In 2025, Paramount+ expands its content variety with “MobLand,” a gritty, top-tier crime drama. At first sight, it may seem like a standard crime show, but it’s far from ordinary, mainly due to the exceptional talent involved, both on and off screen. This star-studded cast features heavyweights like Tom Hardy, Helen Mirren, and Pierce Brosnan leading the pack. The series is also a collaboration between renowned crime drama creators Ronan Bennett (“Top Boy”) and Guy Ritchie (“Lock, Stock, And Two Smoking Barrels”). Additionally, “MobLand” has gained critical acclaim for its intense storyline, which follows the strained bond between the Harrigan and Stevenson crime families. Unwittingly drawn into their conflict is Harry Da Souza (Hardy), an outsider.
As a devoted fan, I can hardly contain my excitement as rumors swirl about another season of our beloved series, “MobLand.” However, while we eagerly anticipate its return, there’s no need to wait for more thrilling tales from the criminal underworld. To satisfy your craving for gripping stories set on the wrong side of the law, we’ve handpicked a lineup of 12 must-watch series similar to “MobLand” that you can enjoy right away.
Boardwalk Empire
Back in 2010, I found myself immersed in “Boardwalk Empire,” a gripping series produced by HBO that takes us back to the 1920s, often referred to as the golden era of organized crime. In this era, the nation’s insatiable appetite for illicit liquor during Prohibition essentially spawned the modern mafia, with money flowing as freely as the bootlegged booze itself. However, unlike Al Capone’s turf in Chicago, this series unfolds on the bustling shores of Atlantic City, New Jersey.
The series revolves around Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi), a cunning and corrupt politician in the Garden State who finds himself climbing the criminal underworld’s hierarchy by moonlighting as a mob boss in the thriving beachside town.
Drawing inspiration from real-life occurrences, “Boardwalk Empire” showcases notable figures from the criminal underworld such as Bugsy Siegel (played by Michael Zegen), Lucky Luciano (portrayed by Vincent Piazza), and Al Capone (depicted by Stephen Graham). While the series was praised for its gripping narrative, stunning costume and set design, it’s the talented cast that truly stands out. Actors like Michael Shannon, Kelly McDonald, and Michael K. Williams further enhance the show’s impressive reputation.
While it may not be set in the same time or location as “MobLand”, this show holds its ground if you’re seeking underworld dealings, intense violence, and the intricate politics of the darkest corners. With a multitude of awards to its name, you can expect five seasons brimming with top-notch period crime drama on television.
Lilyhammer
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but appreciate the unique charm of “Lilyhammer,” often eclipsed by popular contemporaries such as “House of Cards” and “Orange is the New Black.” However, it holds a special place in history as the first original series produced by Netflix. The series, headlined by Steven Van Zandt, who was also a part of “The Sopranos,” brilliantly depicts his character, Frank Tagliano, an American gangster, who, after striking a deal with witness protection, finds himself in Norway. Despite his efforts to leave his old life behind, he inevitably slips back into his familiar ways.
Lilyhammer,” a blend of gangster drama and fish-out-of-water comedy, stands out as one of our most original and underappreciated shows. Like “MobLand,” it’s set in Europe, but unlike its counterpart, it combines the raw, humorless world of organized crime with a generous dose of absurd comedy. This unique blend is largely due to its lead actor’s performance. His portrayal of Tagliano is so reminiscent of his character on “The Sopranos” that some viewers speculate they may be connected in an unexpected way, making the unconventional story of a New York mobster attempting a new life in rural Norway even more intriguing to watch. With only 24 episodes, diving into this overlooked Netflix gem requires minimal commitment.
The Penguin
Ignoring its role within the ongoing Matt Reeves “The Batman” universe, you’ll find many similarities between “The Penguin” and “Mobland.” Absent of traditional superhero action, this series delves deep into the gloomy underbelly of Gotham City. Colin Farrell, an actor well-versed in gangster tales, takes the helm as he embodies his career-defining role as the infamous Batman villain, deeply entrenched in a mob conflict following the devastation of “The Batman.” The city is left in disarray after its events.
