Malachi Kirby Stars in A Thousand Blows Trailer: Victorian London Bare-Knuckle Boxing Drama

The first trailer for A Thousand Blows, the highly anticipated Victorian boxing drama from Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight, has arrived, and it’s a brutal masterpiece. Starring Malachi Kirby, Stephen Graham, and Erin Doherty, the series promises a gritty, action-packed journey into the heart of 1880s London’s underground fight scene.

The trailer offers a glimpse into the life of Hezekiah Moscow (Kirby), a Jamaican immigrant who finds himself thrust into the brutal world of bare-knuckle boxing. Facing hardship and prejudice, Hezekiah must navigate the treacherous landscape of Victorian London while battling his way to the top.

Bare-Knuckle Brawls and Brutal Rivalries

The trailer showcases the raw intensity of bare-knuckle boxing, with visceral fight scenes that leave a lasting impact. Hezekiah’s journey is fraught with challenges, including a tense rivalry with Sugar Goodson (Graham), a formidable boxing kingpin who controls London’s underground fight scene. Their confrontations suggest a clash of styles and generations, promising a thrilling showdown.

Adding another layer of intrigue is Mary Carr (Doherty), the formidable leader of the all-female Forty Elephants gang. Her relationship with Hezekiah remains shrouded in mystery, leaving viewers to speculate about her role in his journey – will she be an ally or an adversary?

Knight’s Gritty Vision of Victorian London

A Thousand Blows evokes the same gritty realism and historical depth that defined Knight’s Peaky Blinders. The series delves into the underbelly of Victorian London, exposing the harsh realities of life for immigrants and those living on the fringes of society. The trailer offers a stark visual contrast between the opulent world of the upper class and the grim, smoke-filled boxing dens of the East End.

This period in London, some historians suggest, was a crucible of social change. While opportunities existed, many, particularly immigrants like Hezekiah, faced intense prejudice and exploitation. A Thousand Blows, through its visceral boxing narrative, seems poised to explore these complex social dynamics, perhaps offering insights into issues of identity and belonging.

A Knockout Cast and Crew

A Thousand Blows boasts a stellar cast, with Kirby, Graham, and Doherty leading the charge. Kirby’s performance in the trailer is particularly compelling, conveying both vulnerability and fierce determination. The series is created, written, and executive produced by Steven Knight, with Tinge Krishnan, the first writer of South Asian descent to create a UK drama series, also serving as writer and executive producer.

Mark Your Calendars

A Thousand Blows premieres February 21, 2025, on Hulu in the US and Disney+ internationally. The trailer suggests this series will be far more than just a boxing drama. It promises a captivating exploration of ambition, resilience, and the fight for survival in a world that constantly tries to knock you down.

Disney+
Hulu