Gang Warfare Grips London in New Crime Drama
Tom Hardy and Pierce Brosnan headline Skyshowtime’s gritty new series.
London’s criminal underworld takes center stage in *Mobland*, a new Skyshowtime series starring Tom Hardy as a fixer navigating the dangerous landscape of warring gangster families. The series swaps period costumes for modern attire, plunging viewers into a contemporary Great Britain rife with crime.
A Fixer’s Job
Hardy portrays a character forced to clean up messes for a dreaded Irish criminal family. Unlike some gangster films, *Mobland* maintains a serious tone, especially in its initial episodes, leaning toward a slow-burn narrative, elevated by strong writing.
A-List Cast
The show boasts an impressive cast, featuring Pierce Brosnan as the head of the Harrigan family and Helen Mirren, portraying his wife, who embraces her character’s darker side. Adding to the tension is Paddy Considine, creating a formidable trio that keeps the underworld on edge.
Catalyst for Chaos
The conflict escalates when younger members of the Harrigan and Stevenson clans, Eddie Harrigan (Anson Boon) and Tommy Stevenson (Felix Edwards), become embroiled in a violent incident. The incident forces Harry to intervene, preventing Eddie from imprisonment and igniting a feud between the families.
Shakespearean Undertones
The series attempts to blend modern crime drama with Shakespearean themes, highlighting the veteran actors’ performances. However, the most compelling moments emerge when Tom Hardy‘s character takes action.
Hardy‘s Hypnotic Performance
While the setting is contemporary, Hardy embodies the fixer role, captivating viewers with his on-screen presence. His ability to portray a character who threatens, then kicks everyone’s ass, shoots it – depending on a situation,
makes him the perfect fit for this role.
From Spinoff to Standalone
Originally conceived as a spinoff to *Ray Donovan*, *Mobland* distinguishes itself by forging its own path. According to a 2023 study by Variety, the trend of creating original series instead of relying on existing intellectual property is growing within the entertainment industry (Variety).
A Dignified Gangster Series
Despite some shortcomings in photography, *Mobland* offers a dignified take on the gangster genre. The series is elevated by strong dialogue, as evidenced by lines such as, “I am currently in one degree, would you like to see what it is like to turn six?”
Final Verdict
While *Mobland* starts slow, it gains momentum as the story progresses. The series balances gritty violence with elements of a modern king drama, appealing to fans of the genre. Ultimately, the performances of the actors should draw genre fans in.
Rating: 8/10
*The first five episodes of Mobland are now available on Skyshowtime.*
