‘Masterpiece’ period drama ‘as gritty as Peaky Blinders’ has fans obsessed

A gripping new drama set in Victorian London is already being hailed as one of the standout TV events of the year - with viewers calling it a “masterpiece” and drawing comparisons to Peaky Blinders for its dark and uncompromising style. A Thousand Blows, created by Peaky Blinders writer Steven Knight, takes audiences deep into the East End of 19th-century London. At its centre are Jamaican immigrants Hezekiah and Alec as they enter the brutal, criminal world of bare-knuckle boxing. Hezekiah's rising boxing career draws the attention of Mary Carr, leader of the notorious all-female crime gang, the Forty Elephants, while his ambition also puts him in direct conflict with the menacing boxing rival Sugar Goodson.

The series stars Stephen Graham, known for This is England, Line of Duty and Boardwalk Empire, alongside Erin Doherty, who won acclaim for her portrayal of Princess Anne in The Crown. Their performances, along with a strong supporting cast, have been singled out for praise by fans.

One reviewer on IMDb described it as: “Masterpiece, absolutely fabulous series that not only gets all the costumes spot on but the dirt and grime of the Victorian streets as well."

"Attention to detail is amazing. Then of course we have the fantastic Stephen Graham and an equally talented Erin Doherty in the mix, and to be fair, every other individual is a stand out in this sensational series.”

The show contrasts the lives of London’s East and West Ends, weaving together parallel narratives that highlight both the glamour and the brutality of the age. For many viewers, this layered storytelling has proved utterly compelling. “Actors, storyline, sets, just riveting!” another fan wrote.

“Every character drags you into their baggage and you don't want to leave. The parallel stories of the East and West Ends of London – a stark contrast that is jarring. I really hope the series will continue. Its characters and the story are among the best I've seen this year.”

Some audiences say A Thousand Blows has reignited the same excitement that Peaky Blinders first brought to television. “Ever since Peaky Blinders I've missed just that,” one reviewer admitted.

“This show, although I've only seen the first and second episode, has shown all the above. It has everything I need in a show and more. Deep dark gritty and violent, perfect score to sit home and watch all day.”

At the heart of the praise lies Stephen Graham’s performance. Known for his intensity, he has been described by one viewer as the show’s standout: “Stephen Graham is, as always, fantastic. He completely owns every scene he's in, bringing that intensity and depth he does so well. The story is gripping, with strong performances all around, and I can't wait to see where it goes next.”

With its brutal fight sequences, atmospheric setting and detailed production design, A Thousand Blows has struck a chord with audiences hungry for a gritty period piece. As one fan summed it up: “My only regret is I wish it had more episodes… Never looked forward to a series as I have with this one.”