Movies and Shows Similar to The United States of Detroit

Description: A groundbreaking crime drama that explores the duality of a mob boss's life, balancing family and criminal enterprises. The show's psychological depth and complex characters redefine the genre.

Fact: The series was one of the first to popularize the antihero protagonist, influencing countless shows that followed.

Description: A gritty, realistic portrayal of urban life, focusing on systemic issues like crime, poverty, and institutional dysfunction. The show's multi-layered storytelling and deep character development highlight the complexities of city life.

Fact: The show was praised for its authenticity, with many real-life Baltimore residents and former law enforcement officials contributing to its writing and acting.

Description: A masterful exploration of morality and transformation, set against the backdrop of the drug trade. The show's intense character study and meticulous plotting create a compelling narrative about power and consequences.

Fact: The show's iconic blue meth was inspired by real-life drug trends, though the color was a creative choice for visual distinction.

Description: A lavish period drama set during Prohibition, focusing on the intersection of crime, politics, and business. The show's meticulous attention to historical detail and sprawling narrative capture the era's chaos and ambition.

Fact: The series was filmed in a meticulously recreated 1920s Atlantic City boardwalk, built from scratch in Brooklyn.

Description: A gripping crime drama centered around the drug trade, featuring a strong female protagonist navigating a dangerous world. The show balances action with deep character arcs and moral dilemmas.

Fact: The series is based on the novel 'La Reina del Sur' by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, which was inspired by real-life female drug lords.

Description: A stylish and violent saga of a criminal family in post-WWI England, blending historical drama with gangster tropes. The show's atmospheric direction and sharp dialogue create a gripping tale of power and revenge.

Fact: The real Peaky Blinders gang existed in Birmingham, England, and were known for sewing razor blades into their caps as weapons.

Description: A prequel that delves into the origins of a morally ambiguous lawyer, blending dark humor with legal drama. The show's intricate storytelling and character-driven arcs provide a nuanced look at the criminal justice system.

Fact: The series was initially conceived as a half-hour comedy but evolved into a dramatic hour-long format.

Description: Chronicles the rise of a notorious crime family, blending high-stakes drama with themes of loyalty and ambition. The show's fast-paced narrative and street-level perspective offer a visceral look at the criminal underworld.

Fact: The series is based on the true story of the Black Mafia Family, a drug trafficking organization that operated in the 1980s and 1990s.

Description: A raw and emotional look at life in a Chicago neighborhood, tackling themes of violence, family, and survival. The show's ensemble cast and interconnected stories reflect the vibrancy and struggles of urban communities.

Fact: Creator Lena Waithe drew from her own experiences growing up in Chicago to craft the show's authentic tone and setting.

Description: Explores the rise of the crack epidemic in the 1980s, blending personal drama with larger societal impacts. The series delves into the intersections of crime, politics, and community.

Fact: The show was co-created by John Singleton, who drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up in South Central Los Angeles.