If you enjoyed the gritty crime drama 'Chasing the Dragon' (2017), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same intense action, underworld intrigue, and compelling storytelling. Whether you're a fan of crime sagas or just looking for your next binge-worthy watch, this list has something for you.

Infernal Affairs (2002)
Description: A masterful cat-and-mouse game between an undercover cop and a mole in the police force, showcasing themes of deception, loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Fact: The film inspired the Hollywood remake 'The Departed' and is considered one of the greatest Hong Kong crime films of all time.


The Departed (2006)
Description: A gripping crime thriller with intense undercover operations, moral ambiguity, and violent confrontations, mirroring the high-stakes tension and gritty realism of organized crime narratives.
Fact: The film is a remake of the Hong Kong movie 'Infernal Affairs' and won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Martin Scorsese.


The Gangster, the Cop, the Devil (2019)
Description: A tense and violent crime story about an unlikely alliance between a gangster and a cop to hunt down a serial killer, exploring themes of justice and vengeance.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events and features a standout performance by Ma Dong-seok, known for his charismatic tough-guy roles.


The Chaser (2008)
Description: A relentless and suspenseful thriller about a former detective turned pimp hunting down a serial killer, featuring a breakneck pace and morally complex characters.
Fact: The film marked a turning point in Korean cinema, revitalizing the thriller genre and inspiring a wave of similar high-tension films.


The Man from Nowhere (2010)
Description: A brutal and emotional action-thriller featuring a lone protagonist with a dark past, seeking redemption through violent means, much like the relentless pursuit of justice in crime dramas.
Fact: The film's climactic knife fight scene is often cited as one of the most intense and well-choreographed action sequences in Korean cinema.


The Raid 2 (2014)
Description: An ultra-violent action film with intricate fight choreography and a deep undercover crime narrative, emphasizing the physical and psychological toll of the criminal underworld.
Fact: The movie features one of the longest single-take fight scenes in cinema history, lasting over three minutes.


The Wailing (2016)
Description: A haunting blend of crime thriller and supernatural horror, where a small-town cop investigates a series of brutal murders, uncovering dark and unsettling truths.
Fact: The film's ambiguous ending sparked widespread debate and analysis among viewers and critics alike.


The Villainess (2017)
Description: A high-octane action thriller with a female assassin at its core, blending brutal fight sequences with a revenge-driven plot and emotional depth.
Fact: The film's opening scene is a first-person action sequence that pays homage to video game aesthetics, creating an immersive experience.


The Outlaws (2017)
Description: A gritty crime film based on true events, focusing on the violent clashes between law enforcement and organized crime syndicates, with a raw and unflinching portrayal of urban violence.
Fact: The movie was a massive box office hit in South Korea and spawned a sequel, 'The Roundup', due to its popularity.


The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (2018)
Description: A dark and action-packed thriller with sci-fi elements, following a young girl with mysterious powers caught in a web of violence and conspiracy.
Fact: The film's twist ending left audiences shocked and eager for the sequel, which was confirmed shortly after its release.
