10 Shows and Movies Like Snowfall (2017)

Description: The Sopranos and Snowfall both delve into the personal and professional lives of their protagonists, showing the psychological toll of a life of crime. Both series blend family drama with criminal enterprises, creating a rich narrative tapestry. The Sopranos' exploration of power dynamics and loyalty mirrors themes in Snowfall.

Fact: The Sopranos is often credited with ushering in the golden age of television. James Gandolfini, who played Tony Soprano, was initially considered too nice for the role. The show's famous finale sparked widespread debate and speculation.

Description: The Shield, like Snowfall, portrays the blurred lines between law enforcement and criminality. Both shows feature morally ambiguous characters and explore themes of power, corruption, and survival. The Shield's raw and unfiltered depiction of street-level crime and policing resonates with Snowfall's realistic portrayal of the drug trade.

Fact: The Shield was one of the first shows to be produced by FX, helping to establish the network's reputation for edgy, original programming. Michael Chiklis won an Emmy for his role as Vic Mackey, a rare feat for a cable drama at the time. The show's finale was one of the most-watched in cable history at the time.

Description: Like Snowfall, The Wire explores the gritty realities of drug trade and its impact on urban communities. Both shows delve into systemic issues, corruption, and the socio-economic factors that drive individuals into the drug world. The Wire's multi-perspective storytelling and deep character development mirror Snowfall's approach to portraying the complexities of its characters' lives.

Fact: The Wire was created by former police reporter David Simon, lending it an air of authenticity. The show was initially not a ratings success but gained critical acclaim and a cult following after its run. Many of the actors in The Wire were not professionals but real-life residents of Baltimore.

Description: Breaking Bad shares with Snowfall the theme of a protagonist's descent into the drug trade, exploring the moral compromises and consequences that come with it. Both shows are character-driven, focusing on the transformation of their main characters under the pressures of the drug world. The tension and drama in Breaking Bad are akin to the high-stakes environment depicted in Snowfall.

Fact: Bryan Cranston, who played Walter White, initially auditioned for the role of Michael in The Office. The show's iconic RV was purchased for $7,000 and later sold for $10,000 after the series ended. Breaking Bad was almost canceled after its second season due to low ratings.

Description: Boardwalk Empire and Snowfall both explore the rise of criminal empires during pivotal historical periods. While Boardwalk Empire focuses on Prohibition-era Atlantic City, Snowfall examines the crack epidemic in 1980s Los Angeles. Both shows highlight the intersection of politics, crime, and ambition.

Fact: Boardwalk Empire was created by Terence Winter, a writer for The Sopranos. The show's pilot was directed by Martin Scorsese and cost $18 million to produce. Steve Buscemi's character, Nucky Thompson, is loosely based on real-life gangster Enoch L. Johnson.

Description: Queen of the South and Snowfall both follow the rise of a protagonist in the drug trade, highlighting the challenges and dangers of navigating this world. Both shows emphasize the strategic and often violent nature of building a drug empire. The strong female lead in Queen of the South parallels the determined characters in Snowfall.

Fact: Queen of the South is based on the novel La Reina del Sur by Arturo Pérez-Reverte. The show was filmed in multiple locations, including Dallas, Malta, and Colombia. The protagonist, Teresa Mendoza, is inspired by real-life female drug lords.

Description: Sons of Anarchy and Snowfall both center around outlaw cultures and the moral complexities of their protagonists. Both shows feature tight-knit groups navigating violent and unpredictable worlds. The themes of brotherhood, power, and redemption in Sons of Anarchy resonate with Snowfall's exploration of similar ideas.

Fact: Sons of Anarchy was created by Kurt Sutter, who also wrote for The Shield. The show's motorcycle club, SAMCRO, stands for Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club Redwood Original. Charlie Hunnam, who played Jax Teller, was almost cast as Christian Grey in Fifty Shades of Grey.

Description: Gomorrah, like Snowfall, offers a raw and unflinching look at the drug trade, focusing on the Camorra crime syndicate in Naples. Both shows are known for their realistic portrayal of violence and the socio-economic conditions that fuel the drug trade. The intense, fast-paced storytelling in Gomorrah is similar to Snowfall's gripping narrative.

Fact: Gomorrah is based on Roberto Saviano's bestselling book, which led to him receiving death threats from the Camorra. The show is filmed on location in Naples, adding to its authenticity. Gomorrah has been praised for its cinematic quality and has won numerous international awards.

Description: The Americans and Snowfall both explore themes of identity, loyalty, and survival in high-stakes environments. While The Americans focuses on Cold War espionage, Snowfall deals with the drug trade, but both shows delve into the psychological and emotional toll of living a double life. The tension and suspense in The Americans are comparable to Snowfall's dramatic intensity.

Fact: The Americans was praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail. The show's creators consulted former KGB agents to ensure authenticity. Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys, who played the lead roles, began a real-life relationship during the show's run.

Description: Peaky Blinders and Snowfall both depict the rise of a criminal organization, with a focus on family dynamics and loyalty. Both shows feature charismatic leaders who navigate the dangerous waters of their respective criminal worlds. The stylish cinematography and period settings in Peaky Blinders are reminiscent of Snowfall's atmospheric portrayal of 1980s LA.

Fact: Peaky Blinders is named after a real-life gang in Birmingham, England. The show's distinctive soundtrack features modern music, despite its historical setting. Cillian Murphy, who plays Tommy Shelby, initially turned down the role but changed his mind after reading the script.