10 Movies & Shows Like Miami Vice (2006)

Description: The Shield, like Miami Vice, revolves around a team of law enforcement officers who often operate outside the law. Both shows explore the moral compromises and ethical dilemmas faced by their characters. The Shield's gritty, raw style contrasts with Miami Vice's glamour but shares its intense, action-packed narrative.

Fact: Michael Chiklis won an Emmy for his role as Vic Mackey. The show was one of the first to use handheld cameras extensively. The series finale was filmed in real-time to heighten tension.

Description: The Wire shares Miami Vice's focus on the complexities of crime and law enforcement, but from a more grounded and systemic perspective. Both shows delve into the intricacies of drug trafficking and the impact on society, though The Wire adopts a more documentary-like approach compared to Miami Vice's stylized action.

Fact: Creator David Simon was a former police reporter for The Baltimore Sun. Many actors in The Wire were real-life Baltimore residents with no prior acting experience. The show was initially marketed as a police drama but evolved into a broader critique of urban institutions.

Description: Like Miami Vice, Breaking Bad explores the duality of its protagonist, blending crime drama with deep character study. Both shows feature a protagonist who navigates the blurred lines between law and crime, with high-stakes tension and moral ambiguity. The visual style of Breaking Bad, with its use of color and cinematography, also echoes the stylish aesthetics of Miami Vice.

Fact: Bryan Cranston, who played Walter White, initially auditioned for the role of Michael Chiklis in The Shield. The show was originally set in Riverside, California, but was moved to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for tax incentives. The iconic 'Heisenberg' hat was inspired by a real-life hat Bryan Cranston found in a costume shop.

Description: Boardwalk Empire, like Miami Vice, is a period crime drama that blends historical events with fictional storytelling. Both shows feature charismatic antiheroes and explore the intersection of crime, politics, and power. The lavish production design and attention to detail in Boardwalk Empire echo Miami Vice's visual sophistication.

Fact: The show was created by Terence Winter, a writer for The Sopranos. Steve Buscemi's character, Nucky Thompson, was based on a real-life politician. The show's pilot was directed by Martin Scorsese.

Description: Sons of Anarchy mirrors Miami Vice's themes of loyalty, brotherhood, and the moral gray areas within criminal organizations. Both shows feature protagonists who are deeply embedded in their respective worlds, grappling with personal and professional conflicts. The high-octane action and dramatic storytelling are also reminiscent of Miami Vice.

Fact: Kurt Sutter, the creator, originally envisioned the show as a modern-day Hamlet. Charlie Hunnam (Jax Teller) was almost cast as Christian Grey in Fifty Shades of Grey. The show's biker culture was heavily researched, with many real-life bikers serving as consultants.

Description: Justified shares Miami Vice's blend of sharp dialogue, charismatic leads, and a mix of crime and drama. Both shows feature protagonists who are adept at navigating the criminal underworld while maintaining their own code of ethics. The witty banter and Southern Gothic vibe of Justified offer a unique twist on the crime genre.

Fact: The show is based on Elmore Leonard's short story 'Fire in the Hole.' Timothy Olyphant's portrayal of Raylan Givens was praised for its authenticity. The show's dialogue was heavily influenced by Leonard's distinctive writing style.

Description: True Detective shares Miami Vice's atmospheric and visually striking approach to crime drama. Both shows delve into the psychological depths of their characters, with a strong emphasis on mood and tone. The nonlinear storytelling and philosophical undertones in True Detective add a layer of complexity similar to Miami Vice's narrative style.

Fact: Each season features a completely new cast and storyline. Matthew McConaughey's performance in Season 1 revitalized his career. The show's title sequence was inspired by double exposure photography.

Description: Peaky Blinders shares Miami Vice's stylish approach to crime drama, with a focus on family, loyalty, and power struggles. Both shows feature protagonists who are both criminals and complex characters, navigating a world of violence and ambition. The atmospheric soundtrack and cinematography in Peaky Blinders are also reminiscent of Miami Vice's aesthetic.

Fact: The show's title refers to the gang's practice of sewing razor blades into their caps. Cillian Murphy initially turned down the role of Tommy Shelby. The show's music supervisor used modern rock songs to contrast with the 1920s setting.

Description: Fargo, like Miami Vice, combines crime drama with dark humor and stylistic flair. Both shows feature intricate plots and morally ambiguous characters, though Fargo's Midwestern setting and Coen Brothers-inspired tone set it apart. The anthology format allows for fresh storytelling each season, much like Miami Vice's episodic adventures.

Fact: Each season is loosely connected to the original 1996 film. The show's title sequence changes slightly each season to reflect the story. Billy Bob Thornton's character in Season 1 was originally written as a ghost.

Description: Better Call Saul, a prequel to Breaking Bad, shares Miami Vice's focus on the transformation of its protagonist. Both shows explore themes of identity, ambition, and the consequences of one's choices. The meticulous storytelling and character development in Better Call Saul are reminiscent of Miami Vice's depth.

Fact: Bob Odenkirk initially thought the show would be a half-hour comedy. The black-and-white scenes are set after the events of Breaking Bad. The show's cinematography often uses reflections to symbolize duality.