The Gentlemen (2024 TV Series) – A Stylish Crime Caper That’s More Than Just a Spin-Off

Guy Ritchie’s unmistakable flair for gritty British gangster tales has finally made the leap from film to television once again with The Gentlemen. Premieried on Netflix in March 2024, this eight-episode series not only carries the DNA of its 2019 cinematic predecessor but also expands upon it with fresh narrative layers, intricate character arcs, and visual style that remains as bold as ever.

In this review, we’ll explore the series’ storyline, character development, cinematography, and the way it both captivates and divides its audience. We’ll also discuss how well it fits into its crime-comedy genre and conclude with a final rating.

A Plot That Mixes Aristocracy with Underworld Mayhem

The Gentlemen follows the story of Edward “Eddie” Horniman (Theo James), a former UN soldier who returns to England upon the death of his father—the Duke of Halstead. Contrary to expectations, the mantle of nobility falls on Eddie rather than his elder, Freddy (Daniel Ings), sparking an immediate family feud. However, Eddie’s inheritance is not limited to a title and a grand estate; he soon discovers that his family’s land conceals a sprawling cannabis empire, a secret deal orchestrated by none other than gangster Susie Glass (Kaya Scodelario) and her associates.

The series’ central narrative is a cocktail of high-society intrigue and lowlife criminality—a formula that Ritchie has perfected over decades. Each episode peels back layers of the Horniman family’s hidden world, revealing complex relationships, devious double-crosses, and moments of unexpected humor.

While the storyline is at times episodic, it builds steadily toward a larger arc of personal transformation for Eddie, who must reconcile his duty as a newly minted nobleman with the brutal realities of the criminal underworld. This blend of upper-class decorum with the chaos of underground drug trafficking creates a compelling, if occasionally uneven, narrative structure that keeps viewers guessing.

Characters: From Noble Duty to Criminal Ingenuity

Eddie Horniman – The Reluctant Duke

Theo James brings a magnetic blend of vulnerability and determination to the role of Eddie. Initially portrayed as the reluctant heir, Eddie’s journey from a disciplined ex-soldier to a man forced to navigate treacherous criminal alliances is the series’ emotional core. His internal struggle is one of the strongest elements of the show.

As he grapples with the newfound responsibility of his title and the dark legacy of his family estate, Eddie’s arc is marked by moments of quiet introspection juxtaposed with bursts of calculated aggression. James’ performance is nuanced, conveying the character’s internal conflict with subtle facial expressions and deliberate dialogue delivery.

Freddy Horniman – The Frustrated Heir

Daniel Ings’ portrayal of Freddy adds an interesting counterbalance to Eddie’s character. Freddy, who expected to inherit the family fortune, becomes the embodiment of familial resentment and reckless ambition. His inconsistent behavior—ranging from moments of genuine vulnerability to outbursts of self-destructive bravado—captures the unpredictable nature of a man who has been sidelined in his own family.

Though some critics argue that Freddy’s arc can feel a bit erratic at times, his presence creates a necessary tension that drives the series’ dramatic conflicts.

Susie Glass – The Calculating Crime Boss

Kaya Scodelario’s Susie Glass is one of the series’ standout characters. As the head of the cannabis operation on the Horniman estate, she is both a formidable adversary and an unlikely ally. Susie’s steely demeanor and razor-sharp wit bring a refreshing layer of dark humor to the narrative.

She is a character who can be both charming and menacing in the same breath, and her chemistry with Eddie provides some of the most engaging moments of the series. Her character arc hints at a depth that suggests she is more than just a one-dimensional gangster—she is a woman shaped by her own experiences in a male-dominated underworld.

A Supporting Cast That Amplifies the Chaos

Beyond the central trio, The Gentlemen features a robust ensemble of characters who each leave a distinct impression. Giancarlo Esposito, in his role as Stanley Johnston, perfectly fits the “to-type” casting with his measured menace and understated humor.

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Vinnie Jones’ portrayal of Geoff Seacombe is a delightful subversion of his usual tough-guy persona, adding unexpected warmth and occasional levity. Meanwhile, guest appearances from familiar faces like Peter Serafinowicz and Ray Winstone inject moments of classic Ritchie-style banter and unexpected twists. Collectively, these characters enrich the narrative tapestry, ensuring that no two episodes feel identical—even when the plot occasionally drags into familiar territory.

Cinematography and Visual Style

Guy Ritchie’s signature visual style is as evident in the TV series as it is in his films. The series employs a sleek, dynamic cinematography that utilizes fast cuts, playful visual motifs, and a vivid color palette reminiscent of the director’s earlier works such as Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.

