Shows Similar to Animal Kingdom: Your Guide to Crime Family Dramas

Craving more of the adrenaline-pumping, morally ambiguous world of the Codys from Animal Kingdom? You’re not alone. The TNT drama, with its sun-soaked Southern California setting and intricate web of familial loyalty and criminal enterprise, captivated audiences for six seasons. But what happens when the credits roll for the last time? This comprehensive guide dives into the best shows similar to Animal Kingdom, offering a curated selection of dramas that explore similar themes of crime, family dynamics, and the intoxicating allure of a life lived on the edge. We’ll go beyond simple recommendations, providing in-depth analyses, feature breakdowns, and our expert verdict on each show, ensuring you find your next binge-worthy obsession.

What Makes a Show Similar to Animal Kingdom?

Before we jump into the recommendations, let’s define what truly makes a show similar to Animal Kingdom. It’s not just about crime; it’s about the complex interplay of family bonds within a criminal underworld. Here are some key elements we considered:

• Family Dynamics: The core of Animal Kingdom is the Cody family’s twisted, yet undeniable, love and loyalty. Shows with similar dysfunctional family relationships are a must.
• Crime & Intrigue: From heists to scams, the thrill of criminal activity is a driving force. We looked for shows with compelling plots and high stakes.
• Moral Ambiguity: Animal Kingdom doesn’t shy away from portraying morally grey characters. We sought out shows where characters make difficult choices, often with devastating consequences.
• Strong Ensemble Cast: The chemistry between the Cody brothers and Smurf was electric. Shows with strong ensemble casts and compelling character development are essential.
• Atmosphere & Setting: The Southern California setting added a unique flavor to Animal Kingdom. While not a requirement, shows with distinctive settings and atmospheres were given extra consideration.

These elements form the foundation of our search for the best shows similar to Animal Kingdom. We’ve carefully curated a list that captures the essence of what made the TNT drama so compelling.

Our Top Picks: Shows to Watch If You Love Animal Kingdom

1. Sons of Anarchy: Brotherhood, Bikes, and Betrayal

Sons of Anarchy is a natural recommendation for fans of Animal Kingdom. This FX drama follows the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, Redwood Original (SAMCRO), in the fictional town of Charming, California. Like the Codys, SAMCRO is a tight-knit group bound by loyalty and involved in criminal activities, including gunrunning and drug trafficking. The show explores the complex relationships between the club members, particularly between Jax Teller, the vice president, and his stepfather, Clay Morrow, the president. The constant power struggles, betrayals, and moral dilemmas make for a gripping and intense viewing experience. Sons of Anarchy delves deep into the themes of family, loyalty, and the consequences of a life of crime, much like Animal Kingdom. The stakes are incredibly high, and the characters are complex and flawed, making their choices all the more compelling.

2. Peaky Blinders: Gangs, Glamour, and Grit in Post-WWI England

While set in a different time and place, Peaky Blinders shares many similarities with Animal Kingdom. This BBC drama follows the Shelby family, a notorious gang in post-World War I Birmingham, England. Led by the charismatic and ruthless Tommy Shelby, the Peaky Blinders engage in various criminal activities, from gambling and protection rackets to smuggling and murder. Like the Codys, the Shelbys are fiercely loyal to one another, but their relationships are often strained by ambition and betrayal. Peaky Blinders boasts stunning visuals, a captivating soundtrack, and a stellar cast. The show explores themes of power, ambition, and the psychological toll of violence, making it a thought-provoking and engaging watch. The historical setting adds another layer of depth, showcasing the social and economic conditions that fueled the rise of organized crime.

3. Queen of the South: From Poverty to Power in the Drug Trade

Queen of the South tells the story of Teresa Mendoza, a poor Mexican woman who rises to become a powerful drug trafficker. After her drug-dealing boyfriend is murdered, Teresa flees to the United States and joins forces with a rival cartel. As she navigates the treacherous world of drug trafficking, Teresa learns to adapt, survive, and ultimately thrive. Queen of the South shares Animal Kingdom’s focus on criminal enterprise and the complex relationships between individuals involved in illicit activities. Teresa’s journey from innocent bystander to ruthless leader is both captivating and empowering. The show explores themes of survival, ambition, and the corrupting influence of power. The international setting adds a unique flavor, showcasing the global reach of the drug trade.

