Taboo

It's 1814 London. James Keziah Delaney (Tom Hardy) returns home from Africa to attend his father's funeral. Everybody is shocked since he was presumed long dead. As a son, he is the sole heir taking precedence over his half-sister Zilpha Geary. The main inheritance is a strategic stretch of land on the west coast of the New World. Sir Stuart Strange (Jonathan Pryce) is the Chairman of the all-powerful East India Company, rivaling the power of the Crown. Both are desperate to get that land as Britain negotiates the border with America as the war comes to an end. Actress Lorna Bow (Jessie Buckley) shows up claiming to have married James' father back in Ireland.

This is Tom Hardy at the height of his power. For a moment, he is both the hottest and the most compelling actor around. He could be both the Sexiest and win all the Oscars. He is still a man of intrigue right now. This show is his baby. It's his vision. His inability to get a second series, despite some good reviews, may point to something about his power as a producer. There is no doubt that Tom Hardy infuses James Delaney with his overpowering brooding. He is a man of deep damage and mysterious motives. The presentation of the East India Company is intriguing to say the least. This is high quality prestige television.