Before The Peaky Blinders Movie: 5 Shows With A Similar Vibe

James

3 min read

Post on Jun 21, 2025

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Before the Peaky Blinders Movie: 5 Shows with a Similar Vibe

The highly anticipated Peaky Blinders movie is on the horizon, leaving fans craving more of the Shelby family's gritty drama, sharp suits, and captivating world. But while we wait, what can we watch to satisfy that intense craving for period crime drama? Fear not, fellow fans! We've compiled a list of five shows that capture the essence of Peaky Blinders, offering similar themes, aesthetics, and compelling characters to keep you entertained until the film's release.

1. Taboo (BBC): If you loved the brooding intensity of Thomas Shelby, you'll be instantly drawn to James Delaney (Tom Hardy) in Taboo. This historical drama, set in 1814, follows Delaney's return to London after years in Africa. He's a complex and mysterious anti-hero, navigating a treacherous world of secrets, conspiracies, and brutal power struggles – much like our beloved Tommy. The show shares Peaky Blinders' dark atmosphere, stunning visuals, and morally ambiguous characters. The exploration of family loyalty and betrayal also echoes strongly throughout both series. [Link to Taboo review/information]

2. Boardwalk Empire (HBO): For a deeper dive into the Prohibition era's criminal underworld, Boardwalk Empire is a must-watch. Set in Atlantic City during the roaring twenties, this critically acclaimed series follows Enoch "Nucky" Thompson, a powerful politician and bootlegger. The show boasts stunning production design, memorable characters, and a compelling narrative exploring themes of corruption, ambition, and violence. While the setting and specific historical context differ, the power dynamics and the intricacies of organized crime mirror those found in Peaky Blinders. [Link to Boardwalk Empire review/information]

3. Gangs of London (Sky Atlantic): If you're looking for a more modern take on organized crime with a similar level of brutality and stylish violence, Gangs of London delivers. This thrilling series depicts a brutal power struggle between various gangs vying for control of London's underworld. While not set in the same period, the intense action sequences, complex characters, and exploration of loyalty and betrayal within criminal organizations make it a worthwhile watch for Peaky Blinders fans seeking similar high-stakes drama. [Link to Gangs of London review/information]

4. The Knick (Cinemax): For a different but equally compelling period drama focusing on a different aspect of early 20th-century life, consider The Knick. This show delves into the world of medicine at a New York hospital in the early 1900s. While lacking the gangster element, it shares Peaky Blinders' captivating cinematography, strong character development, and morally grey protagonists navigating a challenging and often brutal world. The show's unflinching portrayal of the times and its characters' internal struggles provides a compelling alternative for those seeking a similar level of immersive storytelling. [Link to The Knick review/information]

5. Warrior (HBO Max): Based on the writings of Bruce Lee, Warrior is a period drama set in San Francisco during the Tong Wars of the late 19th century. While stylistically different from Peaky Blinders, it offers a similar blend of historical context, intense action, and compelling characters navigating a dangerous and complex world. The show also explores themes of family loyalty, ambition, and survival, echoing many of the core elements of the Peaky Blinders universe. [Link to Warrior review/information]

Conclusion:

While nothing can fully replace the unique charm of Peaky Blinders, these five shows offer compelling alternatives, each bringing its own distinctive flavor of period drama, crime, and compelling characters. So, while you eagerly await the movie, dive into one of these series to keep the Shelby-esque thrills alive! What are you waiting for? Start streaming!