The Gentlemen Season 2: Overlong, Stupid, Yet Comforting

Guy Ritchie's "The Gentlemen" returns for its second season, continuing the crime caper with familiar elements of action and profanity. The series centers on Edward "Eddie" Horniman, the 13th Duke of Halstead, portrayed by Theo James. Eddie expresses a strong desire to reclaim his ancestral estate, which has diminished over generations, vowing to Geoff, his groundskeeper, "I want it all back!"

The show offers a distinct imitation of Ritchie's directorial style, featuring fists, shouting, and "wide-boys." However, critics note a decline in energy compared to his earlier works, leading to a sense of clock-watching aimlessness despite beautiful cinematography and extravagant silliness. The current season finds Eddie seeking to distance himself from the crime family duo Susie and Bobby Glass, who aided him financially.

Eddie's ambitions extend to international ventures, including a drug deal with "boss of bosses" Marco Moretti. He also aims to become a hereditary peer to influence legislation concerning marijuana decriminalization. Supporting characters like Hugh Bonneville's Lord Hawthorne and Daniel Ings's Freddy add to the chaotic narrative. Theo James's performance as Eddie is described as a "thick-armed enigma," noting the character's lack of emotional expression and focus on profit margins.