The Fear

A gritty, slow-burning crime saga that immerses you in the ruthless climb of a young gangster, balancing tension with a melancholy look at the personal costs of ambition.

Created by

Ray Burdis

Genres

Crime, Drama

Starring

Iain Glen, Susannah Harker, Jesse Birdsall

Overview

The Fear is a five-part television drama produced by Thames Television subsidiary Euston Films for ITV. Broadcast from 17 February to 16 March 1988, the serial follows Carl Galton, the enterprising leader of a criminal gang running a protection racket in North London. Young and ambitious, Galton represents a new breed of criminal who seeks to expand his underworld empire and takes on the old East End firms. 1980s materialism clashes with old school London villainy as Galton rises to power, yet his ruthlessness carries a personal cost, especially on his wife Linda and best friend Marty.

How it feels

Dark, tense, cynical and melancholic. Measured and needs your attention.

About

Crime, ambition, power, betrayal

Content

Strong violence and language. Mild gore and sexual content.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

Your rating is saved. See your suggestions, or find titles like this one below.

Rate it, and Mesmero finds titles that feel like it. You do not need an account.

Search YouTube for a trailer (opens in a new tab)