The Westies Review: Violent 80s NY Mob Drama

The new MGM+ drama "The Westies" delves into the violent world of the 1980s Irish-American gang operating in New York, drawing parallels to popular crime series like "Peaky Blinders" and "The Sopranos." The series, co-created by Chris Brancato, known for his work on "Narcos" and "Godfather of Harlem," focuses on the Westies' complex and often fractious relationship with the Italian-American Gambino crime family. This narrative offers a "two-for-one deal" by examining both the Irish mafia and the established Italian mafia.

The show features a cast that includes JK Simmons in a role as a gang leader, adding a layer of established talent to the production. "The Westies" aims to capture the gritty reality of historical crime crews, a theme that has seen a resurgence in television programming following the success of "Peaky Blinders." The series explores the dynamics of power, alliance, and conflict within these criminal organizations.

Critics describe the drama as "fine" and "good," suggesting a competent execution of its premise. The series promises a blend of historical crime narrative with the dramatic tension characteristic of mob dramas. The setting in 1980s New York provides a specific historical and geographical backdrop for the unfolding events, highlighting the territorial and cultural clashes between different organized crime factions.