10 Movies and Shows Similar to Sugarcane (2024)

Description: Like 'Sugarcane', 'The Wire' delves deep into systemic issues, focusing on the complexities of crime, law enforcement, and societal structures. Both works emphasize character-driven narratives and offer a gritty, realistic portrayal of their settings.

Fact: 'The Wire' was created by former police reporter David Simon, lending it an authentic feel. The show is often praised for its realistic dialogue and lack of traditional TV drama tropes. It was initially not a ratings success but gained critical acclaim over time.

Description: Like 'Sugarcane', 'Mare of Easttown' is a gritty crime drama centered on a flawed female investigator. Both shows authentically portray working-class communities and the personal toll of police work.

Fact: Kate Winslet mastered a Delaware County accent so well locals thought she was from the area. The show's twist ending was kept secret from most of the cast during filming. Winslet insisted on doing her own stunts, including jumping into cold water multiple times.

Description: Both 'The Killing' and 'Sugarcane' are moody crime dramas that focus as much on character development as on solving crimes. They share a deliberate pacing and emphasis on how investigations affect those involved.

Fact: The show was adapted from a Danish series called 'Forbrydelsen'. Its first season covers a single murder case across 13 episodes, unusual for American TV at the time. The iconic rain-soaked Seattle setting became a character in itself.

Description: Both 'Top of the Lake' and 'Sugarcane' feature female-led investigations in remote locations, blending crime drama with social commentary. They share a haunting atmosphere and explore themes of trauma and resilience.

Fact: Jane Campion became the first female director to win the Palme d'Or at Cannes (for 'The Piano') before creating this series. The stunning New Zealand landscapes are almost a character themselves in the show. Elisabeth Moss learned a New Zealand accent for her role, which was praised for its authenticity.

Description: Like 'Sugarcane', 'Broadchurch' is a crime drama that explores how a single incident affects an entire community. Both shows balance personal drama with investigative elements, creating emotional depth alongside mystery.

Fact: The identity of the killer in Season 1 was kept secret from most cast members during filming. The show significantly boosted tourism to its filming locations in Dorset. David Tennant and Olivia Colman's chemistry was so strong they reunited for the show's third season after initially planning to stop at two.

Description: Similar to 'Sugarcane', 'True Detective' explores dark, complex themes through a crime narrative. Both feature strong character development and a moody, atmospheric tone that lingers with the viewer.

Fact: Each season of 'True Detective' features a new cast and storyline. The first season's single-take shootout scene was filmed in six minutes without cuts. The show's philosophical themes are heavily influenced by weird fiction and horror literature.

Description: Both 'The Night Of' and 'Sugarcane' examine the criminal justice system's flaws and their impact on individuals. They share a slow-burning tension and focus on the psychological toll of crime and investigation.

Fact: Originally developed as a British series, it was adapted for American television. Riz Ahmed won an Emmy for his performance, making him the first Asian man to win in the lead actor category. The show's prison scenes were praised for their brutal realism.

Description: Similar to 'Sugarcane', 'Sharp Objects' is a psychological thriller that explores generational trauma and small-town secrets. Both feature complex female protagonists and employ visual storytelling to enhance their dark themes.

Fact: The series finale contained hidden messages in the background that revealed the killer's identity early on. Amy Adams learned to play the piano for her role. The show's director, Jean-Marc Vallée, used natural lighting to create its distinctive look.

Description: Like 'Sugarcane', 'Fargo' blends crime drama with dark humor and eccentric characters. Both shows feature ordinary people caught in extraordinary circumstances, with a focus on moral ambiguity.

Fact: Each season tells a new story with different characters, loosely connected to the others. The show is inspired by the Coen brothers' film but has developed its own distinct identity. Billy Bob Thornton's character Lorne Malvo was originally written as appearing in only three episodes.

Description: Both 'Big Little Lies' and 'Sugarcane' explore how secrets and trauma affect communities, blending drama with elements of mystery. They feature strong female ensembles and examine social issues beneath their glossy surfaces.

Fact: The oceanfront house used for Celeste's home sold for $10 million after the show aired. Meryl Streep joined the cast in Season 2 after being personally asked by Nicole Kidman. The show's soundtrack features numerous songs by its executive producer, music supervisor, and star's brother - Michael Kiwanuka.