What To Watch If You Love 'Power'

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Updated May 7, 2024 22 items
Voting Rules
Vote up the films and television series that you know other fans of 'Power' will love.

Power captivated audiences with its gripping tales of crime and ambition, leaving many searching for more shows that deliver a similar adrenaline rush. If you're seeking shows and movies that provide that same intense blend of drama and action, this is the perfect list for you. Compiled by television enthusiasts, it's packed with top-tier recommendations for movies and TV shows similar to Power, each selected for their compelling narratives and powerful storytelling.

When the credits roll on Power and you're craving your next fix, the mood you're in could direct you to a variety of options. Shows like Snowfall dive into the drug trade with a focus that echoes Power's intensity. For movie buffs, classics such as Scarface showcase a relentless rise to power, featuring iconic characters and unforgettable moments. And TV masterpieces like The Wire offer a nuanced look at crime, law enforcement, and society. Additional must-sees for Power fans include Mayans MC, Narcos, and American Gangster, all of which promise to fill the void with stories of power, crime, and the complexity of the human spirit.

  • Narcos
    Photo: Narcos / Netflix
    1
    11 VOTES

    Narcos

    Narcos is a gritty crime drama series that chronicles the rise and fall of notorious drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, played by Wagner Moura, along with the subsequent battles of the DEA to dismantle drug cartels in Colombia. The show weaves together the lives of various figures involved in the drug trade, balancing intense action with gripping storytelling. Alongside Moura, the series features performances by Pedro Pascal and Boyd Holbrook as DEA agents.

    Power fans will find Narcos captivating for its raw depiction of the drug business and the complex characters that navigate this perilous world. The series offers a similar blend of morally ambiguous protagonists, high stakes, and the pursuit of supremacy within the law's grey areas, all set against a backdrop of political and personal turmoil.

    11 votes
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  • Snowfall
    Photo: FX
    2
    26 VOTES

    Snowfall

    Snowfall sets its scene in 1980s Los Angeles, exploring the first crack cocaine epidemic and its radical impact on the culture. The series focuses on several characters, including young drug dealer Franklin Saint, portrayed by Damson Idris, who's on a fast track to becoming a powerful kingpin. Intricate storytelling dives into the lives of characters from different walks of life, all linked by the booming drug trade.

    Admirers of Power will appreciate Snowfall for its hard-hitting portrayal of the narcotics business and the ambitious ascent of its main character. With its complex narrative and the relentless ambition of its protagonist, the show mirrors Power's intense drama and intricate exploration of the drug trade's influence on society and individual lives.

    26 votes
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  • The Wire
    Photo: The Wire
    3
    23 VOTES

    The Wire

    The Wire is a highly acclaimed series that delves into the gritty underbelly of Baltimore, Maryland, portraying the interconnected struggles between law enforcement and drug trade. Its ensemble cast includes Dominic West, Idris Elba, and Michael K. Williams, among others, and the show is renowned for its realistic depiction of societal issues. Each season introduces a different facet of the city's institutions and their relationship with the streets.

    Fans of Power should gravitate toward The Wire for its thoughtful examination of the drug world and the nuanced complexity of its characters. It presents a raw, unvarnished look at the consequences of crime and its profound effects on a community, much like Power does with its own high-stakes drama and intricate character studies.

    23 votes
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  • Top Boy
    Photo: Netflix
    4
    13 VOTES

    Top Boy

    Top Boy dives into the lives of residents in a fictional London housing estate where the quest for power and survival governs daily life. The series stars Ashley Walters and Kane Robinson as drug dealers navigating the treacherous hierarchy of the criminal underworld, while grappling with the complex moralities of their lifestyles. The show's candid portrayal of urban life presents an array of layered characters and their personal struggles.

    Like Power, Top Boy offers a gritty narrative that should captivate fans with its focus on the dynamics of the drug trade and its impact on the individual. Viewers who enjoyed Power's blend of intense drama and intricate character arcs will find a similarly compelling and authentic atmosphere in Top Boy, along with the relentless pursuit of dominance and control.

    13 votes
  • Scarface
    Photo: Universal Pictures
    5
    9 VOTES

    Scarface

    Scarface is an iconic crime film that tells the relentless tale of Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant turned drug kingpin in 1980s Miami. Portrayed with ferocious intensity by Al Pacino, Montana's ruthless rise to power and subsequent fall is a chilling depiction of the American Dream gone awry. The film, directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, has become a cultural touchstone for its memorable lines and stark portrayal of ambition and corruption.

    Fans of Power will resonate with Scarface due to its central theme of ascendancy in the drug world, underscored by complex character development and morally ambiguous decisions. The quest for power, rife with betrayal and violence, makes it a compelling watch for those who appreciate the in-depth exploration of the drug lord's psyche, much like in Power.

