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Animal Kingdom is an enthralling TV series that airs on TNT and invites viewers into the murky depths of the lives of a family torn apart by criminal activity. The Cody family is the focus of this television series, which is set in Southern California among the sandy beaches and seedy slums of the region. The family is shown navigating a perilous criminal landscape. This dysfunctional family stays together through a complex network of lies, thefts, and dangerous connections, all led by the family’s manipulative matriarch.
Animal Kingdom, the American version of the highly praised Australian film, has morally ambiguous individuals motivated by their needs, ambitions, and everlasting allegiance to one another. The original film was made in Australia. As the Cody brothers struggle with their demons, they are drawn further into a world where survival, power, and control all come at a steep cost. Animal Kingdom has evolved as a must-watch for fans of gripping crime dramas due to its intricate storylines, multifaceted characters, and persistent portrayal of the evil side of humanity. Continue reading to learn more about the actors and personalities featured in Animal Kingdom.
Ellen Barkin as Janine “Smurf” Cody
Ellen Barkin portrays the powerful matriarch of the Cody family in her role as Janine “Smurf” Cody. Smurf has lost contact with her grandson J. Still, she remains passionately protective of her family and displays a complicated, even incestuous affection for her relatives. Smurf is the provocative and influential head of a tightly knit criminal clan consisting of her four adult sons, even though she publicly appears to be a respectable entrepreneur in the Southern California region. Smurf’s clan is comprised of her four adult sons. This unpredictable and manipulative person maintains a twisted emotional grasp over her boys, causing fear and hatred inside them, even while they compete for her affection and acceptance. She vacillates between periods of maternal care and terrifying power, and she possesses both of these qualities at the same time.
She had her first major role in Diner, released in 1982. She featured in other noteworthy films such as Tender Mercies, Eddie, and Cruisers. Barkin became well-known in the film business. Her work in the film Switch from 1991 garnered her a nomination for the Golden Globe Award in the Best Actress category. More recently, Barkin demonstrated her talent by appearing in the Poker Face episode “Exit Stage Death.” In this episode, she played a role that required her to exit a stage.
Shawn Hatosy as Andrew “Pope” Cody
Andrew “Pope” Cody, the eldest of Smurf’s sons, is portrayed in the show by Shawn Hatosy. Pope, who suffers from mental instability, frequently turns to violence to escape the difficulties he is forced to confront in his life. After his initial appearance in the pilot episode, he spends the next three years behind bars at Folsom State Prison until being released to the Cody household. Pope has a good relationship with his biological and adopted brothers and sisters, especially with his adopted brother Barry, who is named Baz. As the first season progresses, it becomes clear that Pope has an intense and unnerving fixation on Baz’s wife, Catherine, and that this has been the case from the beginning.
The critically acclaimed roles that Hatosy has played in films such as “In & Out” and “Alpha Dog” have helped him earn widespread fame. In addition, he is well known for his performance as Detective Sammy Bryant in the crime drama series Southland, which can also be found on TNT.
Scott Speedman as Barry “Baz” Blackwell
Scott Speedman portrays Barry “Baz” Blackwell. He is an adopted son of Smurf and a vital figure in the heist operations carried out by the Cody family. Baz, the youngest of the Cody brothers, was adopted by Smurf when he was 12 and seemed to have the most level head. As Smurf’s loyal lieutenant, he is actively involved in planning the family’s armed robberies, which gives him a pivotal role in the criminal enterprise. Baz is a manipulative person who is largely focused on his interests, even though he presents himself as calm.
As a result of his performance as Ben Covington in the coming-of-age drama series Felicity, Speedman received widespread attention. After having previously been in the medical drama series Grey’s Anatomy in the role of Dr. Nick Marsh as a guest during the show’s 14th season, Speedman was cast as a main character when the series returned in 2021. Crimes of the Future was a film directed by David Cronenberg that starred Speedman and was released in 2022.
Finn Cole as Joshua “J” Cody
Joshua “J” Cody, portrayed by Finn Cole, is the son of Julia Cody, portrayed by Jasper Polish, and the grandson of Janine “Smurf” Cody. Throughout the show, J has a tendency to infidelity in his relationships, and he has cheated on Nikki on two separate occasions. In addition, he is predisposed to be drawn to potentially dangerous or unlawful women, such as his instructor or the member of the gang Mia. J frequently exhibits a lack of emotional attachment to his family, as seen by his reaction, which appeared to be one of indifference, to the passing of his uncle and father figure, Baz. He does not build significant bonds with his uncles and has a minor interest in the rest of his family. His devotion to Smurf is motivated by a desire for wealth, success, and self-interest because he believes she is his best opportunity to continue existing.
Cole is famous for being Michael Gray in the critically acclaimed British television series Peaky Blinders. In the film F9, he also appeared as a young Jakob Toretto, and he did so in that picture.
Jake Weary as Deran Cody
Jake Weary plays the role of Deran Cody, Smurf’s youngest son among his children. Deran is frequently regarded as the family member who most exemplifies the attitude of carefree and daring exploration, as he is fond of high-speed cars, adrenaline surf, and crazy celebrations. Deran has a generous personality and is incredibly dedicated to his family. He would do anything for them. Although he is not as quick as his siblings to engage in physical altercations, he can hold his own when the situation demands it. Despite his love for his relatives, Deran strongly desires to flee the criminal lifestyle around him. He pines for the opportunity to lead a more ordinary life. Nevertheless, realizing this seemingly unachievable desire is a big obstacle for him to overcome.
Weary became well-known for his roles as Luke Snyder in the CBS serial opera As the World Turns and Vince Keeler in the NBC action-drama series Chicago Fire. Both of these roles brought him acclaim. His acting skills transcend into the horror genre, as seen by his parts in films such as It Follows and Chapter Two.
Ben Robson as Craig Cody
Craig Cody, the second oldest of Smurf’s sons, is portrayed by Ben Robson, who also portrays the role. Craig is a person who is addicted to the rush of adrenaline, and he has an insatiable thirst for thrills. He enjoys the rush of speed and dangerous escapades. He is the Cody family’s middle son and lends an air of unpredictability and a touch of mischief to how the Codys interact. Craig’s sense of mischief drives him to reckless shenanigans, and he frequently participates in adventurous excursions involving substances like alcohol and narcotics. He is known for being the life of the party and hosting big get-togethers that will be fun for everyone. Craig is constantly at the forefront when it comes to having a good time, infusing each and every moment with his boundless energy and enthusiasm.
Robson’s performance in the horror film The Boy, which also starred Lauren Cohan and Rupert Evans, is particularly noteworthy. In addition, he was a member of the Vikings cast and appeared in 13 episodes. He is also scheduled to play Frankie in the John Wick spinoff series The Continental (2023).
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