If you enjoyed the gripping drama and raw intensity of 'Gravesend' (2020), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same gritty realism, complex characters, and urban tension. Whether you're a fan of crime thrillers or character-driven narratives, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Sopranos (1999)
Description: A gritty crime drama that delves deep into the complexities of organized crime, family dynamics, and moral ambiguity, set against a richly detailed urban backdrop.
Fact: The show was initially pitched as a movie about a mobster in therapy, but it evolved into a groundbreaking TV series. It popularized the antihero protagonist in television.


The Shield (2002)
Description: A hard-hitting police drama that follows a corrupt strike team, blurring the lines between justice and criminality in a morally ambiguous world.
Fact: The show was groundbreaking for its use of handheld cameras and documentary-style filming. It was one of the first series to feature a deeply flawed protagonist as the lead.


The Wire (2002)
Description: A meticulously crafted crime drama that examines systemic issues in law enforcement, politics, and urban life through interconnected storylines.
Fact: The show was created by a former police reporter and a former homicide detective, lending it a high degree of realism. It initially had low ratings but later gained critical acclaim and a cult following.


Breaking Bad (2008)
Description: A tense and character-driven crime saga about a high school teacher turned meth kingpin, exploring themes of power, corruption, and transformation.
Fact: The show was initially rejected by several networks before being picked up by AMC. It holds the Guinness World Record for the highest-rated TV series on IMDb.


Boardwalk Empire (2010)
Description: A period crime drama that explores the rise of organized crime during Prohibition, featuring intricate political and criminal machinations.
Fact: The show's pilot was the most expensive in HBO's history at the time, costing around $18 million. It was heavily inspired by real historical figures and events.


Gomorrah (2014)
Description: A raw and unflinching portrayal of the Neapolitan mafia, highlighting the brutal realities of crime, betrayal, and survival in a tightly knit underworld.
Fact: The series is based on a bestselling book by Roberto Saviano, who has lived under police protection due to death threats from the Camorra. It is praised for its authentic dialogue and use of local dialects.


Peaky Blinders (2013)
Description: A stylish and violent crime series set in post-WWI England, focusing on a powerful gang family navigating loyalty, power struggles, and revenge.
Fact: The show's title refers to the real-life Peaky Blinders gang, who were active in Birmingham in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The series is known for its distinctive soundtrack featuring modern rock music.


Better Call Saul (2015)
Description: A prequel that delves into the backstory of a morally flexible lawyer, blending dark humor with intense legal and criminal underworld drama.
Fact: The show was originally conceived as a half-hour comedy but evolved into an hour-long drama. It features many callbacks and Easter eggs for fans of its predecessor.


Animal Kingdom (2016)
Description: A high-stakes crime drama centered around a ruthless family of criminals, exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a sun-soaked, dangerous world.
Fact: The series is based on an Australian film of the same name. It is known for its intense heist sequences and complex family dynamics.


Snowfall (2017)
Description: A gripping crime drama set during the 1980s crack epidemic, exploring the intersecting lives of dealers, law enforcement, and ordinary citizens.
Fact: The show was co-created by John Singleton, who drew from his own experiences growing up in South Central Los Angeles. It features a mix of fictional and real-life events.
