The Top Shows and Films About Drug Cartels

'Rosario Tijeras' starring Bárbara de Regil, is a Mexican crime drama television series that tells the story of "Rosario", a young student who, due to life circumstances, is forced to enter a world full of violence and criminal bosses. Her motive is simple: it's the only way she can take revenge on those who wronged her and protect her loved ones.

El Chapo Guzmán is perhaps the most well-known drug kingpin, and the series 'El Chapo' focuses on the drug trafficking scene in Mexico. It tells the true story of the notorious drug lord Joaquín "El Chapo" Guzmán, including his rise to power, capture, and escape.

'Narcos' was one of the first Netflix series to gain global popularity, and this was undoubtedly due to its portrayal of the life of drug lord "Pablo Escobar", including all of his tricks and extravagances.

Starring Benicio del Toro, 'Sicario: Day of the Soldado' is an action drama film that centers around drug trafficking along the US-Mexico border. The storyline follows federal agent Matt Graver, who is tasked by the US government to wage war against Mexican drug cartels. In order to achieve his mission, Matt enlists the help of the enigmatic Alejandro Gillick to conduct a covert operation that includes the abduction of a drug lord's daughter. However, the situation quickly becomes more complicated than expected.

Starring Rafael Amaya, 'El Señor de los Cielos' is a drama and action-packed TV series that chronicles the life of notorious Mexican drug trafficker Amado Carrillo Fuentes, also known as 'El Señor de los Cielos.' The show depicts Amado's ascent to power in the drug trafficking world and his eventual downfall. Throughout the series, viewers witness the struggle for control and power among drug cartels, and the perilous lives of those involved in this dangerous and violent world. The show is renowned for its gritty and realistic portrayal of the lives of drug lords in Mexico.

'The Wire' is a critically acclaimed American television series that delves into the ongoing battle between the Baltimore police and the city's drug-trafficking underworld. Starring Dominic West and an ensemble cast across multiple seasons, the show examines the complex relationships and power dynamics that exist among police, drug dealers, and residents living in poverty-stricken areas plagued by violence. Each season centers on a distinct theme, ranging from drug dealing and organized crime to politics and education.

'Pablo Escobar: The Patron of Evil' is a Colombian TV production that traces the life of notorious drug trafficker "Pablo Escobar", from his early days in the trade to his ultimate demise in 1993. The series depicts his ascent to power and the methods he used to build his drug empire in Colombia, as well as his tumultuous relationship with the authorities and his fierce competition with other drug cartels. By exploring Escobar's story, the series provides a stark depiction of the violence and mayhem that permeate the world of drug trafficking.

'Drug Lords - Lords of the Drug' is a Netflix documentary series that offers a glimpse into the lives of some of the most notorious drug lords in history. The series reveals the atrocities of their crimes and exposes the extent to which figures such as "El Chapo" Guzmán, Pablo Escobar, the "Queen of Crack" in Los Angeles, and the "King of Hash" in Europe went to achieve their goals. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews, and reenactments, the series provides a gripping and often disturbing portrayal of the dark side of the drug trade.

'Miss Bala', starring Gina Rodriguez, is a drama and action film that follows the story of "Gloria", a young Mexican woman who dreams of participating in a beauty pageant in Tijuana. After witnessing a shootout between the drug cartel and the police, "Gloria" is kidnapped by cartel members and forced to work for them. As tensions rise between the cartel and law enforcement, "Gloria" finds herself in the middle of a dangerous power struggle.