individuals and their relationships.

How I Became a Gangster is not just a tale of one man's rise to infamy, but it's also a broader commentary on the very nature of power and its impact on the human spirit. It questions what one is willing to sacrifice for wealth and status, and whether the very pursuit of these things leads to a path of self-destruction. It's a character-driven drama that keeps viewers invested in the protagonist's fate, while equally intrigued by the mechanisms of the criminal world he inhabits.

Critical reception of the film has been positive, with accolades directed toward the lead performances, the crafted direction, and the complex plot. Viewers and critics alike have praised its unapologetic portrayal of gangster life, its nuanced characters, and its emotional resonance that persists long after the credits roll.

Overall, How I Became a Gangster is a powerful cinematic experience, blending action, drama, and a penetrating character study. It’s a film that offers an uncompromising look at the choices one man makes and the life he leads, with all its attendant darkness and occasional, fleeting sparks of light.

How I Became a Gangster is a 2020 crime movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 19 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.