Animal Kingdom is one of the underrated TV shows currently airing. With gritty characters and plotlines, the show has only gotten better after each season. While some would argue that the show doesn’t offer anything new, fans of the genre would love the various aspects of this show.
Before I move forward, know that this article doesn’t contain any spoilers. So, if you haven’t watched the show, you have arrived at the right place.
So is the show worth watching? If yes, what makes it so good?
Animal Kingdom is a show worth watching. The nihilistic undertones, flawed characters, and thrilling pace of the series make it binge-worthy.
For the uninitiated, the TV series is based on a film of the same name. Initial episodes of season 1 of the show might seem similar to the show but hang in there because it changes after the first half.
Post this, every season is packed with an abundance of family drama, thrilling heists, morally horrific choices, and much more. If you’re wondering whether or not to watch the show, here are a few reasons why you must.
The Constant Air of Nihilism
There’s nothing better than seeing a nihilistic character yearn for something – One more shot at life, a way to escape the clutches of the law, one last moment with someone they love, and so on.
The Cody family is a bunch of people who live like they have no tomorrow, and there’s no good/bad in the world. As a result, we’ve seen every character do something questionable, and no single person is exempt from this writing trope.
The way these people evolve in their relationships and in the way they conduct their ‘business’ is an edgy watch. At times, you might be overwhelmed with how intense things can get and how far these people can go to get what they want.
But that’s precisely what makes this show so binge-worthy. You always need closure and want to know what will happen to the various endeavors of the people in the series. But what exactly makes these characters nihilistic and people who can’t be redeemed?
Familial Trauma, Secrets, and Betrayal
All these three words, more often than not, seem familiar to people who are fans of the genre. We’ve seen it in countless movies and shows, and certain tropes and plot points might even feel like a cliche.
However, you’ll enjoy how these concepts translate into events that drive the show forward. People feel a certain amount of relatability when they see such plots and characters. It’s almost like a hyperbolic version of what would transpire in a regular family if they had the same issues.
The Cody Family is bound by their individual traumatic experiences. In fact, this forms a crucial part of the story and shows how one can never outrun their past. Ironically, this trauma turns them against each other and becomes the reason for their fallout. No matter how often we watch such storylines, they don’t get old if told well.
Performances
The characters and the performances by numerous actors are commendable. This is especially true for Ellen Barkin and Finn Cole. You would remember Finn Cole from Peaky Blinders as Michael Gray. He was one of the most notable performers until season 5 and created an impact that surpassed Arthur Shelby, played by Paul Anderson.
Ellen Barkin as the matriarch Janine Smurf Cody is a treat to watch. She always stood out no matter who was with her in a scene. In fact, there were times when you wouldn’t focus on anyone else but her.
Conclusion
While there are more reasons to watch this show, I’d have to dive into its intricacies and subplots to shed light on them. Instead, you could start streaming this on Amazon PrimeVideo or Netflix and discover the brilliance behind this show.
About Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom is an American drama television series developed by Jonathan Lisco. It is based on the 2010 Australian film of the same name directed by David Michôd, who is executive producer for the series, alongside Liz Watts, who also produced the 2010 film.
The series follows a 17-year-old boy, who, after the death of his mother, moves in with his estranged relatives, the Codys, a criminal family clan governed by the matriarch Smurf.
The crime drama stars Ellen Barkin, Shawn Hatosy, Ben Robson, Jake Weary, Finn Cole, Danielle Alonso, Molly Gordon, and Denis Leary. Season 6 will be the final season of the show.
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