Dynamic Framing and Fast-Paced Editing

The visual storytelling is brisk and kinetic. From meticulously choreographed fight sequences to intricately framed shots of the sprawling Halstead estate, every frame is designed to keep the audience engaged.

The fast-paced editing, particularly in the opening episodes directed by Ritchie himself, creates a rhythm that mirrors the chaotic world of the series. This editing style works well in conveying the urgency and unpredictability of the plot, though some viewers have noted that later episodes occasionally lose that momentum. Nevertheless, the overall visual aesthetic remains a high point of the series.

Use of Locations and Set Design

The setting of the series—a grand, albeit secretive, British manor—serves as more than just a backdrop. It is a character in its own right, symbolizing the opulent yet decaying legacy of the Horniman family.

The choice of real-life estates and lavish interiors adds an authentic layer of British aristocracy, contrasting sharply with the gritty, underground world of illegal cannabis operations. The cinematography captures this dichotomy beautifully, using natural light and expansive shots to evoke a sense of timeless elegance intermingled with modern danger.

Music and Sound Design

Complementing the visual style is Christopher Benstead’s musical score, which underscores the tension, humor, and occasional melancholy that permeate the series. The soundtrack blends contemporary beats with classical motifs, creating an auditory experience that is as engaging as the visual one. The clever use of music not only enhances dramatic moments but also provides a subtle commentary on the absurdity of the world that the characters inhabit.

Impact on Audiences and Critical Reception

The Gentlemen has generated mixed yet largely positive reactions from audiences and critics alike. On Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds a 75% approval rating, with critics praising its style, energetic performances, and witty dialogue while acknowledging that it doesn’t entirely capture the magic of Ritchie’s earlier films. Metacritic’s score of 66 out of 100 further supports the notion that while the series is entertaining, it has its share of rough patches.

Audience Engagement

Viewers have found themselves both charmed and challenged by the series. Fans of Guy Ritchie’s films appreciate the unmistakable style and rapid-fire dialogue that the series brings to the table, with many noting that it is “a real cut above the average Netflix series” (as echoed by a review in The Sun).

However, some critics and viewers have pointed out that the pacing can feel inconsistent, particularly in later episodes where the narrative seems padded in order to stretch a film-length story into eight episodes. Despite these criticisms, the series’ ability to spark conversation and debate among its viewers is a testament to its impact.

Cultural Resonance

In a year when streaming giants have been pushing the boundaries of storytelling, The Gentlemen stands out for its unapologetic embrace of British gangster culture. The show’s mix of dark comedy, stylish violence, and eccentric characters resonates with audiences looking for escapism that is both familiar and refreshingly irreverent.

It is this cultural resonance—the clever subversion of traditional crime dramas and the nods to Ritchie’s filmography—that has cemented its place among the most-watched British-made Netflix shows of 2024. [Source: theguardian.com]

Awards and Accolades

The series has not gone unnoticed during awards season, with nominations for its production design, stunt coordination, and acting performances. The series also won the ‘Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Award for Outstanding Stunt Coordination for Comedy Programming’. These nods further highlight the series’ technical strengths and its appeal as a well-crafted piece of television, even if it occasionally stumbles in narrative coherence.

The Story Arcs in The Gentlemen TV Series: A Web of Intrigue and Redemption

One of the strengths of #TheGentlemen lies in its ability to weave multiple story arcs together. Eddie’s personal journey from a disillusioned soldier to a man who must assert control over his family’s destiny is at the forefront. His transformation is paralleled by the evolving dynamics within his family, particularly the bitter rivalry with Freddy and the uneasy alliances with criminal figures like Susie.

Eddie’s Journey: Embracing the Unexpected

Eddie’s arc is a study in reluctant heroism. Initially overwhelmed by the legacy thrust upon him, he gradually learns to leverage his military discipline and strategic thinking in the chaotic world of organized crime.

His internal conflicts—balancing honor with pragmatism—are portrayed with depth and nuance, making his eventual embrace of the criminal underworld both inevitable and emotionally resonant. This evolution is one of the most compelling elements of the series, and it is delivered with a blend of subtle humor and raw intensity that leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

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Freddy’s Decline and Desperation

In contrast, Freddy’s arc is marked by descent into reckless behavior. His inability to come to terms with his diminished role fuels a series of poor decisions that not only endanger his own future but also threaten to destabilize the entire Horniman legacy.

