The Netflix original Griselda has taken the world by storm, thanks to its fast-paced storytelling and immersive visuals. It really transports you to late-’70s Miami with its costumes and visuals. I suppose it’s one of those shows that you can gobble up in one sitting, so you’ll be looking for some sort of replacement now that it’s over. The show tells the story of Griselda Blanco, aka the Godmother, who took over the drug scene in Miami soon after she killed her second husband and fled with her kids from Medellín to Miami. Although her intention was to sell one brick of coke and set up a new life for herself, circumstances led to a completely different chain of events. We know you’re as addicted to these shows as the cokeheads who fell at the Godmother’s feet. The rise of the Godmother was quick and dramatic, so here’s a list of shows that are just as quick or dramatic to keep you entertained.
1. Narcos
Before you come at me, if you’ve already seen it, here’s your sign for a rewatch. Honestly, this show is so universal that even if you don’t care for police procedural, criminal, or drug-gangster war shows, this will keep you hooked from start to finish. The show stars none other than the zaddy of the internet, Pedro Pascal, amongst a mighty ensemble cast of fantastic actors who each deliver memorable performances, especially Wagnor Moura as Pablo Escobar himself. I don’t even care for action, but I’ve got specific chase scenes from this show etched in my brain for some reason. If you haven’t watched this, drop everything, grab some popcorn and a can of Coke (tee hee), sit back, and enjoy the rollercoaster ride it’s going to take you on. Additionally, there’s no Pedro Pascal without Narcos. And, if the one show wasn’t enough, there’s also Narcos: Mexico to continue the streak and learn more about the cartels of South America.
2. Breaking Bad
Of course, this is on the list of shows about drugs. I’m not a man, so I’m not going to hype this up as the best show in the world. I’ve got plenty more entertaining options for that; however, this is objectively quite a good show, so I won’t deny it’s a fun watch. I suppose it’s also a fascinating story about a cantankerous chemistry teacher who uses the art of his science as a way to pay off his debts. At the end of the day, this is a character study similar to Griselda, where the lead begins with modest intentions and then swings into overdrive until they crash and burn into obscurity. Maybe there was some inspiration when it came to Walt’s character that we never knew about.
3. The Fall of the House of Usher
Now you’re going to be thinking, “Why is this woman bringing up a horror show when we’re talking about drugs?” Well, the premise of this emotionally damaging show by Mike Flanagan revolves around the opioid crisis and turns it into something completely new and refreshing. Honestly, Mike never disappoints when it comes to producing something new and engaging. You may say it’s not scary enough; however, you’ll be thinking about it for days and revisiting moments without even realizing it. The Fall of the House of Usher shows you the many sides of drug abuse and how it can get to one’s head. On the other hand, it also focuses on the greed for power and how that changes a person. Sounds familiar, no? Anyway, I’m never going to get tired of recommending this show!
4. The Worst of Evil
There’s no way I can go without mentioning a K-drama or two on my list. Ji Chang-Wook’s return to the action genre is nothing less than a gore fest that’ll have your blood pumping in excitement and fear from start to finish. Undercover agents, bits that make you question your moral grounds, and a lot of bromance cement this show into something truly entertaining. There’s even a scene that looks like it came right out of Oldboy, and if that doesn’t have you excited enough, then it could be the premise of a washed-up cop trying to bring his life back together by going undercover to bring down a self-made drug lord. Give this one a go, and I promise it will not disappoint. Not only does it have an exciting plot, but it’s also visually fantastic and has some incredible action sequences that’ll make you want to put on your best suits and join the ride.
5. Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo
What’s better than a single woman taking over the drug business? An entire family of women. Saas Bahu Aur Flamingo is an absurd Indian show about a self-made matriarch running an undercover drug cartel that her own sons don’t know about. The best part is that it’s her daughter and daughters-in-law who work with her and manage the business for her. The show is kooky and sometimes a little too over the top; however, it’s still worth a watch. I bet Savitri and Griselda would do fantastic together as business partners. Give this one a go if you’re looking for something unique.
6. Self Made
This one’s definitely the most different from all the other shows on this list because it’s not about drugs at all. It’s just another true story-inspired show about Madam C.J. Walker, the first-ever African-American self-made millionaire. You show me anything with Octavia Spencer, and I’m probably going to watch it no questions asked. Self Made may not be historically accurate; however, it’s still inspiring. I suppose it completely rides on Octavia’s shoulders, and despite its many drawbacks, it’s still got some good points to make. Give this one a go if you’re looking for something more femboss-oriented.
