As a connoisseur of crime dramas and someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the dark underbelly of society, I must say that these three shows are absolute gems for those who appreciate the genre.
Britain’s intricate tapestry of history and diverse cultures, along with its unique social landscapes, creates a complex environment that can unfortunately foster gang activity. This complexity arises from various historical and societal factors. For instance, Britain’s longstanding issues with organized crime and current socioeconomic discrepancies, coupled with its geographical position as an island nation with significant ports, make it a prime location for the trading of illicit goods. This illegal trade often fuels the violent activities associated with gangs within the country.
The gritty side of crime in Britain has been extensively portrayed on-screen over the years. For every charming tale like “Mary Poppins,” there’s a hard-hitting film such as “Get Carter” or “The Long Good Friday.” This theme can be traced back to the 1948 movie “Brighton Rock” and continues with more recent films like “The Gentlemen” and “Legend.” The British gangster genre has provided some of the most gripping and exhilarating cinematic experiences ever witnessed on the big screen. This isn’t limited to movies alone, though; this narrative also resonates in various other forms of media.
We’ve selected 10 captivating TV series that immerse you in the dark world of British organized crime, a realm marked by rampant gang violence and clandestine activities.
10 Gangs of London (2020 – Present)
Following the demise of a notorious London gang leader, his impulsive son steps into his shoes in this thrilling crime series set in London. Riddled with suspicion and tension, he must maneuver through the labyrinthine streets of London, encountering diverse criminal elements such as the Albanian mafia, Kurdish PKK, Pakistani Drug Cartel, and the Welsh traveler community.
Bleak and Brutal
The show, titled Gangs of London, is extremely violent, not suitable for those with sensitive stomachs. However, it has received acclaim for its raw portrayal of London’s criminal underworld. This series, inspired by the 2006 video game, will return for a third season on Sky and Now in the coming year.
9 Top Boy (2011 – 2023)
Top Boy delves into the world of street gangs in West London, exploring their drug trading and struggles for power on the housing estates. It offers more than mere violence, boasting an emotional intensity seldom found in similar shows. The audience is compelled to reconsider their personal ethics and values as they observe the internal conflicts and moral complexities of the characters inhabiting this violent and impoverished environment.
Rapper Drake Was Crucial in Top Boy’s Revival and Worldwide Popularity
Initially, “Top Boy” was broadcast on Channel 4 in the United Kingdom during its first two seasons, garnering significant popularity among locals. However, the series met an untimely end before starting its third season in 2014. Fast-forward three years, and the show managed to pique the interest of global superstar Drake who actively advocated for its revival. Eventually, he took on the role of executive producer when Netflix acquired the show following his efforts.
Ever since joining Netflix, an additional three seasons have been produced, and the show’s fame has skyrocketed dramatically. It has consistently appeared on Netflix’s most-watched lists worldwide, drawing comparisons to The Wire. In fact, several of its seasons have achieved a flawless 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
8 Sexy Beast (2024)
At the 2000 Toronto International Film Festival, the film “Sexy Beast” made its first appearance. This movie later impressed both critics and viewers, and is now often recognized as one of the best British gangster films ever made. It tells the story of a tumultuous relationship between Gary “Gal” Dove, a former criminal living in Spain (played by Ray Winstone), and Don Loagan, a ruthless gangster who wants him to participate in a bank heist in London.
The Show Serves as a Prequel to the Classic Movie
When you’re watching the movie, it quickly becomes clear that each character has quite an extraordinary past, a past so intriguing it could easily be turned into captivating television. Preceding the film, the TV show delves into the rise of a young gangster in London’s criminal underworld, and deepens the connection between him and Don Logan. With just one season completed and another on the horizon, this darkly humorous crime drama series is an ideal choice for a binge-watching session right now.
7 The Fear (2012)
Located in the seaside town of Brighton, “The Fear” unfolds a story where crime boss Richie Beckett is embroiled in a conflict with an Albanian gang involved in sex trafficking, aiming to take control of his territory. Spanning across four episodes, viewers experience the mounting tension that ultimately leads to an exhilarating climax.
The Fear Puts a Unique Spin on the Gangster Genre
Titled as it is, this movie presents a crime boss with plenty to be worried about – not just rival gangs or the usual strong-arm tactics. Intriguingly, the character I’m watching grapples with early onset dementia, an adversity that amplifies the tension and complexity of his situation. This personal struggle adds depth to both the character and the narrative, making it a compelling watch.
6 The Gentlemen (2024)
Known as one of Hollywood’s top filmmakers today, Guy Ritchie initially gained fame by directing some of England’s most respected gangster films. By blending dark wit, intense action, and intriguing dialogue, all presented in a stylish manner using complex, non-chronological storytelling techniques, he emerged as the British equivalent to Quentin Tarantino.
After building up his fame, he’s ventured into diverse projects with a focus on family-oriented themes, such as Sherlock Holmes and Aladdin. His 2019 film, The Gentleman, marked a return to his roots by immersing viewers once more in his chaotic portrayal of England’s underworld.