In the wake of crime boss Carmine Falcone’s demise, portrayed by Mark Strong in flashbacks, “The Penguin” perceives Oswald “Oz” Cobb, a mid-level mafia member, maneuvering towards the pinnacle. Operating for Falcone’s daughter Sofia (Cristin Milioti), Cobb enlists the help of a street tough named Victor (Rhenzy Feliz) in a scheme to seize power and rule Gotham’s most notorious criminal empire. However, to reach that position, he must leave trails of corpses in alleys and ultimately betray the one who offered him an opportunity when no one else did.
In a more distinctive take on the classic up-from-the-bottom success tale, “The Penguin” offers a gripping exploration of crime fiction. Farrell’s portrayal of Oz, who is both ominous yet engaging, significantly contributes to its popularity. His acting, marked by a gritty, subtle intensity, has drawn comparisons to Oscar-worthy performances and sparked speculation that he might secure an Emmy nomination in 2025.
Peaky Blinders
One TV series that shares a similar tone with “MobLand” is BBC’s acclaimed period crime drama, “Peaky Blinders.” Launched in 2011, this gripping show delved into the history of a notorious British street gang, captivating viewers with its talented ensemble cast featuring Cillian Murphy, who was once a Batman villain, and Tom Hardy, who later starred in “MobLand.” The series fictionalized the tale of the actual Peaky Blinders, who ruled the streets of Birmingham, England during the early 1900s.
In “Peaky Blinders,” the narrative revolves around Chief Inspector Major Chester Campbell (Sam Neill), who is assigned to quell the violent gang activity in Birmingham during a time of significant economic and social change. His primary objective is to apprehend Tommy Shelby (Murphy), a former World War I soldier, who has come back home to find the city in turmoil. Seizing the opportunity presented by the chaos, Tommy forms his own gang, known as the Peaky Blinders, and aims to exploit the situation for personal gain.
Over multiple time periods, the six seasons of the show depict Shelby and his associates transforming into a formidable criminal empire. Throughout their rule, the Peaky Blinders engage in conflicts with law enforcement, rival gangs in New York, and even the Nazi Party as World War II nears. If you haven’t already, it would be wise to watch this series, which is highly acclaimed, following “MobLand.” Given that a film sequel is upcoming, now might be an ideal time to catch up on the story.
The Black Donnellys
As a devoted admirer, I must say that, although “The Black Donnellys” ran for just one season and didn’t quite reach the adoration levels of “Peaky Blinders” or “Boardwalk Empire,” it might still be equally captivating. This series revolves around four brothers who find themselves ensnared in New York City’s Irish mob, making it a sort of American equivalent to “MobLand.” Moreover, it’s loosely based on a genuine gang that went by the same name, operating out of Canada and infamous for one of the country’s most brutal massacres.
In “The Black Donnellys,” we’re introduced to four Irish-American brothers who find themselves at a pivotal point in their lives. The story starts with one of them being neck-deep in gang troubles, while the eldest brother, Tommy (portrayed by Jonathan Tucker), eventually devises a scheme to rescue his sibling, which ignites a conflict with the Italian mafia, escalating into a fierce gang war.
Initially airing in 2007 without big-name stars like Kate Mulgrew from “Star Trek,” many cast members have since gained widespread recognition, such as Olivia Wilde (“Tron: Legacy”), Kirk Acevedo (“Fringe”), and Tucker who later starred in popular shows like “Westworld” and “Snowfall.” Despite a relatively negative critical response, the series showcases an exceptional first episode that rivals movies in quality, surpassing the impression given by reviews.
Gangs of London
If you’re looking for a show similar to “MobLand”, but with more action, I recommend checking out “Gangs of London”. This series is available on AMC+ in the US and Sky in its original UK home. Interestingly, it isn’t based on real events or a book, but rather developed from a video game named after itself, part of the larger “Getaway” franchise. The show features a large cast, with Colm Meaney from “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine” leading in its first season. It explores the dark and violent power struggles within England’s largest city, as various criminal organizations fight for dominance.
