[pullquote cite=”” type=”left, right”][amazon text=Amazon&template=carousel&chan=That Film Guy&asin=B00477V21I][/pullquote] In 1952 Howard Marks was a bullied child in the small town of Kenfig Hill in Wales, by 1984 he was potentially the head of a drug cartel that transported over 30 tonnes of marijuana into the United States and Canada. He had over 40 aliases, one of which was Mr. Nice, which is the title of the semi-biographical film of his life starring Rhys Ifans as the eponymous anti-hero.
The film begins with Marks giving a talk to a full auditorium that tells the story of his remarkable story. Through use of voice-over we zip through his early life as a child in a remote Welsh village, through his Oxford University education all the way to his drug trafficking with ties to the IRA, MI5 and the CIA. There is no denying that the source material is fascinating and the fact that you’re unsure all along exactly how much is true only adds to the mythology around the man.
The film, much like it’s protagonist, has a mixed-up and slightly confusing plot. It jumps uncomfortably between moments of comedy, such as all the drug smuggling stories with the sociopathic Jim McCann (a thoroughly entertaining David Thewlis), and moments of poignancy usually involving his wife Judy (Chloe Sevigny). It tries to portray Marks as a thoroughly likeable character, which some would argue he is, and Rhys Ifans gives one of his best performances in the role.
There was much discussion during the films’ release about the glorification of drug-use. This proves to be unnecessary as the film acts more as a gentle nudge to the audience to consider whether the legalisation of cannabis would cause social disharmony or not. The effects of long-term drug taking are clearly shown, although it should be noted that some elements of his life behind bars are conveniently glossed over.
There are real stand-out moments, but it doesn’t know whether it wants to be a comedy, a documentary or serious drama. Despite this, there’s entertainment to be had, and the story itself deserves to be told.