If you’ve recently watched the popular television series “Gangs of London”, you may be wondering if the show is based on real events. The gritty crime drama has captivated audiences with its intense action scenes, complex characters, and intricate plot.
But is any of it based on a true story? Let’s take a closer look.
The Premise of Gangs of London
First, let’s recap the premise of the show. “Gangs of London” follows the power struggle between various criminal organizations in London after the assassination of Finn Wallace, the head of one of the city’s most powerful crime families. The show explores themes such as loyalty, betrayal, family dynamics, and corruption as different characters navigate this dangerous underworld.
The Inspiration Behind Gangs of London
While “Gangs of London” is not directly based on a true story, it does draw inspiration from real-life events and organizations. Creator Gareth Evans (known for his work on action films such as “The Raid”) has stated that he wanted to explore organized crime in a way that felt authentic to contemporary London.
In an interview with Collider, Evans revealed that he spent several years researching gang activity in London and speaking with people who had firsthand experience with it. He also drew inspiration from real-life events such as the Hatton Garden heist (a 2015 robbery by a group of elderly men) and the rise of Albanian gangs in London.
The Characters in Gangs of London
Many of the characters in “Gangs of London” are fictional creations. However, some are loosely based on real people or archetypes from organized crime history.
For example, Finn Wallace (played by Colm Meaney) is reminiscent of real-life gangsters such as Reggie Kray or Billy Hill who were notorious figures in 1960s London. Meanwhile, Sean Wallace (played by Joe Cole) is a more modern take on a gang leader, with influences from real-life figures such as Jamie Acourt, who was part of a drug trafficking ring in the early 2000s.
The Accuracy of Gangs of London
While “Gangs of London” may not be a completely accurate depiction of organized crime in London, it does strive to capture the essence of the city’s criminal underworld. The show’s attention to detail in terms of location, language, and cultural references adds to its authenticity.
Furthermore, the show explores complex themes and relationships that are often present in organized crime families. The characters are not one-dimensional villains but instead have nuanced motivations and backstories that make them more relatable.
Conclusion
In summary, while “Gangs of London” is not based on a true story, it does draw inspiration from real-life events and organizations. The show’s creator spent significant time researching and interviewing people with experience in organized crime to create an authentic portrayal of contemporary London. Whether you’re interested in crime dramas or just looking for your next binge-watch, “Gangs of London” is definitely worth checking out.