“Gangs of London” is a gripping crime drama television series that aired in 2020 on Sky Atlantic and AMC+. The show, created by Gareth Evans and Matt Flannery, is a visceral exploration of the criminal underworld of London. The series is fast-paced, brutal, and unapologetically violent, making it an adrenaline-fueled thrill ride from start to finish. The show is currently on the it’s second season, released in 2022 with hopes of a third season as the director said the show is set up for a third season but depends on how it’s received.
The series opens with the assassination of Finn Wallace, the head of a powerful criminal organization in London. His son Sean Wallace (Joe Cole) takes over as the new head of the organization, but he quickly realizes that there are many who would like to take his father’s place. This sets off a chain of events that sees Sean and his allies fighting to maintain their power while also trying to uncover the truth behind Finn’s murder.
The plot of “Gangs of London” is complex and multi-layered, with numerous characters and subplots woven together to create a rich and immersive world. The show explores themes of family, loyalty, betrayal, and power, with each character struggling to find their place in the criminal underworld.
The acting in “Gangs of London” is top-notch, with standout performances from Joe Cole as Sean Wallace, Michelle Fairley as Finn’s widow Marian Wallace, and Sope Dirisu as Elliot Finch, a former soldier turned enforcer for the Wallace family. The cast is rounded out by a talented ensemble of actors who all deliver strong performances, bringing their characters to life in a way that is both captivating and emotionally resonant.
One of the most striking aspects of “Gangs of London” is its cinematography. The show is visually stunning, with each episode featuring stunningly shot action sequences that are both brutal and beautiful. The use of color and lighting is particularly noteworthy, with each scene carefully crafted to create a specific mood and atmosphere.
The violence in “Gangs of London” is unrelenting and graphic, with each fight scene feeling like a visceral and intense battle. However, while the violence is certainly brutal, it never feels gratuitous or exploitative. Instead, it serves to underscore the high stakes of the characters’ actions and the dangerous world they inhabit.
While “Gangs of London” is undoubtedly a dark and violent series, it also has moments of humor and levity that help to balance out the tone. The show is not without its flaws, however. At times, the plot can feel convoluted and confusing, with too many characters and subplots vying for attention. Additionally, some of the characters feel underdeveloped, with their motivations and backstories not always fully fleshed out.
Despite these flaws, “Gangs of London” is an engrossing and thrilling crime drama that is well worth watching. The show’s strong performances, stunning visuals, and unrelenting action make it one of the most exciting and immersive shows on television. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or just looking for something new to watch, “Gangs of London” is a series that is not to be missed.
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