10 Shows & Movies Like Mayans M.C.

Description: A deep dive into organized crime, family dynamics, and psychological struggles. The mix of brutal violence, dark humor, and existential themes creates a similarly immersive experience.

Fact: The show popularized the antihero trope in television. Many of its episodes were directed by series creator David Chase, who insisted on a cinematic approach to storytelling.

Description: A raw and intense look at corruption, power, and survival within a law enforcement unit. The blurred lines between right and wrong, along with its unflinching violence, create a similar tension and moral complexity.

Fact: The show was groundbreaking for its handheld camera style and morally ambiguous protagonist. It was one of the first cable dramas to gain critical acclaim.

Description: A sprawling narrative about crime, law enforcement, and societal structures, offering a nuanced look at urban life. The realistic portrayal of systemic issues and complex characters creates a similar depth.

Fact: Many actors were cast from real-life backgrounds, including former drug dealers and police officers. The show was initially overlooked by awards but is now considered one of the greatest TV series of all time.

Description: Follows a protagonist's descent into the criminal underworld, balancing family obligations with illegal enterprises. The show's exploration of identity, power, and consequences resonates deeply.

Fact: The iconic pink teddy bear from the show's opening scenes was inspired by a real-life incident involving a plane crash. The show's meticulous attention to detail included using real meth recipes (without actual drugs).

Description: A period crime drama centered around prohibition-era gangsters, with intricate plotting and rich character arcs. The mix of historical events and fictional storytelling creates a similarly immersive world.

Fact: The show's set included a full-scale replica of 1920s Atlantic City. It won multiple Emmys for its production design and attention to historical detail.

Description: Chronicles a woman's rise in the drug cartel world, blending action with deep character development. The exploration of survival, power, and identity in a criminal underworld is a key parallel.

Fact: The show is based on a telenovela, 'La Reina del Sur,' which itself was inspired by a novel. It features strong female leads in a traditionally male-dominated genre.

Description: Centers around an outlaw motorcycle club, exploring themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and crime within a tight-knit community. The gritty storytelling and moral ambiguity mirror the struggles of maintaining power and family ties.

Fact: The show was originally pitched as 'Hamlet on motorcycles,' blending Shakespearean tragedy with biker culture. It features one of the highest body counts in TV history.

Description: Blends crime drama with Western elements, focusing on a lawman navigating moral dilemmas in a rural setting. The sharp dialogue, antihero dynamics, and regional authenticity stand out.

Fact: The show is loosely based on Elmore Leonard's short story 'Fire in the Hole.' It revitalized interest in the modern Western genre.

Description: Focuses on a criminal family navigating power struggles in a post-war setting. The stylish yet brutal depiction of gang life, along with themes of loyalty and ambition, aligns closely.

Fact: The show's title refers to the real-life Peaky Blinders gang, who allegedly sewed razor blades into their caps. The soundtrack features modern rock music, contrasting with the 1920s setting.

Description: Revolves around a crime family involved in heists and power plays, with a strong emphasis on familial bonds and betrayal. The high-stakes tension and morally gray characters echo similar themes.

Fact: The series is based on an Australian film of the same name. It explores the dynamics of a matriarchal crime family, a rarity in the genre.