    9 votes
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  • Breaking Bad
    Photo: AMC
    6
    9 VOTES

    Breaking Bad

    Fans of Power will love this crime series about a chemistry teacher that becomes a drug lord to pay for his cancer treatments. 

    A high-school chemistry teacher has a midlife crisis.
    9 votes
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  • Good Girls
    Photo: Good Girls / NBC
    7
    7 VOTES

    Good Girls

    Good Girls follows the unexpected turn in the lives of three suburban mothers, played by Christina Hendricks, Retta, and Mae Whitman, who find themselves in desperate circumstances. Pushed to their limits, they decide to rob a supermarket, only to get tangled up in a world of crime far beyond their initial plan. The blend of dark comedy and drama provides a unique take on the consequences of crossing into the criminal realm.

    Admirers of Power will appreciate Good Girls for its portrayal of ordinary individuals thrust into the criminal world, facing moral dilemmas and threats that test their friendship and values, much like Power's characters confront the dangers and dynamics of the drug business.

    7 votes
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  • The Sopranos
    Photo: HBO
    8
    7 VOTES

    The Sopranos

    The Sopranos delves into the complex life of New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano, played by the late James Gandolfini, as he manages the pressures of leading a criminal organization while attending therapy to cope with personal and family issues. The acclaimed series also stars Edie Falco and Lorraine Bracco, among others, and combines dark humor with drama to explore the duality of the mobster's life.

    Fans of Power would be enticed by The Sopranos for its sophisticated narrative that, much like Power, fuses the criminal underworld with intricate personal relationships. Additionally, the nuanced portrayal of Tony’s struggle to maintain power and control mirrors the compelling character development and moral conflicts that form the essence of Power.

    7 votes
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  • Sons of Anarchy
    Photo: FX
    9
    6 VOTES

    Sons of Anarchy

    Fans of Power will love this gritty crime drama seen through the lens of a biker gang with a neo-western filter.

    An outlaw motorcycle club is intent on protecting its sheltered California town.
    6 votes
  • Mayans MC
    Photo: Mayans M.C.
    10
    10 VOTES

    Mayans MC

    Mayans M.C. is a gritty drama series set in the world of motorcycle clubs on the California-Mexico border. It follows Ezekiel "EZ" Reyes, played by JD Pardo, a prospect in the Mayans M.C. charter who must carve out his new outlaw identity while dealing with rival gangs, cartel connections, and complex family ties. The show, a spin-off of Sons of Anarchy, also stars actors like Clayton Cardenas and Edward James Olmos.

    Fans of Power are likely to be drawn to Mayans M.C. for its dark exploration of organized crime, themes of loyalty, power struggles, and the pursuit of the American Dream—all set within a subculture that presents its own set of rules and challenges, offering a similar intensity and character depth that drove Power to its acclaim.

    10 votes
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  • Ozark
    Photo: Ozark/ Netflix
    11
    9 VOTES

    Ozark

    Ozark navigates the dark and treacherous waters of money laundering and organized crime through the eyes of Marty Byrde, portrayed by Jason Bateman, who relocates his family to the Lake of the Ozarks to wash cash for a Mexican drug cartel. Laura Linney co-stars as Marty's wife, Wendy, who becomes increasingly entangled in the criminal enterprise. The series is lauded for its intense drama and twist-filled narrative.

    Power aficionados will likely appreciate Ozark for its strategic mind games, complex moral quandaries, and the precarious balance between family dynamics and criminal activities. It presents a compelling look at the consequences of life in the underworld, offering the same caliber of suspense and gritty storytelling that made Power a standout.

    9 votes
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  • Southland
    Photo: user uploaded image
    12
    5 VOTES

    Southland

    Southland takes an unflinching look at the lives of LAPD officers as they patrol the streets of Los Angeles, confronting the city's violence and crime head-on. The series boasts a strong ensemble cast, including Michael Cudlitz, Regina King, and Ben McKenzie, who deliver raw, authentic performances as they depict the daily challenges and triumphs of law enforcement in a complex urban environment.

    Viewers who were engrossed by the gritty realism of Power will find Southland to be a magnetic watch. Though it explores the perspective of law enforcement rather than criminals, it shares Power's intense, dramatic storytelling and deep dive into the intricacies of the characters' lives amidst a dangerous and chaotic world.

    5 votes
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  • The Black Donnellys
    Photo: NBC
    13
    2 VOTES

    The Black Donnellys

    Four working-class Irish-American brothers are caught up in organized crime.
    2 votes
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  • The Night Of
    Photo: HBO
    14
    2 VOTES

    The Night Of

    This HBO miniseries is an excellent pick to stream if you're a fan of the the gritty drama presented in Power.

