What's Happening?
Tom Hardy's historical action thriller 'Taboo,' which originally aired on BBC One in 2017, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity on streaming platforms. The series, a collaboration between Hardy and 'Peaky Blinders' creator Steven Knight, is set
in 1814 London during the War of 1812. Hardy stars as James Keziah Delaney, an adventurer who returns to the UK after 12 years in Africa following his father's death. Delaney, heavily tattooed and driven by a desire for revenge, inherits his father's shipping company and finds himself embroiled in a conflict between rival powers, including the East India Company. The show is described as a dark and gritty period drama that explores the conspiracies and corruption within the British Empire, offering a less romanticized view of the era. The full series is currently available for streaming, allowing new audiences to discover the Gothic thriller.
Why It's Important?
The renewed interest in 'Taboo' highlights the enduring appeal of well-produced historical dramas and the power of streaming services to give older content a new life. For the entertainment industry, this demonstrates how a show, even years after its initial broadcast, can find a new audience and generate significant viewership, potentially influencing future production and distribution strategies. The success of 'Taboo' also underscores Tom Hardy's continued draw as a leading actor, particularly in complex, anti-hero roles. This trend can lead to increased demand for similar content and potentially impact the careers of actors and creators associated with such projects. Furthermore, it provides a case study for how critical acclaim and a strong creative team (Hardy and Steven Knight) can contribute to a show's long-term relevance and commercial viability in a competitive streaming landscape.
What's Next?
The continued popularity of 'Taboo' on streaming platforms could lead to several potential outcomes. While the series originally aired in 2017, its renewed success might prompt discussions about a potential second season, especially given the show's unresolved plotlines and the creative team's previous success. Streaming platforms may also leverage this renewed interest to promote other similar historical dramas or works featuring Tom Hardy or Steven Knight. For viewers, the availability of the full series means continued engagement with the dark and complex narrative. The show's success could also influence future commissioning decisions by streaming services, encouraging investment in character-driven, gritty period pieces that resonate with a global audience.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond its immediate popularity, 'Taboo' delves into deeper themes that resonate with contemporary discussions. The series' exploration of the East India Company and its historical impact touches upon themes of colonialism, corporate power, and exploitation, offering a critical lens on historical narratives. James Delaney's character, a complex anti-hero driven by revenge and haunted by past atrocities, challenges traditional notions of heroism and morality. The show's dark and gritty aesthetic, combined with its unflinching portrayal of violence and corruption, reflects a broader trend in television towards more nuanced and morally ambiguous storytelling. This approach can spark conversations about historical revisionism and the ethical implications of power, making 'Taboo' more than just an entertaining drama but also a commentary on historical injustices and human nature.
