🎬 The Take – British Crime Drama Mini-Series
Based on the best-selling novel by Martina Cole
Starring: Tom Hardy, Shaun Evans, Kierston Wareing
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller | Episodes: 4
“The Take” is a gripping and intense British crime drama mini-series that plunges viewers deep into the brutal heart of London’s criminal underworld. Adapted from the acclaimed novel by crime fiction author Martina Cole, the series delivers a raw, emotionally charged story about power, betrayal, and the disintegration of family ties.
At the center of the drama is Freddie Jackson, played with ferocious intensity by Tom Hardy, in one of his earliest and most electrifying performances. Fresh out of prison, Freddie is a career criminal with big ambitions, quick fists, and a volatile personality that keeps both his enemies and his loved ones on edge. Determined to climb back to the top of the underworld, Freddie wastes no time in reconnecting with dangerous old allies and asserting his dominance through violence, intimidation, and manipulation.
But Freddie isn’t alone in his quest for power. His cousin Jimmy Jackson (played by Shaun Evans), is far more calculated and level-headed—a thinker, not a brawler. Jimmy has ambitions of his own, aiming to build a criminal empire that’s sustainable and profitable, without the chaos Freddie brings. Together, they form a powerful but unstable duo, whose differing visions for their future begin to clash with devastating consequences.
As Freddie’s unpredictable behavior escalates—driven by paranoia, addiction, and unchecked rage—he begins to jeopardize everything: his marriage to the long-suffering Jackie (Kierston Wareing), his relationship with his family, and even Jimmy’s carefully laid plans. The series paints a grim portrait of a man consumed by his own inner demons, spiraling into self-destruction, and dragging others down with him.
Themes and Tone:
Set against the bleak, shadowy streets of London, The Take explores themes of greed, ambition, loyalty, betrayal, and the corrosive nature of unchecked power. It also tackles the fragility of family bonds when tested by violence, crime, and personal demons. The gritty atmosphere is heightened by a haunting score, sharp dialogue, and brutal yet realistic depictions of gang life.
Why Watch?
This four-part series is an emotional rollercoaster, offering a raw and unfiltered look into the lives of flawed, compelling characters. Tom Hardy’s powerhouse performance is reason enough to watch—it’s explosive, tragic, and unforgettable. With tight pacing, dark storytelling, and complex character arcs, The Take stands out as a must-watch for fans of British crime dramas like Peaky Blinders or Luther.
