If You Love Animal Kingdom, You’ll Obsess Over These Shows
“Animal Kingdom,” the TNT crime drama centered around the Cody family and their life of organized crime in Oceanside, California, captivated audiences for six seasons with its complex characters, thrilling heists, and exploration of familial loyalty. If you found yourself drawn to the adrenaline-pumping action and the intricate web of relationships within the Cody clan, you’re likely searching for shows similar to Animal Kingdom. Luckily, there are plenty of series that offer similar themes, tones, and compelling narratives. This article will delve into some of the best shows similar to Animal Kingdom that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Crime Family Dramas
One of the core elements of “Animal Kingdom” is the dysfunctional family dynamic at the heart of the criminal enterprise. Several other shows similar to Animal Kingdom explore this theme with equal depth and intensity.
Peaky Blinders
Set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, “Peaky Blinders” follows the Shelby family, a notorious gang known for their razor-blade-sewn caps. Led by the ambitious and ruthless Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy), the Peaky Blinders navigate the treacherous world of organized crime, dealing with rival gangs, corrupt officials, and their own internal conflicts. The show’s focus on family loyalty, power struggles, and the consequences of a life of crime makes it a compelling watch for fans of shows similar to Animal Kingdom. The historical setting and stylized violence add another layer of intrigue.
Sons of Anarchy
“Sons of Anarchy” delves into the world of a motorcycle club involved in illegal activities in the fictional town of Charming, California. Jax Teller (Charlie Hunnam), the club’s vice president, grapples with the legacy of his father, the club’s founder, and tries to steer the club away from violence and towards a more legitimate path. However, the allure of power and the constant threat from rival gangs and law enforcement make it a difficult task. Like “Animal Kingdom,” “Sons of Anarchy” explores themes of brotherhood, betrayal, and the cost of a life lived outside the law. If you enjoy shows similar to Animal Kingdom with a strong emphasis on family and loyalty, this is an excellent choice.
Queen of the South
Based on the novel “La Reina del Sur” by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, “Queen of the South” tells the story of Teresa Mendoza (Alice Braga), a poor Mexican woman who rises to become a powerful drug queenpin. Forced to flee Mexico after her drug-trafficking boyfriend is murdered, Teresa builds her own empire, navigating the dangerous world of cartels and DEA agents. Her journey is one of survival, ambition, and the constant need to protect herself and her loved ones. The show’s strong female lead and its exploration of the drug trade make it a unique and captivating series. The themes of survival and building an empire from nothing resonates with fans of shows similar to Animal Kingdom, particularly those interested in the criminal underworld.
Heist and Thriller Series
“Animal Kingdom” is known for its elaborate heists and thrilling action sequences. If you’re looking for shows similar to Animal Kingdom that offer similar excitement, consider these options:
Ozark
When a financial advisor, Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman), gets caught up in a money-laundering scheme for a Mexican drug cartel, he is forced to relocate his family to the Ozarks and set up a new operation to repay his debt. “Ozark” is a gripping thriller that explores the dark side of the American dream and the lengths people will go to protect their families. The show’s complex characters, suspenseful plot twists, and stunning visuals make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas. Like “Animal Kingdom,” “Ozark” features a family drawn into a life of crime, forced to make difficult choices with high stakes. Many find these shows similar to Animal Kingdom in that aspect.
Sneaky Pete
After being released from prison, Marius Josipović (Giovanni Ribisi) assumes the identity of his former cellmate, Pete Murphy, to evade his past and start a new life. He ingratiates himself with Pete’s estranged family, who are unaware of his true identity and involve him in their bail bond business. “Sneaky Pete” is a clever and entertaining crime drama with plenty of twists and turns. The show’s focus on deception, identity, and the complexities of family relationships makes it a compelling watch. The constant threat of exposure keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, much like the tension in shows similar to Animal Kingdom.
Money Heist (La Casa de Papel)
A criminal mastermind known as “The Professor” recruits a group of skilled criminals to execute an ambitious plan to rob the Royal Mint of Spain. “Money Heist” is a high-octane thriller with plenty of action, suspense, and unexpected twists. The show’s complex characters, intricate plot, and stylish visuals have made it a global phenomenon. If you enjoy the heist aspect of “Animal Kingdom,” “Money Heist” will provide a similar thrill, with even more elaborate planning and execution. The international setting and complex characters set this apart from other shows similar to Animal Kingdom, but the core theme of crime and family (or in this case, a team) remains.
Shows with Complex Family Dynamics
Beyond the crime element, “Animal Kingdom” also excels at portraying complex family relationships. These shows similar to Animal Kingdom also explore the intricacies of familial bonds.
Succession
“Succession” follows the Roy family, who own a global media and entertainment conglomerate. As the aging patriarch, Logan Roy (Brian Cox), considers retirement, his children vie for control of the company, leading to power struggles, betrayals, and bitter rivalries. “Succession” is a sharp and satirical drama that explores themes of wealth, power, and the corrosive effects of ambition. While not explicitly a crime drama, the show’s focus on family dysfunction and cutthroat business dealings makes it a captivating watch. The dynamics of the Roy family resonate with the Cody family of “Animal Kingdom,” making it a great choice if you’re seeking shows similar to Animal Kingdom with complex family relationships.
Bloodline
Set in the Florida Keys, “Bloodline” centers on the Rayburn family, who are pillars of their community. However, their secrets and lies begin to unravel when the black sheep of the family, Danny (Ben Mendelsohn), returns home. “Bloodline” is a dark and atmospheric drama that explores themes of guilt, betrayal, and the destructive power of family secrets. The show’s slow-burn suspense and compelling characters make it a gripping watch. The family dynamic, similar to shows similar to Animal Kingdom, is at the heart of the story.
Shameless
“Shameless” follows the Gallagher family, a dysfunctional and impoverished family living on the South Side of Chicago. Led by the alcoholic patriarch, Frank (William H. Macy), the Gallagher children must fend for themselves and navigate the challenges of poverty, addiction, and the criminal underworld. While “Shameless” is a comedy-drama, it also explores serious themes of family loyalty, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. The Gallagher family, while very different from the Cody family, shares a similar sense of unwavering loyalty and a willingness to do whatever it takes to survive. While the tone is different, the themes make it one of the shows similar to Animal Kingdom on this list.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for shows similar to Animal Kingdom, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re drawn to the crime family dramas, the thrilling heists, or the complex family dynamics, there’s a show out there that will capture your attention. From “Peaky Blinders” to “Ozark” to “Succession,” these series offer compelling narratives, complex characters, and plenty of suspense to keep you entertained. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be captivated by these thrilling and engaging shows similar to Animal Kingdom. Each offers a unique perspective on crime, family, and the choices we make.
[See also: Best Crime Dramas on Netflix]
[See also: Shows Like Ozark You Need to Watch]
[See also: Top Family Drama TV Series]
