If you were captivated by the ruthless rise and fall of Griselda Blanco in 'Cocaine Godmother' (2017), you'll love these 10 gripping movies and shows that delve into the dark world of crime, power, and betrayal. From drug cartels to female antiheroes, this list offers thrilling narratives that echo the intensity of Blanco's infamous story. Dive in to discover your next binge-worthy obsession.

The Godfather (1972)
Description: A seminal crime epic that explores the dynamics of power, family, and loyalty within a mafia organization, with a focus on the moral complexities of the criminal underworld.
Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Marlon Brando's performance as Vito Corleone is considered one of the greatest in film history.


Scarface (1983)
Description: A gritty crime drama that explores the rise and fall of a powerful drug lord, showcasing themes of ambition, violence, and the consequences of unchecked power.
Fact: The film was initially met with mixed reviews but has since become a cult classic, often referenced in hip-hop culture. The famous line 'Say hello to my little friend!' is one of the most quoted in cinema history.


The Sopranos (1999)
Description: A groundbreaking TV series that blends crime drama with psychological depth, following the life of a mob boss as he navigates the challenges of family and business.
Fact: The show is often credited with ushering in the era of prestige television. It won 21 Primetime Emmy Awards and is frequently cited as one of the greatest TV series of all time.


Blow (2001)
Description: This biographical crime film delves into the life of a drug trafficker, highlighting the allure and dangers of the narcotics trade, as well as the personal cost of a life of crime.
Fact: The movie is based on the real-life story of George Jung, who was a major figure in the cocaine trade in the 1970s and 1980s. The film's soundtrack features music from the era, adding to its authentic feel.


The Wire (2002)
Description: A critically acclaimed series that provides a realistic and nuanced portrayal of the drug trade, law enforcement, and the socio-political issues surrounding them.
Fact: The show is known for its authenticity, with many actors being real-life former drug dealers or police officers. It was created by former police reporter David Simon.


American Gangster (2007)
Description: A gripping tale of a drug kingpin's rise to power and the detective determined to bring him down, set against the backdrop of 1970s Harlem.
Fact: The film is inspired by the real-life story of Frank Lucas, who smuggled heroin into the U.S. by hiding it in the coffins of soldiers returning from Vietnam. Denzel Washington's performance earned him widespread acclaim.


Breaking Bad (2008)
Description: A dark and intense series about a high school chemistry teacher who turns to manufacturing methamphetamine, exploring themes of morality, power, and transformation.
Fact: The show's meticulous attention to detail, especially in its depiction of chemistry, earned praise from scientists. It holds the Guinness World Record for the highest-rated TV series.


Queen of the South (2016)
Description: A thrilling drama about a woman who rises to power in a male-dominated drug cartel, showcasing her strategic brilliance and resilience.
Fact: The series is based on the novel 'La Reina del Sur' by Arturo Pérez-Reverte. It has been praised for its strong female lead and intricate plotlines.


The Infiltrator (2016)
Description: A tense thriller about an undercover agent infiltrating a drug cartel, focusing on the dangerous and high-stakes world of narcotics trafficking.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Robert Mazur, a federal agent who successfully infiltrated Pablo Escobar's Medellín Cartel. Much of the movie was shot on location in Florida and the UK.


Snowfall (2017)
Description: A gripping drama set during the early days of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles, exploring the interconnected lives of those involved in the drug trade.
Fact: The series was co-created by John Singleton, who drew from his own experiences growing up in South Central LA. It has been praised for its historical accuracy and compelling storytelling.
