CrimeTV shows have maintained popularity for many decades, consistently attracting a large viewership. The enduring popularity and high ratings of shows such asBreaking Bad,The Sopranos,Law and Order,Peaky Blinders, and others underscore the undeniable appeal of stories centered on the lives of criminals.Poweris a prime example of such popular shows, offering an intriguing and suspenseful narrative that delves into the life of a club-owner who is involved in the drug business.
ThePowerfranchisedebuted in 2014 with the story of Ghost, and has since spawned multiple spin-offs, all varying in quality.Power Book IV: Forceis the fourth and latest addition to this popular franchise, consisting of two seasons that revolve around Tommy Egan’s mission to dominate Chicago’s drug trade. With the second season recently concluded, fans are probably on the lookout for similar shows.
Here are 10 crime shows to watch if you likedPower Book IV: Force.
10Snowfall (2017-2023)
Set in 1980s Los Angeles during the crack cocaine epidemic,Snowfallmainly revolves around the interconnected lives of Franklin Saint, Teddy McDonald, and a couple, Gustavo and Lucia, all affected by this epidemic. Specifically, it chronicles the gradual rise of Frank Saint in the burgeoning drug trade, all before his glory and wealth come crashing down around him. The series was co-created by John Singleton (Boyz n the Hood), Eric Amadio, and Dave Andron.
Why You Should Watch Snowfall Next
Snowfalloffers a similar mix of intense drama, crime elements, and character-driven narratives like those featured inPower Book IV: Force. Whether it is within the drug trade, law enforcement, or political maneuverings, both shows center on characters grappling with power struggles, alliances, and betrayals.Snowfall’s gritty and realistic portrayal of Los Angeles mirrors the urban landscape and brutality seen inPower Book IV: Force’s Chicago. As one ofFX’s best original shows, it is excellently paced, it will have many hooked right from the start, never letting go.StreamSnowfallon Hulu
9Godfather of Harlem (2019-Present)
Anunderrated gangster series,Godfather of Harlemis inspired by the life of an infamous crime boss, Bumpy Johnson, who returns to a changed Harlem in the 1960s after spending some time in prison. With the Italians having seized control of his neighborhood in his absence, Bumpy seeks to reclaim his territory.
Why You Should Watch Godfather of Harlem Next
Godfather of Harlemis another exciting crime drama with an intricate plot, rich character development and a mix of political and criminal elements. The standout cast, led by Forest Whitaker’s compelling portrayal of Bumpy Johnson, contributes significantly to the series’ strengths. Not just another gritty crime drama, it offers a unique perspective on organized crime within the historical context of the civil rights movement and the broader social and political landscape of 1960s Harlem. Filled with enough tension and action, this crime drama is a must-watch for fans of the genre.StreamGodfather of Harlemon Hulu
19 Best Short Crime Series You Can Binge in a Day
Running short on time? Here are a few crime shows you can binge in just one day to satisfy your craving for the best genre in current television.
8The Wire (2002-2008)
Spanning five seasons, each focusing on different institutions in the city of Baltimore,The Wirefollows a large ensemble of characters, including law enforcement and those involved and affected by the drug trade.
Why You Should Watch The Wire Next
The Wirehas often been celebrated for its realistic portrayal of urban life and the institutions it explores. Though it starts off slowly, it unveils an intricate storyline that captivates viewers, drawing them into the lives of its characters. Each season not only propels the plot, but also introduces a new perspective, adding layers to enhance viewers’ understanding of the characters and the city they inhabit. With its poignant, intelligent, and authentic storyline,The Wirestands as one of thebest crime shows ever made.StreamThe Wireon Max
7Ozark (2017)
The gripping crime drama,Ozark, premiered on Netflix in 2017 andconcluded after its fourth season. Created by Bill Dubuque and Mark Williams, it revolves around the Byrde family, who find themselves entangled with a Mexican drug cartel after a money laundering scheme goes awry.
Why You Should Watch Ozark Next
Similar toPower Book IV,Ozarkis known for its intense storytelling, complex characters, and suspenseful plot, which lovers of crime dramas often appreciate. Like Tommy, Marty Byrde, the family’s patriarch, faces numerous challenges and conflicts with local criminals, law enforcement, and powerful figures as he tries to establish a criminal enterprise.
WhilePower Book IV: Forceexplores the drug trade,Ozarkdelves into money laundering, delivering a high-quality drama with plenty of action and terrific acting throughout. With its clever, intense and unique approach to a crime saga,Ozarkreminds many ofBreaking Bad.StreamOzarkon Netflix
6The Sopranos (1999-2007)
Crime saga enthusiasts cannot afford to missThe Sopranos, a critically acclaimed HBO original series centered on Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob leader. Juggling his personal life, mental health, and mafia dealings, Tony’s struggles unfold across its six seasons with a realistic and suspenseful plot that often catches viewers off guard.
