There are lots of getaways for people when it comes to movies, but I happen to find crime movies amazing. This might seem weird for some of you but this is my default go to movies, when I say crime movies, it is mostly drug related.
Yeah, I know that’s what I mean (NARCOS). I know some of you find violence not a thing to watch but sometimes I’ve got to say, you have to admire the level of planning and sophistication some of these cartels will go to get their merchandise to their distributors and target market.
Not to bore you with all my ramblings, here are the list in no particular order and I hope you come to love them also.
NARCOS
Narcos (2015-2017) is a three season drug movie based on the story of the Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar. It is an American crime drama television series created and produced by Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, and Doug Miro. The series is set and filmed in Columbia, the first two seasons are based on the story of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, who became a billionaire through the production and distribution of cocaine. The series also focuses on Escobar’s interactions with other drug lords, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents, and various opposition entities.
Season 3 of Narcos picks up after the fall and death of Escobar and continues to follow the DEA as they try to shut down the rise of the infamous Cali Cartel.
Pedro Pascal and Wagner Moura delivered a standout performances, making the complex world of crime and justice come alive on screen. Narcos isn’t just about action; it’s a riveting exploration of power, ambition, and the human cost of the drug trade. If you enjoy compelling dramas with rich historical context, then Narcos is a must-watch for you.
Watch trailer here
Queen of the South
If you’re looking for a riveting, high-stakes drama that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Queen of the South (2016 – 2021) is a show you won’t want to miss. This series is a powerful blend of thrilling action, complex characters, and intricate plots, making it a standout in the world of crime dramas.
The series centers around Teresa Mendoza, a remarkable character portrayed by Alice Braga with depth and intensity. Her journey from a humble start in Mexico to becoming a powerful drug queenpin in the U.S. is nothing short of captivating. Braga’s performance is both gritty and nuanced, bringing Teresa’s strength and vulnerability to life.
What makes Queen of the South particularly engaging is its ability to balance intense drama with moments of personal reflection. The show delves deep into the consequences of Teresa’s choices, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and survival. The supporting cast, including actors like Hemky Madera and Veronica Falcon, enrich the story with their dynamic performances and complex roles.
One of the most impressive aspects of Queen of the South is its portrayal of a strong, independent female lead in a genre often dominated by male characters. Teresa Mendoza’s evolution from a vulnerable woman to a formidable leader is both empowering and inspiring.
Watch trailer here
Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad (2008-2013) is an extraordinary journey into the dark and morally complex world of Walter White, a desperate high school chemistry teacher battling cancer turned methamphetamine manufacturer and power-hungry drug lord with unparalleled depth and nuance. This series is created by Vince Gilligan, it is nothing short of a masterpiece, showing the transformation of an ordinary man into a ruthless antihero. Its brilliance lies not only in its gripping plot and masterful storytelling but also in its deep exploration of human nature, morality, and the consequences of choices.
What sets Breaking Bad apart is its meticulous attention to detail and its unwavering commitment to its characters’ arcs. The writing is sharp, intelligent, and often poetic, blending dark humor with intense drama.
Breaking Bad is not just a crime drama; it is a profound exploration of the human condition. It delves into themes of power, greed, family, and the moral ambiguity of right and wrong. The series challenges viewers to question their own moral compass and the lengths they would go to for survival and self-preservation.
Watch trailer here
Weeds
Weeds (2005-2012) is a captivating and often underappreciated gem in the world of television drama-comedy series. Created by Jenji Kohan, it tells the story of Nancy Botwin, a suburban widow who turns to selling marijuana to maintain her affluent lifestyle after her husband’s sudden death. The show skillfully blends dark humor, social commentary, and an exploration of the American dream’s seedy underbelly, making it a truly unique viewing experience.
Mary-Louise Parker’s portrayal of Nancy Botwin is nothing short of phenomenal. She brings a perfect balance of vulnerability, wit, and toughness to the character, making Nancy a complex and relatable protagonist. Parker’s ability to convey Nancy’s desperation, resilience, and moral ambiguity is captivating. As Nancy navigates the dangerous and often absurd world of drug dealing, her character evolves in unexpected and compelling ways, keeping viewers hooked.
The supporting cast of Weeds is equally impressive. Elizabeth Perkins as the sharp-tongued, hilariously cynical Celia Hodes is a standout. Her character adds a layer of biting satire and unfiltered commentary on suburban life. Justin Kirk, Hunter Parrish, and Alexander Gould, who play Nancy’s sons, Andy, Silas, and Shane, respectively, provide a nuanced portrayal of a family grappling with the consequences of their mother’s choices. Their performances add depth and authenticity to the show’s exploration of family dynamics and loyalty.
