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BMF is a crime drama created by Randy Huggins. It is the story of Black Mafia Family that sold drugs and laundered money. The first episode was released on September 26, 2021, on the Starz television network. Later, the show was renewed for a second season. Season two was released on January 6, 2023. However, BMF was cancelled after its fourth season without a stated explanation.
According to Deadline, the reason could be a long and dull argument between one of its producers, Curtis Jackson, and the actual guy behind the narrative, Demetrius Flenory. Curtis said Flenory collaborated with federal officials, which sparked the controversy. Flenory strongly disagreed.
If you enjoy grittier crime dramas like BMF, you will really enjoy the shows on this list. These seven series get into the depths of gangsters' lives, drugs, and authority battles. Each of the TV shows mentioned in the list has a flavor of its own, with some of them being inspired by true stories.
Also read: Find more about the cancellation reason of BMF Season 4!
Disclaimer: This article contains the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.
Here is the list of 7 gritty crime dramas like BMF you need to watch next
7. Gamorrah (2014)
Gomorrah is an Italian crime drama series that aired between 2014 and 2021. The television series tells the story of Ciro, a man who aspires to be the future boss of a powerful crime family. The series is ruthless and realistic, depicting a tough and vicious mafia world filled with power struggles and family feuds. Gangster life becomes very tangible and vivid due to the high ratings of the series in terms of acting and script.
The series has been compared to popular TV shows such as BMF, although it is perceived to be more realistic. It is set in Naples and depicts the darker side of the city's crime scenario. Gomorrah is a series that is extremely intense yet rewarding, particularly to those who appreciate crude, high-crime dramas like BMF.
6. Gangs of London (2020)
Gangs of London is a British crime drama television series that premiered in 2020. The series revolves around the brutal power struggle between London's two main gangs. It is initiated by the murder of the chief of one of the giant criminal families, and this creates an uproar when various other gangs seek to reign supreme. It has earned immense praise for its action scenes and fight choreography, which have been regarded as the best in crime television. The show describes a complicated criminal world with numerous personalities and families within it.
The show is well-produced and possesses an exciting plot. The brutal narrative is underscored by drama and the threat to life in a large urban area. Those who are fond of BMF will enjoy the combination of family loyalty and the power plays in Gangs of London.
5. Queen of the South (2016)
Queen of the South is a drama series that began in 2016. It is the story of the rise of Teresa Mendoza, a woman who flees her way through Mexico to establish an empire of drugs. The show is about how Teresa emerges from being a poor woman to a high-powered drug boss. It dwells upon her struggles to stay alive, managing her drug cartel against the opposition and betrayal.
In addition to combining crime, action, and drama, the series reveals Teresa's strength and perceptive nature. The series stands out because it has a female lead in a world mostly controlled by men. This twist makes it appealing to fans of crime dramas like BMF.
4. Godfather of Harlem (2019)
Godfather of Harlem is a criminal drama series that premiered in 2019. It is based on the true story of Bumpy Johnson, a mafia boss in 1960s Harlem who fought to regain control of his estate. The show also combines history and crime drama elements because it reveals how gangs became connected to the civil rights movement. Bumpy fights on both sides of organized crime and cooperates with well-known leaders such as Malcolm X. It combines a fictional drama with a factual story and has received great praise.
An admirer of BMF will be satisfied with the tale of hardships and authority and kinship depicted in this show. This one is best suited for people who enjoy mobster drama and a little bit of history.
3. Peaky Blinders (2013)
Peaky Blinders is a gripping crime drama set in England during the 1900s. It follows the Shelby family, a rough gang known for sewing razor blades into their clothes. Tommy Shelby is strong, cunning, and unafraid to do whatever it takes to increase the family's influence and authority. The show was praised for its hard-hitting plot, powerful characterizations, and impressive performances, particularly that of Cillian Murphy as Tommy.
The series explores complex themes such as loyalty, family, treachery, and the challenges of post-war life. It is a popular fictional historical show that uses contemporary music as a backdrop for a past era. Like BMF, it depicts the dark side of crime and inter-family rivalry. The ability of Peaky Blinders to maintain a very somber atmosphere while adding tension makes it an essential viewing experience.
2. Boardwalk Empire (2010)
Boardwalk Empire is a crime series set in Atlantic City during the Prohibition era. It is based on the world of Nucky Thompson, a politician who secretly runs the city's underbelly. The series is a combination of real history and drama and includes some of the most well-known gangsters of history, such as Al Capone. Steve Buscemi and other actors give powerful performances, and the show has incredibly high production qualities with intricate sets and costumes.
The show explores the realm of power, corruption, and crime in detail, just like BMF. It is about the finer life of the criminals and the politicians who are in a bid to take over the city. The action can feel slow at times, but it builds strong tension. The characters are deep and feel real. Boardwalk Empire is a historical gangster story with rich narration. It pulls in viewers who enjoy intense crime shows.
1. Snowfall (2017)
Snowfall is a crime thriller, which is rooted in the early crisis of crack cocaine in Los Angeles in the 1980s. It is centered on Franklin Saint, a young drug dealer who is trying to climb the ladder and find his own empire among cruel competitors and tough choices. Snowfall goes deep into the effects of the drug trade on individuals, families, and communities. The demonstration of street-level crime and politics reflects the harsh reality that supports this drug epidemic.
Snowfall comes with strong character growth and a fascinating storyline filled with suspense and action. As in the case of BMF, it shows the rise of a criminal family, hence taking into consideration the struggle of authority within the family, as well as the price. Autobiographical narrations are positioned with social concerns. That is why Snowfall would attract viewers who prefer to see both crime and real-life problems.
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