Watch The Take

The Take is a compelling British television drama that aired on Sky One in 2009. It is based on the novel of the same name by Martina Cole and stars Tom Hardy in the lead role. The show follows a criminal family in London's East End over a period of three decades, from the late 1980s to the present day. The Take explores the themes of crime, family, loyalty, and betrayal, with a cast of complex and flawed characters.

Tom Hardy plays Freddie Jackson, a hardened and brutal criminal who is just out of prison and looking to re-establish himself in the East End. Freddie's younger cousin, Jimmy (played by Shaun Evans), is eager to prove himself as a member of the family business, but he quickly finds himself in over his head. Meanwhile, Freddie's wife, Jackie (played by Kierston Wareing), is trying to keep her family together despite her husband's violent temper and infidelity.

As the years go on, the family's criminal enterprises become more and more lucrative, but also more dangerous. Rival gangs and corrupt police officers threaten to destroy everything they have built. The Jackson family must navigate the treacherous waters of the criminal underworld while also dealing with their own personal demons.

The Take has been praised for its gritty realism and strong performances from its cast. Tom Hardy is particularly impressive as Freddie Jackson, bringing a menacing intensity to the character. Kierston Wareing is also excellent as Jackie, imbuing her role with both strength and vulnerability.

In addition to the central characters, The Take features a number of supporting players who add depth and complexity to the show's universe. There's Maggie (played by Charlotte Riley), a stripper who becomes romantically involved with Freddie and gets caught up in his dangerous world. Sheena (played by Gillian Saker), Jimmy's girlfriend, is torn between her love for him and her desire for a more stable life. And there's the corrupt police officer DI Carter (played by Brian Cox), who is in bed with both the Jacksons and their rivals.

The show also features a number of memorable set pieces, including a heist at a security warehouse and a tense confrontation between Freddie and a rival gang leader. These action scenes are expertly staged and add to the suspenseful atmosphere of the show.

At its heart, though, The Take is a character-driven drama that explores the complicated relationships between its central players. The show is unflinching in its depiction of violence and criminality, but it also has moments of tenderness and humanity. The Jackson family may be criminals, but they are also a family that cares for each other in their own twisted way.

Overall, The Take is a gripping and intense drama that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With strong performances and a well-crafted story, it is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

The Take is a series that ran for 4 seasons (8 episodes) between June 15, 2009 and on Sky One