40 Facts About Gangs Of London (TV Series)

Creation and Production

Gangs of London is a gripping British action thriller crime series that has captivated audiences with its intense storyline and dynamic characters. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about its creation and production.

1. Gangs of London was created by Gareth Evans and Matt Flannery, known for their expertise in action-packed storytelling.
2. The series is based on a 2006 video game of the same name, making it the fourth installment in the Gangs of London franchise.
3. Pulse Films and Post Films produced the series, bringing together experienced producers and directors to ensure high-quality production.

Plot Premise

The series revolves around the power struggles among international gangs in London following the assassination of a powerful crime family head. Here's what you need to know about the plot.

4. The story is set in London, a city known for its multicultural and dynamic nature.
5. The plot kicks off with the assassination of Finn Wallace, the head of London's most powerful crime family.
6. Sean Wallace, played by Joe Cole, steps up to fight for leadership of his family's criminal empire after his father's death.

Main Characters

The characters in Gangs of London are complex and multi-dimensional, each with their own backstories and motivations.

7. Sean Wallace is the younger son of Finn and Marian Wallace, determined to take control of the family empire.
8. Ed Dumani, portrayed by Lucian Msamati, is the leader of the Dumani family and a key ally to Sean Wallace.
9. Elliot Finch, played by Sope Dirisu, is an undercover policeman infiltrating the Wallace Organisation.
10. Lale, portrayed by Narges Rashidi, leads the Kurdish PKK in London and oversees a heroin distribution ring.
11. Asif Afridi, played by Asif Raza Mir, is the influential kingpin of the Pakistani Drug Cartel.
12. Luan Dushaj, portrayed by Orli Shuka, leads the Albanian mafia and becomes entangled in the Wallace family's disputes.

Background and Inspiration

The series draws inspiration from various cultures and ethnic backgrounds in London, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

13. The show is loosely adapted from the video game, focusing on the skeleton storyline of different gangs running London's underground criminal activities.
14. The diverse cast and multicultural setting reflect the real-world diversity of London.

Power Dynamics

The intricate power dynamics between various families and criminal organizations are central to the plot.

15. The Wallace/Dumani empire, built by Finn Wallace and Ed Dumani, is central to the story.
16. Sean Wallace's struggle for control after his father's death creates tension and conflict.

Action Sequences

Gareth Evans brings his expertise in choreographed martial arts and intense action sequences to the show.

17. The series features stunning hand-to-hand combat and gunplay, often rivaling major motion pictures in terms of intensity and choreography.
18. The brutal violence and gore are integral to the show's narrative, though some critics have found it excessive.

International Gangs

The series features a diverse cast of international gangs, each with its own agenda and methods.

19. The Kurdish PKK, Albanian mafia, Pakistani Drug Cartel, and Welsh travelers all play significant roles in the plot.
20. Each gang's unique characteristics add to the complexity of the story.

Character Development

The show focuses on developing each character, making them complex and engaging.

21. Characters have their own backstories and motivations, adding depth to the narrative.
22. The moral ambiguity of the characters makes the show more engaging.

Cultural Diversity

The series features a diverse cast and dialogue in multiple languages, adding to its multicultural atmosphere.

23. Languages such as Kurdish, Georgian, Albanian, and Urdu are spoken throughout the series.
24. This representation reflects the real-world diversity of London.

Reception

Gangs of London has received generally positive reviews, though some critics have noted its excessive violence.

25. Critics praise the performances, narrative, and action sequences.
26. The show's excessive violence has been a point of contention for some viewers.

Comparison to Other Shows

The series has been compared to other popular crime dramas, sharing elements with shows like Game of Thrones and Peaky Blinders.

27. It features complex characters and intense action sequences similar to those in Game of Thrones and Peaky Blinders.
28. The show's brutal and realistic approach to violence sets it apart.

Season Structure

The first season consists of nine episodes, each with its own unique storyline and character development.

29. The narrative is layered, with each episode building upon the previous one.
30. Unexpected plot twists and turns keep viewers engaged.

Themes

The show explores various themes such as power, loyalty, betrayal, and survival.

31. These themes are woven throughout the narrative, making the series more than just a crime drama.
32. The exploration of moral ambiguity adds depth to the story.

Influence on Pop Culture

Gangs of London has influenced pop culture with its unique blend of action and drama.

33. The show's style and narrative have been referenced in various forms of media.
34. Its impact on the action thriller genre is notable.

Filming Locations

The series was primarily filmed in London, using various locations to depict the city's diverse neighborhoods and landmarks.

35. This adds to the show's authenticity and visual appeal.
36. The choice of locations enhances the viewing experience.

Soundtrack

The show's soundtrack is a mix of electronic and hip-hop music, complementing the action-packed sequences and dramatic moments.

37. The score is often intense and atmospheric, enhancing the viewing experience.
38. The music adds to the show's overall impact.

Cultural Impact

Gangs of London has had a significant cultural impact, particularly in the UK.

39. It has sparked discussions about organized crime and its portrayal in media.
40. The show's diverse cast and multicultural setting have been praised for their representation and authenticity.

Final Thoughts on Gangs of London

Gangs of London is a gripping series that dives deep into the chaotic world of organized crime in one of the world's most multicultural cities. With its intense action sequences, complex characters, and intricate plot, it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The show's creator, Gareth Evans, brings his expertise in martial arts choreography, making the fight scenes truly stand out. Despite some criticism for its excessive violence, the series has been praised for its cultural diversity and representation. The power struggles, family dynamics, and moral ambiguity add layers of depth to the narrative. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or action thrillers, Gangs of London offers a unique viewing experience that’s hard to forget. If you haven’t checked it out yet, it’s definitely worth a watch.