Season 2 of *A Thousand Blows* premiered on January 9 on Hulu, bringing back notable actors Stephen Graham and Erin Doherty from the previous series *Adolescence*. Created by Steven Knight, this period drama set in the 19th century draws some comparisons to Knight’s successful series, *Peaky Blinders*. However, this season is facing criticism for its lackluster storytelling and an overly modernized perspective on historical events.
Plot Overview
The storyline picks up a year after the events of the first season. Hezekiah Moscow, played by Malachi Kirby, is still grappling with the consequences of his actions that led to the accidental death of a white boxing champion. He has found himself banned from professional boxing and is now venting his frustrations through underground fights in the East End of London.
Character Dynamics
- Hezekiah Moscow: A Jamaican transplant dealing with the aftermath of his violent past.
- Henry “Sugar” Goodson: Stephen Graham portrays a drunken, disillusioned former boxer battling personal demons while living on the streets.
- Mary Carr: Erin Doherty’s character, a member of the Forty Elephants gang, is trying to reclaim her status as a leader.
Hezekiah’s path crosses with Mary Carr, creating tensions due to her involvement in the death of his brother. As both seek revenge and redemption, their goals are complicated by personal conflicts and the overarching societal injustices of their time.
Thematic Elements
The series incorporates themes of class struggle and vengeance, with characters seeking to undermine the upper-class societal structures. However, critiques have surfaced regarding the narrative’s emphasis on contemporary social issues that seem out of place in the 19th-century setting.
Criticism of Storytelling
Critics argue that *A Thousand Blows* trades authentic historical portrayal for modern-day moralizing. The characters often serve as vessels for social commentary rather than fully fleshed-out individuals. This approach detracts from the potential complexity of the plot, leaving audiences with predictable outcomes and simplistic resolutions.
Final Thoughts
While Graham and Doherty display remarkable chemistry on screen, the show’s storytelling raises concerns. The series suffers from a lack of depth and a hurried narrative that leaves much to be desired. As viewers anticipate future projects from Knight, including *Peaky Blinders: The Immortal Man*, there is hope that these issues will be addressed. Season 2 of *A Thousand Blows* ultimately struggles to deliver a compelling narrative that resonates with its audience.
