## Craving Crime Family Drama? Top TV Shows Like Animal Kingdom on Netflix
Are you reeling from the explosive family dynamics, high-stakes heists, and sun-soaked Southern California setting of *Animal Kingdom* and looking for your next binge? You’re not alone. The show’s unique blend of criminal enterprise and dysfunctional family bonds captivated audiences, leaving many searching for similar thrills. This guide isn’t just a list; it’s your curated roadmap to the best TV shows like *Animal Kingdom* on Netflix and beyond, ensuring your next watch is just as gripping. We’ll delve into the core elements that made *Animal Kingdom* so addictive and point you towards series that deliver similar doses of adrenaline, family conflict, and moral ambiguity. Get ready to explore a world of complex characters, intricate plots, and edge-of-your-seat suspense.
### What Makes *Animal Kingdom* So Addictive?
*Animal Kingdom*’s appeal lies in its masterful blend of several key ingredients:
* **Dysfunctional Family Dynamics:** At its heart, *Animal Kingdom* is a story about family – albeit a deeply flawed and criminal one. The Cody family, led by the matriarchal Smurf, operates on a unique code, blending love, loyalty, and manipulation. This complex dynamic is a constant source of tension and drama.
* **High-Stakes Heists:** The show consistently delivers thrilling heist sequences, showcasing meticulous planning, nerve-wracking execution, and the ever-present risk of capture. These heists provide the adrenaline rush that keeps viewers hooked.
* **Moral Ambiguity:** None of the characters are purely good or evil. They operate in a gray area, making difficult choices and crossing moral lines to survive. This moral ambiguity adds depth and complexity to their motivations.
* **Southern California Setting:** The sunny beaches, sprawling mansions, and laid-back lifestyle of Southern California provide a stark contrast to the dangerous world of crime, creating a visually appealing and intriguing backdrop.
### Finding Shows That Scratch the *Animal Kingdom* Itch
When searching for *tv shows like animal kingdom on netflix* (or elsewhere), it’s essential to identify what aspects of the show resonate with you most. Are you drawn to the family drama, the heists, or the moral complexities? This will help you narrow down your search and find shows that truly satisfy your craving.
## Beyond *Animal Kingdom*: Your Guide to Crime Family Dramas
Here’s a list of shows that capture different aspects of *Animal Kingdom*’s appeal, offering a range of viewing experiences:
### 1. *Peaky Blinders* (Netflix)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** If you’re captivated by the criminal family element and the historical setting, *Peaky Blinders* is a must-watch. Set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, it follows the Shelby family, a notorious gang known for their razor-blade-sewn caps. The show boasts a compelling storyline, stellar performances, and a gritty atmosphere.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** Both shows center around a tight-knit family involved in organized crime, led by a strong and charismatic leader. They explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the struggle for power.
### 2. *Ozark* (Netflix)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** *Ozark* delivers the high-stakes tension and moral compromises that define *Animal Kingdom*. A financial advisor drags his family from Chicago to the Missouri Ozarks, where he must launder money for a drug cartel to save their lives. The intensity builds with each episode.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** Both series feature families forced into a life of crime, making increasingly desperate decisions to protect themselves and their loved ones. The stakes are incredibly high, and the consequences are dire.
### 3. *Queen of the South* (Netflix)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** For those drawn to the criminal underworld and the strong female lead of Smurf, *Queen of the South* offers a compelling alternative. It tells the story of Teresa Mendoza, a poor woman who rises to become a powerful drug trafficker in Mexico.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** Both shows feature characters navigating a dangerous world of crime, making difficult choices to survive. They also explore themes of power, ambition, and the corrupting influence of money.
### 4. *Sons of Anarchy* (Hulu)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** *Sons of Anarchy* explores a similar family dynamic within the context of a motorcycle club involved in illegal activities. The show delves into the complexities of loyalty, brotherhood, and the struggle to maintain control.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** Both series depict a close-knit group operating outside the law, grappling with internal conflicts and external threats. They also explore themes of family, loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime.