His character serves as a counterpoint to Eddie’s measured growth, illustrating how unchecked ambition and resentment can lead to self-destruction. Though his portrayal sometimes feels uneven, Freddy’s presence adds necessary conflict that drives much of the series’ tension.

Susie Glass and the Underworld’s Influence

Susie Glass, as both an antagonist and a catalyst, plays a pivotal role in the narrative. Her calculated moves and unwavering confidence challenge Eddie at every turn, forcing him to question his own motivations. Susie’s backstory—hinted at through cryptic dialogue and well-timed flashbacks—suggests a history of betrayal and survival that mirrors the series’ overarching themes. Her evolution from a mere enforcer of criminal will to a character with her own ambitions elevates the story beyond a simple crime drama.

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Delivering on Genre: Crime, Comedy, and Style

The Gentlemen is a genre hybrid that combines elements of crime drama and dark comedy, wrapped in a stylish, visually arresting package. Guy Ritchie’s influence is evident in every aspect—from the rapid-fire dialogue and snappy editing to the offbeat humor that punctuates even the most violent scenes.

While The Gentlemen sometimes struggles to maintain a consistent tone—especially when transitioning from high-octane action sequences to slower, more introspective moments—it ultimately delivers an experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Balancing Humor and Violence

One of the show’s most remarkable achievements is its ability to balance humor with moments of stark brutality. The dialogue is peppered with witty one-liners and unexpected quips that provide relief from the tension, yet these moments never undercut the seriousness of the stakes involved.

This delicate balance is a hallmark of Ritchie’s work, and it’s executed here with flair—though not without occasional lapses that remind viewers that stretching a feature film into a multi-episode series is no easy task.

A Visual Feast for Fans of the Genre

Visually, The Gentlemen is a feast for the eyes. The meticulous framing, vibrant color grading, and inventive camera angles contribute to a cinematic experience that rivals Ritchie’s feature films.

The fast-paced editing creates a rhythm that perfectly mirrors the chaotic energy of the underworld, while the choice of real-world locations adds a layer of authenticity that makes the fictional criminal empire feel palpably real.

Even when the narrative falters, the visual style keeps the audience engaged and immersed in this twisted world of aristocracy and crime.

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The Gentlemen Series Review: Final Thoughts and Rating

The Gentlemen (2024) is a series that both honors and reinvents Guy Ritchie’s signature style. With its engaging storyline, well-drawn characters, and striking cinematography, the show offers a unique take on the crime-comedy genre. It successfully marries the high-stakes world of British aristocracy with the rough-and-tumble realm of underground drug trafficking, resulting in a series that is as unpredictable as it is entertaining.

Despite some pacing issues and moments where the narrative feels padded, the series’ strengths lie in its dynamic character arcs—especially Eddie’s journey of reluctant acceptance—and its bold, stylistic execution. It is clear that Ritchie’s influence permeates every frame, delivering the snappy dialogue, intricate plot twists, and visual flair that fans have come to expect.

Watch the official trailer of The Gentlemen TV Series below. Courtesy of Netflix.

The impact on audiences has been notable, with many praising the series for its energy and humor, even as critics have pointed out its occasional narrative inconsistencies. Overall, The Gentlemen stands as a commendable effort to translate the magic of a hit film into a longer, serialized format—a challenging feat that, for the most part, succeeds with style and verve.

Our Rating: 8/10

• Storyline and Character Development (8/10): The series excels in crafting a multi-layered narrative with engaging characters whose arcs evolve over the season. Eddie’s transformation and Freddy’s descent are particularly well-handled, though some episodes feel a bit padded.
• Cinematography and Visual Style (9/10): The visual presentation is a standout, with Ritchie’s trademark editing and striking set design elevating the series to cinematic heights.
• Dialogue and Humor (8/10): Witty dialogue and moments of dark humor are delivered with precision, even if they sometimes struggle to maintain consistency throughout the season.
• Genre Delivery (8/10): As a crime-comedy, The Gentlemen successfully blends elements of both genres, offering an entertaining, if occasionally uneven, experience.
• Audience Impact (8/10): With strong performances from its lead and supporting cast, the series has resonated with fans of Ritchie’s work and contributed to the broader conversation about modern British gangster tales.

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While it may not reach the legendary heights of some of Ritchie’s earlier films, The Gentlemen is a stylish, engaging, and largely successful foray into serialized storytelling—one that leaves room for further exploration in future seasons.

This article has been written with the help of A.I. for topic research and formulation.