10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Boomtown (2017)

Description: The Sopranos, like Boomtown, is a groundbreaking crime drama that explores the personal and professional lives of its characters. Both shows blend violence with dark humor and feature protagonists who are both charismatic and deeply flawed. The exploration of family dynamics and moral ambiguity are also common themes.

Fact: The Sopranos is often credited with ushering in the golden age of television. James Gandolfini, who played Tony Soprano, was relatively unknown before the show. The series finale, which famously cut to black mid-scene, is one of the most debated endings in TV history.

Description: The Shield, like Boomtown, is a raw and unfiltered look at law enforcement and the ethical dilemmas they face. Both shows feature antiheroes who operate in morally gray areas, and both are known for their intense, fast-paced storytelling and realistic portrayals of police work.

Fact: The Shield was one of the first shows to popularize the antihero protagonist on television. Michael Chiklis, who played Vic Mackey, gained 40 pounds and shaved his head for the role. The show's pilot was directed by Clark Johnson, who also acted in The Wire.

Description: Like Boomtown (2017), The Wire is a gritty, realistic portrayal of crime and its impact on society. Both shows delve into the complexities of urban life, law enforcement, and the blurred lines between good and evil. The Wire's multi-perspective storytelling and deep character development mirror Boomtown's approach to narrative.

Fact: The Wire was created by former police reporter David Simon, lending it an air of authenticity. It was initially criticized for its slow pace but is now considered one of the greatest TV shows of all time. The show's depiction of Baltimore's drug trade was based on real-life events and people.

Description: Breaking Bad shares with Boomtown a focus on the moral descent of its protagonist and the consequences of crime. Both shows explore themes of power, corruption, and the American Dream gone awry. The intense, character-driven narratives and dark humor are also common elements.

Fact: Breaking Bad was initially rejected by several networks before being picked up by AMC. Bryan Cranston, who played Walter White, was primarily known for comedic roles before this show. The series has been praised for its meticulous attention to detail, including the accurate depiction of chemistry.

Description: Boardwalk Empire and Boomtown both offer a detailed, historical look at organized crime and its impact on society. Both shows feature a mix of real and fictional characters and explore themes of power, corruption, and ambition. The period settings and meticulous attention to detail are also shared elements.

Fact: Boardwalk Empire was created by Terence Winter, who also wrote for The Sopranos. The show's pilot was directed by Martin Scorsese. Steve Buscemi, who played Nucky Thompson, was the first actor cast for the series.

Description: Sons of Anarchy and Boomtown both explore the themes of loyalty, family, and the consequences of a life of crime. Both shows feature complex characters who are deeply flawed yet compelling, and both use their settings (a biker gang and a crime-ridden city, respectively) to comment on broader societal issues.

Fact: Sons of Anarchy was created by Kurt Sutter, who also wrote for The Shield. The show was loosely based on Shakespeare's Hamlet. Katey Sagal, who played Gemma Teller Morrow, won a Golden Globe for her performance.

Description: Justified shares with Boomtown a focus on law enforcement in a specific, vividly realized setting (rural Kentucky vs. urban crime). Both shows feature charismatic, morally complex protagonists and a mix of episodic and serialized storytelling. The sharp dialogue and dark humor are also common elements.

Fact: Justified is based on Elmore Leonard's short story 'Fire in the Hole.' Timothy Olyphant, who played Raylan Givens, was initially reluctant to take on another law enforcement role after Deadwood. The show was praised for its authentic depiction of Appalachian culture.

Description: True Detective and Boomtown both delve into the psychological and philosophical aspects of crime and law enforcement. Both shows feature complex, flawed detectives and a moody, atmospheric tone. The nonlinear storytelling and focus on character development are also shared traits.

Fact: True Detective was created by Nic Pizzolatto, who wrote all the episodes for the first season. The show's first season starred Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, whose performances were widely acclaimed. Each season features a new cast and storyline.

Description: Peaky Blinders, like Boomtown, is a stylish, violent crime drama with a strong sense of place and time. Both shows feature charismatic antiheroes and explore themes of family, loyalty, and power. The atmospheric cinematography and gritty realism are also common elements.

Fact: Peaky Blinders is set in post-World War I Birmingham and follows the Shelby crime family. The show's title refers to the gang's practice of sewing razor blades into their caps. Cillian Murphy, who plays Tommy Shelby, was initially hesitant to take on a leading role in a TV series.

Description: Fargo, like Boomtown, is a crime drama that blends dark humor with intense, character-driven storytelling. Both shows explore the randomness and brutality of crime, and both feature a mix of quirky and sinister characters. The Coen Brothers' influence on Fargo's tone and style is similar to Boomtown's cinematic feel.

Fact: Fargo is inspired by the 1996 Coen Brothers film of the same name but features an original story. Each season is a self-contained narrative with new characters and settings. The show has been praised for its writing, acting, and faithfulness to the tone of the original film.