MGM+'s new series The Westies tells the story of people who refuse to follow the rules. Set in 1980s New York, amidst the conflicts between Irish and Italian crime organizations, low-level gangsters throw threats despite being given explicit orders to attack their rivals. Mid-level criminals engage in drug trafficking despite their bosses' prohibitions. The best-laid plans are upended by sudden bursts of anger or fear.

On a metatextual level, it can be said that the series exhibits a structure that cannot go beyond following the rules over an eight-hour span. Despite the performances of two talented actors, J.K. Simmons and Titus Welliver, it can be argued that Chris Brancato and Michael Panes' (Godfather of Harlem) latest gangster dramas are more competent than unbearable; however, they are far from interesting.

The first episode begins during a period when a sort of truce is established between the Irish-American Westies and the Italian-American Gambino crime family. Eamon Sweeney (Simmons) and Paul Castellano (Ron Lea) come to an agreement after years of mutual violence. However, this truce arises more from business interests than goodwill.

The Westies aims to revive interest in gangster dramas, but it stands out for its lack of depth and ordinary storytelling. Viewers may find themselves lost in the flow of the story while lacking the character depth the series offers.