Watch The Lawless Years

The Lawless Years is a television series which was first broadcast in 1959. Considered to be a classic of the crime genre, the show was set in New York City during the Prohibition era, and chronicled the exploits of gangsters, bootleggers, and law enforcement officials in the city.

At the heart of the show was the character of Frank Chambers, a tough, no-nonsense former cop who becomes a federal agent tasked with taking down the city's most notorious criminal organizations. Chambers is played by James Gregory, whose gravelly voice and rugged good looks make him the perfect choice for the role.

Throughout the series, Chambers faces off against a host of colorful and memorable adversaries, including the ruthless gang leader Vincent "The Schemer" Drucci, the flamboyant bootlegger Johnny "Roaring Twenties" Torrio, and the sinister Vito Genovese, who would later become one of the most powerful mob bosses in American history.

Chambers is aided in his quest by a team of fellow agents, who are equally committed to bringing down the city's criminal underworld. Among these are the tough, streetwise Charlie Cagney, the brilliant criminologist Lawrence "Doc" Erskine, and the beautiful and mysterious Elaine Carew.

One of the things that sets The Lawless Years apart from other crime dramas of its time is its attention to historical detail. The show is set in a specific time and place, and the writers go to great lengths to accurately portray the customs, fashions, and speech of the era. This gives the show a uniquely authentic feel, and helps to transport viewers back to a time when gangsters and rumrunners ruled the streets.

Another notable aspect of the show is its use of violence. Although The Lawless Years was produced during an era when television networks were still heavily censored, the show is surprisingly graphic in its depictions of violence and brutality. This helps to underscore the high stakes of the battle between law enforcement and organized crime, and reminds viewers of the human cost of the criminal enterprise.

Despite its gritty subject matter, however, The Lawless Years also has plenty of charm and humor. The banter between Chambers and his fellow agents is often witty and irreverent, and there are numerous moments of levity interspersed throughout the series. At times, the show feels like a buddy comedy as much as a crime drama, which helps to make it an entertaining and engaging viewing experience.

Overall, The Lawless Years remains a classic of the crime genre, and a must-see for fans of vintage television. With its combination of action, suspense, and historical detail, the show offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era of American history, and a thrilling ride through the dangerous and lawless streets of New York City. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or simply looking for a great show to binge-watch, The Lawless Years is sure to deliver.

The Lawless Years is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (15 episodes). The series first aired on August 23, 2017.