Think gritty bare-knuckle boxing, impeccably tailored suits hiding deadly intentions, and a dash of historical crime – does that sound like your cup of tea? Then Steven Knight's 'A Thousand Blows' might just be the series to knock you out! But here's where it gets controversial... Is it just another Peaky Blinders-esque romp, or does it pack a punch all its own? Roxana Hadadi, Vulture's TV critic and Peabody Awards juror, weighs in on the second season of this Hulu original, and the verdict is in: 'A Thousand Blows' lands its punches.
Drawing inspiration from Guy Ritchie's Sherlock Holmes films, the stylish menace of Boardwalk Empire, and, of course, Knight's own Peaky Blinders, this series dives headfirst into a bygone era of old-timey crime. We're talking about that sweet spot roughly fifteen years ago when anachronistic criminal dramas were all the rage. Season two, now available in its entirety on Hulu, throws us back into the chaotic world of 1880s East London. Emmy winners Stephen Graham and Erin Doherty deliver powerhouse performances, while Malachi Kirby brings a captivating swagger to his role as a man seeking revenge for his family's murder. Expect street wars, daring art heists, and even a French anarchist with a penchant for dynamite! While the narrative occasionally veers into the realm of the nonsensical, its breakneck pace keeps you glued to the screen.
The first season expertly introduced us to Hezekiah Moscow (Kirby), a Jamaican immigrant who arrives in London with dreams of being a lion tamer, only to find himself drawn into the brutal world of underground boxing. And this is the part most people miss... It wasn't just about making a living; it was about fighting against prejudice and finding his place in a hostile society. Hezekiah's journey intertwines with Mary Carr (Doherty), the formidable leader of the Forty Elephants, an all-female crime gang pulling off elaborate heists across the city. Mary finds protection in Sugar Goodson (Graham), the neighborhood's volatile crime boss and bare-knuckle champion. Sugar is a complex character – capable of acts of kindness towards neglected children, yet prone to explosive violence. He and Hezekiah share a simmering rivalry, fueled by their mutual interest in Mary, who clearly favors Hezekiah. The dynamic between these three is electric, particularly Graham's masterful deployment of scowls while interacting with Hezekiah, Mary, or his more grounded younger brother, Treacle (James Nelson-Joyce).
Season one highlighted the undeniable chemistry between Kirby and Doherty, their witty banter providing a solid emotional core to the series. Both characters are driven by a desire to rise above their circumstances. Hezekiah seeks to escape the legacy of colonialism, while Mary chafes against the social constraints imposed on women of her class. However, the season ended with Mary and Hezekiah at odds, and Sugar spiraling into alcoholism after a violent outburst against Treacle.
Fortunately, 'A Thousand Blows' doesn't dwell in misery for long. Season two picks up a year later, and the characters are quickly back in action. Mary, seeking to reclaim her leadership of the Forty Elephants, enlists the help of Sophie Lyons (Catherine McCormack), a hypnotist from New York City. Hezekiah is tasked with training a member of the royal family in boxing, leading to a bond with Victoria Davies (Aliyah Odoffin) over their shared experiences as Black individuals in a predominantly white London. Sugar, while still a formidable fighter, shows a more vulnerable side as he confronts the fading of his dreams. The plot moves swiftly, perhaps too swiftly, glossing over character inconsistencies and dropped subplots. But let's be honest, does it really matter when you're having so much fun watching Mary and the Elephants infiltrate high society, Hezekiah challenge the cruelty of the aristocracy, and Sugar and Treacle finally find common ground?
To be clear, 'A Thousand Blows' isn't striving for profound philosophical insights. Its exploration of racial equality, feminist empowerment, and anarchism feels somewhat superficial. And this is where opinions might differ: Is it enough for a show to be entertaining, even if its social commentary lacks depth? The series also relies on convenient plot resolutions and off-screen developments. Yet, these flaws are easily forgiven in light of the show's distinct characterizations, engaging plot, and willingness to prioritize excitement and satisfaction. The villains get their comeuppance, and 'A Thousand Blows' knows how to deliver that adrenaline rush. Ultimately, the show is a fun ride, but does it leave a lasting impact? That's up for debate.
So, what do you think? Does 'A Thousand Blows' deliver a knockout punch, or is it just another fleeting historical crime drama? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you agree with the review's assessment of the show's social commentary? And most importantly, who's your favorite character and why?