4. Ozark: Money Laundering, Family Secrets, and a Life on the Run

Ozark centers on Marty Byrde, a financial advisor who relocates his family from Chicago to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong. Marty must launder millions of dollars for a dangerous drug cartel to save his family’s lives. As the Byrdes become entangled in the criminal underworld of the Ozarks, they face constant threats from local criminals, rival cartels, and even their own family secrets. Ozark shares Animal Kingdom’s focus on the lengths people will go to protect their family and the moral compromises they make along the way. The show is dark, suspenseful, and features stellar performances from Jason Bateman and Laura Linney. The setting of the Ozarks adds a unique and unsettling atmosphere, highlighting the isolation and desperation of the characters.

5. Bloodline: Secrets, Lies, and a Family’s Dark Past

Bloodline is a Netflix drama that follows the Rayburn family, a prominent family in the Florida Keys. When the eldest son, Danny, returns home, long-buried secrets and resentments resurface, threatening to tear the family apart. As the Rayburns struggle to maintain their image and protect their legacy, they become entangled in a web of lies, deceit, and violence. Bloodline shares Animal Kingdom’s focus on dysfunctional family dynamics and the dark secrets that can fester beneath the surface. The show is character-driven, with strong performances from Kyle Chandler, Ben Mendelsohn, and Sissy Spacek. The setting of the Florida Keys adds a sense of idyllic beauty that contrasts sharply with the darkness that lurks beneath. The show expertly builds tension and suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

6. Snowfall: The Crack Epidemic and its Impact on Los Angeles

Snowfall explores the crack cocaine epidemic and its impact on Los Angeles in the 1980s. The show follows several characters whose lives intersect as the drug trade explodes, including Franklin Saint, a young street entrepreneur; Gustavo Zapata, a Mexican wrestler turned gangster; and Teddy McDonald, a CIA operative. Snowfall shares Animal Kingdom’s focus on the allure of criminal enterprise and the consequences of a life of crime. The show is gritty, realistic, and features strong performances from Damson Idris and Carter Hudson. The historical setting adds a layer of authenticity, showcasing the social and economic factors that contributed to the crack epidemic.

7. Banshee: A Sheriff with a Dark Past

Banshee is an action-packed Cinemax series that follows an ex-con who assumes the identity of the sheriff of a small Pennsylvania town. While trying to evade his past and protect the town from various threats, he often resorts to his old criminal ways. Like Animal Kingdom, Banshee features a protagonist with questionable morals and a compelling past. The show is known for its intense action sequences, complex characters, and morally ambiguous storylines. The small-town setting adds a sense of claustrophobia and danger, as secrets and conflicts simmer beneath the surface.

Feature Analysis: Key Elements of Shows Similar to Animal Kingdom

Let’s delve deeper into the specific features that make these shows appealing to fans of Animal Kingdom:

1. Complex Family Dynamics: These shows explore the intricacies of family relationships, often highlighting dysfunction, loyalty, and betrayal. For instance, in Bloodline, the Rayburn family’s secrets unravel as the series progresses, leading to devastating consequences. This is a critical element as it represents the core themes of Animal Kingdom.
2. Intense Criminal Activities: From drug trafficking to money laundering, these shows immerse viewers in the high-stakes world of crime. Ozark showcases the challenges of laundering money for a drug cartel, demonstrating the risks and moral compromises involved. It’s the element of danger and unpredictability that keeps audiences hooked.
3. Morally Ambiguous Characters: The characters in these shows often operate in a grey area, making difficult choices with far-reaching consequences. Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders exemplifies this, as he navigates the criminal underworld with both ruthlessness and a sense of loyalty to his family.
4. Strong Ensemble Casts: These shows feature talented actors who bring their characters to life, creating believable and engaging performances. The cast of Sons of Anarchy, for example, portrays the camaraderie and conflict within a motorcycle club with remarkable authenticity.
5. Compelling Storylines: The plots of these shows are filled with twists, turns, and unexpected developments, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Queen of the South follows Teresa Mendoza’s transformation from a naive woman to a powerful drug lord, a journey filled with challenges and betrayals.
6. Atmospheric Settings: The settings of these shows contribute to the overall mood and tone, creating a sense of place and enhancing the viewing experience. The sun-drenched Florida Keys in Bloodline, for instance, provide a stark contrast to the dark secrets that haunt the Rayburn family.
7. Exploration of Power Dynamics: These shows often explore the themes of power, ambition, and the corrupting influence of wealth. Snowfall examines the impact of the crack cocaine epidemic on Los Angeles, showcasing the power struggles between drug dealers, law enforcement, and government agencies.

Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value

Watching shows similar to Animal Kingdom offers several benefits:

• Escapism: These shows provide an escape from the mundane, immersing viewers in a world of drama, suspense, and intrigue.
• Entertainment: With their compelling storylines and engaging characters, these shows offer hours of entertainment.
• Exploration of Complex Themes: These shows often tackle complex themes such as family, loyalty, morality, and the consequences of choices.
• Character Development: Observing characters navigate challenging situations and make difficult decisions can provide insights into human nature.
• Stress Relief: For some, engaging with fictional drama can be a way to relieve stress and process emotions.
• Social Connection: Discussing these shows with friends and family can foster social connection and create shared experiences.
• Exposure to Different Cultures: Some of these shows offer a glimpse into different cultures and perspectives, broadening viewers’ horizons.

Expert Q&A: Common Questions About Shows Similar to Animal Kingdom

1. Q: What if I’m looking for something less violent than *Animal Kingdom* but with similar family dynamics?

   A: Try *Succession*. While the stakes are different (corporate power instead of crime), the dysfunctional family dynamics and power struggles are very similar.

2. Q: Are there any shows with a female lead that capture the same essence as *Animal Kingdom*?

   A: *Queen of the South* is an excellent choice. It follows a woman’s rise in the drug trade, showcasing her strength and resilience in a male-dominated world.

3. Q: I enjoyed the California setting of *Animal Kingdom*. Are there any similar shows set in that region?

   A: *Snowfall*, while focused on a different era, is set in Los Angeles and explores the impact of the crack cocaine epidemic.

4. Q: I liked the heist aspect of *Animal Kingdom*. Are there any shows that focus more on elaborate heists?

   A: *Leverage* is a fun, action-packed series about a team of con artists who use their skills to help those who have been wronged.

5. Q: What show has the most similar tone and pacing to *Animal Kingdom*?

   A: *Sons of Anarchy* is probably the closest in terms of pacing, violence, and focus on a tight-knit group involved in criminal activities.

6. Q: Are there any shows similar to *Animal Kingdom* available on streaming services like Netflix?

   A: Yes, *Ozark* and *Bloodline* are both Netflix originals that share similar themes of family secrets and moral compromises.

7. Q: Which show has the best character development, similar to how the Cody brothers evolved?

   A: *Peaky Blinders* offers excellent character development, showing the Shelby family’s transformation as they navigate the criminal underworld.

8. Q: What show has the most unexpected plot twists and turns?

   A: *Queen of the South* is known for its unpredictable storyline, keeping viewers constantly guessing.

9. Q: Are there any international shows similar to *Animal Kingdom*?

   A: *Peaky Blinders* (UK) and *Queen of the South* (USA, based on a Spanish-language telenovela) offer international perspectives on crime and family.

10. Q: Which of these shows is the most critically acclaimed?

    A: *Peaky Blinders* and *Ozark* have received widespread critical acclaim for their writing, acting, and directing.

Conclusion: Your Next Binge-Worthy Adventure Awaits

Finding a show that captures the same essence as Animal Kingdom can be a challenge, but hopefully, this guide has provided you with a solid starting point. From the motorcycle gangs of Sons of Anarchy to the drug cartels of Queen of the South, these shows offer a similar blend of crime, family drama, and moral ambiguity. Remember to consider your personal preferences when choosing your next binge-worthy adventure. Do you prefer a historical setting? Then Peaky Blinders might be for you. Are you looking for a strong female lead? Then Queen of the South is an excellent choice. Whatever your preference, we’re confident that you’ll find a show on this list that will keep you entertained and engaged. Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below. Let us know which shows you’ve enjoyed and what makes them similar to Animal Kingdom!