The BBC has officially launched its latest crime drama, This City Is Ours, which premiered on Sunday night, March 23, 2025. Set against the backdrop of Liverpool's complex urban landscape, the intense eight-part series stars Sean Bean as the formidable gang leader Ronnie Phelan, alongside Julie Graham as his wife Elaine. Other notable cast members include James Nelson-Joyce as Michael Kavanagh, Hannah Onslow as Diana Williams, and Jack McMullen as Jamie Phelan. The series follows Michael as he navigates life entrenched in organized crime while grappling with personal relationships and ambitions.
This City Is Ours delves into Michael Kavanagh's complicated life under the wing of gang leader Ronnie. With a newfound love for Diana, Michael begins envisioning a future that starkly contrasts his past as a criminal. Yet, lurking in the shadows are the dangerous implications tied to his tumultuous world. As the show’s summary encapsulates, "This is a story about family, and love destroyed and corrupted by ambition, pride, and greed." This narrative theme sets the stage for a gripping exploration of loyalty, power, and identity.
Sean Bean, speaking about the show, remarked, "It was one of the most enjoyable series I have been involved with, and I know people say that at the end of working on a particular project, but I can genuinely say I personally did not want it to end. I walked away from the set really upset." Bean’s enthusiasm for the show, coupled with his claim of it being a "mould-breaking television," showcases the cast's anticipation of its impact.
Despite the excitement surrounding its premiere, viewer reactions have been decidedly mixed. While many praised the show’s engaging storyline and strong performances, a noticeable number of fans took to social media to express frustration over technical issues, particularly a loud soundtrack. One viewer tweeted, "The background sound/track is drowning out the speech. #thiscityisours," reflecting a sentiment echoed by others who found themselves constantly adjusting their television volume.
However, fans also showcased their love for the show. Responses like, "Just watched all on iPlayer and have to say it’s fantastic #thiscityisours" suggest that many viewers resonate with its gritty portrayal of crime life. Notably, James Nelson-Joyce, who plays Michael, expressed hope that the series would serve as a love letter to Liverpool, stating that he was proud to represent the city on screen.
As This City Is Ours continues its run, the intricate plot unfolds further, leading viewers through the high-stakes world of crime intertwined with the characters’ personal stories. Throughout the series, the tension is palpable as Michael struggles between his lifelong affiliations and his desire for an honest life.
Each episode unpacks further layers of moral complexity, often leaving viewers drawn into the dilemmas faced within the Phelan family’s criminal empire. One compelling element in the storyline is the evolving dynamic between Michael and Ronnie. While Michael begins to envision escaping the criminal world, Ronnie's impending retirement brings uncertainty about the future.
The cinematography and locations filmed throughout Liverpool also add depth, rooting the show in its environment. The film crews were spotted around key areas, enhancing the authenticity of the narrative. However, the critics have suggested that the show isn't perfect. The Telegraph’s Anita Singh gave it a five-star review, commenting on the blend of betrayals and shifting loyalties, noting, "Of course this show isn’t as good as The Sopranos, so let’s dispense with that comparison. But it’s cracking. I binged all eight episodes in two days, and I’m not a big fan of dramas about drugs and guns."
As the series unfolds, Sean Bean's portrayal pushes boundaries, heightened by the question of how far a family will go to secure power and protect legacy. Some fans have labeled This City Is Ours as "the scouse Kin," drawing comparisons to similar narratives, yet insisting on the originality of its approach.
In discussing the show, Bean distilled its essence into three words: "Unique. Exciting. New." He elaborated that the storytelling is fresh and that audiences are going to love it. Similarly, Julie Graham echoed his sentiments when she said, "It is a crime drama like nothing else on TV. I know the cast all agree on that, too." The anticipation of what comes next is palpable among the viewers, eager for more episodes to drop and continue the story.
As it stands, This City Is Ours is set to continue airing weekly on BBC One at 9 PM, with the next episode slated for March 30, 2025. The buzz surrounding the series suggests that if it garners enough viewership and acclaim, a second season could easily follow. Right now, audiences are left with a sense of promise, fueled by the strong performances and intricate storytelling that have captured attention. Let's see what direction Michael's life takes next and if he can truly escape the crime-riddled existence he knows.
In essence, This City Is Ours offers a riveting drama filled with heart, conflict, and ambition, and viewers everywhere are tuning in to witness how far some will go when pressed against the wall.
