Watch McMafia

McMafia is a crime drama series that premiered on BBC One in January 2018 and later aired on AMC. The show is based on a non-fiction book by Misha Glenny and explores the world of organized crime and money laundering. The series follows the story of Alex Godman (James Norton), the son of a Russian exiled mafia family who has chosen to distance himself from his family's criminal activities and make a legitimate career in finance. However, when his family's past comes back to haunt him, he is forced to navigate the dangerous and complex world of organized crime.

The show features an international cast with actors from the UK, US, Russia, Brazil, India, Israel, and the Czech Republic. Alongside Norton, the cast includes David Strathairn, Aleksei Serebryakov, Mariya Shukshina, Juliet Rylance, Caio Blat, Merab Ninidze, Faye Marsay, David Dencik, Oshri Cohen, Kirill Pirogov, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Karel Roden.

One of the strengths of McMafia is its realistic portrayal of the international nature of organized crime. The series takes place in various locations around the world, including London, Moscow, Mumbai, and Tel Aviv. The show highlights the interconnected nature of global organized crime groups and how they operate across borders to launder their money and engage in illegal activities. It also explores the corruptive influence of organized crime on legitimate businesses and political systems.

James Norton delivers an outstanding performance as Alex Godman, a man torn between his desire to make a legitimate life for himself and his loyalty to his family. Norton manages to convey the complexity of his character, showing his vulnerability and insecurities as well as his determination and resilience. Aleksei Serebryakov is also excellent as his father Dmitri, a powerful Russian mob boss who is determined to protect his family at all costs. Serebryakov's performance is nuanced and understated, delivering a sense of quiet menace that is all the more chilling.

Another highlight of the series is its stunning visuals. Each location is beautifully shot, with a keen eye for detail that helps to create a sense of authenticity. The show also makes use of a muted color palette that reflects the bleak and oppressive nature of the criminal world.

Overall, McMafia is a compelling and thought-provoking crime drama that offers a realistic glimpse into the workings of organized crime. The show's international cast, stunning visuals, and complex characters make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre. The series does not shy away from the harsh realities of the criminal underworld, portraying it as a dangerous and corruptive force that threatens to undermine legitimate institutions. However, it also offers a glimmer of hope, showing that there are still individuals willing to fight against the forces of corruption and stand up for what is right.

McMafia is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between January 1, 2018 and on AMCBBC One