Black Donnellys
The Complete Series
Four very different Irish-American brothers - Kevin, Jimmy, Tommy and Sean - have sworn to live by the code of 'family first'. But as they become increasingly involved in the ruthless world of New York organized crime, their loyalties to their friends, to their loved ones, and especially to each other will be put to the ultimate test. Bought as a blind buy, this did not disappoint. It was originally shown in UK on a sub-channel, something like ITV2 or 3 at ridiculous times, so I missed the TV airing. It's a cracking, original and edgy crime drama about 4 Irish/American brothers growing up in modern day NY and unwittingly getting involved with the mob's organised crime. It is very well acted, (special mention for newcomer Jonathan Tucker who plays Tommy), and was an absorbing series with plenty of action and drama. It is difficult to categorise, perhaps a loose cross between Lock Stock, Sopranos and Goodfellas? The twisted humour appealed to my taste buds, the only downside was the overdone Irish angle, shamrocks, guinness and wakes in abundance.
In truth the pilot is by far the best episode, but overall well worth a viewing.