MobLand Explodes: One Actor Steals the Show in Jaw-Dropping Episode 5

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I’m not suggesting a “Funeral for a Friend” as some might think after the latest episode of MobLand. Instead, we’re venturing into uncharted waters with the burial of Tommy Stevenson. Kevin Harrigan has always been mild-mannered, but there’s an undercurrent of unease beneath that tranquil facade. Meanwhile, his son Eddie seems to lack the restraint that Kevin possesses, yet he’s oblivious to it. The tension between them is being fed by Maeve, who seems to be encouraging one while pacifying the other, with her own hidden intentions at play.

In the case of Harry Da Souza, he finds himself taking on the responsibility for the Harrigan family, shielding them as they venture into hostile lands. Moreover, “Funeral for a Friend” offers viewers captivating conflicts that are hard to ignore. It’s evident that these families are bracing themselves against one another, aiming to prevent a violent confrontation. Paddy Considine gets the chance to explore Kevin Harrigan’s psyche more deeply. However, it is Geoff Bell who shines brightest in this episode, even with other esteemed actors as part of the cast.

Ritchie Stevenson Rules This Episode

Get Carter Feels Like a Guiding Light

In this piece of “MobLand”, although Conrad Harrigan takes center stage, it’s Ritchie Stevenson who steals the show. Despite being a hardened London gangster with unyielding tactics, he is shown as a mourning father in “Funeral for a Friend”. The 5th episode of Season 1 masterfully escalates tension throughout its duration, leaving no viewer unsatisfied. As soon as Conrad Harrigan and his extended family make their appearance, there’s an undeniable shift in the atmosphere. Stealthy gazes exchanged among a crowded room quickly lead to a standoff between Conrad and Ritchie, making everyone tense with anticipation.

In a scene where the tension reaches its peak, Stevenson delivers a powerful monologue reminiscent of Bricktop, one of Guy Ritchie’s most memorable characters. Seated opposite Conrad and guarded by his security team, he lays down strict rules. This action puts Conrad in an uncomfortable spot, revealing a deep-seated animosity towards the Harrigan family that leaves a sour aftertaste. This intense conversation follows a series of insults, threats, and the drawing of lines between enemies. The moment that makes Ritchie feel victorious in this episode happens in a heartbeat of raw emotion. The tough guy demeanor, family heritage, and personal feuds take a backseat to something far more damaging. A proposal that carries eternal repercussions for Eddie Harrigan if his grandfather Conrad agrees.

Without a doubt, MobLand has consistently aimed for excellence throughout its journey, yet it’s in this very instant that spectators may begin to sense what lies ahead. For the viewer, this episode wholeheartedly pays homage to “Get Carter.” The raw intensity of “Funeral for a Friend” is undeniable, ensuring that viewers won’t be able to look away. Ritchie finds himself at the crux of this dramatic shift, confronting Conrad about his deceit. At this pivotal moment, Geoff Bell unveils the profound emotions within this character, capturing the hearts of all who watch. Moreover, he portrays Ritchie as a complex individual, a remarkable achievement given the bloodshed this London tough guy has already caused.

It seems that his heartfelt confession will set off everything that’s been quietly brewing under the surface among them. Burying Tommy Stevenson could tip the balance towards peace or tension. In a remarkable acting feat reminiscent of Pierce Brosnan, Helen Mirren, and Tom Hardy at their peak, Geoff Bell delivers an emotional punch. Despite having limited screen time, Ritchie Stevenson shifts the game in his monologue moment, demonstrating what MobLand aims to achieve. “Funeral for a Friend” is a story about ambition and arrogance over reconciliation and remorse. With one malevolent force controlling Conrad’s empire’s heir, they are ready to risk everything. Her name is Maeve, and her tool of choice is Eddie Harrigan.

Kevin Harrigan Is the One Audiences Should Watch

Tom Hardy Acts Others Off the Screen

In a potential scenario, Eddie could serve as the spark that ignites a conflict, however, Harry and Kevin act as his guards. These two formed an unbreakable bond during their time in prison, despite harboring some hidden truths. The play “Funeral for a Friend” sheds light on these secrets through strategically placed flashbacks. An earlier meeting with Harry from the series “MobLand” is now causing trouble for his friend as consequences from past actions come back to haunt them. Transgressions were made, violations occurred, and reprisals are simmering while Kevin tries to keep it all hidden.

