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Drake’s ‘Top Boy’ revival has finally arrived on Netflix, and fans couldn’t be more excited. Originally airing on Channel 4 from 2011 to 2013, the British hood series was abruptly canceled, leaving viewers wanting more. However, the show is back with its OG cast members, Kano and Ashley Walters, reprising their roles as Sully and Dushane, alongside new additions Little Simz and Dave.
During its heyday, ‘Top Boy’ resonated with audiences across the country for its authentic portrayal of street gangs and drug dealing in the fictional Summerhouse housing estate in Hackney, East London. The show has since developed a cult following, even catching the attention of Drake himself, who serves as the executive producer.
If you’ve already binged all 10 episodes of ‘Top Boy’ and are craving more UK entertainment, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best films and TV shows to stream on Netflix after finishing ‘Top Boy’.
Movies
‘Bullet Boy’
Why you should watch: Before his role in ‘Toy Boy’, Ashley Walters starred in this award-winning and controversial film about urban Britain. The movie tells a similar story to Walters’ own life, which involved an 18-month stint in a young offenders’ institute in 2001 after he was found in possession of a firearm. ‘Bullet Boy’ captures the tension of East and South London at the time, and the emotions portrayed on screen are truly authentic. You can also find it on YouTube.
‘Attack The Block’
Why you should watch: Known as the film that introduced John Boyega of ‘Star Wars’ fame to the world, ‘Attack the Block’ offers a comedic take on UK hood films. This genre-blending movie showcases a group of estate kids teaming up to fend off an alien invasion on their council estate. Written and directed by comedian Joe Cornish, the film also stars Nick Frost and Simon Pegg.
‘Calibre’
Why you should watch: ‘Calibre’ follows two old friends on a hunting weekend in the Scottish highlands. What starts as a simple trip takes a dark turn, blending folk horror, crime drama, and psychological thriller elements. While the premise may sound familiar, ‘Calibre’ manages to present it in a fresh and gripping way.
‘Layer Cake’
Why you should watch: Before becoming James Bond, Daniel Craig played a mid-level cocaine dealer in ‘Layer Cake’. As he plans to leave his criminal life behind, he must complete a series of complicated tasks set by his supplier. This darkly humorous and violent film has drawn comparisons to cult classics like ‘Lock, Stock, and Two Smoking Barrels’ and ‘Scarface’. It’s a must-see for fans of drug-related movies.
‘The Girl With All the Gifts’
Why you should watch: While the zombie genre has been explored in various forms, ‘The Girl With All the Gifts’ offers a thought-provoking take on the subject. This zombie flick, directed by Colm McCarthy, features an all-star cast including Glenn Close, Gemma Arterton, and Paddy Considine. The film’s fantastic soundtrack adds to the suspense and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
TV Shows
‘Residue’
Why you should watch: Described as a mix of ‘Black Mirror’ and a ‘Game of Thrones’ cast, ‘Residue’ is a British sci-fi series that uncovers a web of conspiracy after a mysterious explosion rocks a dystopian city. Although it may not be as hood-focused as ‘Top Boy’, this Channel 4-turned-Netflix show will keep you hooked from the very beginning.
‘Utopia’
Why you should watch: For something darker, ‘Utopia’ is a Channel 4 gem that follows five strangers as they band together against a mysterious network with sinister plans to control the world’s population. This series, known for its cinematography and storytelling, made waves in 2013 with its nightmarish brutality. Although an American remake was in the works with David Fincher and Gillian Flynn, it has since been canceled.
‘Dead Set’
Why you should watch: Like ‘Black Mirror’, ‘Dead Set’ is another one of Charlie Brooker’s satirical commentaries, this time on the ‘Big Brother’ house. Inspired by the iconic horror film ‘Dawn of the Dead’, the show depicts a zombie apocalypse in Britain while the oblivious cast of ‘Big Brother’ remains unaware of the chaos outside. This is unquestionably one of Brooker’s finest works.
‘Peaky Blinders’
Why you should watch: Set in 1920s Birmingham, ‘Peaky Blinders’ is an enthralling crime drama starring Cillian Murphy as Tommy Shelby, the head of the notorious Peaky Blinders gang. With compelling characters and superb performances, this series rivals even HBO’s ‘Boardwalk Empire’. Look out for Tom Hardy, who also stars as Alfie Solomons.
‘The Last Kingdom’
Why you should watch: Based on Bernard Cornwell’s novels, ‘The Last Kingdom’ tells the story of a young Anglo-Saxon who was raised as a Viking after being kidnapped as a child. Set in 9th-century England before the country was unified, the show carries echoes of ‘Vikings’ and ‘Game of Thrones’ while carving its own path.
‘Bodyguard’
Why you should watch: Although ‘Bodyguard’ originally aired on BBC One, it gained widespread popularity after becoming available on Netflix. This gripping series stars Richard Madden as a protective officer assigned to a high-profile politician. Each episode plays out like a full-length film, delivering plenty of action and suspense. You’ll wish there were more than six episodes to binge-watch.
‘The End of the F***ing World’
*Why you should watch: Another sleeper hit, ‘The End of the F**ing World’ first aired on Channel 4 in 2017 before finding success on Netflix. Based on Charles Forsman’s comic books, the series explores the off-kilter relationship between two 17-year-old outsiders. With the talented Alex Lawther and a stellar soundtrack, this show is a hidden gem.
‘Luther’
Why you should watch: Idris Elba stars as Luther, an emotionally impulsive London detective who relentlessly pursues the city’s killers. With its horror elements and intense cat-and-mouse chases, this gritty series will keep you on the edge of your seat. Look out for Rose Leslie from ‘Game of Thrones’ and ‘Downton Abbey’ as well.
‘Chewing Gum’
Why you should watch: Michaela Coel gained recognition with her award-winning comedy ‘Chewing Gum’, which showcases her unconventional and hilarious take on race. This hidden gem, originally airing on E4, received critical acclaim for its absurd humor. If you’re looking for a good laugh, ‘Chewing Gum’ is a must-see.
‘The IT Crowd’
Why you should watch: ‘The IT Crowd’ offers a ridiculous yet relatable look at a neglected team of I.T. staff banished to the basement of their London office. This inherently British show is filled with irony, sarcasm, and dry humor, and it expertly pokes fun at geeks and corporate life. Written by Irish comedian Graham Linehan, the series stars Chris O’Dowd, Richard Ayoade, and Katherine Parkinson.
Honorable Mentions
‘KiDULTHOOD’
Why you should watch: ‘KiDULTHOOD’ can be considered London’s answer to ‘Kids’ and ‘La Haine’. This film follows a group of city kids as they navigate trouble, relationships, and drugs. Instead of focusing on the usual areas of East or South London, screenwriter Noel Clarke drew inspiration from his upbringing in Ladbroke Grove. The film features an incredible soundtrack with artists like Dizzee Rascal and The Streets. You can stream it on Amazon Prime and Sky Cinema.
Remember, if you’re looking for more incredible content, be sure to visit Ratingperson for all your recommendations.
