10 Gripping Shows & Movies Like Lords of London

Description: A groundbreaking crime drama that delves deep into the life of a mob boss balancing family and criminal enterprises. Its complex characters, moral ambiguity, and psychological depth set a new standard for television.

Fact: The show's finale is one of the most debated in TV history, with its abrupt ending sparking countless theories. It was the first cable series to win the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series.

Description: A sprawling crime drama that examines the interconnected lives of law enforcement, criminals, and citizens in Baltimore. Its realistic portrayal of urban decay, systemic issues, and complex characters is unparalleled.

Fact: Many actors were cast based on their real-life backgrounds, including former drug dealers and police officers. The show's creator, David Simon, was a crime reporter for The Baltimore Sun.

Description: A lavish period crime drama set during Prohibition, showcasing the rise of organized crime in Atlantic City. The series blends historical events with fictional narratives, offering a rich portrayal of power struggles and corruption.

Fact: The show's pilot episode was the most expensive in HBO's history at the time, costing around $18 million. It won multiple Emmys for its meticulous production design.

Description: A Victorian-era crime drama set in the aftermath of Jack the Ripper's murders, focusing on detectives solving gruesome crimes in Whitechapel. The show's blend of historical detail and procedural elements is compelling.

Fact: The series was initially canceled after two seasons but was revived due to fan campaigns and a deal with Amazon. It features many real-life historical figures woven into its fictional plots.

Description: A gritty crime drama set in post-WWI England, focusing on a powerful gang family navigating the underworld with a mix of brutality and cunning. The show's dark tone, historical setting, and exploration of organized crime make it a compelling watch.

Fact: The show's iconic flat caps became a fashion trend after its release. It was inspired by the real-life Peaky Blinders gang, though the series takes significant creative liberties.

Description: A Gothic horror series that weaves together classic literary monsters and original characters in Victorian London. Its lush visuals, haunting tone, and exploration of supernatural themes are captivating.

Fact: The title refers to the cheap, sensational horror stories sold in 19th-century England. The show features characters from Dracula, Frankenstein, and Dorian Gray, reimagined in a shared universe.

Description: A medical drama set in early 20th-century New York, focusing on the staff of a cutting-edge but morally complex hospital. Its unflinching portrayal of medicine's dark side and period authenticity are remarkable.

Fact: Director Steven Soderbergh shot the entire series himself, acting as both director and cinematographer. The show's surgical scenes were praised for their historical accuracy and realism.

Description: A dark and atmospheric period drama about a mysterious man returning to London to reclaim his family's legacy, entangled in conspiracies and violence. Its brooding tone and historical intrigue are key draws.

Fact: Tom Hardy co-created the series and based the protagonist on a mix of historical figures and his own imagination. The show's title refers to the taboo nature of the protagonist's past and actions.

Description: A psychological thriller set in late 19th-century New York, following a team investigating gruesome murders using early forensic techniques. Its dark, atmospheric storytelling and historical setting are standout features.

Fact: The show is based on a bestselling novel by Caleb Carr, who consulted on the series. It was one of the first TV shows to be filmed entirely with digital cameras, giving it a unique visual style.

Description: A brutal and visually stunning crime saga that explores the power vacuum in London's criminal underworld after a kingpin's assassination. The show's intense action and intricate plotting stand out.

Fact: The fight choreography is renowned for its realism and brutality, with one sequence taking over a month to film. It was initially conceived as a video game before becoming a TV series.