THE GENTLEMEN (2024) SERIES REVIEW

 

Guy Ritchie’s trademark rhythm, which usually fits film like a glove, struggles to find its footing in the television adaptation of "The Gentlemen" on Netflix. While not a complete trainwreck, it stumbles more than it struts, like a drunken gentleman at a ball. Sure, there are moments of brilliance sprinkled throughout, but they’re often overshadowed by scenes that drag on longer than a Shakespearean soliloquy. It’s like watching Ritchie and his team do the cha-cha-cha while wearing cement shoes – they're moving, but they're not getting anywhere fast.

The show follows Eddie Horniman, played by Theo James, a suave heir who unexpectedly finds himself knee-deep in his family’s criminal empire. His journey involves more twists and turns than a rollercoaster designed by a drunk snake. And speaking of drunk, his brother’s embarrassing escapade involving a chicken suit is a scene straight out of a poultry-themed comedy sketch. But alas, predictability plagues the narrative like a stubborn rash – you know negotiations will sour, fists will fly, and a carefully curated playlist will accompany every dramatic beat.

And for those eagerly awaiting the return of Matthew McConaughey and Hugh Grant, prepare to be disappointed – this spin-off is like their distant cousin twice removed at a family reunion, vaguely related but not quite hitting the mark. It’s all about the high-class criminals, darling, with a sprinkle of Ritchie's style to tie it back to its cinematic roots. Think overwritten dialogue and flashy captions – it’s like the show is trying too hard to impress, like a teenager showing off their new fake ID.

The real standout here is Kaya Scodelario, who shines brighter than a diamond in a coal mine. She brings depth and nuance to her role, saving the show from collapsing under its own weight. But even her brilliance can’t save it from feeling like a lukewarm cup of tea at a British summer picnic pleasant enough, but lacking that awe factor.

Sure, there’s fun to be had on the fringes, with appearances from crime genre heavyweights and a sprinkle of Ritchie’s shock value. But ultimately, "The Gentlemen" feels like a missed opportunity, a lukewarm stew that never quite reaches a boil. By the time the credits roll, you’ll find yourself wondering if maybe this whole affair would have been better off as a one-off film sequel or spin-off. After all, even aristocratic Eddie learns that sometimes, less is more.