Beyond the Codys: Thrilling TV Shows Like Animal Kingdom Streaming on Netflix

If you’re reeling from the adrenaline-fueled, morally ambiguous world of the Cody family in Animal Kingdom and desperately searching for your next fix on Netflix, you’re in the right place. This isn’t just a list of vaguely similar shows; it’s a curated selection of series that capture the essence of Animal Kingdom‘s compelling blend of crime, family drama, and complex characters. We’ll delve into shows available on Netflix that offer similar themes, pacing, and overall viewing experience. Consider this your expert guide to filling the void left by the Codys, offering you hours of thrilling entertainment and satisfying storytelling.

We’ve meticulously analyzed numerous shows, focusing on elements like dysfunctional family dynamics, high-stakes criminal enterprises, sun-drenched settings, and morally grey characters. Our aim is to provide you with recommendations that truly resonate with the spirit of Animal Kingdom, ensuring your next binge-watching experience is just as captivating. Forget endless scrolling; let’s dive into the best shows like Animal Kingdom that Netflix has to offer.

Unpacking the Appeal: What Makes a Show Like Animal Kingdom So Addictive?

Before we jump into specific recommendations, let’s dissect the core ingredients that make Animal Kingdom such a gripping series. Understanding these elements will help us identify other shows that offer a similar experience. Several factors contribute to its unique appeal:

• Dysfunctional Family Dynamics: At its heart, Animal Kingdom is a story about a deeply flawed family bound by loyalty and blood, despite their constant infighting and questionable morals. The push and pull between family members, their betrayals, and their attempts at reconciliation are a central driving force.
• High-Stakes Criminal Undertakings: The Codys are involved in a range of dangerous and illegal activities, from robberies to drug trafficking. The thrill of these heists, the constant threat of getting caught, and the moral compromises they make create intense drama.
• Morally Grey Characters: There are no clear-cut heroes or villains in Animal Kingdom. Each character operates in a moral grey area, making decisions that are often selfish, ruthless, and driven by survival. This complexity makes them both fascinating and unsettling to watch.
• Sun-Drenched Setting: The Southern California backdrop, with its beaches, surf culture, and seemingly endless sunshine, provides a stark contrast to the dark and dangerous world of the Codys. This juxtaposition adds to the show’s unique atmosphere.
• Fast-Paced Plot: The series moves at a brisk pace, constantly introducing new conflicts, challenges, and twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

These elements, combined with strong writing, compelling performances, and a gritty, realistic portrayal of criminal life, contribute to Animal Kingdom‘s addictive quality. We’ll be looking for these same ingredients in our recommendations.

Ozark: A Dark and Twisty Tale of Family and Crime

Often mentioned in the same breath as Animal Kingdom, Ozark is a critically acclaimed series that shares many of the same thematic elements. While the setting shifts from sunny California to the murky depths of the Missouri Ozarks, the core themes of family, crime, and moral compromise remain central.

Ozark follows Marty Byrde, a financial advisor who relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money for a Mexican drug cartel. As Marty and his wife, Wendy, become increasingly entangled in the criminal underworld, they are forced to make difficult choices that test their loyalties and push them to their limits. The show’s strength lies in its complex characters, its suspenseful plot, and its unflinching portrayal of the dark side of human nature.

Key Similarities to Animal Kingdom:

• Family Under Pressure: Like the Codys, the Byrdes are a family struggling to survive in a dangerous and unpredictable world. Their relationships are strained by secrets, lies, and the constant threat of exposure.
• Criminal Enterprise: The money laundering operation in Ozark is just as high-stakes and morally compromising as the Codys’ heists. The show explores the ethical dilemmas faced by those who choose to engage in criminal activity.
• Morally Ambiguous Characters: Marty and Wendy Byrde are not inherently bad people, but their choices force them to cross moral lines and become increasingly ruthless. The show explores the complexities of human nature and the lengths to which people will go to protect their families.

Ozark offers a darker and more intense viewing experience than Animal Kingdom, but its compelling characters, suspenseful plot, and exploration of similar themes make it an excellent choice for fans of the Cody family saga. The performances of Jason Bateman and Laura Linney are particularly noteworthy, adding depth and nuance to their complex characters.

Queen of the South: From Poverty to Power in the Drug Trade

Based on the novel La Reina del Sur, Queen of the South tells the story of Teresa Mendoza, a young woman who rises to power in the world of drug trafficking. After her drug-dealing boyfriend is murdered, Teresa is forced to flee Mexico and seek refuge in the United States. She quickly learns the ropes of the drug trade and eventually becomes a powerful leader in her own right.

Queen of the South shares Animal Kingdom‘s focus on criminal enterprise and morally complex characters, but it also adds a unique perspective on the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated world. Teresa is a strong and resourceful protagonist who is constantly forced to navigate dangerous situations and make difficult choices.

Key Similarities to Animal Kingdom:

• Criminal Empire Building: Both shows depict the rise of individuals within a criminal organization, showcasing the strategies, alliances, and betrayals involved in building and maintaining power.
• Strong Female Lead: While Animal Kingdom is primarily focused on male characters, Queen of the South features a compelling female protagonist who defies expectations and challenges traditional gender roles.
• High-Stakes Drama: The world of drug trafficking is inherently dangerous, and Queen of the South delivers plenty of suspense, action, and unexpected twists.

Queen of the South offers a more global perspective than Animal Kingdom, with settings that range from Mexico to Spain. Its focus on a female protagonist and its exploration of the drug trade make it a compelling and unique addition to the list of shows like Animal Kingdom.

