Guy Ritchie's gangster drama The Gentlemen has been named one of the must-watch programmes on Netflix, securing second place on The New York Times' latest guide to the best shows on the platform.
The series, a spin-off of Ritchie's 2019 film of the same name, is currently awaiting its third series, with production already underway.
The Show's Appeal
The publication explained the show's appeal, noting: "The point is cleverness and looking cool, though, mostly the movie is about Ritchie's own conspicuous pleasure directing famous actors having a lark, trading insults, making mischief."
The original film starred Matthew McConaughey as an American drug lord in London who attempts to sell his cannabis empire.
Plot and Cast
Theo James plays Eddie Halstead, a British aristocrat who inherits a dukedom, his family's estate, and, unexpectedly, a thriving drug empire. He discovers that the dilapidated Halstead estate conceals an extensive underground marijuana operation.
The reluctant criminal finds himself at odds with baddies portrayed by Downton Abbey's Hugh Bonneville and Giancarlo Esposito of Breaking Bad fame. Kaya Scodelario, best known from Skins, plays Susie Glass, whose front as an antiques dealer conceals her true identity as the head of the Glass criminal organisation.
Audience Reactions
Both series have received strong ratings on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics generally finding the second series (87%) better than the first (75%).
In response to the finale of the second series, one viewer said: "The ending elevates the entire saga into Shakespearean heights." Another said: "Just watched the Gentlemen, both seasons, and oh my god. This might be the best piece of storytelling I have seen on Netflix in a while. A remarkable, wild ride! Won't be getting any sleep tonight."
"The best thing Netflix has produced in a very long time," said a user review on IMDB. "The Gentlemen feels totally different and might actually be one of the greatest shows I've seen, and it's only the first season." Another dubbed it a "masterpiece", saying: "Absolute cinema. The first season was incredible. Just be patient with Season 2 - it takes a little time to build, but trust me, it's worth it. One of the best series I've watched in years. It has everything-emotion, action, incredible storytelling, and of course, the dialogue. The writing is absolutely brilliant, and every element comes together perfectly. Truly incredible."
Where to Watch
Both series of the programme are currently streaming on Netflix. Showrunners announced in August that a third series is in production. The original 2019 film is available to watch free of charge on ITVX.
