TV Review: 'McMafia' Showcases Globalized Organized Crime

Since the days of "Breaking Bad," AMC Networks has become one of the definitive homes for pulp crime shows. They were obviously the shepherds one of the definitive organized crime shows in Walter White's story. However, other shows like "The Night Manager" and "The Killing" were able to show it was not a one-hit wonder. AMC has grabbed another hit with "McMafia," a co-production with BBC. The series is based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Misha Glenny, which tells the story of organized crime in the internet age. With some creative storytelling and solid performances, "McMafia" delivers a solid crime drama with real stakes for its characters.

While Glenney's book tells many stories, "McMafia" is focused on a singular narrative. The protagonist of the series is Alex Godman (James Norton), a British banker whose family's past catches up with him. His family has long been involved with Russian organized crime, and with the rise of globalization the mafia has caught up with him. Soon, Alex is meeting with other underground criminals to keep his family alive.

The series revolves around Norton, which is both a good and bad thing. What Norton's being asked to do is fairly difficult. He is both the fish-out-of-water, but he also must appear tough. Norton plays it a bit flat, but based on everything we find out about Alex, this might be the right way to play him. He's a safe, overly practical, and concerned with his family's past. His flat performance is on pitch for the character we've been introduced to, but as the story unfolds, we should receive more levels.

Someone who is definitely giving us levels is David Strathairn, who owns his time on screen. While only given limited time at first, Strathairn instantly brings gravitas to his scenes. His accent is interesting and he shows real ability to manipulate others around him. He's intimidating and dangerous, yet also someone we want to root for. It's a great start for Strathairn on the show and looks like he could be in line with Emmy if campaigned correctly.

With the right development, the women of the series could receive a huge step forward. Juliet Rylance is excellent as Rebecca Harper, Alex's fiance. She's cautious of his past connections and their relationship seems to be weaker than they might believe. Rylance delivers these subtle insecurities well. If this indeed paves the road for Alex's inevitable fall, Rylance could have a big part to play. Rylance's performance and her interactions with Norton could be the ingredient that elevates the crime drama.

"McMafia" is an exciting show, and should be one that draws attention from both casual and devout TV fans. The series is another solid show from AMC, and in a year with weaker competition, this could catch on. For many, this may seem redundant, but the commitment to showcasing the mafia's spread in the age of globalization gives the show an important angle. Organized crime has evolved from the days of "The Godfather" or "Casino." Now, "McMafia" gives us a great view of organized crime for the 21st century.

What do you think? Does "McMafia" deliver a strong crime drama? Let us know in the comments below! 

"McMafia" airs on AMC on Monday nights at 10 PM. It is a co-production with the BBC. 

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