‘Masterpiece’ forgotten BBC series based on book that fans say simply cannot be missed | Films | Entertainment

A forgotten BBC drama from 2004, The Long Firm, is enjoying a resurgence among fans who argue it remains one of the most gripping crime dramas the network has produced. Based on Jake Arnott’s novel of the same name, The Long Firm is a four-part miniseries set in 1960s London, exploring the criminal underworld through multiple perspectives.

Central to its appeal is Mark Strong’s powerful performance as Harry Starks, a complex East End gangster caught between ambition, identity, and survival. Critics praised the show upon its release, but rave reviews posted online are helping it find a new audience.

On IMDb, users routinely give The Long Firm top marks.

One reviewer described it as “superior, classy drama, full of suspense, humour and tension,” while another said it was included “masterpiece crime stories.”

They said: “The acting by Mark Strong is fantastic. The production values are superb and all four stories are engrossing.”

Some critiques emerged too. One viewer felt the show “starts off very well, then slowly winds down to a relatively boring and predictable ‘normality’ after the first two episodes.”

Another enjoyed the style and acting but noted that certain narrative techniques, like multiple narrators, felt a little too familiar or overused.

Still, the overall verdict from fans is overwhelming praise. Many say The Long Firm is richly atmospheric, emotionally layered, and under-appreciated. For those who love British period crime dramas, watching this series is often described as discovering a hidden gem.

If you’re looking for something that blends style, strong performances, and moral complexity, The Long Firm might just be one of the best things you never knew you needed to watch. It’s available to watch for free on ITVX.