Fans of "Sons of Anarchy" will find a lot to like in the popular crime drama "Peaky Blinders" because the BBC One series, which streams on Netflix in the U.S., is essentially "SOA" without the motorcycles (and with period clothing).
Set in the aftermath of World War I, the show follows the exploits of the Peaky Blinders, a dangerous but small gang from Birmingham, England, that is led by Thomas Shelby (Cillian Murphy), a cunning man with big dreams, and his brothers, Arthur (Paul Anderson) and John (Joe Cole). As time goes on (each season sees a small time jump), the Shelby family begins to move into legitimate businesses much like SAMCRO does under Jax's leadership. The family becomes richer and richer as Tommy's influence grows. But more power and visibility means the Shelbys and the Peaky Blinders find themselves frequently butting heads with other gangs and powerful people in England, which naturally leads to plenty of violence and double-crossing.
Complex deals and bloody fights aren't the only thing "Sons of Anarchy" and "Peaky Blinders" have it common. They also share themes of brotherhood and family. As Shelby family matriarch Aunt Polly, the late Helen McCrory fills a similar role to Katey Sagal's Gemma in "Sons of Anarchy," meaning she pulls the strings while steering clear of the day-to-day operations of the family's illegal enterprises. But perhaps the biggest connection between the two series is the fact that actor Tommy Flanagan appears in both. He portrays Filip "Chibs" Telford in "Sons of Anarchy" before taking on the role of Tommy, Arthur, and John's father in "Peaky Blinders."
The first five seasons of "Peaky Blinders" are currently streaming on Netflix. A sixth and final season will debut at an undetermined date.