Why You Should Watch The Sopranos Next
As one of the highest-rated crime shows on Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb,The Sopranosearns its place among the best in the genre. Fans of character-driven stories centered on the lives of criminals, as seen inPower Book IV: Force, will find a gritty yet unpredictable treat. ConsideredTheGodfatherof TV, it authentically portrays mafia life with nuance, without glamorizing it.James Gandolfini’s monumental performance, along with the exceptional cast, contributes to making this series a grand epic in the realm of crime dramas.StreamThe Sopranoson Max
The Sopranos
5Narcos (2015-2017)
While Tommy’s story is mostly fictional,Narcosis grounded in reality. It tells the real-life story of Pablo Escobar and the Colombian drug trade, albeit with some creative liberties. ThisNetflix original seriesillustrates the manhunt for the notorious Colombian drug lord through the perspective of DEA agent Murphy, while also providing some insight into Escobar’s illicit business dealings.
Why You Should Watch Narcos Next
Narcosis a gripping show, earning its place as one of the best shows of 2015, and it maintains its exceptional quality until the end. It features complex characters, well-executed action sequences, and a fast-paced story that keeps the adrenaline pumping. Its story provides insights into the long and complicated life of Escobar and the Medellín Cartel for those interested. The bilingual Spanish-English dialogue and exceptional acting add some level of authenticity to the series.StreamNarcoson Netflix
4Queen of the South (2016-2021)
Based on the novelLa Reina del Surby Spanish author Arturo Perez-Reverte,Queen of the Southfollows Tereza Mandoza as she gets entangled in the drug trade after witnessing her drug dealer boyfriend’s death. Tereza’s journey transforms her from a frightened, poor woman in Mexico into a drug lord feared by many.
Why You Should Watch Queen of the South Next
Queen of the Southhas garnered a dedicated fan base, and its intrigue lies in the fast-paced narrative, plot twists, and the evolution of Tereza’s character. Alice Braga plays her with perfection, showcasing grace, grit, vulnerability, and resilience, creating a multifaceted character that adds depth to the story. Despite some flaws, it is one of those intense and violent shows that captivates from the start, keeping them hooked until the resolution.StreamQueen of the Southon Netflix
10 Underrated British Crime Drama Series
The following British crime dramas are awesome, yet they haven’t achieved the same level of popularity as shows like Peaky Blinders and Top Boy.
3Top Boy (2011-2023)
ABritish crime dramacreated by Ronan Bennett,Top Boyrevolves around the lives of individuals living in the fictional Summerhouse estate, with a primary focus on Dunshane and Sully. Comparable toPower Book IV: Force, it is an intense show depicting how characters navigate the dangerous and violent world of drug trafficking, confronting challenges from law enforcement and rival gangs.
Why You Should Watch Top Boy Next
Top Boyis often lauded for its exploration of the complexities of life in impoverished urban environments as it sheds light on the human stories behind the drug trade. It doesn’t shy away from portraying the grittrier life on the east side of London and the effect of this drug trade on the families of those involved. While maintaining its gritty nature, it excels as both an emotional drama and a subtle socio-political commentary.StreamTop Boyon Netflix
2Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)
Set against the rich historical backdrop of the aftermath of World War I,Peaky Blindersfollows the story of the Shelby family crime gang as they rise to power. Thomas Shelby’s strategic mind and the family’s ability to navigate dangerous waters make for a gripping narrative. It’s a perfect show for lovers of perfectly crafted crime dramas.
Why You Should Watch Peaky Blinders Next
Peaky Blindersoffers an engaging fusion of historical drama, crime, and family saga, boasting strong performances and visually striking cinematography. The characters’ depth and evolution throughout the series contribute to its appeal. The cast, featuring Cilian Murphy, Tom Hardy, Helen McCrory, and others, deliver strong performances. The inclusion of a modern soundtrack enhances its unique and contemporary feel. As one of thebest crime shows on Netflix, it continues to garner praise even after its conclusion in 2022.StreamPeaky Blinderson Netflix
Peaky Blinders
A British ganagster saga set in 1919 post-war Birmingham. Cillian Murphy is Thomas Shelby, leader of the most feared and powerful local gang, the Peaky Blinders. Named for their practice of sewing razor blades into the peaks of their caps, they make money from illegal betting, protection and the black market. But when a crate of guns goes missing from an arms factory, their battle-hardened leader recognizes an opportunity to move up in the world.
Regarded as the greatest television show of all time,Breaking Badunfolds as one of the most unique and touching crime dramas, crafted by the brilliant mind of Vince Gilligan. It tells the story of a high school chemistry teacher, famouslyplayed by comedic actor Bryan Cranston, who turns to manufacturing and selling high-quality crystal meth following a terminal lung cancer diagnosis. To help with the operation, he enlists one of his former students, the foul-mouthed Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul).
Walter’s journey is exceptionally complex as he faces drug dealers, law enforcement, and internal conflicts within his own operation. Renowned for its authentic feel, accentuated by its iconic visual style, it revolves around otherwise ordinary characters, effectively setting it apart from other crime dramas. Its well-written script, coupled with the ability to sustain suspense across five seasons, are some of the reasons it’s consistently praised. If you relish intense dramas featuring morally ambiguous characters, this is worth a watch.StreamBreaking Badon Netflix
Breaking Bad
And if you’re a fan of TV crime dramas, but want to try something a little different, check out these really underrated crime series from Japan in our video essay below.
