Peaky Blinders series 3 (ABC)

The softer side and the psycho side of arch gangster Tommy Shelby are both on show in this third incarnation of the post WWI Birmingham crime gang. It is the 1920s and Tommy has married his true love. For her and for the family’s future he is trying to take the business legit but he is again caught between a rock and a hard place. The early 20th century version of the dark state is making demands and threats on one side, with decadent and demanding White Russians adding extra spice. The mishandling of old rivalries is the other problem, sparking a tragedy from which Tommy may not recover. Sister Ada is back in the fold with a potential expansion of the family business to America. Brother Arthur has married a bible basher and finds himself conflicted between work and home. Aunt Polly is determined to enjoy the spoils of success, but she proves to be a hot mess who may just be the agent of Tommy’s downfall. Will family prevail? Cillian Murphy remains mesmerising as Tommy in a brutal and bloody six episodes. In a great ensemble cast there is no doubt he is the star of the show. Thank goodness there will be a season 4.