Plot Focus:: The story centers on Michael Kavanagh (James Nelson-Joyce), a lifelong member of a drug gang who falls in love with Diana (Hannah Onslow) and desires a different life, just as a power struggle erupts.
Succession Battle:: Gang leader Ronnie Phelan (Sean Bean) contemplates retirement, triggering conflict between his volatile son Jamie (Jack McMullen) and his trusted friend Michael over who will inherit the criminal empire.
Core Themes:: The series delves into the disintegration of a crime family driven by greed and pride, contrasting the brutality of gang life with a central love story.
Liverpool Setting:: The city of Liverpool is presented as a major character, with its unique atmosphere and locations playing a significant role.
Critical Reception:: Early reviews praise the drama as "superb," "cracking," and "addictive," highlighting strong performances, particularly from James Nelson-Joyce, and authentic writing.
Why this matters: This series offers a fresh perspective on the crime genre, focusing on the personal relationships and motivations behind the violence, brought to life by a strong cast and acclaimed creative team. It presents a complex narrative compiled by Yanuki using the latest trends and data.
"This City is Ours" pits Michael Kavanagh's yearning for love and family against the violent world he's always known. His relationship with Diana marks a turning point, forcing him to question his loyalty to Ronnie Phelan and his future in the drug trade. This internal conflict unfolds against a backdrop of external threat, as a missing cocaine shipment signals an attack on their criminal kingdom.
Ronnie Phelan, contemplating an exit, unwittingly sparks a fierce succession battle. His son, Jamie, described as a "loose cannon," feels entitled to the throne and clashes with Michael, who represents a different future for the gang. This dynamic explores themes reminiscent of classic tragedies, examining how ambition and pride can fracture even the closest bonds. Writer Stephen Butchard notes the story is about "people chasing dreams" and the often brutal consequences.
Both the cast and creators emphasize Liverpool's integral role. Director Saul Dibb aimed for authenticity, using natural light and real locations to capture the city's "cinematic, international, good-looking" quality. The unique Scouse humour and dialect are woven into the fabric of the show, adding another layer of realism. Sean Bean described the city as a "special place" that "looks brilliant on film."
The series has drawn comparisons to "The Sopranos" for its focus on the internal lives of criminals, though reviewers note it carves out its own identity. The Telegraph awarded it 5/5 stars, calling it a "superb crime thriller of betrayals and shifting loyalties." Performances, particularly James Nelson-Joyce's "magnetic" portrayal of Michael, have been widely praised. Sean Bean himself called the series "mould-breaking television" and predicted it would become a "classic piece of drama."
What is "This City is Ours" about?
It's a BBC crime drama following Michael Kavanagh, a Liverpool gangster seeking a crime-free life after falling in love, amidst a dangerous power struggle for control of the gang led by Ronnie Phelan (Sean Bean) and challenged by Ronnie's ambitious son, Jamie.
Who are the main actors?
Sean Bean stars as gang boss Ronnie Phelan, James Nelson-Joyce plays his right-hand man Michael Kavanagh, Hannah Onslow is Michael's love interest Diana Williams, Jack McMullen portrays Ronnie's son Jamie Phelan, and Julie Graham plays Ronnie's wife, Elaine.
When and where can I watch it?
All eight episodes launched on BBC iPlayer from Sunday 23 March 2025. It also began airing weekly on BBC One at 9pm the same night.
Expect Intensity:: Viewers can anticipate a gripping crime thriller filled with tension, complex characters, and high stakes.
More Than Crime:: Beyond the action, the series offers a compelling exploration of love, family dynamics, loyalty, and the desire for change.
Authentic Flavour:: The strong Liverpool setting and authentic dialogue provide a unique sense of place and character.
Where to Watch:: Catch the full series on BBC iPlayer or tune in weekly on BBC One.
Do you think Michael can truly escape his past? Will family loyalty or ambition win out?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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