### 5. *Bloodline* (Netflix – Discontinued, but Worth Watching)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** *Bloodline* presents a dark and twisted family saga set against the backdrop of the Florida Keys. When the black sheep son returns home, he unearths secrets that threaten to destroy the family’s carefully constructed facade.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** Both shows explore the complexities of family relationships, the weight of past secrets, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their own. The setting also offers a similar sun-drenched atmosphere.
### 6. *Mr. Inbetween* (Hulu)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** *Mr. Inbetween* offers a darkly comedic and surprisingly human portrayal of a hitman trying to balance his criminal life with his responsibilities as a father and friend. The show is known for its realistic violence and complex characters.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** While not strictly a family drama, *Mr. Inbetween* explores the challenges of navigating a life of crime while maintaining personal relationships. It offers a similar blend of dark humor and moral ambiguity.
### 7. *Power* (Starz)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** *Power* follows James “Ghost” St. Patrick, a wealthy nightclub owner who leads a double life as a major drug dealer. The show explores his struggle to leave the criminal world behind and build a legitimate empire.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** *Power* delves into the allure and dangers of a life of crime, the complexities of power dynamics, and the challenges of maintaining a facade of respectability. The high-stakes drama and complex characters will appeal to fans of *Animal Kingdom*.
### 8. *Narcos* (Netflix)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** *Narcos* provides a gripping, fact-based account of the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar and the Medellin drug cartel. The show features intense action sequences, complex characters, and a fascinating glimpse into the world of drug trafficking.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** While not focused on a single family, *Narcos* explores the inner workings of a criminal organization, the power struggles within it, and the devastating consequences of a life of crime. The high stakes and constant threat of violence will resonate with viewers who enjoy *Animal Kingdom*.
### 9. *Sneaky Pete* (Amazon Prime Video)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** *Sneaky Pete* follows a con man who assumes the identity of his former cellmate to escape his past. He becomes embroiled in the family’s criminal enterprise, navigating a world of lies, deception, and danger.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** *Sneaky Pete* features a protagonist navigating a complex family dynamic within a criminal underworld. The show explores themes of identity, deception, and the consequences of past actions.
### 10. *Animal Kingdom* (TNT – All Seasons Available for Purchase)
* **Why You’ll Love It:** This might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that if you loved the original *Animal Kingdom* and haven’t seen all the seasons, catching up is a great option. While not on Netflix currently, the seasons are available for purchase on various platforms.
* **Similarities to *Animal Kingdom*:** It’s the same show! More Cody family drama, heists, and sun-soaked Southern California crime.
## Deeper Dive: The Allure of Crime Dramas
Crime dramas like *Animal Kingdom* hold a unique appeal for viewers. They offer a glimpse into a world that is both dangerous and exciting, where the stakes are high and the consequences are real. These shows often explore complex moral issues, forcing viewers to confront difficult questions about right and wrong. They also provide a form of escapism, allowing us to vicariously experience a life that is far removed from our own.
### The Psychology Behind Our Fascination
Our fascination with crime dramas can be attributed to several psychological factors:
* **Thrill of the Unknown:** Crime dramas offer a glimpse into a world that is often shrouded in secrecy. We are drawn to the mystery and intrigue of the criminal underworld.
* **Vicarious Risk-Taking:** Watching characters engage in risky behavior allows us to experience a thrill without facing the real-world consequences.
* **Moral Exploration:** Crime dramas often explore complex moral issues, forcing us to confront our own beliefs and values.
* **Catharsis:** Watching characters overcome challenges and achieve justice (or at least some form of resolution) can provide a sense of catharsis.
## The Future of Crime Dramas on Streaming Services
The popularity of crime dramas shows no signs of waning. With the rise of streaming services, viewers have access to a wider range of content than ever before. This has led to a surge in the production of high-quality crime dramas, with networks and streaming platforms competing to create the next big hit. As streaming services continue to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and compelling crime dramas in the future.
### The Impact of Streaming on the Genre
Streaming services have had a profound impact on the crime drama genre:
* **Increased Production:** Streaming services have invested heavily in original content, leading to a surge in the production of crime dramas.
