Synopsis

In 1748 England, bankrupt gentleman James Macleane joins forces with resourceful thief Will Plunkett. Using Macleane's access to high society and Plunkett's criminal expertise, they become notorious highwaymen who rob wealthy travelers. Their partnership is tested when Macleane falls for Lady Rebecca, while the ruthless thief-taker General Chance pursues them and threatens to bring their criminal success to a violent end.

Factoids & Trivia

• The film is loosely based on the real eighteenth-century highwaymen James MacLaine and William Plunkett, although its story departs substantially from historical accounts.

• The real James MacLaine was hanged in 1750 after being arrested partly because of his flamboyant reputation as a dandy. The film turns his fate into a much more adventurous escape story.

• The production deliberately mixes period costumes and settings with modern visual touches, energetic editing, and an attitude associated with contemporary crime and youth movies.

• The film's musical score was composed by Craig Armstrong and recorded at Air Lyndhurst Studios in London. Its electronic and orchestral sound helps connect the period setting with the film's modern style.

• The movie was produced through Working Title Films in association with the Arts Council of England and PolyGram Filmed Entertainment.

• Contemporary critics were divided, with several objecting to the film's exaggerated style and historical liberties. It has nevertheless developed a cult following among viewers drawn to its unusual blend of period adventure, crime comedy, and pop-inflected design.