Weeds is not without its flaws. Some plotlines can feel a bit outlandish, and certain seasons lose a bit of the sharp focus that defines the earlier episodes. However, even at its weakest, the show remains entertaining and engaging, thanks to its strong characters and witty dialogue.
The series excels in its ability to tackle serious and often controversial topics with humor and wit. It doesn’t shy away from exploring the complexities of drug legalization, the hypocrisy of suburban life, and the moral gray areas its characters inhabit. The show’s writing is sharp, intelligent, and often thought-provoking, seamlessly blending comedy with moments of genuine emotional depth.
Weeds is a bold, witty, and thought-provoking series that offers a fresh take on the suburban dramedy genre. It is a show that challenges societal norms and explores the lengths to which people will go to protect and provide for their loved ones.
Watch trailer here
Yankee
Yankee (2019) is a gripping and intense series that plunges viewers into the dark and perilous world of drug trafficking on the U.S.-Mexico border. Created by Diego Enrique Osorno, this Mexican crime drama delivers a raw and unflinching look at the complexities and brutal realities of the drug trade, making for a truly captivating viewing experience.
The series follows Malcolm Moriarty, a Texan entrepreneur who becomes a fugitive after crossing into Mexico to escape the U.S. authorities. With little choice, he becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of the cartel. Pablo Lyle’s portrayal of Malcolm is both compelling and multifaceted. Lyle brings a magnetic intensity to the character, capturing Malcolm’s transformation from a desperate man on the run to a cunning and ruthless player in the cartel world. His performance is nuanced, showcasing Malcolm’s internal struggle between his moral compass and the necessity to survive in a ruthless environment.
One of the most compelling aspects of Yankee is its exploration of identity and survival. Malcolm’s journey is not just a physical one but also a profound internal struggle. As he delves deeper into the criminal underworld, he grapples with his sense of self and the sacrifices he must make. This exploration of identity, combined with the high-stakes drama, makes Yankee a deeply engaging and thought-provoking series.
The series presents a raw and unfiltered look at the lengths one man will go to protect his family and survive in a brutal environment. It’s a dark, thrilling ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Watch trailer here
El Chapo
El Chapo (2017-2018) is a riveting and intense series that delves into the life of one of the most infamous drug lords in history, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. Created by Silvana Aguirre and Carlos Contreras, the series offers a gritty and unflinching portrayal of El Chapo’s rise from a low-level member of the Guadalajara Cartel to the head of the powerful Sinaloa Cartel. It’s a compelling journey through the dark and dangerous world of drug trafficking, power struggles, and the relentless pursuit of wealth and influence.
The series is anchored by the outstanding performance of Marco de la O, who brings El Chapo to life with a mix of charisma, cunning, and ruthless ambition. De la O’s portrayal is nuanced and multifaceted, capturing the complexities of a man who is both a criminal mastermind and a deeply flawed human being. His performance makes it impossible to look away, as he navigates the treacherous waters of cartel politics, law enforcement crackdowns, and internal betrayals.
One of the standout elements of El Chapo is its commitment to realism. The series does not glamorize the drug trade but instead presents it in all its brutal and violent reality. The depiction of the cartel’s operations, the violent conflicts, and the devastating impact on communities is unflinchingly honest. This realism is both a strength and a challenge, as it makes for a gripping yet often harrowing viewing experience.
El Chapo is a powerful and thought-provoking series that offers a deep dive into the life of one of the world’s most notorious criminals. With its strong performances, intense storytelling, and unflinching realism, it provides a compelling and often unsettling look at the dark world of drug trafficking. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in crime dramas and real-life stories of power, ambition, and the human cost of the drug trade.
Watch trailer here
Narcos: Mexico
Narcos: Mexico (2018-2021) is an enthralling and meticulously crafted series that explores the origins and rise of the Mexican drug trade. Created by Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, and Doug Miro, the show shifts the focus from Colombia to Mexico, presenting a gripping narrative that delves deep into the formation and expansion of the Guadalajara Cartel under the leadership of Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo. The series masterfully blends historical accuracy with intense drama, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and those interested in the intricate workings of the drug trade.
Diego Luna’s portrayal of Félix Gallardo is nothing short of mesmerizing. Luna brings a calm, calculated, and often chilling presence to the role, capturing the complexities of a man who transforms from a small-time marijuana grower into the powerful leader of a sprawling cartel. His performance is layered and compelling, depicting Félix as both a visionary businessman and a ruthless drug lord.
