Ray Winstone has been attached to a film version of the classic TV series The Sweeney for ages, but the project never seems to move beyond announcing him (by my count he’s been announced on at least three occassions). However now things are moving forward with Vertigo Films saying Ben Drew – aka Brit Winner Plan B – has signed up to play George Carter, alongside Ray Winstone.
Yes, that’s right, Ben Drew is the one getting to live out everyone’s dearest wish, to be the new Dennis Waterman, something only Gary Webster in Minder has been able to fulfil before.
Based on the original ITV cult classic TV show, The Sweeney will be a modernisation of the London Flying Squad, directed by Nick Love (The Football Factory, The Firm) and co-written by Bafta Winner John Hodge (Trainspotting). Set in present day England, The Sweeney will be packed full of fast cars, action and wise cracks as it follows Flying Squad detectives Jack Regan (originally played John Thaw), George Carter (original played by Dennis Waterman) and their team, as they work to keep the bad guys down!
Director and co writer Nick Love states, “I’m very excited about Ben playing Carter – he brings an intelligence and sensitivity that is crucial for The Sweeney. Ben is also one of the most promising and multi-talented young performers around. For me, Ray (Winstone) and Ben are the ultimate casting for a character driven action thriller set in London today.”
Ben Drew adds. “It’s a dream come true for me to be in a film with Ray Winstone who is one of my favourite British actors of all time and I’m really excited about working with Nick Love in what I feel will be a challenging role for me to play.”
Shooting is set to begin in the autumn.