14 Must-Watch Crime and Drama Movies Like Peaky Blinders

Get ready for a thrilling ride! If you loved "Peaky Blinders," our list of 14 must-watch crime and drama movies is just what you need. From gangster families to razor-sharp cap tricks, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat.

1) Boardwalk Empire

Boardwalk Empire is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders because both shows delve into the world of gangsters and crime, set against the backdrop of a specific era. While Peaky Blinders is set in 1900s England, Boardwalk Empire takes place during the Prohibition era in Atlantic City. Both shows capture the essence of these time periods with great attention to detail, from the costumes to the set designs. They also share themes of power, loyalty, and the complex dynamics within criminal organizations. However, where Peaky Blinders focuses on a gang in Birmingham and their leader Tommy Shelby, Boardwalk Empire explores the life of an Atlantic City politician who plays both sides of the law. With its stellar cast, gripping storytelling, and numerous accolades, Boardwalk Empire is a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed Peaky Blinders and wants to dive deeper into the world of organized crime during the 1920s.

Release date: September, 2010
IMDB Rating: 8.6
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2) Perrier's Bounty

Perrier's Bounty is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders in its portrayal of gangster life, but with a comedic twist. While Peaky Blinders takes us to 1900s England and follows a gang that sews razor blades in their caps, Perrier's Bounty is set in modern-day Ireland and revolves around a gangster seeking revenge on three fugitives. Both movies feature charismatic and complex characters, including Cillian Murphy in both films, who brings his captivating presence to each role. However, the similarities end there. Peaky Blinders is a gritty crime drama series with a deep focus on character development and intricate storytelling, while Perrier's Bounty aims to entertain with its dark humor and wacky set-up. Despite not reaching the same level of acclaim as Peaky Blinders, Perrier's Bounty offers a unique and enjoyable viewing experience for those who appreciate a blend of action, comedy, and crime.

Release date: March, 2010
IMDB Rating: 6.3

3) Legend

Legend is a British gangster film set in 1960s London, and it is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders. Both movies explore the world of gangsters and crime, highlighting the power struggles, violence, and loyalty within these criminal organizations. However, while Peaky Blinders takes place in 1900s England and focuses on a gang who sew razor blades in their caps, Legend revolves around identical twin gangsters, Ronald and Reginald Kray, as they terrorize London. The performances in Legend, particularly by Tom Hardy, who plays both twins, are exceptional and elevate the film to a whole new level. Hardy's ability to portray two completely different characters with such depth and nuance is nothing short of genius. His performance alone is worth the watch. So if you enjoyed the gritty world of Peaky Blinders and want to see an incredible display of acting, Legend is definitely a movie you shouldn't miss.

Release date: October, 2015
IMDB Rating: 6.9

4) The Gunrunner

The Gunrunner is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders as both movies delve into the world of gangsters and crime in the 1920s. However, while Peaky Blinders focuses on a gang from Birmingham, England, The Gunrunner tells the story of a drifter named Ted Beaubien who seeks revenge after witnessing his girlfriend's execution. Both movies capture the essence of the time period with their attention to detail and immersive storytelling. Peaky Blinders has received critical acclaim and has been praised for its acting and writing, while The Gunrunner may appeal more to Kevin Costner fans. If you enjoyed Peaky Blinders and want to see another captivating crime drama set in the 1920s, The Gunrunner is worth a watch.

Release date: January, 1990
IMDB Rating: 3.9

5) Once Upon a Time in America

Once Upon a Time in America is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders, the popular British TV series. Both explore the world of gangsters and take place in the past - Peaky Blinders in 1900s England and Once Upon a Time in America in Prohibition-era New York. However, while Peaky Blinders focuses on the Shelby family's rise to power in Birmingham, Once Upon a Time in America delves into the life of a former Jewish gangster returning to the Lower East Side of Manhattan after 35 years. The two movies share the themes of crime and drama, but their approaches differ. Peaky Blinders is a binge-worthy series with its addictive storyline and exceptional acting, while Once Upon a Time in America is a cinematic masterpiece directed by Sergio Leone, known for his innovative camera angles and powerful emotional orchestrals. It is a must-see film, though unfortunately, many people have not experienced the original director's version due to a disastrous re-edit.

Release date: December, 1986
IMDB Rating: 8.3
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6) Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai

Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders, the gangster family epic set in 1900s England. Both movies revolve around the rise and fall of powerful gangsters. While Peaky Blinders focuses on a gang that sews razor blades into their caps, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai portrays the smuggling and gangster world of 1970s Mumbai. The main characters in both films are charismatic and their performances are top-notch. Cillian Murphy impresses as the fierce boss Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders, while Ajay Devgn effortlessly portrays Sultan Mirza in Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai. The attention to detail and the captivating writing in both movies will keep you hooked from the very beginning. However, Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai offers a different take on the gangster genre, as it is less brutal and hardcore compared to other films in this genre.

Release date: July, 2010
IMDB Rating: 7.4

7) Revenge of the Green Dragons

Revenge of the Green Dragons is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders as both movies explore the world of organized crime and the rise of gangsters. While Peaky Blinders takes place in 1900s England and centers on a gang that sews razor blades into their caps, Revenge of the Green Dragons is set in 1980s New York and follows two best friends as they climb the ranks of the Chinese underworld. Both films offer an immersive experience into the gritty and dangerous world of gangsters, showcasing the power struggles, violence, and loyalty that come with it. However, the two movies differ in their execution. Peaky Blinders captivates viewers with its exceptional acting, writing, and attention to detail, creating a show that surpasses expectations. On the other hand, Revenge of the Green Dragons partially "Hong Kong"izes the story, incorporating elements of Hong Kong action movies that don't quite fit with the non-fiction narrative.