* **Greater Diversity:** Streaming services have allowed for a greater diversity of voices and perspectives in crime dramas.
* **Binge-Watching Culture:** The binge-watching culture fostered by streaming services has allowed viewers to become more deeply invested in crime dramas.
## Expert Review: Analyzing the Elements of a Great Crime Drama
What makes a crime drama truly stand out? Based on expert consensus and our extensive viewing experience, several key elements contribute to a show’s success:
* **Compelling Characters:** The characters must be well-developed, complex, and relatable (even if they are criminals).
* **Intricate Plot:** The plot must be engaging, suspenseful, and full of twists and turns.
* **Realistic Dialogue:** The dialogue must sound natural and authentic, reflecting the way people actually speak in the real world.
* **Strong Visuals:** The show must be visually appealing, with a distinctive style and atmosphere.
* **Moral Ambiguity:** The show should explore complex moral issues, forcing viewers to confront difficult questions.
## Q&A: Your Burning Questions About Crime Dramas Answered
Here are some common questions about crime dramas, answered by our team of expert reviewers:
**Q1: What are the key differences between crime dramas and police procedurals?**
*A1: Crime dramas typically focus on the lives of criminals, exploring their motivations and the consequences of their actions. Police procedurals, on the other hand, focus on the investigation of crimes from the perspective of law enforcement.*
**Q2: What makes a crime drama morally ambiguous?**
*A2: A morally ambiguous crime drama features characters who are not purely good or evil, making difficult choices and crossing moral lines to achieve their goals. The show often challenges viewers to question their own beliefs about right and wrong.*
**Q3: Are there any crime dramas that are based on true stories?**
*A3: Yes, many crime dramas are based on true stories. Examples include *Narcos*, which tells the story of Pablo Escobar, and *The People v. O.J. Simpson*, which dramatizes the O.J. Simpson murder trial.*
**Q4: What are some of the most common tropes in crime dramas?**
*A4: Some common tropes in crime dramas include the corrupt cop, the femme fatale, the double-cross, and the redemption arc.*
**Q5: How has the portrayal of women in crime dramas changed over time?**
*A5: In the past, women in crime dramas were often relegated to supporting roles or portrayed as victims. However, in recent years, there has been a growing trend towards more complex and empowering female characters.*
**Q6: What are some of the ethical considerations involved in creating crime dramas?**
*A6: Some ethical considerations include the potential to glorify violence, the risk of perpetuating harmful stereotypes, and the responsibility to accurately portray the criminal justice system.*
**Q7: How do crime dramas reflect societal anxieties and fears?**
*A7: Crime dramas often reflect societal anxieties and fears about crime, violence, and the breakdown of social order. They can also serve as a way to explore these issues in a safe and controlled environment.*
**Q8: What are some of the most influential crime dramas of all time?**
*A8: Some of the most influential crime dramas of all time include *The Sopranos*, *The Wire*, and *Breaking Bad*. These shows have helped to shape the genre and have had a lasting impact on popular culture.*
**Q9: How has the rise of streaming services affected the quality of crime dramas?**
*A9: The rise of streaming services has led to a greater investment in original content, resulting in a surge in the production of high-quality crime dramas.*
**Q10: What are some of the emerging trends in crime drama storytelling?**
*A10: Some emerging trends in crime drama storytelling include the use of more diverse casts, the exploration of more complex moral issues, and the blurring of the lines between good and evil.*
## Conclusion: Your Next Crime Drama Awaits
Finding *tv shows like animal kingdom on netflix* can be a rewarding journey. By understanding what you loved about the original series, you can explore a wide range of crime dramas that offer similar thrills, complex characters, and moral challenges. From the gritty streets of Birmingham in *Peaky Blinders* to the sun-drenched beaches of Southern California, there’s a world of crime waiting to be discovered. We hope this guide has provided you with a solid starting point for your next binge-watching adventure. Now, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be captivated by the dark and compelling world of crime dramas. Share your favorite crime dramas in the comments below and let us know which shows you plan to watch next!
