If You Love Tom Hardy's MobLand, Discover His 8-Year-Old Crime Gem – Just 8 Episodes!

A Gritty Crime Drama with a Historical Component

Guy Ritchie and Tom Hardy's latest project, Mobland, has taken the global streaming world by storm, consistently topping charts for over a month since its release. The series showcases Ritchie’s signature style, blending his flair for gangster crime dramas with Hardy’s commanding presence as Harry Da Souza, a tough yet suave "fixer" navigating the criminal underworld of London. Hardy’s performance highlights his ability to embody complex characters, often with an intimidating physicality that adds depth to his roles.

This isn’t the first time Hardy has captivated audiences in the crime genre. His passion project, Taboo, proved to be a sleeper hit that resonated with viewers despite initial challenges in gaining traction. While Taboo and Mobland differ significantly in setting, they share striking similarities in tone, conflict, and character development.

Taboo: A 19th-Century Crime Drama

Set in 1814, Taboo follows James Delaney (played by Hardy), a man who returns to London after a mysterious decade-long absence in Africa. He is presumed dead, but his unexpected return sets off a chain of events as he seeks to claim a disputed piece of land known as Nootka Sound. Like Mobland, the series delves into family secrets, power struggles, and moral ambiguity. Delaney, much like Da Souza, is a complex figure operating in a morally gray area, driven by personal ambition and a deep understanding of human nature.

The historical setting of Taboo brings a unique dimension to the narrative, incorporating elements of the War of 1812 and the corruption of the East India Company. This blend of history and crime creates a slow-burn mystery that keeps viewers engaged. Unlike Mobland, which sometimes leans on familiar tropes, Taboo manages to feel fresh and original, offering a deeper exploration of its themes.

Hardy: A Common Thread Between Two Series

Tom Hardy’s portrayal of both Da Souza and Delaney reveals a consistent pattern in his work—characters who are physically imposing yet intellectually sharp, often involved in intricate schemes. Both roles showcase his ability to balance violence with emotional depth, making him a standout in the crime genre.

Despite their differences, Taboo and Mobland reflect similar storytelling techniques. They both emphasize the importance of family dynamics, hidden motives, and the consequences of past actions. However, Taboo distinguishes itself through its historical context, adding layers of complexity that make it stand apart from its contemporary counterpart.

The Future of Taboo: A Potential Resurgence

While Taboo initially struggled to attract a large audience upon its BBC debut, it found a second life on streaming platforms, particularly in the United States. Its success led to a renewal for a second season, though production has been delayed due to Hardy’s busy schedule. Fans have remained hopeful, but the long wait has raised questions about whether the series will ever return.

However, the recent success of Mobland could change that. The high ratings of Mobland demonstrate a growing appetite for gritty, character-driven crime dramas featuring Hardy in complex roles. This presents a perfect opportunity for Taboo to resurface, especially as fans of Mobland may seek out similar content.

Why Taboo Is Positioned for a Comeback

Hardy’s involvement in Taboo as a creator, producer, and star makes it more than just another television series—it’s a deeply personal project. He even collaborated with his father, Chips Hardy, on the story, giving the show a unique sense of authenticity. This passion project offers a glimpse into the type of roles Hardy enjoys and the stories he values.

With the success of Mobland, there is renewed interest in Hardy’s filmography, and Taboo is well-positioned to benefit from this attention. As Hardy’s fan base continues to grow, and with the Venom trilogy behind him, the actor is once again being recognized for the roles that define his career. If Taboo can capitalize on this momentum, it could see a successful resurgence, appealing to both longtime fans and new viewers who discovered Hardy through Mobland.

Eight years have passed since the first season of Taboo, but the timing has never felt more right for a return. With the right support and visibility, the second season could be the breakthrough that Taboo deserves.