A Thousand Blows, a new historical drama, is receiving widespread acclaim from viewers who are calling it the “best series ever made.” Currently streaming on Disney+, the show is the latest creation from Steven Knight, known for his previous work on Peaky Blinders.
Set in the gritty backdrop of 1880s London, the series revolves around the Forty Elephants, an all-female criminal gang. The narrative unfolds as the gang collides with the underground world of bare-knuckle boxing. The show features a talented cast, including Erin Doherty and Stephen Graham, alongside actors such as Malachi Kirby, Francis Lovehall, and James Nelson-Joyce.
The series follows the journey of Hezekiah Moscow and Alec Munroe, two best friends fleeing from Jamaica. They find themselves entangled in London’s perilous criminal underbelly as Hezekiah seeks success in the boxing arena. As he rises in fame, he attracts the attention of Mary Carr, the notorious Queen of the Forty Elephants, who aims to exploit his talents for her own gain. The plot thickens as Sugar Goodson, the self-proclaimed emperor of the East End boxing scene, becomes determined to thwart Hezekiah’s ambitions.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Reception
The series has garnered an impressive 88% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its engaging storytelling and historical authenticity. One review highlights Knight’s ability to infuse the show with “genre grit,” describing it as “riveting entertainment that leaves a bruise.”
Viewers have expressed their enthusiasm for A Thousand Blows, with one fan stating, “Absolutely worth watching! A Thousand Blows deserves a thousand compliments; it really had me addictively hooked from start to finish.” Another critic shared high praise, suggesting it could rival other historical dramas, stating, “I would give this 10 stars if I could. It ties Shogun as the best historical series in many years.”
Lucy Mangan from The Guardian commended the series for its narrative complexity and thematic depth, awarding it a perfect five-star rating. The show’s ability to capture the struggles and triumphs of its characters has resonated strongly with audiences.
Future of the Series
In an encouraging development for fans, Steven Knight confirmed during a conversation with the Daily Express that the series has already been greenlit for a second season. “We do have the second series in the can, and we all want to keep this story going,” he stated, hinting at a progression of the narrative that will take it into the 21st century.
With its captivating storyline and strong performances, A Thousand Blows stands out as a significant addition to contemporary period dramas. The series continues to attract viewers, solidifying its place in the landscape of quality television.
