Reputation is a 2024 British psychological drama crime film set in the fictional Lancashire town of Dennings. Co-written, directed and produced by Martin Law, the independent film stars James Nelson-Joyce as a small time drug dealer who begins to question his life choices when his violent partner-in-crime is released from prison. The film premiered at the "Spirit of Independence Film Festival" in 2024, qualifying for the British Independent Film Awards, and it has received strong reviews from critics.
Plot.
With more and more residents in Dennings getting hooked on "Clown" – a new form of ecstasy – it’s 30-year-old drug dealer Wes who’s cashing in. He’s happy keeping the operation small in his rough-and-ready home town; but when partner-in-crime Tommy returns from a short stint in prison, Wes starts to question if this life is for him anymore.
Production.
Casting.
Co-lead Kyle Rowe joined the cast just a few days before filming began.
Filming.
Principal photography took place in Lancashire in October 2023, with filming locations including Great Harwood, Accrington, Clayton-le-Moors, Burnley and Preston. The film was shot in 9.5 days, with rehearsals taking place right before the filming of each scene.
Reception.
Critical response.
Critic Kevin Haldon of Nerdly described the film in his 5 star review as "damn impressive", going on to say, "Everything "Reputation" does right, it does it VERY right."
Awards and nominations.
In 2025, the film received a nomination for "Best Independent Film" at the National Film Awards UK.