Peaky Blinders: Gangs, Glamour, and Gritty Realism in Post-War England

While set in a completely different time and place, Peaky Blinders shares Animal Kingdom‘s fascination with family, crime, and power. The series follows the Shelby family, a notorious gang operating in post-World War I Birmingham, England. Led by the charismatic and ruthless Tommy Shelby, the Peaky Blinders engage in a range of illegal activities, from racketeering to smuggling.

Peaky Blinders is known for its stylish visuals, its historical accuracy, and its compelling characters. The show explores the social and economic conditions that led to the rise of gangs in post-war England, and it delves into the psychological toll that violence and crime take on individuals and families.

Key Similarities to Animal Kingdom:

• Family-Based Gang: Like the Codys, the Shelby family is the heart of the show. Their loyalty to each other is constantly tested by their ambitions, their rivalries, and the dangers of their chosen profession.
• Charismatic Leader: Tommy Shelby is a complex and compelling character who is both admired and feared. His intelligence, his ruthlessness, and his unwavering determination make him a fascinating leader.
• Gritty Realism: Peaky Blinders doesn’t shy away from the violence and brutality of gang life. The show offers a realistic and unflinching portrayal of the criminal underworld.

Peaky Blinders is a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating series that offers a unique perspective on crime, family, and power. Its historical setting and its focus on British culture set it apart from Animal Kingdom, but its core themes and its compelling characters make it a worthy addition to this list.

Breaking Bad: A Descent into Darkness

This critically acclaimed series follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who is diagnosed with terminal cancer. Desperate to provide for his family after his death, Walter uses his chemistry knowledge to cook methamphetamine. As he becomes more deeply involved in the drug trade, Walter transforms from a mild-mannered teacher into a ruthless criminal.

Breaking Bad is a masterclass in character development, suspenseful storytelling, and moral ambiguity. The show explores the consequences of Walter’s choices and the impact they have on his family and his community.

Key Similarities to Animal Kingdom:

• Moral Decay: Both shows explore the gradual descent of their protagonists into morally compromised positions. Walter White’s transformation mirrors the ethical compromises made by the Cody family.
• Family Justification: Both Walter and the Codys often justify their criminal activities as being for the good of their families, blurring the lines between right and wrong.
• High-Stakes Consequences: The characters in both shows face severe and often deadly consequences for their actions, creating a constant sense of tension and danger.

While Breaking Bad focuses on a single individual’s transformation, its themes of family, crime, and moral compromise resonate strongly with the spirit of Animal Kingdom. The show’s compelling characters, suspenseful plot, and unflinching portrayal of the dark side of human nature make it a must-watch for fans of the Cody family saga.

Sons of Anarchy: Brotherhood, Bikes, and Betrayal

Sons of Anarchy tells the story of a motorcycle club involved in illegal activities in a fictional town in California. The show explores themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and the challenges of balancing personal life with the demands of a criminal organization. Jax Teller, the club’s vice president, struggles to reconcile his desire for a better life with his loyalty to the club and its traditions.

Key Similarities to Animal Kingdom:

• Brotherhood and Loyalty: Both shows emphasize the strong bonds between members of a close-knit group, whether it’s family or a motorcycle club. These bonds are tested by internal conflicts and external threats.
• Criminal Underworld: Both the Codys and the Sons of Anarchy operate outside the law, engaging in illegal activities that put them at constant risk.
• Internal Conflict: Both shows feature internal power struggles and conflicting ideologies within the central group, leading to tension and betrayal.

Sons of Anarchy provides a raw and intense look at the world of motorcycle clubs, exploring the complexities of brotherhood, loyalty, and the price of freedom. Its focus on a close-knit group of outlaws and its exploration of similar themes make it a compelling choice for fans of Animal Kingdom.

Justified: Law and Disorder in the Kentucky Holler

Justified follows U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, a lawman who is reassigned to his hometown in Harlan County, Kentucky. He quickly finds himself embroiled in conflicts with local criminals, including members of his own family. The show is known for its witty dialogue, its memorable characters, and its exploration of themes of justice, loyalty, and redemption.

Key Similarities to Animal Kingdom:

• Family Ties and Conflict: Raylan’s complicated relationship with his criminal father mirrors the dysfunctional family dynamics of the Codys.
• Morally Grey Characters: The characters in Justified operate in a grey area, often blurring the lines between right and wrong.
• Strong Sense of Place: Both shows are deeply rooted in their respective settings, using the environment to create a unique and compelling atmosphere.

Justified offers a unique blend of crime drama and Western elements, with a strong focus on character development and witty dialogue. Its exploration of family ties, moral ambiguity, and the challenges of upholding justice make it a compelling addition to this list.

Animal Kingdom Alternatives: Finding Your Next Obsession

Finding a show that perfectly replicates the unique blend of crime, family drama, and moral ambiguity that defines Animal Kingdom is a tall order. However, the series listed above each offer compelling elements that resonate with the spirit of the Cody family saga. Whether you’re drawn to the dark and twisted world of Ozark, the gritty realism of Peaky Blinders, or the high-stakes drama of Queen of the South, there’s a show on this list that’s sure to capture your attention and fill the void left by the Codys.

Ultimately, the best way to determine which show is right for you is to give them a try. Explore the trailers, read the reviews, and dive into the first few episodes. You might just discover your next binge-watching obsession. And who knows, you might even find a new family of morally ambiguous characters to root for.

Beyond the Screen: Continuing the Conversation

The shows discussed here are more than just entertainment; they’re explorations of complex themes that resonate with viewers on a deeper level. They challenge our notions of family, morality, and the choices we make in the face of adversity. What aspects of Animal Kingdom and similar shows resonate most with you? Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below. Let’s continue the conversation and explore the fascinating world of morally ambiguous characters and high-stakes drama together.