Michael Peña’s role as DEA agent Kiki Camarena is equally powerful. Peña brings a sense of determination, idealism, and vulnerability to the character, making Kiki’s journey both inspiring and heartbreaking. The portrayal of Kiki’s relentless pursuit of justice and the immense personal cost he and his family endure adds an emotional core to the series that is deeply affecting. Peña’s performance is a standout, highlighting the human impact of the drug war and the sacrifices made by those fighting on the front lines.
The series explores the interconnectedness of the drug trade, law enforcement, and government corruption, highlighting how these elements fuel each other and contribute to the ongoing cycle of violence. This nuanced approach provides a deeper understanding of the complexities and systemic issues surrounding the drug war.
Watch trailer here
Top Boy
Top Boy (2011-2013, 2019-2022) is a powerful and gritty series that offers an unflinching look at the lives of those entrenched in the drug trade in East London. Created by Ronan Bennett, the show is a masterful blend of raw storytelling, complex characters, and a stark depiction of urban life. It’s a series that not only entertains but also provides a poignant commentary on socio-economic issues, making it a standout in the crime drama genre.
At the heart of Top Boy are its compelling characters, led by Dushane and Sully, played by Ashley Walters and Kane Robinson (Kano), respectively. Walters delivers a nuanced performance as Dushane, a drug dealer with aspirations of becoming the “top boy” in his neighborhood. His portrayal captures the ambition, vulnerability, and moral conflicts of a man trying to navigate a perilous world. Kano’s portrayal of Sully is equally riveting, bringing depth to a character who is both ruthless and deeply troubled. Their dynamic and chemistry drive the narrative, providing a gripping exploration of friendship, loyalty, and ambition.
The series delves into issues such as poverty, systemic racism, and the lack of opportunities that drive individuals into the drug trade. It provides a voice to those often marginalized and forgotten, shedding light on the socio-economic factors that shape their lives. This depth of storytelling elevates Top Boy beyond a typical crime drama, making it a thought-provoking and significant work of television.
Watch trailer here
Ozark
Ozark (2017-2022) is an intense and riveting series that masterfully blends crime, drama, and family dynamics into a captivating narrative. Created by Bill Dubuque and Mark Williams, the show follows the Byrde family as they navigate the treacherous waters of money laundering, drug cartels, and the constant threat of violence in the seemingly tranquil setting of the Ozarks. The series is a rollercoaster of emotions, driven by complex characters, stellar performances, and a storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Jason Bateman, who plays Marty Byrde, delivers a standout performance that is both understated and powerful. Known for his comedic roles, Bateman surprises with his portrayal of a financial planner turned money launderer, capturing Marty’s calm, calculating nature as he maneuvers through increasingly dangerous situations. His ability to convey the character’s internal struggle and moral ambiguity adds significant depth to the series. Bateman’s direction, which he takes on for several episodes, further highlights his versatility and talent.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Ozark is its exploration of moral ambiguity. The show delves into the ethical compromises and justifications the characters make, forcing viewers to grapple with their own perceptions of right and wrong. Marty and Wendy’s journey is a study in how far people will go to protect their loved ones and the devastating consequences of their choices.
Ozark is a gripping, thought-provoking series that stands out for its exceptional performances, intricate storytelling, and atmospheric presentation. It’s a show that challenges viewers, taking them on a dark and emotional journey through the complexities of crime and family.
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Power
Power (2014-2020) is a gripping and electrifying series that delves into the dual life of James St. Patrick, known as “Ghost,” as he navigates the perilous world of drug dealing while striving to become a legitimate businessman. Created by Courtney A. Kemp and produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, the show masterfully combines crime drama with elements of family, ambition, and betrayal, making it an addictive and unforgettable viewing experience.
At the heart of Power is Omari Hardwick’s mesmerizing performance as Ghost. Hardwick brings a compelling mix of charm, intensity, and vulnerability to the character, capturing the complexities of a man torn between his criminal past and his aspirations for a legitimate future. Ghost’s journey is one of relentless ambition and the struggle to reconcile his dual identities, and Hardwick’s portrayal ensures that viewers are deeply invested in his fate.
The series provides a nuanced portrayal of the African American experience, highlighting the challenges and systemic barriers faced by its characters. It delves into the complexities of ambition and the desire for upward mobility, offering a fresh perspective on the American Dream.
Power is a powerful and addictive series that combines compelling characters, intricate storytelling, and high-stakes drama. With its strong performances, and its exploration of complex themes, it stands out as a significant and impactful entry in the crime drama genre. The series is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted narrative that keeps you hooked from beginning to end, leaving a lasting impression long after the final episode.
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