The crime thriller landscape boasts distinct heavyweights like the period-set 'Peaky Blinders' and Apple TV+'s acclaimed 'Slow Horses'. Yet, a series has emerged that masterfully combines their compelling attributes into a single, brutal package: 'Gangs of London'. This high-octane drama has garnered significant attention and is officially slated for a fourth season.
'Peaky Blinders' captivated audiences with Cillian Murphy's iconic portrayal of antihero Thomas Shelby, its modernized post-World War I setting, and powerful themes of class warfare and psychological trauma. 'Slow Horses', conversely, earned its praise for a fascinating anti-Bond approach, subverting traditional spy thrillers with dark workplace comedy and bureaucratic intrigue. 'Gangs of London' skillfully weaves these disparate elements into its narrative while maintaining a unique identity.
Gangs Of London Is, Surprisingly, A Video Game Adaptation
Created by Gareth Evans and Matt Flannery, 'Gangs of London' draws its initial concept from a PlayStation 2 video game of the same name by Sony's London Studio. While the game itself was more akin to 'Grand Theft Auto' with minimal storytelling, the television adaptation elevates this premise to prestige drama. Evans and Flannery borrow the core idea of warring criminal syndicates vying for power in modern London following a kingpin's assassination, but completely overhaul the characters and tone, crafting a rich, complex narrative.
Beyond its compelling story, 'Gangs of London' is distinguished by Evans' signature hyper-choreographed, brutally visceral action sequences. Its unflinching portrayal of violence serves as a narrative device, reminiscent of acclaimed crime thrillers such as 'The Raid', 'The Departed', and 'Snatch'. While its no-holds-barred approach to brutality may not be for every viewer, the series stands as one of the best modern crime dramas and a rare successful video game adaptation.
Gangs Of London Is Like A Modern-Day Peaky Blinders (But In London)
A direct link between 'Peaky Blinders' and 'Gangs of London' is actor Joe Cole. Known for his role as the hot-headed John Shelby in 'Peaky Blinders', Cole delivers an incredible performance as Sean Wallace, the unstable family patriarch at the center of 'Gangs of London'. His transition showcases his range, moving from a supporting role in a period drama to leading a modern crime empire.
Much like 'Peaky Blinders', 'Gangs of London' centers on a ruthless family business determined to maintain control and dominance amidst sudden chaos. Visually, both series share a highly stylized aesthetic, from their depiction of violence to their impactful soundtracks. While 'Gangs of London' trades 1920s Birmingham for contemporary London, it doesn't shy away from combining gripping criminal drama with exaggerated elements that push its violent world to extreme, captivating lengths.