The narrative opens with the startling assassination of mob chief Finn Wallace (Meaney), triggering a relentless turf war among rival gangs in and around London, each vying to succeed him as the crime kingpin. This power struggle involves Finn’s son Sean (Joe Cole), who is grappling with both preserving his family’s heritage and overcoming the oppressive influence of his ruthless, criminal father during his upbringing. However, Sean’s rise to power is not guaranteed, as various criminal networks such as the Dumani Family, Pakistani cartel, and Albanian mafia all seek a share in the Wallace empire.
Thanks to the co-creator of the series, Gareth Evans (known for ‘The Raid’), ‘Gangs of London’ delivers high-octane action that perfectly complements its focus on the brutal truth of organized crime in London.
Lock, Stock…
The movie “MobLand” is headed by two prominent actors from Hollywood, Tom Hardy and Pierce Brosnan. However, the exceptional talent doesn’t end with the on-screen cast; director Guy Ritchie, known for his gritty crime dramas in films, also takes on the roles of executive producer and director for the first two installments. Notably, this isn’t his initial venture into television, as he previously delved into TV with the 2000 series “Lock, Stock…”. This series was a spin-off from his successful debut in television, which came before his breakout film in 1998 titled “Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels.
In the movie “Lock, Stock…,” instead of following the original characters, it focuses on a new set of four questionable individuals: Moon (Daniel Caltagirone), Jamie (Del Synnott), Bacon (Scott Maslen) and Lee (Shaun Parkes). These characters are frequently at odds with a London crime figure called Miami Vice (Ralph Brown). The quartet is constantly seeking to make money, which often involves engaging in illegal activities. However, their clumsy and drunken nature usually leads them into trouble beyond what they can handle, adding a humorous touch to their British-style misadventures.
Even though “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels” has a distinct style and atmosphere compared to “MobLand”, being created by Guy Ritchie, it serves as an enjoyable companion piece due to its similarities with the works of authors like Elmore Leonard. However, some viewers might find it challenging because of its frequent use of rhyming slang, which is characteristic of the film.
Taboo
Similar to the series “MobLand,” BBC’s “Taboo” is situated in London and features the versatile Tom Hardy (did you know he also raps?). By moving back 200 years and replacing organized crime with the dishonesty and brutality of the early international trade era, “Taboo” portrays Hardy as James Delaney, a man who spent years in Africa working for the East India Trading Company, returning to London to discover it transformed. His father had passed away under questionable circumstances, leaving him to maintain the family legacy and uncover the truth about his absence. On a broader scale, England’s involvement in the 1812 war against the United States provides “Taboo” with opportunities to delve into topics such as Imperialism, power dynamics, and numerous shady transactions that usually accompany such conflicts.
Collaboratively, Hardy, his father Chips Hardy, and creator Steven Knight, along with Hardy senior, have come together to produce “Taboo.” Unlike the mob-centric series you might anticipate following “MobLand,” “Taboo” does not revolve around the mafia. However, in the early 19th century, the East India Trading Company serves as a formidable equivalent, offering intense drama, while exploring the complex bond between a troubled outlaw and his former employer turned adversary. The series consists of only eight episodes, with plans for a second season announced by Tom Hardy in early 2025.
Godfather of Harlem
A hard-hitting crime drama featuring a well-known Hollywood actor is titled “Godfathers of Harlem,” which premiered in 2019 on Epix. In this series, Forest Whitaker from “Star Wars: Rogue One” portrays Ellsworth “Bumpy” Johnson, a real-life New York mobster who held significant influence over the streets of Harlem during the 1930s to 1960s. However, it’s essential to note that Bumpy was much more than just a crime boss; he was also a champion for his community and fought tirelessly for their rights.
