If you're fascinated by the dark underbelly of organized crime and the ruthless figures who dominate it, you'll love 'Gangsters: America's Most Evil (2012).' This gripping documentary series delves into the lives of notorious criminals, revealing their brutal rise and inevitable fall. For fans craving more stories of crime, power, and betrayal, we've compiled a list of 10 similar movies and shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive in and explore the shadowy world of America's most dangerous gangsters.
The Godfather (1972)
Description: A seminal film about the Corleone crime family, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal. The movie's intricate plot and rich character development set the standard for crime dramas.
Fact: Marlon Brando improvised the famous 'I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse' line. The cat he held in the opening scene was a stray that wandered onto the set and was not originally scripted.
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The Sopranos (1999)
Description: This series delves deep into the life of a mob boss, exploring the psychological and moral complexities of organized crime, much like the reference title. It blends family drama with criminal enterprises, offering a nuanced look at the underworld.
Fact: The show was initially pitched as a movie about a mobster in therapy. It won 21 Primetime Emmy Awards, making it one of the most awarded series in history.
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The Shield (2002)
Description: Follows a corrupt police strike team that operates outside the law, blurring the lines between crime-fighting and criminal behavior. The series is known for its intense, morally ambiguous storytelling.
Fact: The show was groundbreaking for its use of handheld cameras and documentary-style filming. It was one of the first series to feature an antihero as its protagonist, paving the way for shows like 'Breaking Bad.'
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The Wire (2002)
Description: A detailed and realistic portrayal of the drug trade, law enforcement, and the systemic issues that perpetuate crime in urban environments. The series is known for its complex characters and unflinching look at societal problems.
Fact: Many of the actors were non-professionals or had little acting experience before being cast. The show's creator, David Simon, was a former police reporter, which lent authenticity to the storytelling.
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Breaking Bad (2008)
Description: Focuses on the transformation of a mild-mannered man into a ruthless criminal, highlighting the moral decay and violence associated with the drug trade. The series provides a gritty, realistic portrayal of crime and its consequences.
Fact: The iconic pink teddy bear seen in several episodes was inspired by a real-life event involving a drug bust. The show's creator, Vince Gilligan, originally planned to kill off Jesse Pinkman in the first season.
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Boardwalk Empire (2010)
Description: Set during Prohibition, this series follows the rise and fall of a political figure entangled with organized crime. It offers a lavish, period-accurate depiction of the criminal underworld and its ties to politics.
Fact: The show's pilot episode was directed by Martin Scorsese and cost $18 million to produce, making it one of the most expensive pilots ever. Many characters are based on real-life historical figures.
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Gomorrah (2014)
Description: A brutal and realistic portrayal of the Camorra crime syndicate in Naples, Italy. The series is renowned for its unflinching depiction of violence, power struggles, and the corrosive effects of organized crime on society.
Fact: The show is based on a book by Roberto Saviano, who has lived under police protection due to death threats from the Camorra. Many of the actors were cast from the streets of Naples to add authenticity.
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Peaky Blinders (2013)
Description: Centers on a notorious gang in post-WWI Birmingham, blending historical events with fictionalized crime drama. The series explores themes of power, loyalty, and violence within a family-run criminal organization.
Fact: The name 'Peaky Blinders' comes from the gang's practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps. The show's soundtrack features modern rock music, despite being set in the early 20th century.
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Better Call Saul (2015)
Description: A prequel to 'Breaking Bad,' this series explores the transformation of a small-time lawyer into a criminal attorney. It delves into the moral gray areas of the legal and criminal worlds, with a focus on character development and intricate plotting.
Fact: The show's black-and-white cold opens were inspired by classic film noir. Despite being a prequel, it features several flash-forwards that hint at the protagonist's future.
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Snowfall (2017)
Description: Chronicles the early days of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles, focusing on the interconnected lives of dealers, users, and law enforcement. The series provides a raw and unflinching look at the drug trade's impact on communities.
Fact: The show was co-created by John Singleton, who drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up in South Central LA. The character Franklin Saint is loosely based on several real-life drug kingpins.
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