The new BBC drama This City Is Ours captures the raw and complex essence of life in Liverpool, showcasing a gripping story woven through themes of love, ambition, and the dark underbelly of organized crime. Starring Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Sean Bean, and James Nelson-Joyce, the eight-part series is set against the bustling backdrop of the city and examines the challenges faced by its characters as they navigate turbulent waters of personal relationships and criminal enterprises.
At the heart of the story is Michael Kavanagh, played by James Nelson-Joyce, whose journey unfolds alongside the ambitious gang boss Ronnie Phelan, portrayed by the ever-charismatic Sean Bean. As they delve into a cocaine trade entangled in ambition and pride, the series explores not only the criminal underworld but also the profound human emotions that drive its characters. The pressure intensifies when Ronnie's son Jamie, played by Jack McMullen, sets his sights on inheriting the crime empire.
In an interview, Saoirse-Monica, who plays Cheryl Crawford, expressed her connection to Liverpool, stating, “I always feel like I was meant to live in Liverpool. I have a lot of family that moved here before I was born, so I visited quite often.” This personal touch adds a layer of authenticity to her performance, as it resonates with her own experiences in the city.
Filmed over 17 weeks at various landmarks across the Liverpool City Region, the series highlights iconic settings, contributing to the vibrant feel of the show. Notably, locations such as the Devonshire House hotel and the Metropolitan Cathedral are prominently featured, further grounding the narrative in the cultural fabric of Liverpool. During filming, local residents expressed enthusiasm and pride, recognizing their city as a character in its own right. Stephen Butchard, the series' creator, remarked, “There is a ‘can do’ attitude in everyone. The Liverpool Film Office has that attitude. Nothing is too much trouble.”
In the story, viewers will witness how Michael seeks to protect his personal life amid the tumult created by his illicit activities. He is driven by a love for his girlfriend, Diana, played by Hannah Onslow, who is portrayed as a character of significant depth. “Diana has such depth, I really wanted to tell her story,” shared Onslow. Her character, steering clear of the crime life, embodies the complexities that often arise between love and ambition within a dangerous context.
The series does not shy away from depicting its characters’ vulnerabilities. Saoirse-Monica’s portrayal of Cheryl is especially noteworthy, as her character grapples with the disappearance of her husband, showcasing a depth that far surpasses the often one-dimensional portrayals found in crime dramas. The mix of emotional stakes adds resonance and relatability to the intense drama of the series.
Critics have highlighted how This City Is Ours breaks conventions of traditional crime dramas, notably by focusing on the female characters who emerge as intricate, multi-faceted individuals. Julie Graham, who plays Elaine, Ronnie's wife, emphasized the nuanced depiction of female roles: “I realised just how well Stephen Butchard writes for women,” she noted, celebrating the authentic portrayal of women who are not merely supportive but pivotal to the narrative’s conflict and evolution.
Audiences are likely to be captivated by the series' portrayal of the stark contrasts present in Liverpool society—from the glamour of high-end drug shops to the gritty realities of life on the streets. This duality is beautifully captured by lead director Saul Dibb, who aims to give viewers a visually rich experience. He stated, “Liverpool is a very photogenic city—from its stunning architecture to its working docks and river.”
As the series unfolds, themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the question of what it truly means to love emerge. In a blend of humor and tension, characters navigate weddings, christenings, and the brutal choices they must make as they plunge deeper into the world of crime. This window into Liverpool's narrative allows a profound exploration of humanity and its flaws.
Viewers can stream all episodes of This City Is Ours on BBC iPlayer, with new episodes being released weekly on Sundays at 9 pm on BBC One, making it a must-watch for drama enthusiasts eager to see the layers of this vibrant city unfold on screen. The cast has expressed hopes that the show will resonate with audiences and reflect the essence of Liverpool—its people, spirit, and resilience. Hence it stands not just as a drama about crime but as a love letter to the city itself.
As the creators and stars of This City Is Ours look forward to its reception, the tone has been set for a series that not only entertains but also invokes thought on deeper themes of love, power, and community, highlighting the strength of storytelling rooted in genuine experiences.