    Investigating a New York murder case.
    2 votes
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  • Narcos: Mexico
    Photo: Narcos: Mexico
    15
    4 VOTES

    Narcos: Mexico

    This companion series to the hit Netfix series Narcos is a great choice to stream for fans of Power.

    Narcos: Mexico is a compelling crime drama that transports viewers to the menacing world of drug cartels, unraveling the rise of the Guadalajara Cartel in the 1980s. Led by the cunning and ambitious Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo (Diego Luna), the series explores the complex relationships between key players and law enforcement agents. With a gritty, realistic approach and an exceptional cast, Narcos: Mexico has garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including Best Television Series - Drama at the Satellite Awards. As the stakes escalate, audiences are drawn into the dangerous game of power, loyalty, and betrayal that defines this notorious chapter in history.
    4 votes
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  • Ray Donovan
    Photo: Ray Donovan / Showtime
    16
    0 VOTES

    Ray Donovan

    Ray Donovan, a compelling drama series, delves into the life of a professional "fixer" in the glitzy yet treacherous world of Hollywood. With Liev Schreiber masterfully portraying the lead role, the show skillfully unravels the complexities of Ray's personal and professional endeavors. As a multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominee, this intricate blend of crime, family, and redemption keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Among the talented ensemble cast, Jon Voight's performance as Mickey Donovan, Ray's troublesome father, is particularly noteworthy. Ray Donovan succeeds in delivering a gripping narrative, ensuring a rewarding viewing experience for its audience.
    0 votes
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  • Boardwalk Empire
    Photo: HBO
    17
    0 VOTES

    Boardwalk Empire

    The life of gangster Nucky Thompson at the dawn of Prohibition.
    0 votes
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  • American Gangster
    Photo: Universal Pictures
    18
    1 VOTES

    American Gangster

    Fans of Power will love this biographical film about the takedown of a Harlem drug lord.

    American Gangster is a gritty crime drama that tells the real-life story of Frank Lucas (Denzel Washington), a heroin kingpin from Manhattan. Lucas, an ordinary driver and bodyguard for Bumpy Johnson, builds his own drug empire after Johnson's death. In parallel, we encounter Richie Roberts (Russell Crowe), an honest detective in a corrupt police force who makes it his mission to bring Lucas down. The movie, directed by Ridley Scott, masterfully intertwines these two narratives, offering an unflinching look at crime and corruption in 1970s America. It received two Oscar nominations for its authentic portrayal of this intense period in American history.
    1 votes
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  • Empire
    Photo: Empire
    19
    1 VOTES

    Empire

    At the heart of a compelling musical drama lies a story of family, power, and the cutthroat world of the entertainment industry. Empire delves deep into the life of Lucious Lyon (Terrence Howard), a successful music mogul battling to maintain control over his record label while managing the complexities of his personal life. With a talented ensemble cast including Taraji P. Henson as Cookie Lyon, Empire has garnered critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, including Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nods. As viewers follow the Lyons through their tumultuous journey, they are treated to captivating original music, powerful performances, and an authentic portrayal of the challenges faced in the pursuit of fame and fortune.
    1 votes
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  • Graceland
    Photo: USA Network
    20
    2 VOTES

    Graceland

    If you're a fan of Power and are looking for an easy series to escape with, this is the perfect choice to stream.

    The worlds of young undercover agents collide at a repossessed California beachfront mansion.
    2 votes
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  • Peaky Blinders
    Photo: BBC
    21
    3 VOTES

    Peaky Blinders

    Set against the gritty backdrop of post-WWI Birmingham, Peaky Blinders is a gripping crime drama that delves into the lives of the Shelby family as they navigate the treacherous underworld. Led by the cunning and enigmatic Thomas Shelby (Cillian Murphy), this notorious gang rises to power through a combination of ruthless ambition and calculated moves. With its intense storytelling and stellar performances, the series has garnered numerous accolades, including BAFTA Television Awards. The show's dark atmosphere and rich historical context make it an enthralling watch, while the complex relationships between characters provide additional layers of intrigue.
    3 votes
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  • Luke Cage
    Photo: Marvel's Luke Cage
    22
    3 VOTES

    Luke Cage

    In the heart of Harlem, an unbreakable hero emerges to protect his community from the shadows. Luke Cage, portrayed by the charismatic Mike Colter, utilizes his bulletproof skin and superhuman strength to combat crime and corruption. This gritty, yet soulful, drama skillfully weaves together elements of action, suspense, and social commentary while exploring themes of justice, redemption, and the power of resilience. With a remarkable ensemble cast, including Simone Missick as the tenacious detective Misty Knight, and a soundtrack that pulsates with energy, the series has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, earning several award nominations for its innovative storytelling and powerful performances.
    3 votes
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