In “House of Dragons,” Kevin, a character long overshadowed in the world of MobLand, finally steps into the limelight. For years, he’s been bullied by Bella, manipulated by his son Eddie, and pacified by Maeve. Caged by the haunting memories of an assault, he’s remained in the shadows. However, “Funeral for a Friend” promises a change as his former tormentor reappears in the narrative. This revelation, which has been eagerly anticipated by viewers, offers a fascinating glimpse into a subplot about Kevin’s struggle to regain his lost dignity after an attack over two decades ago.

The strain of feeling less than superior is intensified by Harry’s unusually tight bond with his wife, Bella. There seems to be a palpable infatuation between them that hints at an open secret, yet unspoken. Eddie mocks him, and Bella undermines him, causing Kevin to fray at the edges. Meanwhile, their son is being prepared for greatness. However, Harry poses a significant obstacle when it comes to replacing Conrad. Loyal to a fault, battling self-doubts yet composed in crisis, Harry serves as a check on Eddie.

In a moment destined to be remembered as lore, this overconfident newcomer gets caught breaking the law during a funeral. The subsequent display of intimidation by Tom Hardy is sure to leave viewers trembling at the edge of their seats.

A striking demonstration of simmering rage that is equally chilling and motivating, showcasing immense power with minimal effort. Hanging above a bathroom mirror, viewers witness the decline of Eddie’s arrogance as Harry exerts his authority over him. In a mere instant of understated acting prowess, Tom Hardy outshines Anson Boon, causing Eddie to crumble like ash.

What transpires subsequently may appear as a typical crime drama stereotype, but it serves to emphasize for the audience just how exceptionally high MobLand is aiming with its storytelling.

Audiences Need to Look Closer at This Crime Drama

Maeve Will Stop at Nothing to Protect Her Family

In the show titled “Funeral for a Friend,” things get intense. Some viewers might think there’s too much focus on setting up dramatic moments without enough resolution, but they should take a closer look. This is a well-executed crime drama trope that offers depth and tension, along with an exceptional cast led by Pierce Brosnan. However, it’s Conrad Harrigan who truly shines. He portrays a rock-solid patriarch who has outsmarted numerous opponents in the past, and there’s no doubt he’ll do the same against Ritchie Stevenson.

In essence, “Funeral for a Friend” reveals the significant strength of their adversary, as grief can strongly drive someone towards violent revenge. The subtlety of Geoff Bell’s performance in this role should not be underestimated. Despite Helen Mirren’s intense portrayal of Maeve Harrigan, Bell has maintained remarkable control over his emotions. When he eventually breaks down and sheds tears for his son, that moment of vulnerability becomes a powerful emotional impact.

As the second-in-command within a criminal group, Harry holds no real power under Conrad’s reign. He possesses everything that Kevin lacks except for a family tie by blood. The intensity of Maeve’s fear, which led her to employ her grandson as a tool, is nearly irrelevant to ponder. It remains uncertain whether the internal disputes among the Harrigan family will claim their lives before Ritchie Stevenson becomes an issue. What “Funeral for a Friend” underscores is the extent Maeve is willing to go, even if it means leading them astray.

Currently, “MobLand” is veering away from the typical mold commonly linked with Guy Ritchie’s work. Gradually, the stereotypes that have traditionally characterized his gangster genre are fading in this series. While some traces of these conventional elements can still be found in Season 1, Episode 5, they are primarily embodied by the character Ritchie Stevenson. This outdated archetype is brilliantly portrayed through a captivating performance. Despite not being the main star of “MobLand”, Geoff Bell’s role should not be overlooked as he has earned every bit of praise being showered upon his co-stars.

Amidst Tom Hardy’s outstanding portrayal of Harry Da Souza, secondary characters are also gaining prominence. For instance, in “Funeral for a Friend”, Bella, though having a minor role, contributes significantly, suggesting the tension within her marriage. A casual exchange with Kevin hints at family conflicts that point to deeper problems. Being a part of the Harrigan clan isn’t without its drawbacks, and for Bella, the cost has always been too steep. Conrad might seem compassionate, but his heart harbors shadows, a detail viewers should remember as they reflect on the aftermath of the car bomb finale.

MobLand streams Sundays on and airs Mondays at 8:00 p.m. on Paramount+ with Showtime.

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2025-04-27 10:06