Sky Atlantic’s crime thriller miniseries, “A Town Called Malice,” captivated audiences in 2023 with its intoxicating blend of family drama and gangland violence. 

The show’s success hinged not only on its gripping plot but also on the powerhouse performances delivered by its talented cast. This article delves into the actors who brought the Lords’ family and the world of Costa del Sol to life, exploring their backgrounds and the characters they portrayed.

The Lords of London: A Dysfunctional Dynasty

Jason Flemyng (Albert Lord)

Flemyng, a seasoned British actor known for his versatility, portrays Albert Lord, the aging patriarch of the Lords’ crime family.  

Albert is a complex character – a ruthless gangster yearning for a return to his former glory, struggling to maintain control over his family and his crumbling empire. 

Martha Plimpton (Mint Ma Lord)

The ever-magnetic Martha Plimpton takes on the role of Mint Ma Lord, Albert’s fiery wife.  Fiercely loyal to her family, Mint Ma is the glue holding the Lords together. 

Plimpton brings a captivating energy to the character, showcasing Mint Ma’s strength and resilience as she navigates the treacherous world of organized crime.

Lex Shrapnel (Leonard Lord)

Lex Shrapnel embodies the role of Leonard Lord, Albert and Mint Ma’s eldest son.  A cunning businessman with questionable ethics, Leonard represents the new generation of the Lords’ family. 

Shrapnel delivers a chilling performance, highlighting Leonard’s ambition and ruthlessness as he clashes with his father for control.

Daniel Sharman (Kelly Lord)

Daniel Sharman steps into the shoes of Kelly Lord, the charming yet troubled middle son.  Haunted by his past mistakes, Kelly yearns for a life outside the family business. 

Sharman’s portrayal is nuanced, showcasing Kelly’s internal conflict and his desperate attempts to escape the cycle of violence.

Jack Rowan (Gene Lord)

The rising star Jack Rowan takes on the role of Gene Lord, the youngest son.  Thrust into the world of crime at a young age, Gene grapples with his loyalty to his family and his desire for a different path. 

Rowan delivers a compelling performance, capturing Gene’s naivety and his gradual descent into the dark underbelly of the criminal world.

The Spanish Connection: A World of Intrigue

Dougray Scott (Uncle Tony)

Dougray Scott lends his screen presence to the role of Uncle Tony, a powerful figure in the Spanish underworld.  Uncle Tony offers the Lords a lifeline and a chance to rebuild their empire, but his motives remain shrouded in secrecy. 

Scott brings a sense of mystery and danger to the character, keeping viewers guessing about Uncle Tony’s true intentions.

Leanne Best (DI Lindsay)

Leanne Best portrays DI Lindsay, a tenacious detective determined to bring the Lords to justice.  Lindsay is a formidable opponent, closing in on the family’s criminal activities.  Best’s performance is sharp and controlled, showcasing Lindsay’s unwavering determination to crack the case.

Yassine Fadel (Metin)

Yassine Fadel steps into the role of Metin, a local gangster with a connection to Uncle Tony.  Metin acts as a mediator between the Lords and the Spanish underworld. Fadel delivers a captivating performance, showcasing Metin’s cunning and his ability to navigate the treacherous world of crime with skill.

The Supporting Cast: Adding Depth and Texture

Beyond the core cast, “A Town Called Malice” boasts a talented ensemble that breathes life into the vibrant world of Costa del Sol. Actors like Eliza Butterworth (Carly Lord), George Jaques (Anthony Lord), and José Luis Ferrer (Diego) deliver memorable performances, fleshing out the lives of the Lords’ extended family and their associates.

Beyond the Screen: Exploring the Creative Team

The success of “A Town Called Malice” goes beyond the cast.  Created by Nick Love, a seasoned filmmaker known for his gritty depictions of the criminal underworld, the series is infused with a sense of authenticity and raw energy.  

The show also benefits from the direction of talented individuals like Marc Evans and  John Alexander, who masterfully translate the script into visually captivating storytelling.

A Town Called Malice: A Legacy of Gripping Entertainment

“A Town Called Malice” not only boasts a stellar cast but also showcases exceptional writing, directing, and production value. 

The series has garnered praise for its ability to seamlessly blend action, drama, and family dynamics, keeping viewers engrossed until the very end.  

FAQs

Q: Who plays the charismatic yet troubled Kelly Lord?

A:  The charming and talented Daniel Sharman portrays Kelly Lord, the youngest son yearning to escape the family business.

Q: Who brings the ruthless Leonard Lord to life?

A:  Lex Shrapnel embodies the cold and calculating Leonard Lord, the eldest son determined to uphold the family legacy.

Q: Who portrays the formidable Mint Ma Lord, the family matriarch?

A:  The award-winning actress Martha Plimpton takes on the role of Mint Ma Lord, a woman as fierce as she is protective of her family.

Q: Who is the actor behind the cunning Gene Lord?

A:  Jack Rowan delivers a captivating performance as Gene Lord, caught between loyalty to his family and a yearning for a different life.

Q: Who is the actress behind DI Lindsay, determined to uncover the truth?

A:  The esteemed Leanne Best takes on the role of DI Lindsay, a detective hot on the trail of the Lords’ criminal activities.

Q: Who portrays the powerful Diego, a local player with his own agenda?

A:  José Luis Ferrer brings to life the character of Diego, a man who wields significant influence in the town.

Q: Who is the creator and driving force behind “A Town Called Malice”?

A:  The acclaimed director Nick Love, known for his gritty and realistic style, created the show.

Q: Where can I find more information about the show’s director, Nick Love?

A:  A web search for “Nick Love filmography” will reveal his previous works and creative background.

Q: Was there a real “A Town Called Malice”?

A:  No, the town is a fictional creation, but the show draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of British ex-pats in Spain during the 1980s.

Q: I’m a fan of Daniel Sharman! Where can I find out about his other projects?

A:  Websites like IMDb or the actor’s social media pages (if available) will showcase his filmography and upcoming roles.

Q: Where can I find reviews or critical reception for “A Town Called Malice”?

A:  Websites and publications that review television shows likely have reviews for “A Town Called Malice.”

Q: What was your favorite scene from “A Town Called Malice”?

This is subjective! Discussing the show with other fans online or on forums can spark interesting conversations about memorable moments.

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