Release date: September, 2014
IMDB Rating: 5.3

8) Bheeshma Parvam

Bheeshma Parvam, also known as Bheeshmaparvam, is a movie that will remind you of Peaky Blinders. While Peaky Blinders is set in 1900s England and revolves around a gang that sews razor blades in their caps, Bheeshma Parvam takes place in Kochi, India, and follows the story of Michael, who leads his ancestral family with power and authority. Both movies explore the world of gangsters, with the protagonists commanding respect and fear from those around them. However, the similarities end there. Bheeshma Parvam adds a stylish touch to the gangster genre, with action-packed scenes and a thrilling storyline. It features an impressive ensemble cast, including Mammootty and Soubin Shahir, who deliver excellent performances. The movie's soundtrack, particularly the background music, is top-notch and adds to the overall theater experience.

Release date: March, 2022
IMDB Rating: 7.6

9) Gatao: The Last Stray

Gatao: The Last Stray is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders in its portrayal of a gangster story. While Peaky Blinders is set in 1900s England and revolves around a gang that sews razor blades in their caps, Gatao: The Last Stray takes place in contemporary Taiwan and focuses on a Qing who falls in love with a photographer at a banquet. Both movies explore the themes of gangster culture and criminal activities, but in different historical and cultural contexts. Peaky Blinders captivates with its attention to detail, exceptional acting, and writing, while Gatao: The Last Stray offers a unique perspective on gangster life in modern-day Taiwan. If you enjoyed the gripping narrative and fascinating characters of Peaky Blinders, Gatao: The Last Stray provides a fresh take on the gangster genre with a romantic twist.

Release date: February, 2021
IMDB Rating: 5.9

10) Turning Point

Turning Point is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders in its portrayal of the criminal underworld. Both movies explore the lives of gangsters and their involvement in illegal activities. While Peaky Blinders is set in 1900s England, Turning Point takes place in Hong Kong. Both films showcase the struggles and conflicts faced by their main characters, with Peaky Blinders focusing on the Shelby family and Turning Point on Laughing Gor. However, the similarities end there. Peaky Blinders is a series with a runtime of 3600 seconds, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of the characters and their storylines. On the other hand, Turning Point is a cinema movie with a longer runtime of 5340 seconds, which gives it the opportunity to delve into Laughing Gor's past and provide a prequel to the popular TVB drama series Emergency Unit.

Release date: August, 2009
IMDB Rating: 5.9

11) Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders in its ability to captivate viewers and exceed expectations. Both shows are praised for their exceptional acting, writing, and attention to detail. Breaking Bad follows the story of a chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, while Peaky Blinders centers around a gangster family in 1900s England. Despite their different premises, both shows excel in their genres of Crime and Drama. Breaking Bad, like Peaky Blinders, hooks viewers from the very first episode and keeps them engaged throughout the series. While Peaky Blinders is set in 1920s Birmingham, Breaking Bad takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, showcasing the contrast between the two locations. With its intriguing plot, well-developed characters, and outstanding storytelling, Breaking Bad is a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed the captivating world of Peaky Blinders.

Release date: January, 2008
IMDB Rating: 9.5
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12) That Girl in Yellow Boots

That Girl in Yellow Boots is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders, but with a unique Indian twist. While Peaky Blinders takes place in 1900s England and follows a gang that sews razor blades in their caps, That Girl in Yellow Boots is set in Mumbai, India and tells the story of a British woman searching for her father. Both movies fall under the genres of Crime and Drama, but That Girl in Yellow Boots adds Mystery and Thriller elements to the mix. The plot summary of That Girl in Yellow Boots mentions a "filthy world of a local massage parlor," which adds an intriguing layer to the story. While Peaky Blinders has received numerous nominations and awards, That Girl in Yellow Boots has also garnered critical acclaim in various film festivals. Although the two movies differ in location, time period, and specific plot details, fans of Peaky Blinders should check out That Girl in Yellow Boots for a dose of Indian cinema with a dark and mysterious edge.

Release date: September, 2011
IMDB Rating: 6.6

13) Big Fat Gypsy Gangster

Big Fat Gypsy Gangster is reminiscent of Peaky Blinders in its portrayal of the British gangster world. However, that's where the similarities end. While Peaky Blinders is a critically acclaimed series set in 1900s England, Big Fat Gypsy Gangster is a comedy film that takes a lighter approach. The main character in Big Fat Gypsy Gangster, Bulla, is a recently released prisoner who discovers that he has lost everything in the outside world. The movie combines elements of action, comedy, crime, drama, and thriller genres to create a unique viewing experience. Despite its low average rating, Big Fat Gypsy Gangster offers a different perspective on the gangster genre, making it worth a watch for those looking for a comedic take on the gritty world of criminals.

Release date: September, 2011
IMDB Rating: 3.3

14) The King of Warsaw

The King of Warsaw takes us back to 1937, where we find ourselves in the city ruled by the Jewish mafia. This time, it's not Birmingham, England, but Warsaw, Poland. Just like Peaky Blinders, this gripping series is set in a bygone era and revolves around gangsters. However, instead of razor blades sewn into caps, we have a socialist gangster named Buddy Kaplica, who is the head honcho in town. The protagonist, Jakub Szapiro, dreams of dethroning Buddy and becoming the King of Warsaw. While Peaky Blinders mesmerizes us with its attention to detail and exceptional acting, The King of Warsaw offers a fresh perspective on the gangster genre, transporting us to a different time and place. So, if you loved Peaky Blinders, you won't want to miss the opportunity to delve into the captivating world of The King of Warsaw.

Release date: November, 2020
IMDB Rating: 7.4

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