Prepare to be hooked! Critics are calling one gangster drama the absolute best series ever made, and the entire saga is waiting for you right now on BBC iPlayer. We're talking about 'Kin,' a gripping Irish crime drama that's taken viewers by storm.
All 16 episodes of this must-see mob story are available for immediate binge-watching on iPlayer. But here's the thing: even though it only ran for two seasons (2021-2023), fans are already demanding more. What makes 'Kin' so special? Let's dive in.
'Kin' plunges you into the heart of Dublin's criminal underworld, focusing on the Kinsella family and their all-out war with an international cartel. The official description sums it up perfectly: "A boy is killed, and his family embarks on a gangland war with an international cartel. But the Kinsellas have something the cartel does not, the unbreakable bonds of blood and family." This isn't just about power; it's about loyalty, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to protect their own.
The show isn't just popular with audiences; it's a critical darling too. The first season boasts a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its quality. But what makes it stand out from other gangster dramas?
'Kin' features a stellar cast, headlined by Charlie Cox (yes, the Daredevil!). You'll also recognize Aidan Gillen (Littlefinger from Game of Thrones) and the legendary Ciarán Hinds, both playing rival gang leaders. The series kicks off with Michael Kinsella, the prodigal son, returning home after a stint in prison. The Kinsellas are reliant on Eamon Cunningham (Hinds), a local drug kingpin, for their supply. And this is the part most people miss... the tension simmers beneath the surface from the very beginning. The family is increasingly resentful of Cunningham's control, and it's only a matter of time before the powder keg explodes.
One viewer confessed, "I binge watched all of Kin series one on Netflix yesterday, didn't finish it until 3am. Really enjoyed it. When will series two be released I need to do more bingeing into the wee small hours." High praise indeed!
Another reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes raved, "Best series I have seen, could not stop watching it, brilliantly written, acting superb, a must watch for me." It's clear that 'Kin' has struck a chord with viewers looking for something more than just mindless entertainment.
Now, here's where it gets controversial... Some viewers on IMDb have posted negative reviews. But one fan countered, "Surprised by the negative reviews because this is an excellent series, with great performances, realistic action and a good plot. None of your Hollywwood ten minute fight scenes; the violence is short, sharp and decisive."
This viewer went on to say, "The first season held my attention throughout and I looked forward to very episode, even though I could see the ending coming a mile off. (You could could look at it as the copying of a great ending to a great movie or just a nod to that movie. I wasn't sure about season two, but warned to it after the first couple of episodes. I'm not fond of endings that leave parts of the story hanging for next season, but in this case I'll forgive them because it was, otherwise, the perfect finale to the main plot line."
One critic highlighted that "The series is deeply character-driven, with standout acting, sharp dialogue, and nuanced interactions that will have you on the edge of your seat, hanging on every word when things get real." The action sequences are seamlessly woven into the narrative, making them feel organic and impactful. Even viewers who typically shy away from dramas have found themselves captivated by 'Kin'.
Some viewers have also drawn comparisons to 'Love/Hate,' another popular Irish crime drama. One viewer even suggested, "Watch love/hate instead especially S2 + S3. Up there with the best shows I've ever watched". It seems like Ireland has a knack for producing compelling gangster stories.
So, is 'Kin' truly the "best series ever seen"? That's a bold claim, and ultimately, it's up to you to decide. Are the character-driven storylines and realistic portrayal of gangland violence enough to elevate it above the competition? Or are the comparisons to 'Love/Hate' justified, suggesting that 'Kin' is simply following a well-trodden path? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Have you watched 'Kin'? What did you think? Do you agree with the critics, or do you find it overrated? We want to hear your opinions!
