top of page

'MobLand' Season 1 Episode 5 Review: “Funeral for a Friend” Turns Grief into War


People in black formal attire and sunglasses at an outdoor funeral. Somber mood, trees in background, woman wears a wide-brimmed hat.


In the gritty world of MobLand Funeral for a Friend, no loss goes unnoticed and Episode 5, is an explosive reminder of just how deep the consequences of death run in London’s underworld. With a title that evokes both mourning and menace, this installment delivers high-stakes drama, emotional intensity, and a pivotal power shift that fans won’t soon forget.


If you’ve been following the escalating feud between the Harrigans and the Stevensons, this episode is the emotional gut punch and narrative game-changer you didn’t know you needed.


MobLand Funeral for a Friend: A Funeral That Feels Like a Trap


The episode opens with the somber announcement of Tommy Stevenson’s funeral, a scene that drips with tension rather than tears. Richie Stevenson, usually the embodiment of rage, surprises everyone by inviting the Harrigan clan to pay their respects. On the surface, it appears to be a peace offering, but in MobLand, nothing is ever as it seems.


This strategic move by Richie isn’t just about grief of course, it’s a test, a challenge, and possibly a setup. Harry Da Souza, the Harrigans’ loyal enforcer, knows what’s up but opts to accept the invitation.


The funeral will not resolve one thing between these dueling families. Let’s get into MobLand. 


Maeve vs. Vron: Explosive Power Play


While the funeral itself is riddled with distrust, the real explosion literally comes during a tense confrontation between Maeve Harrigan and Vron Stevenson. Their showdown spirals into a car bomb detonation that appears to claim Vron’s life.


Now both families are shook and Maeve is stepping into the spotlight as the HBIC. It’s Helen Mirren, we been knew. Female characters like Maeve are gaining more narrative agency in modern crime dramas. This shift toward more complex, layered roles is much needed. 



Elegantly dressed woman in black lace and hat stands with a serious expression, with a young man and older man in a dim, sophisticated room.
L-R Helen Mirren as Maeve Harrigan and Anson Boon as Eddie Harrigan in MOBLAND, episode 5, season 1, Streaming on Paramount+ 2025. Photo Credit: Luke Varley/Paramount+


The headline conflict drives much of the action, “Funeral for a Friend” also touches on the internal struggles each character is going through. All the Harrigans, Kevin, Brendan and Bella are just going through it. Kevin Harrigan is haunted by past trauma, Brendan Harrigan is scheming for redemption and power, aligning with his half-sister Seraphina to curry favor with their father and Bella Harrigan adds a political twist.


These little but also big subplots tell just how fractured and morally compromised each family is. MobLand is a story about a simple turf war and a multi-layered series of legacy, loyalty, and manipulation.


Cinematic Storytelling 


The way the funeral scenes were shot in the muted tones were a nice touch. Performance-wise the standout moments were of course Geoff Bell as Richie Stevenson and Helen Mirren as Maeve Harrigan. Bell showed so much emotional vulnerability while Mirren delivered a cold, calculated performance.


Rewatch the Maeve–Vron scene. The tension in body language and camera framing was chef’s kiss. 



An older man speaks at a podium during a funeral, with a black-and-white portrait behind him. Candles and flowers surround the solemn scene.
Geoff Bell as Richie Stevenson in MOBLAND, episode 5, season 1, Streaming on Paramount+ 2025. Photo Credit: Luke Varley/Paramount+


Final Verdict: A Turning Point in MobLand


MobLand Season 1, Episode 5, “Funeral for a Friend,” isn’t just another chapter, it appears to be a plot pivot. With all the betrayals, blowups, and buried secrets bubbling to the surface, this episode sets up for a bloodier, bolder second half of the season.


Overall, The Harrigan/Stevenson feud intensifies during a deadly funeral. Maeve Harrigan emerges as a force to be reckoned with. The subplots deepen character arcs and hint at future betrayals and visuals and performances elevate the storytelling.


MobLand has seen a steady rise in episode ratings so a renewal would not come as a surprise. 


What’s Next in MobLand?


With Vron seemingly gone and tensions at an all-time high, Episode 6 promises even more explosive developments. Will Richie retaliate? Can the Harrigans hold their ground? And what role will Bella’s backroom deals play in the power struggle?


👉 Don’t miss our next review, subscribe for episode breakdowns, character deep dives, and insider analysis!


What was your favorite moment from “Funeral for a Friend”? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!



What did you think?

  • Loved it

  • Hated it

  • So/So



Comments

Rated 0 out of 5 stars.
No ratings yet

Add a rating
bottom of page