If you were captivated by the gritty realism and intense storytelling of The Trade (2018), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 movies and shows that share its dark themes, gripping narratives, and raw portrayal of crime and survival. Whether you're drawn to drug cartels, investigative journalism, or human drama, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Sopranos (1999)
Description: A groundbreaking series that blends family drama with organized crime, offering a psychological deep dive into the life of a mob boss.
Fact: The show's iconic opening sequence was filmed in various locations across New Jersey, capturing the essence of the state's industrial landscape.


The Shield (2002)
Description: A hard-hitting police drama that explores corruption and moral ambiguity within a fictional Los Angeles police department.
Fact: The show was one of the first to use handheld cameras extensively, giving it a documentary-like feel.


The Wire (2002)
Description: A realistic portrayal of crime and law enforcement, focusing on systemic issues and the interconnected lives of criminals, police, and politicians.
Fact: The show was praised for its authenticity, with many real-life Baltimore police officers and former drug dealers contributing to the writing.


Breaking Bad (2008)
Description: A gripping crime drama that explores the transformation of an ordinary man into a ruthless criminal, delving deep into the moral complexities and consequences of illegal activities.
Fact: The show was initially planned to be set in Riverside, California, but was moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico due to tax incentives.


Queen of the South (2016)
Description: A thrilling narrative about a woman's ascent in the drug cartel world, showcasing the power struggles and dangers of the criminal underworld.
Fact: The show is based on the novel 'La Reina del Sur' by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, which was inspired by real-life female drug lords.


Sons of Anarchy (2008)
Description: A violent and emotional saga about an outlaw motorcycle club, focusing on themes of loyalty, power, and family.
Fact: The series was originally pitched as 'Hamlet on motorcycles,' drawing parallels to Shakespeare's tragedy.


Gomorrah (2014)
Description: A raw and unflinching look at organized crime in Naples, Italy, depicting the brutal realities of life within the Camorra syndicate.
Fact: The series is based on Roberto Saviano's bestselling book, which led to him receiving death threats from the Camorra.


Peaky Blinders (2013)
Description: A stylish and intense period crime drama set in post-WWI Birmingham, following the exploits of a notorious gang.
Fact: The name 'Peaky Blinders' comes from the gang's practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps, which they used as weapons.


Snowfall (2017)
Description: A gritty drama that chronicles the rise of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles, highlighting the socio-economic and political factors that fueled its spread.
Fact: The series was co-created by John Singleton, who drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up in South Central LA.


ZeroZeroZero (2020)
Description: A global crime drama that traces the journey of a cocaine shipment, revealing the intricate and violent networks of the international drug trade.
Fact: The title refers to the code name for the purest grade of flour, symbolizing the high-quality cocaine at the center of the story.
