Forget the rubbish re-make. Mike Hodges' tough 1971 thriller remains an influential landmark of British cinema, and features Michael Caine (pictured) in one of his finest roles.
Caine plays a ruthless gangster who returns to his home city, Newcastle, to avenge his brother's death. The fine supporting cast includes Ian Hendry on top form. And Roy Budd's haunting soundtrack is utterly terrific. Essential viewing.