Netflix Crime Thriller ‘Ozark’ Is Still One of Their Best Streaming Originals

Most people agree that Breaking Bad is among the greatest crime thrillers ever made. The show’s story of Walter White and his family deeply resonated with viewers, and when it ended in 2013, many felt a significant loss, as watching it weekly on AMC had become a habit. Several shows attempted to capture the same magic, but it wasn’t until 2017, with the arrival of Ozark on Netflix, that a worthy successor finally emerged.

With Jason Bateman and Laura Linney as Marty and Wendy Byrde, Ozark successfully recaptured the feel of Breaking Bad – something few shows have managed since. The series centers on a couple who relocate to the Ozark Mountains to wash money for a dangerous Mexican drug cartel. While Breaking Bad felt like a classic tragedy, Ozark created a darker, more suspenseful atmosphere, heavily exploring bleak and pessimistic ideas.

‘Ozark’ Set Itself Apart From ‘Breaking Bad’ By Providing Fewer Laughs

Created by Bill Dubuque and Mark Williams, Ozark was generally more grim than Breaking Bad, offering fewer lighthearted moments. While Breaking Bad often included humor alongside its serious plot, Ozark rarely gave viewers a chance to smile.

While Ozark wasn’t a comedy, it had moments of humor that stemmed from how darkly absurd the situations were. For example, Wendy casually apologizing over a dead body while wearing a fancy gown. These little bits of dark comedy were key to the show’s success and helped it stand out from shows like Breaking Bad.

The involvement of Wendy and Marty’s children in their criminal activities made Ozark even more morally complex. Unlike Walter White, who tries (and ultimately fails) to shield his family from the drug trade, Marty and Wendy actively involve Jonah and Charlotte, asking them to help with tasks like counting money and covering for their parents.

‘Ozark’ Is Still One of Netflix’s Best Streaming Originals

Netflix has created many excellent original series, but Ozark consistently ranks among its strongest. The show’s four-season run is particularly impressive, considering Netflix’s recent tendency to cancel shows quickly. Both critics and viewers agree – Ozark boasts an 82% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an 86% score on the Popcornmeter.

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If you’ve been avoiding Ozark thinking it’s too similar to Breaking Bad, give it a try – you might be surprised. While the shows have some things in common, they quickly become very distinct once you start watching.

2026-02-16 00:34

‘Ozark’ Set Itself Apart From ‘Breaking Bad’ By Providing Fewer Laughs

‘Ozark’ Is Still One of Netflix’s Best Streaming Originals

MovieWeb Report: Subscribe and never miss what matters

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