Now streaming on Disney+, *A Thousand Blows* is a six-episode historical drama by Steven Knight, set in post-industrial London’s East End. It follows Hezekiah Moscow, a Jamaican boxer, and Mary Carr, leader of the Forty Elephants gang. The series is inspired by real events and individuals, including the notorious Forty Elephants, known for their audacious shoplifting schemes. With a blend of authenticity and drama, it highlights the gritty world of underground boxing and organized crime.
Discover the Gritty World of A Thousand Blows
Now streaming on Disney+, *A Thousand Blows* is the latest captivating series from the visionary Steven Knight, renowned for his work on *Peaky Blinders*. This six-episode historical drama plunges viewers into the tumultuous and violent atmosphere of London’s East End during the post-industrial revolution.
The story follows the life of Hezekiah Moscow, portrayed by Malachi Kirby, a Jamaican man drawn to the underground boxing scene, a popular sport of that era. His path intertwines with Mary Carr, played by Erin Doherty, the fierce leader of the notorious Forty Elephants gang, known for their relentless struggle for survival in a harsh world.
As Hezekiah hones his boxing skills, he encounters the menacing Sugar Goodson, played by Stephen Graham, a self-styled emperor of East End boxing, who is determined to eliminate Hezekiah from the ring. Their rivalry transcends the sport, setting the stage for intense confrontations and personal stakes.
Is A Thousand Blows Based on Real Events?
Steven Knight has a penchant for weaving tales grounded in history, and *A Thousand Blows* is no exception. The character Hezekiah Moscow is inspired by a real individual, bringing a layer of authenticity to the series. The spark for this story originated when producer Tom Miller shared a striking image of the actual Hezekiah with Stephen Graham and Knight, igniting their creative collaboration.
Graham recalled the moment, stating, “There was a photograph of Hezekiah that looked royal and dignified, full of grace, full of honor, and full of humility.” His curiosity about the man behind the image led to a deeper exploration of Hezekiah’s life and legacy. Historians confirm that Hezekiah Moscow, also known as Ching Ghook and Ching Hook, was a prominent figure in boxing during the 1880s, frequently appearing in contemporary newspapers.
Furthermore, the character of Alec Munroe, played by Francis Lovehall, is based on Hezekiah’s real-life trainer, who tragically passed away before Hezekiah’s own death. Hezekiah would later continue his boxing career in the United States. The series also features the Goodson brothers, real-life boxers of the era, with Henry ‘Sugar’ Goodson portrayed by Stephen Graham and Thomas ‘Treacle’ Goodson by James Nelson-Joyce.
Steven Knight’s ambition to spotlight the Forty Elephants gang has come to fruition through this series, showcasing their connection to Hezekiah’s narrative. The gang, of which Mary Carr is a member, genuinely existed and gained notoriety in the 19th and 20th centuries for their shoplifting prowess.
Originating from the Elephant and Castle intersection, the Forty Elephants were celebrated for their elaborate schemes, often masquerading as well-to-do women to evade law enforcement. Their remarkable ability to avoid capture earned them a reputation that rivaled their male counterparts, the Elephants gang.
Operating for decades, the Forty Elephants engaged in various criminal activities, from shoplifting to burglaries, often using their roles as domestic workers to pilfer valuable goods. Although some members were arrested, they frequently received lenient sentences or were released due to insufficient evidence, a testament to their cunning and meticulous methods.
For those eager to dive into this enthralling blend of history and drama, *A Thousand Blows* is now available for streaming on Disney+.