The BBC's gripping gangster drama Kin has captivated audiences and critics alike, achieving a remarkable perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes. This Irish crime series, which originally aired between 2021 and 2023, has found a new wave of fans through streaming platforms like BBC iPlayer and Netflix, with many viewers admitting to staying up until the early hours to binge all available episodes.
A Critically Acclaimed Crime Saga
Kin tells the compelling story of the Kinsella family, a Dublin-based criminal dynasty plunged into violent conflict with an international cartel. The series premise centres on a tragic killing that sparks an escalating gangland war, with the Kinsellas relying on their unbreakable family bonds as their ultimate weapon against powerful external threats.
Stellar Cast and Compelling Characters
The drama features an impressive ensemble cast led by Charlie Cox, best known for his portrayal of Marvel's Daredevil. He's joined by Game of Thrones veteran Aidan Gillen and acclaimed actor Ciarán Hinds, who clash memorably as rival gang leaders. The series begins with Cox's character, Michael Kinsella, returning home on parole to a criminal landscape that has grown increasingly dangerous during his imprisonment.
As tensions between the Kinsellas and local drugs kingpin Eamon Cunningham (played by Hinds) reach breaking point, the drama escalates into full-scale warfare within just a few episodes. This rapid escalation has been praised for maintaining relentless narrative momentum while developing complex character relationships.
Viewer Reactions and Critical Praise
The series has generated enthusiastic responses from audiences, with one viewer confessing: "I binge watched all of Kin series one on Netflix yesterday, didn't finish it until 3am. Really enjoyed it. When will series two be released I need to do more bingeing into the wee small hours."
Critical reviews have been equally effusive, with one Rotten Tomatoes contributor writing: "Best series I have seen, could not stop watching it, brilliantly written, acting superb, a must watch for me." Another viewer noted the series' exceptional execution of familiar crime drama elements, praising its character-driven approach, sharp dialogue, and nuanced interactions that create genuine tension.
Action and Drama Perfectly Balanced
Reviewers have particularly highlighted how Kin seamlessly incorporates action sequences into its narrative framework. One critic observed that even viewers who don't typically enjoy drama series found themselves completely engaged by the show's compelling storytelling and well-executed set pieces.
The series has drawn comparisons to other acclaimed Irish crime dramas, particularly Love/Hate, which aired between 2010 and 2014. Some fans have suggested watching both series to appreciate the evolution of Irish gangster storytelling on television.
Streaming Availability and Future Prospects
All sixteen episodes of Kin are currently available to stream for free on BBC iPlayer, providing UK viewers with easy access to this critically acclaimed drama. The show's resurgence in popularity through streaming platforms has sparked renewed interest in its future, with many fans eagerly anticipating potential further developments in the Kinsella family saga.
With its perfect Rotten Tomatoes rating, stellar cast, and compelling narrative about family loyalty amidst criminal conflict, Kin represents a standout example of British and Irish television collaboration that continues to attract new audiences years after its initial broadcast.
