A list of movies and TV series to watch if you're hungry for more tales where the heroes claw their way to success, overcoming impossible odds
Adapted from Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name by Aravind Adiga, The White Tiger is a film that has the cinematic world buzzing about the break-out performance of Adarsh Gourav as Balram Halwai, a poor villager whose journey to becoming successful entrepreneur is filled with dark twists and turns.
If you loved The White Tiger, which premiered on January 22 and went straight into the Top 10, here are five more gritty dramas on Netflix.
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1. Queen of the South
Now in its fifth season, this adaptation of the telenovela La Reina del Sur is an action-packed adventure that centres around a poor Mexican woman who becomes wealthy by building a vast drug empire. Complex and fast-paced, it is a thrilling tale about the survival and tenacity of its heroine.
My name is Teresa Mendoza. I am from México. I was born poor, not that that's bad. But take it from me, I've been poor. And I've been rich... Rich is better.
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2. Uncut Gems
Featuring shady six-way deals, double-crossing partners in crime and a delightful cameo by The Weeknd, this award-winning film is a high-stakes drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Between Adam Sandler's surprising break-out performance as fast-talking, conniving gambling addict, Howard Ratner, the anxiety-inducing cinematography and thrilling original score, you will be thinking about this movie well after it is over.
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3. Casino Tycoon
Starring Andy Lau in his prime, this 1992 Hong Kong classic follows a young man's journey to becoming a kingpin in organised crime during the Japanese invasion in World War II. Set in the glamorous gambling haven of Macau, this story explores the personal and moral cost of chasing success.
Even as a kid, I knew that only the bankers win...
4. The Platform
Set in a dystopian future where starving prisoners at the bottom cells of vertical tower watch as those above them are fed, this movie is an unsubtle commentary on social class and inequality, exploring similar themes from The White Tiger, albeit in a vastly different genre. If you can handle gore and horror, this Spanish sci-fi thriller is a must-add to your watch list.
5. Kings of Jo'burg
This six-part original Netflix series by Shona Ferguson centres around a South African crime family, who would do anything for success. With elements of mysticism, this fast-paced, binge-able series explores themes of family, loyalty and success at any cost.
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