10 Shows & Movies Similar to Taboo (2017)

Description: Set in the same post-Regency period as 'Taboo', this crime drama shares its interest in the seedy underbelly of London society. Both shows feature complex characters dealing with trauma while navigating corrupt systems.

Fact: Initially canceled after two seasons but revived due to fan campaigns. Features historically accurate depictions of early forensic techniques. The show's creator was inspired by real Victorian police files.

Description: This pirate drama shares 'Taboo's' themes of colonialism, power struggles, and moral ambiguity. Both shows feature antiheroes navigating dangerous political landscapes, with similarly high production values and complex storytelling.

Fact: Serves as a prequel to 'Treasure Island'. Features one of television's most realistic depictions of 18th century piracy. The show's sea battles used a combination of practical and digital effects.

Description: Like 'Taboo', 'Peaky Blinders' is a dark, gritty period drama that explores themes of crime, power, and revenge. Both shows feature morally ambiguous protagonists navigating dangerous worlds, with a strong emphasis on atmospheric storytelling and historical detail.

Fact: Cillian Murphy initially turned down the role of Tommy Shelby, but changed his mind after reading the script. The show's distinctive haircuts became a global fashion trend. Steven Knight based the Shelby family on stories from his own family history in Birmingham.

Description: Much like 'Taboo', this series blends historical drama with Gothic horror elements. Both shows feature mysterious protagonists with dark pasts, exploring themes of the supernatural amidst a richly detailed Victorian backdrop.

Fact: The title refers to cheap 19th century British horror publications. Eva Green's performance was widely acclaimed, particularly her possession scene. Features literary characters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and Dorian Gray.

Description: Like 'Taboo', this historical horror series explores the psychological toll of extreme circumstances on its characters. Both shows blend real history with supernatural elements, creating a similar sense of dread and mystery.

Fact: Based on Dan Simmons' novel about the lost Franklin Expedition. Features Jared Harris in a standout performance. The production faced extreme weather conditions during filming.

Description: Like 'Taboo', this medical drama explores the darker aspects of its historical period with unflinching realism. Both shows feature brilliant but troubled protagonists and share a similar visual style with moody lighting and innovative cinematography.

Fact: Directed entirely by Steven Soderbergh. Features an electronic score by Cliff Martinez, unusual for a period piece. The surgical scenes were supervised by real doctors for accuracy.

Description: While more romantic than 'Taboo', this time-travel drama shares its interest in historical authenticity and political intrigue. Both shows feature protagonists caught between cultures during turbulent historical periods.

Fact: Based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling book series. The show's popularity boosted tourism to Scottish filming locations. Features one of television's most detailed depictions of 18th century Highland culture.

Description: Like 'Taboo', this historical drama features a complex protagonist torn between cultures and loyalties. Both shows explore themes of identity and power with a similarly gritty approach to their respective periods.

Fact: Based on Bernard Cornwell's 'Saxon Stories' novels. The lead actor learned Old English for his role. Features some of television's most realistic Viking battle sequences.

Description: This psychological thriller shares 'Taboo's' Victorian-era setting and fascination with the darker aspects of human nature. Both shows feature complex investigations into disturbing crimes, with a similar visual style that emphasizes shadowy, atmospheric cinematography.

Fact: Based on Caleb Carr's bestselling novel that helped pioneer the historical crime genre. Features one of the first depictions of forensic psychology in television. The production recreated 1890s New York with remarkable accuracy.

Description: This supernatural crime drama shares 'Taboo's' Gothic sensibilities and interest in the darker aspects of 19th century science. Both shows feature investigations into disturbing phenomena with a similar atmospheric approach.

Fact: Stars Sean Bean as a detective investigating body-snatching crimes. Blends historical figures like Mary Shelley with fictional elements. The show explores early medical ethics and scientific boundaries.