Since its debut in 2020, Gangs of London has been one of the strongest shows on UK television. The programme follows the various criminal organisations that form the underbelly of the streets of London, and has had viewers enraptured with its blend of intriguing plots, heady violence, and exceptional fight choreography. This month sees the show return for its third season, and whilst it might have some new faces behind the scenes, the quality of Gangs of London remains consistent.
Picking up several months after the end of series two, Gangs of London season three finds Elliott now fully embroiled into a life of crime. Having originally begun his journey as an undercover police officer, Elliott has now gone full Brian O’Connor and become what he once hunted. Working in partnership with the Dumani’s, Elliott has taken over the role of King of London, a position once held by Sean Wallace (Joe Cole). However, after a batch of Elliott’s cocaine is spiked, war once again breaks out on the streets of London, and as Elliott is confronted by a face from his past, he must turn to the now incarcerated Sean for help…
The whole cast return for another round of bloodshed, brutality, and betrayal, and are once more on top form. Sope Dirisu is fantastic as Elliott, and even though he may have been seduced by the allure of the underworld, he still has a conscience. Elliott wrestling with his demons is at the core of this season, and Dirisu keeps the viewer gripped as they try to figure out on which side of the law Elliott will end up. The Fast and the Furious had Dom and Brian, Gangs of London has Elliott and Sean. The two characters work perfectly together and scenes between Sope Dirisu and Joe Cole continue to showcase some of the show’s best chemistry.
In terms of performance however, season three belongs to the phenomenal Narges Rashidi who plays Lale. Lale has always been a fascinating character, and her capture by Asif in season two formed one of the best episodes thanks in no small part to the immense talent of Rashidi. The creators have clearly taken note as she has an entire episode crafted around her character, and what transpires within is easily some of the best television in years. This episode stands shoulder to shoulder with season one’s siege, and is an hour of television that will leave audiences breathless.
As with previous seasons of Gangs of London, everyone is given their time to shine, and there continues to be stellar work across the ensemble. Amongst the familiar faces is a smattering of fresh blood with Richard Dormer, Andrew Koji, and T’Nia Miller joining the ranks. The three all play compelling characters, each of whom seamlessly slot themselves in, to the point they almost feel like part of the furniture. Of the new trio, it is Andrew Koji’s who elicits the most intrigue. In contrast to his Boy Kills World character, Koji’s new role is the strong, silent type, and is sure to become an instant favourite with fans of the show, even if they might not be happy with some of his actions.
Gangs of London built its reputation on its stunt work and once again the action and fights presented in the show are incredible. With the bar already set sky high from previous seasons, this third chapter has a lot to live up to. A fairground battle during the season opener proves that the show hasn’t lost its edge, and as the season progresses, events get even more vicious. Whilst there isn’t anything quite as barbaric as that machete hand split seen in season two, the violence is still aggressive, and the action blistering.
What has changed however, is that now that the audience are more bonded to this crop of characters, the action is no longer just for spectacle. Elliott dispatching bad guys armed with a dart in the pilot was eye-catching, but there was no connection to him or those on the attack. Now the viewer knows everyone’s motivations and connections, and as such, even the slightest act of aggression triggers a more affecting response from the viewer.
Gangs of London started with an absolute bang in 2020, and it is incredible to see that even in its third season, it continues to thrive. Just when you think that the story is all sewn up, the writing team is able to pick apart the seams and stitch an even more intricate pattern. Whilst the show might now be five years and three seasons in, the quality, and its ability to hook the audience, persists.
Gangs of London Season 3
Summary
Although onto its third season, the quality standard remains at a resounding high, as Gangs of London returns for yet more bloodshed, brutality, and betrayal.
All 8 episodes of Gangs of London 3 will launch as a box set on Sky Atlantic and the streaming service NOW from 20 March.
