MobLand, the latest gripping drama from Paramount+, has made its debut, showcasing a star-studded cast and a compelling storyline that dives deep into the underbelly of London's criminal world. The series features an impressive lineup, including Tom Hardy as the enigmatic fixer Harry Da Souza, Pierce Brosnan as the ruthless crime lord Conrad Harrigan, and the legendary Helen Mirren as the formidable matriarch Maeve Harrigan. Created by Ronan Bennett, known for his work on Top Boy, MobLand was initially conceived as a spin-off of Ray Donovan but has evolved into its own original narrative set against the backdrop of contemporary London.
Premiering on March 30, 2025, MobLand follows the tumultuous lives of the Harrigan family, who dominate the criminal underworld. The plot thickens when the youngest Harrigan, Eddie (played by Anson Boon), stirs up trouble during a night out, leading to a violent incident that could ignite a full-blown gang war. As Harry Da Souza is tasked with cleaning up the mess, the stakes rise, and the lines between loyalty and betrayal begin to blur.
At the heart of the show is Harry Da Souza, a fixer for the Harrigan family, whose job is to manage the aftermath of Eddie's reckless actions. Hardy, 47, is no stranger to complex roles, having previously captivated audiences in films like Mad Max: Fury Road and The Dark Knight Rises. In MobLand, he portrays a character who is as clever as he is deadly, balancing his criminal obligations with the challenges of family life, including a strained marriage with Jan Da Souza, played by Joanne Froggatt.
Mirren's portrayal of Maeve Harrigan adds a chilling depth to the series. Maeve, while appearing somewhat daffy at first, quickly reveals herself to be the brains behind the family's operations. Her character is pivotal, as she navigates the treacherous waters of crime and family dynamics with a commanding presence. Mirren, 79, has had an illustrious career spanning over six decades, earning accolades for her roles in films and television, including her iconic performance in The Queen.
Pierce Brosnan, 71, takes on the role of Conrad Harrigan, the patriarch of the family. Known for his portrayal of James Bond in the 90s, Brosnan's character is a classic old-school crime lord who revels in the trappings of wealth while harboring ambitions for his family's future. His dynamic with Maeve adds an intriguing layer to the family drama.
The ensemble cast also features Paddy Considine as Kevin Harrigan, Conrad's devoted son, and Lara Pulver as Bella Harrigan, Kevin's wife. Mandeep Dhillon plays Seraphina, Conrad's daughter from an affair, further complicating family dynamics. The show is packed with familiar faces from hit series like House of the Dragon and Downton Abbey, ensuring that viewers will recognize many of the actors.
MobLand is directed by Guy Ritchie, known for his stylish and gritty storytelling in films such as Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. Ritchie, who also serves as an executive producer, brings his signature flair to the series, crafting a narrative filled with sharp dialogue and intense action sequences. The first two episodes are co-written by Jez Butterworth, adding another layer of depth to the show's writing.
Speaking at the premiere, Ritchie expressed his excitement for the project, stating, "I was interested in the traditional genre, so to speak, that it’s gangsters in one family. I haven’t done that before." This fresh take on the gangster genre is a significant draw for audiences, promising a blend of familiar tropes and unexpected twists.
As the series unfolds, viewers can expect shocking developments and intense confrontations between the Harrigans and their rivals, the Stevensons. The rivalry escalates when Eddie's actions lead to the disappearance of Richie Stevenson, the son of the Harrigans' arch nemesis. The official synopsis hints at the chaos that ensues: “As kingdom goes up against kingdom, lines will be crossed – and the only saving grace is a bet-your-life guarantee: family above everything.”
Fans of the genre have already expressed their enthusiasm for MobLand, with many eager to see how the plot unfolds. At the premiere, Hardy hinted at the possibility of a second season, stating, "I hope so, I hope so." Producer David Glasser confirmed that there will indeed be a MobLand Season 2, with the same cast and creative team returning.
Despite its promising premise, early reviews have been mixed. As of now, MobLand holds a score of 71% on Rotten Tomatoes, indicating a solid reception but suggesting that some critics feel the show does not fully utilize its talented cast. One review described it as a “surprisingly straightforward and often downright dull gangster show,” while praising Hardy's performance as captivating. Critics have noted that the show could benefit from a more focused narrative, potentially honing in on the character of Harry Da Souza.
As viewers dive into the world of MobLand, they can look forward to a series filled with intrigue, familial loyalty, and the stark realities of life in the criminal underworld. With all ten episodes available for streaming, fans can binge-watch the series and immerse themselves in the high-stakes drama that unfolds.
For those interested in watching MobLand, the series is available on Paramount+, with subscriptions starting at $7.99 per month. The show is part of a broader trend of high-quality streaming content that has captivated audiences worldwide. With its blend of star power, engaging storytelling, and the unique vision of its creators, MobLand is poised to become a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.
As the Harrigan family's saga unfolds, viewers are left wondering just how far they will go to protect their empire and each other. Will Harry Da Souza be able to navigate the treacherous waters of loyalty and betrayal, or will the family's ambitions lead to their downfall? Only time will tell as MobLand continues to develop its gripping narrative.
