Watch Gangs of Britain

Gangs of Britain is a documentary series that aired in 2013 on the UK's Yuyu channel, starring Martin Kemp and Gary Kemp, both of the band Spandau Ballet. The show takes a deep dive into the history of organized crime in Britain, focusing on gang activity in major cities like London, Manchester and Liverpool.

Over the course of the series, the Kemps interview former gang members, experts, and law enforcement officials to paint a comprehensive picture of how gangs have operated in Britain, from the infamous Kray twins to modern-day organized crime syndicates.

Each episode of Gangs of Britain focuses on a different city, beginning with London in the first episode. The Kemps take viewers through the city's history of gangs, beginning with the poverty and desperation of the early 20th century that led to the emergence of notorious figures like the Krays, who went on to dominate East London's criminal underworld in the 1950s and 60s.

The show doesn't hold back when it comes to depicting the extreme violence and intimidation that the Krays and their associates were known for. Through interviews with former members of their gang and their victims, we get a sense of just how pervasive and ruthless their influence was.

Following the London episode, the series moves on to cities like Manchester and Liverpool, where different gangs and criminal organizations have vied for control over the years. Though the focus is largely on the past, we also get a sense of how these groups continue to operate today and the impact they have on their communities.

One of the strengths of Gangs of Britain is the range of voices that are featured throughout. Alongside interviews with former gang members and experts, there are also input from journalists, academics, and everyday people who have been affected by gang violence.

The cinematography is also a standout feature of the show. Throughout each episode, we're treated to sweeping shots of the various cities, from the winding streets of East London to the gritty back alleys of Manchester. The show makes great use of archival footage and photographs, bringing the stories of these gangs to life in a way that's visual and impactful.

Of course, with only three episodes, there's only so much that Gangs of Britain can cover. There are certain aspects of organized crime in Britain that are glossed over, and some viewers might be left wanting more detail on certain figures or events. However, for a broad overview of the topic, the series is comprehensive, engaging, and well worth a watch.

Overall, Gangs of Britain is a fascinating look at a dark and often overlooked corner of British history. With its mix of interviews, archival footage, and beautiful cinematography, it offers a compelling and comprehensive view of how gangs have operated in the UK from the early 20th century through to present day. For anyone interested in true crime or British history, it's definitely worth checking out.

Gangs of Britain is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (8 episodes). The series first aired on April 4, 2013.