10 Movies and Shows Similar to Gangs of London (2020)

Description: The Sopranos, like Gangs of London, delves into the complexities of organized crime, family loyalty, and the psychological toll of a life of violence. Both series blend brutal action with deep character studies, exploring the moral ambiguities of their protagonists. The storytelling in both shows is layered, with a mix of personal drama and criminal enterprise.

Fact: The Sopranos is often credited with revolutionizing television drama. James Gandolfini, who played Tony Soprano, was initially considered too nice for the role. The show's finale is one of the most debated in TV history.

Description: The Shield, like Gangs of London, delves into the blurred lines between law enforcement and criminality. Both shows feature antiheroes who operate in morally gray areas, with a focus on the consequences of their actions. The storytelling is fast-paced and intense, with a raw, unfiltered look at violence and corruption.

Fact: The Shield was one of the first shows to feature a corrupt cop as its protagonist. Michael Chiklis, who plays Vic Mackey, gained 30 pounds and shaved his head for the role. The show's pilot was directed by Clark Johnson, who also acted in Homicide: Life on the Street.

Description: The Wire, like Gangs of London, offers a gritty, realistic portrayal of urban crime and its impact on society. Both shows feature complex characters and multi-layered storytelling, with a focus on the systemic issues that perpetuate crime. The themes of power, corruption, and survival are central to both narratives.

Fact: The Wire was created by David Simon, a former police reporter. Many of the show's actors were non-professionals with real-life experience in the worlds they portrayed. The show was initially criticized for its slow pacing but is now considered one of the greatest TV series of all time.

Description: Breaking Bad, like Gangs of London, explores the descent into criminality and the consequences of power. Both shows feature protagonists who navigate dangerous worlds, facing moral dilemmas and escalating violence. The storytelling is intense and character-driven, with a focus on the transformation of the main characters.

Fact: Breaking Bad was initially pitched as a comedy. Bryan Cranston, who plays Walter White, was known for his comedic roles before this show. The show's iconic blue meth was inspired by a real-life drug called 'Blue Magic.'

Description: Boardwalk Empire shares with Gangs of London a focus on the criminal underworld, political corruption, and the interplay between different factions vying for power. Both shows are period pieces that meticulously recreate their respective eras, with a strong emphasis on visual detail and historical accuracy. The themes of loyalty, betrayal, and ambition are central to both narratives.

Fact: Boardwalk Empire is set during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City. The show was created by Terence Winter, who also worked on The Sopranos. Steve Buscemi, who plays Nucky Thompson, was a firefighter before becoming an actor.

Description: Sons of Anarchy shares with Gangs of London a focus on outlaw culture, family loyalty, and the cycle of violence. Both shows feature charismatic leaders who grapple with the consequences of their actions, with a mix of personal and criminal drama. The themes of brotherhood, betrayal, and power are central to both narratives.

Fact: Sons of Anarchy was inspired by Shakespeare's Hamlet. Charlie Hunnam, who plays Jax Teller, was originally cast as Christian Grey in Fifty Shades of Grey but dropped out. The show's creator, Kurt Sutter, also played Otto Delaney, a minor character.

Description: Peaky Blinders shares similarities with Gangs of London in its portrayal of organized crime, power struggles, and family dynamics. Both shows feature intense violence, intricate plots, and a focus on the criminal underworld. The visual aesthetics of both series are dark and gritty, enhancing the brutal and unforgiving nature of their respective worlds.

Fact: Peaky Blinders is set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. The show's title refers to the gang's practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps. Cillian Murphy, who plays Thomas Shelby, initially turned down the role but changed his mind after reading the script.

Description: Better Call Saul, a prequel to Breaking Bad, shares with Gangs of London a focus on the criminal underworld and the moral compromises its characters make. Both shows feature intricate plotting, dark humor, and a blend of personal and professional conflicts. The visual style of both series is also notable for its cinematic quality.

Fact: Better Call Saul was originally conceived as a half-hour comedy. Bob Odenkirk, who plays Saul Goodman, had a heart attack during the filming of the final season. The show's title sequence changes slightly each season to reflect Saul's evolving character.

Description: Animal Kingdom, like Gangs of London, explores the dynamics of a criminal family and the power struggles within it. Both shows feature high-stakes heists, violent confrontations, and complex relationships. The visual style of both series is sleek and stylish, with a focus on the glamour and brutality of the criminal world.

Fact: Animal Kingdom is based on an Australian film of the same name. Ellen Barkin, who plays Smurf, was initially hesitant to take on the role. The show's title refers to the ruthless nature of its characters, likening them to animals in the wild.

Description: Snowfall shares with Gangs of London a focus on the drug trade, violence, and the rise of criminal empires. Both shows explore the socio-economic factors that drive individuals into crime, with a strong emphasis on character development and moral ambiguity. The visual style of both series is immersive and atmospheric.

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