In the final phase of Johnson’s life, “Godfather of Harlem” portrays Johnson returning from a prison term to discover his once-familiar community under the control of his previous adversaries – the Italian mafia. Amidst the vibrant American Civil Rights Movement, Johnson embarks on a mission to reclaim his lost territory while navigating through crime families headed by figures such as Vincent Gigante (played by Vincent D’onofrio), Joseph Colombo (Michael Raymond-James), and Frank Costello (Paul Sorvino). Additionally, he must contend with the relentless pursuit of Congressman Adam Clayton Powell Jr., a role brought to life by “Breaking Bad” star Giancarlo Esposito.
Godfather of Harlem” isn’t merely a crime drama to catch your attention after “MobLand.” It’s also an in-depth portrayal of a tumultuous era, where minority communities were striving for recognition and survival, while the criminals were complex figures beyond mere power-hungry thugs.
Mob City
Produced by Frank Darabont, whose work on acclaimed films and television series such as “The Shawshank Redemption” and “The Walking Dead” is highly esteemed, “Mob City” presented a unique take. Featuring stars like Jon Bernthal, Neal McDonough and Milo Ventimiglia, the show took cues from actual events to portray the conflict between law enforcement and the expanding mob influence in post-WWII Los Angeles. However, “Mob City” wasn’t shy about using creative freedom to enhance its darkly stylish narrative.
In this new series, Bernthal portrays LAPD detective Joe Teague, a seasoned warrior who finds himself in a challenging mission to take down some of the deadliest characters of his time, including notorious gangsters like Mickey Cohen and Bugsy Siegel. Set amidst the gritty streets of 1940s Los Angeles, “Mob City” presents a complex world where motives are shrouded in ambiguity rather than simple good versus evil. The series, with its dark tone and vivid period detail, is an engaging 6-episode miniseries that serves as a satisfying bridge for eager fans of the upcoming “MobLand”.
The Gentlemen
Titled “The Gentlemen,” a new series from director Guy Ritchie, shares similarities with his film “Lock, Stock…” as it is a TV adaptation of one of his movies. Like its cinematic predecessor, the story follows an American character, portrayed by Matthew McConaughey, navigating the English drug underworld, leading to typical Guy Ritchie-style chaos. Unlike a sequel, the 2024 series “The Gentlemen” offers a fresh take on the same universe with a new cast of characters, including Theo James, Kaya Scodelario, and familiar faces like Vinnie Jones and Giancarlo Esposito.
As a gamer, I’d rephrase it like this: In the heart of the UK, I step into the shoes of Theo James as Edward Horniman, a former military officer and an aristocrat by birth. After my father’s demise, I find myself inheriting not just a title in England’s noble circle but a clandestine drug empire camouflaged within the grandeur of high society. Just like Guy Ritchie’s “MobLand” and other masterpieces from his filmography, “The Gentlemen” is an unapologetic fusion of underworld action, ruthless violence, and dark humor – a must-watch for crime drama enthusiasts on Netflix.
Making of the Mob
Unlike most shows we’ve discussed, which are fictionalized representations of real events, “Making of the Mob” stands out as it offers an authentic account of history. Specifically, on AMC, it serves as the only program on this list that provides a genuine historical lesson.
For two seasons, “Making of the Mob” alternates between documentary and dramatic narrative within each episode. While one side provides insights from experts, historians, and real individuals discussing the intricacies of some of the world’s most notorious mobsters, the other showcases a cast portraying real-life criminal figures, revealing the origins of the mob saga.
The first season, titled “The Making of the Mob: New York,” delves into Lucky Luciano’s ascent to power and the creation of the infamous Five Families. In contrast, Season 2 transports us to Chicago, where we witness the rise of Al Capone amidst his conflicts with rival gangs. The series also explores the establishment of a gambling hub in a deserted patch of Nevada by mobsters, which later became renowned worldwide. Although you may not recognize the characters in the fictional narrative, the documentary features notable figures such as retired NYC detective Frank Grosso, Chicago mobster Frank Calabrese, and former NYC prosecutor Rudy Giuliani.
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2025-06-08 23:32