If you were captivated by the intense drama and moral ambiguity of Breaking Bad, there are several Netflix shows and films that offer similar thrills. From criminal masterminds to morally complex characters, here are ten options that should satisfy your craving for high-stakes drama and intriguing narratives.
Ozark (2017)
In this gripping drama series, Jason Bateman stars as Marty Byrde, a financial planner who relocates his family to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes awry. To save his family from a dangerous Mexican drug lord, Marty becomes entangled in a web of crime and deception. The series explores themes of family dynamics and survival in a high-pressure environment, echoing the intense, often dangerous decisions seen in Breaking Bad.
Narcos (2015)
Narcos provides a raw and compelling look at the rise of the cocaine trade in Colombia. The series chronicles the real-life stories of notorious drug kingpins like Pablo Escobar and the relentless efforts of law enforcement to bring them down. The gritty portrayal of the drug trade and its consequences is likely to resonate with fans of Breaking Bad’s exploration of criminal empires and law enforcement.
Mindhunter (2017)
This series delves into the psychological aspects of crime, focusing on FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench as they develop modern serial-killer profiling techniques. The show, produced by David Fincher, offers a deep dive into the minds of criminals, showcasing the complexities of criminal behavior and investigation, which fans of Breaking Bad’s dark, psychological themes may find engaging.
Peaky Blinders (2013)
Set in post-World War I Britain, Peaky Blinders follows the Shelby crime family as they navigate the tumultuous landscape of criminal gangs and political ambitions. The show’s portrayal of gang dynamics and strategic maneuvering mirrors the complex criminal activities and power struggles central to Breaking Bad.
Collateral (2018)
In this British thriller, Detective Inspector Kip Glaspie investigates the murder of a pizza delivery driver in London. As the investigation unfolds, she uncovers a web of connections that reveal the darker side of the city’s underworld. The show’s exploration of interconnected criminal activities and moral dilemmas provides a narrative depth similar to that of Breaking Bad.
Blacklist (2013)
Raymond “Red” Reddington, a notorious fugitive, agrees to assist the FBI in capturing dangerous criminals under the condition that he works with profiler Elizabeth Keen. The show explores themes of crime, secrecy, and the complexities of its characters, akin to the intricate plot twists and character dynamics seen in Breaking Bad.
Money Heist (2017)
This Spanish series features a criminal mastermind known as “The Professor” who orchestrates an elaborate heist to print billions of euros in Spain’s Royal Mint. With a team of skilled thieves and a high-stakes situation, the show delivers intense drama and strategic planning reminiscent of the elaborate criminal schemes in Breaking Bad.
Sacred Games (2018)
Set in Mumbai, Sacred Games follows police officer Sartaj Singh as he uncovers the dark underbelly of the city’s criminal world while pursuing the elusive gangster Ganesh Gaitonde. The series weaves together crime, corruption, and intrigue, providing a rich narrative landscape similar to the multi-layered storytelling in Breaking Bad.
Bodyguard (2018)
David Budd, a war veteran and police sergeant, is assigned to protect a controversial politician. The show delves into his internal conflicts, as he struggles with his duty and personal beliefs. The high tension and complex character development in Bodyguard offer a parallel to the intense moral and psychological battles depicted in Breaking Bad.
Top Boy (2011)
This series explores the lives of drug dealers and residents in East London’s housing estates. It portrays the struggles between criminal elements and those trying to lead honest lives amidst the chaos. The show’s gritty realism and exploration of social issues provide a compelling narrative similar to the dramatic and often harsh realities depicted in Breaking Bad.
