The Gentlemen Season 2 Blends Peaky Blinders and Breaking
Netflix's 'The Gentlemen' returns for a second season, with critics drawing comparisons to the criminal ambition of 'Peaky Blinders' and the drug empire
Guy Ritchie's Netflix series 'The Gentlemen' has returned for a second season. The show, a spin-off from Ritchie's 2019 film, is described by Screen Rant as a modern classic that expertly blends elements from 'Peaky Blinders' and 'Breaking Bad'.
A Fusion of Two Crime Drama Giants
The series follows Eddie Halstead, played by Theo James, who inherits his father's estate and becomes entangled in a drug empire run by Bobby and Susie Glass. Despite his military background, Eddie evolves from a reluctant partner to an active operator in the marijuana business. This arc draws a direct parallel to 'Breaking Bad,' where a seemingly ordinary person is pulled into a ruthless drug world and cannot turn back due to their own ego.
Eddie's motivations differ from Walter White's, but both characters believe they can outsmart the violent criminals around them. The core similarity lies in the exploration of illegal narcotics and the extreme measures taken to protect an empire.
The British Ambition of Tommy Shelby
Where 'The Gentlemen' shifts closer to 'Peaky Blinders' is in its setting and protagonist's drive. While set in posh Britain rather than the working-class backdrop of 'Peaky Blinders,' the presentation and ambition feel aligned. Eddie Halstead, like Tommy Shelby, is driven by limitless ambition. Screen Rant notes that Eddie even dreams of becoming the King of England, mirroring Tommy's journey from gang leader to a Member of Parliament with political sway. The constant negotiations and betrayals in a British criminal setting further connect the two shows.
The Show's Strengths and Future
With a third season already confirmed, 'The Gentlemen' is considered one of Netflix's best ongoing shows. It may not have the global scale of 'Squid Game' or 'Stranger Things,' but it carves its own niche. The cast is a significant strength, with Theo James and Kaya Scodelario's chemistry driving the story. Giancarlo Esposito, Vinnie Jones, and Daniel Ings provide strong support. The series has also featured British guest stars like Maya Jama and Chris Eubank Jr., and Meghan Markle is being eyed for season 3.
The show mixes an upper-class setting with Guy Ritchie's signature, unorthodox humor. While some critics point out pacing issues, the series is largely seen as a fun, gripping, and classy drama. Reviews for the second season may not be as strong as for the first, but the core qualities remain. The show can be watched independently of the original film, which Screen Rant says gives fans something to explore afterward if they enjoy the concept.
The series is created by Guy Ritchie and Matthew Read. Directors for the show include David Caffrey, Guy Ritchie, Eran Creevy, and Nima Nourizadeh.
