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A 1980’s series of events revolving around Benny Zerletta (William DeMeo), a Brooklyn based Italian-American, soldier in the Colezzo crime family. Benny depicts the difficulties that he faces with family and growing up in the footsteps of his cousin, who behind closed doors was the leader of a criminal organization in GRAVESEND.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Denise Boland, William DeMeo
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Gravesend (2020)
6.2 / 10 (based on 195 reviews)
A 1980’s series of events revolving around Benny Zerletta (William DeMeo), a Brooklyn based Italian-American, soldier in the Colezzo crime family. Benny depicts the difficulties that he faces with family and growing up in the footsteps of his cousin, who behind closed doors was the leader of a criminal organization in GRAVESEND.
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Laurence Fintch (Robert Davi) creates the illusion of his managed billions being lost in a “Ponzi Scheme” so he can divert the funds to developing then hiding the funds within a Cryptography that he calls Digital Limbo.
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In the world of television, every so often, a show comes along that captures the essence of its setting and the spirit of its era with such authenticity, it’s hard not to take notice. “Gravesend” is one such show, emerging onto the scene in 2020, offering a gritty, unfiltered dive into the 1980s Brooklyn underworld. This isn’t your typical mob drama; it’s a raw, no-holds-barred look at the lives of those entangled in the web of organized crime, and it does so with a level of authenticity and attention to detail that sets it apart from its contemporaries.
The Setting and Plot
Set against the backdrop of 1980s Brooklyn, “Gravesend” follows the story of Benny Zerletta (played by William DeMeo), a former mobster who, after serving a lengthy prison sentence, finds himself thrust back into the life of crime he thought he had left behind. The show does an excellent job of capturing the essence of Brooklyn during the ’80s, from the fashion and music to the cars and the colloquial language. It’s a nostalgic trip for some and an eye-opening experience for others, offering a glimpse into a world where loyalty, honor, and respect are valued above all else, but also a world where betrayal and violence are never far behind.
The Characters
One of the strengths of “Gravesend” lies in its characters. They are complex, multi-dimensional, and, most importantly, believable. Benny, the protagonist, is not your typical mobster. Yes, he’s tough and can handle himself in a fight, but he’s also deeply conflicted, haunted by his past, and struggling with the moral implications of his actions. This complexity makes him a relatable character, even for viewers who have never come close to the mob lifestyle.
The supporting cast is equally compelling, from Benny’s loyal but hot-headed brother to the wise old mob boss who sees the changing landscape of organized crime. Each character brings their own story, their own struggles, and their own perspective, adding layers of depth to the narrative.
The Authenticity
What sets “Gravesend” apart from other shows in the mob drama genre is its authenticity. This isn’t a glamorized portrayal of the mob life; it’s raw, gritty, and sometimes uncomfortable to watch. The violence is not gratuitous but rather a necessary part of the story, illustrating the brutal reality of the world these characters inhabit.
The show’s creators went to great lengths to ensure accuracy, from the way the characters dress and talk to the cars they drive and the guns they use. Even the locations are carefully chosen to reflect the Brooklyn of the 1980s, giving the show an added layer of realism.
The Nostalgia Factor
For those who lived through the 1980s, watching “Gravesend” can feel like stepping into a time machine. The show captures the essence of the era, from the music and fashion to the overall vibe of Brooklyn at the time. It’s a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but it also serves as a reminder of how much has changed since then, both in Brooklyn and in the world of organized crime.
The Impact
Since its release, “Gravesend” has garnered a loyal following, with fans praising its authenticity, storytelling, and character development. It’s a show that doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of the mob life but also doesn’t glorify it. Instead, it offers a nuanced, honest look at the lives of those caught up in it, making it a standout in a genre that’s often criticized for its one-dimensional portrayals.
Why Watch “Gravesend”?
So, why should you watch “Gravesend”? If you’re a fan of mob dramas, it’s a no-brainer. But even if you’re not, there’s plenty to appreciate. The storytelling is top-notch, the characters are compelling, and the attention to detail is unmatched. It’s a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, not just with its action and suspense, but with its deep, emotional storytelling.
“Gravesend” is more than just a mob drama; it’s a window into a world that many of us know only from movies and TV shows. But unlike those glamorized portrayals, “Gravesend” offers a more nuanced, authentic look at the life of crime, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre or simply looking for a compelling, well-crafted television show.
Conclusion
In a landscape filled with cookie-cutter TV shows, “Gravesend” stands out as a breath of fresh air. It’s a show that doesn’t rely on cliches or flowery prose to tell its story. Instead, it offers a straightforward, unapologetic look at the world of organized crime in 1980s Brooklyn, making it a unique and compelling addition to the mob drama genre. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of the era, the complexity of the characters, or the authenticity of the setting, “Gravesend” is a show that delivers on all fronts, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for quality storytelling and a deep dive into the underworld of Brooklyn.