10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Dope (2015)

Description: Boyz n the Hood, like Dope, examines coming of age in a tough urban environment. Both films blend social commentary with personal drama, showing how systemic issues affect individual lives. The focus on friendship, family, and survival in hostile surroundings creates thematic parallels.

Fact: John Singleton was 23 when he wrote and directed it. Ice Cube's acting debut. Nominated for two Academy Awards.

Description: Menace II Society shares Dope's unflinching look at urban violence and youth culture. Both films portray young African-American men trying to survive in dangerous environments, with similar themes of crime, redemption, and societal pressures. The raw, realistic style of both films creates comparable viewing experiences.

Fact: The Hughes brothers were only 21 when they directed it. Samuel L. Jackson has an uncredited cameo. The film's budget was just $

Description: Paid in Full mirrors Dope's exploration of the drug trade's allure and consequences, particularly for young black men. Both films depict the rise and fall of drug dealers, showing the glamour and ultimate price of the lifestyle. The Harlem setting in Paid in Full parallels Dope's Inglewood backdrop.

Fact: The film is loosely based on real-life Harlem drug dealers. Cam'ron turned down the lead role that went to Wood Harris. It features one of Mekhi Phifer's most memorable performances.

Description: The Wire shares similarities with Dope in its gritty, realistic portrayal of urban life and the systemic issues surrounding crime and drugs. Both works provide a multi-faceted look at the drug trade, showing perspectives from dealers, law enforcement, and the community. The Wire's deep character development and social critique align with Dope's narrative style.

Fact: The Wire was created by David Simon, a former police reporter. Many actors in the series were non-professionals cast from Baltimore streets. The show is often cited as one of the greatest TV series of all time.

Description: City of God shares Dope's vibrant, kinetic portrayal of youth involved in crime. Both films use stylish cinematography to depict harsh realities, blending beauty with brutality. The focus on young characters navigating dangerous worlds creates strong similarities in theme and tone.

Fact: Many actors were actual favela residents. The film's budget was just $

Description: Breaking Bad, like Dope, explores the transformation of an ordinary person into a criminal within the drug trade. Both stories examine moral ambiguity and the consequences of illegal activities. The tension between personal ambition and ethical boundaries is a central theme in both.

Fact: Bryan Cranston initially hesitated to take the role of Walter White. The show's iconic RV was purchased for $7,

Description: Gomorrah shares Dope's unflinching look at organized crime, though in an Italian context. Both works depict the drug trade's impact on communities with similar realism and intensity. The focus on young characters drawn into criminal networks creates thematic parallels despite cultural differences.

Fact: Based on Roberto Saviano's bestselling book. The author lives under police protection due to death threats. The series is filmed entirely in Naples.

Description: The Chi resembles Dope in its portrayal of young African-Americans navigating complex urban environments. Both works intertwine multiple storylines to paint a comprehensive picture of community life, addressing issues of crime, family, and personal growth with similar authenticity.

Fact: Created by Lena Waithe. Many scenes are filmed in actual Chicago locations. The show was initially conceived as an anthology series.

Description: Snowfall is similar to Dope (2015) in its exploration of the drug trade and its impact on urban communities. Both delve into the complexities of the drug world, blending crime drama with social commentary. Snowfall, like Dope, portrays the allure and dangers of the drug trade, focusing on young characters navigating a perilous environment.

Fact: Snowfall was created by John Singleton, who also directed Boyz n the Hood. The series is loosely based on the crack epidemic in Los Angeles during the 1980s. Damson Idris, who plays Franklin Saint, is British but mastered an American accent for the role.

Description: Queen & Slim shares Dope's focus on young African-American protagonists navigating a dangerous world. Both films blend crime drama with social commentary, addressing issues of race, justice, and survival. The stylish cinematography and contemporary soundtrack in both films create similar aesthetic experiences.

Fact: Lena Waithe wrote the screenplay in just three weeks. Daniel Kaluuya was originally considered for the male lead. The film's ending was reshot after test screenings.