Animal Kingdom

'Animal Kingdom' is a bet from the TNT channel. It was created by Jonathan Lisco, responsible for other fictions like 'Southland', and produced by Warner Horizon Television. The TV series is loosely inspired by the 2010 Australian crime and suspense film of the same name directed by David Michôd.

The core of the story is a family of criminals who settle in a coastal town in Southern California after the mother of Joshua "J" Cody, a seventeen-year-old boy, dies from a heroin overdose.

The young man moves in with his biological family, led by Janine "Smurf" Cody, his grandmother and, in turn, a charismatic and manipulative matriarch, who serves as the emotional and criminal engine of the series during the early seasons.

Once there, "J" Cody progressively delves into the violent and corrupt criminal world of the Codys. Through his eyes, the internal dynamics of the clan are revealed, marked by distrust, ambition, and a constant struggle for power.

The family clan also includes Barry "Baz" Brown, the matriarch's right-hand man; Andrew "Pope" Cody, the oldest and most dangerous of them all; Craig, the reckless middle son; and Deran, the troubled son of the family.

The impact of 'Animal Kingdom' was notable for its raw portrayal of family criminality and its evolution into an increasingly psychological drama over its six seasons (2016-2022). It stood out for its constant tension, narrative twists, and the progressive development of its characters. It gained a loyal fan base thanks to its mix of action, drama, and family tragedy.

The cast includes: Ellen Barkin ('The New Normal'), Finn Cole ('Peaky Blinders'), Scott Speedman ('Felicity'), Shawn Hatosy ('Southland'), Ben Robson ('Vikings'), and Emily Deschanel ('Bones').