The Gentleman Is a Spin-Off Which Elevates Its Source Material
In the same cinematic world as the film “The Gentlemen,” the potential TV series stands independently. It centers around a young individual who is unwillingly thrust into the core of the nation’s criminal underworld. An unexpected inheritance of a massive estate, which was secretly used for large-scale cannabis cultivation, comes his way after his father’s demise.
The series maintains a similar atmosphere as the film, offering viewers an engaging chance to delve deeper into the universe created by the movie. It offers extra layers of understanding about the characters, plot, and backstory, but it’s only loosely connected to the movie, making it suitable for viewing independently.
5 McMafia (2018)
Based on the book “McMafia: A Journey Through the Global Criminal Underworld” by journalist Misha Glenny, the TV series “McMafia” tells the story of a young man who is the son of a London-based Russian mafia boss. This character grapples with the challenges to break free from the life of crime that appears to be his inevitable fate.
McMafia Was Praised for Its Strong Character Development
A primary appeal for gangster-themed series or films lies in the frequent violence that mirrors their criminal ways. However, McMafia offers much more than just raw brutality. Instead, it delves deeply into the emotional turmoil, character growth, and ethical dilemmas experienced by main characters. This added dimension sets it apart from similar productions and has earned it positive reviews. Despite having only one season so far, there’s been mixed news about its continuation.
Stream on AMC+
4 Taboo (2017)
In the early 1800s, the series “Taboo” centers around James Delaney, portrayed by Tom Hardy, who returns from Africa after his father’s demise in England. This captivating drama explores the darker side of 19th-century London, revealing political and business deceit connected to the East India Company, illicit activities, the underbelly of society, and the hardships faced by the working class.
Tom Hardy’s Central Performance Was Highly Praised
From Bronson to Bane, Hardy has a history of excelling in roles that are dark and morally complex. Here he channels those same strengths as he creates a morally ambiguous character that is both intimidating and sympathetic as he navigates the darker side of London.
3 A Town Called Malice (2023)
Under the guidance of Nick Love, the series titled “A Town Called Malice” delves into the story of a family that seeks refuge in Spain’s Costa Del Sol after abandoning their turbulent criminal background in the United Kingdom. However, their new life seems to be tainted as well, and despite not having faced the consequences of their old lives yet, they find themselves entangled in the sinister activities prevalent within the local community.
A Town Called Malice Is a Sun-Soaked Trip Back In Time
In the 1980s, this show features a vibrant, contrasting color scheme that stands out against the complex, often troubling personas and actions portrayed by its characters. Additionally, the creator’s knack for humor effectively balances the sporadic instances of intense violence, resulting in a darkly comical, gritty crime drama.
2 Hatton Garden (2019)
Drawing inspiration from a true-to-life, daring, and notorious heist in Britain’s annals, I found myself captivated by Hatton Garden, a tale that revolves around a band of veteran, old-school criminals embarking on their final mission. The suspenseful buildup, the daring execution, and the edge-of-your-seat aftermath are nothing short of extraordinary. This gripping narrative comes to life in a masterful way due to compelling performances from actors such as Timothy Spall, David Hayman, and Alex Norton.
Hatton Garden Is the Perfect Length for a Weekend Binge
In just 4 episodes, the series “Hatton Garden” offers an ideal weekend getaway for individuals seeking a deeply engaging, character-centric true crime drama that can be finished before heading back to work on Monday. Fans of the tale will undoubtedly appreciate watching it unfold with some of England’s most talented actors lending their skills. For those less familiar with the story, the series provides an enlightening look at the massive scope and audacity of the heist that was pulled off.
1 Peaky Blinders (2013 – 2022)
As a devoted fan, I’d like to share my appreciation for the gripping series “Peaky Blinders,” set in post-World War 1 Birmingham. This captivating show chronicles the thrilling escapades of the ruthless Shelby family, a crime gang that leaves no stone unturned in their pursuit of power. While inspired by a genuine gang from the time, this period crime drama offers an unflinching glimpse into England’s treacherous underbelly, as we witness the meteoric rise of the cunning and relentless Tommy Shelby, portrayed brilliantly by Cillian Murphy. The series boasts an impressive ensemble cast, featuring heavyweights like Tom Hardy, Stephen Graham, Adrien Brody, Helen McRory, and Sam Neil.
A Global Phenomenon
Due to its striking visuals, clever dialogues, and compelling acting, the series, which was a massive hit in the UK, has since gained widespread acclaim globally. Originally, Netflix obtained the broadcasting rights from BBC and premiered it on their platform in 2014. By 2021, this show had earned the title of the most searched Netflix show worldwide.
You’ll find plenty to engage with as this series spans over 6 seasons, keeping you engaged for quite a while. Exciting news for fans of “Peaky Blinders” – there’s even talk of a movie being developed!
Read More
Sorry. No data so far.
2024-10-07 03:02