Renowned director and screenwriter Guy Ritchie once again delves into the British underworld. The result is the Netflix Original series The Gentlemen. A series that pleasantly surprises, but doesn’t always convince.
Major changes are taking place at the estate of the Duke of Halstead. The old Duke passes away, leaving his inheritance, including title and estate, to his second son, Edward Horniman. Much to the displeasure of his firstborn son, Freddy Horniman. Soldier Edward takes on his new responsibilities and delves into his father’s affairs.
During this, Edward is introduced to an associate of his father, Susie Glass. Upon further acquaintance, Susie turns out to be more than just a colleague but the head of a marijuana empire, with a plantation located on Edward’s estate.
Freddy, who is addicted to cocaine, gets into trouble due to a large debt to another drug cartel. The additional income from the presence of a marijuana plantation could relieve him of his debt. However, this means Edward has to get involved with the underworld. And he does. As a true criminal, he carries out his tasks. And, true to his nature as a former soldier, without showing emotion. He claims he wants to get rid of the Glass family and their plantation, but his new life seems to suit him very well.
Loose ends in The Gentlemen
Guy Ritchie, no stranger to the film world, takes a detour into television series with The Gentlemen. But he’s not treading on unfamiliar ground. His 2019 film of the same title largely covers the same themes. It’s not a literal retelling of his film, but it could be considered a spin-off. Once again, gangsters and aristocrats intersect in London’s underworld. However, characters from the film do not reappear in the series.
The trend of recent years to adapt cinematic stories into series continues here as well. In an 8-episode series, there’s more time to tell the story. That’s exactly what Guy Ritchie does here, differentiating between film and series. His script takes the time to tell the story. However, the script isn’t always complete, which occasionally results in a somewhat weak and predictable subplot.
Also, the ease with which the Horniman family accepts the fact that their father has welcomed a marijuana plantation onto their estate is peculiar. It sets the tone for the entire series but also leaves some unanswered questions. Episode 8, the last episode, ends fairly open-ended. However, it’s also possible that Guy Ritchie might leave it at that. That there won’t be a Season 2 of The Gentlemen. But a second season would be more than welcome if it’s as enjoyable as the first.
Familiar faces
Besides the creator, more familiar names are attached to The Gentlemen. The main roles of Edward, Susie, and Freddy are respectively played by Theo James (Divergent, The White Lotus), Kaya Scodelario (The Maze Runner, Pirates of the Caribbean), and Daniel Ings (Sex Education). Additionally, perennial bad-guy Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad, The Mandalorian) also makes an appearance.
A number of familiar faces showcasing their skills with freedom. And they convince. While the story may sometimes be weak, they are not. Their chemistry leaps off the screen and creates a pleasant atmosphere. Even in the tough and often absurd underworld of England.
The Gentlemen (2024-) – Netflix
When aristocratic Eddie inherits the family estate, he discovers that it’s home to an enormous weed empire — and its proprietors aren’t going anywhere.
Cast: Theo James, Kaya Scodelario, Daniel Ings, Giancarlo Esposito, e.a.
Creator: Guy Ritchie
Studio’s: Netflix
