I have to agree with you all. I'm not sure it would have been a good movie with another actor playing Kevin, but it probably would have been better with someone like Ray Liotta or Tom Hardy, who can do that hardness Jules mentioned--very good word for it, btw.

I think JN's intelligence comes through, as well as his graceful way of moving, that prevents him being convincing as a thug. I think the closest he comes is as Dean Martin, who had a bit of the thug in him. But DM had so much charm and charisma that it was easier for JN to connect with that character. If that makes sense...

There's a reason he's the perfect Mr Knightley.