From writer Steven Knight (‘Peaky Blinders’) A Thousand Blows is an electrifying ride through the brutal, treacherous underbelly of Victorian London, blending raw emotion, stunning performances, and gripping storytelling into a knockout drama. This isn’t just another historical series—it’s a visceral, blood-soaked clash of survival, loyalty, and ambition that keeps you on edge from start to finish.
Stephen Graham is a tour de force as Henry "Sugar" Goodson, the terrifying bare-knuckle champion whose presence looms large over Wapping. With a commanding performance, he masterfully balances menace and vulnerability, proving once again why he’s one of the best actors of his generation. Erin Doherty is equally captivating as Mary Carr, the wily, unrelenting leader of the Forty Elephants. She steals every scene she’s in, bringing a fierce intelligence and unpredictable energy to the screen.
The world-building in A Thousand Blows is nothing short of breathtaking. The attention to detail—from shadowy taverns to meticulously crafted period costumes—creates an atmosphere that feels alive, immersive, and dangerously intoxicating. The fight sequences are bone-crunching, the stakes are sky-high, and the writing is razor-sharp.
A Thousand Blows delivers a cinematic gut-punch that is both brutal and beautiful. If you’re looking for a show that grips you by the throat and doesn’t let go, this is it. An absolute must-watch.
Stream it on Disney Plus in the UK and on Hulu in the US.