“Peaky Blinders” has captivated audiences with its intense drama, complex characters, and atmospheric portrayal of post-World War I Birmingham. If you’re looking for films that capture a similar vibe, here are 10 recommendations:
- Gangs of New York (2002)
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Synopsis: Directed by Martin Scorsese, this epic historical drama explores the violent underworld of 19th-century New York City. The film follows Amsterdam Vallon as he seeks revenge against Bill “The Butcher” Cutting, the powerful and ruthless leader of the city’s most notorious gang.
- Similarities: Gritty portrayal of gang life, period setting, complex characters.
- The Godfather (1972)
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Synopsis: This classic film by Francis Ford Coppola tells the story of the powerful Corleone crime family in post-World War II America. As Michael Corleone reluctantly takes over the family business, he navigates betrayal, violence, and power struggles.
- Similarities: Family loyalty, criminal empire, power dynamics.
- Lawless (2012)
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Synopsis: Set during the Prohibition era, “Lawless” follows the Bondurant brothers as they run a successful moonshine operation in rural Virginia. Their business attracts the attention of corrupt law enforcement and rival bootleggers, leading to a violent confrontation.
- Similarities: Bootlegging, family bonds, period setting.
- Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014)
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Synopsis: Although it’s a TV series, “Boardwalk Empire” offers a rich, intricate portrayal of Prohibition-era Atlantic City. It follows political figure Enoch “Nucky” Thompson as he navigates the world of organized crime, corruption, and political machinations.
- Similarities: Prohibition era, complex characters, power struggles.
- Public Enemies (2009)
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Synopsis: This biographical crime drama directed by Michael Mann chronicles the life of notorious bank robber John Dillinger. Set during the Great Depression, the film depicts Dillinger’s daring heists and his pursuit by the FBI.
- Similarities: Historical setting, charismatic anti-hero, crime drama.
- The Untouchables (1987)
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Synopsis: Directed by Brian De Palma, “The Untouchables” tells the story of federal agent Eliot Ness’s efforts to bring down Al Capone during Prohibition. Ness assembles a team of incorruptible officers to take on the notorious gangster.
- Similarities: Prohibition era, crime fighting, intense drama.
- Eastern Promises (2007)
- Genre: Crime/Thriller
- Synopsis: Directed by David Cronenberg, this thriller delves into the Russian mafia in London. The film follows a midwife who becomes entangled with a dangerous criminal organization while trying to protect a newborn baby.
- Similarities: Gritty crime drama, organized crime, intense atmosphere.
- The Departed (2006)
- Genre: Crime/Drama/Thriller
- Synopsis: Directed by Martin Scorsese, “The Departed” is a tense thriller about an undercover cop and a mole in the police force, both trying to identify each other. Set in Boston, the film explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and deception.
- Similarities: Crime underworld, complex characters, intense drama.
- Snatch (2000)
- Genre: Crime/Comedy
- Synopsis: Directed by Guy Ritchie, this film intertwines multiple storylines involving a stolen diamond, underground boxing, and eccentric characters. Its fast-paced, witty dialogue and gritty London setting make it a memorable crime caper.
- Similarities: British crime, colorful characters, dark humor.
- Legend (2015)
- Genre: Crime/Drama
- Synopsis: Tom Hardy stars in this biographical crime thriller as both Ronnie and Reggie Kray, twin brothers who ruled London’s criminal underworld in the 1960s. The film explores their rise to power and the intense bond between them.
- Similarities: British gangsters, family dynamics, intense performances.