If you enjoyed the gritty realism and intense action of Shadow Company (2006), a documentary-style thriller about private military contractors, you're in luck. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that delve into the shadowy world of mercenaries, covert ops, and high-stakes warfare. Whether you're drawn to the moral complexities or the adrenaline-pumping combat, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Black Hawk Down (2001)
Description: A gritty war film depicting a real-life military operation gone wrong, focusing on the bravery and struggles of soldiers in hostile territory.
Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, and many of the extras were actual Moroccan soldiers to add authenticity to the battle scenes.


Tears of the Sun (2003)
Description: A military drama centered around a rescue mission in a war-torn country, highlighting themes of duty, sacrifice, and moral dilemmas in combat situations.
Fact: The film's jungle scenes were shot in Hawaii, which doubled for the African setting.


The Kingdom (2007)
Description: A tense thriller about a team of investigators navigating political and cultural complexities while uncovering a conspiracy in a foreign country.
Fact: The film's opening sequence includes a fictionalized but detailed history of U.S.-Saudi relations to set the stage for the story.


Body of Lies (2008)
Description: A spy thriller that delves into the murky world of intelligence operations, featuring high-stakes deception and geopolitical intrigue.
Fact: The film was shot in multiple countries, including Morocco and the United States, to capture the diverse settings of the story.


Lone Survivor (2013)
Description: A harrowing survival story based on true events, focusing on a small team of soldiers fighting against insurmountable odds in hostile terrain.
Fact: The actors underwent intense military training to prepare for their roles, including learning how to handle weapons and operate as a team.


The Expendables (2010)
Description: A high-octane action film featuring a team of elite mercenaries on a dangerous mission, emphasizing teamwork, combat skills, and survival against overwhelming odds.
Fact: The movie was conceived as a throwback to the action films of the 1980s and 1990s, featuring many iconic action stars from that era.


Act of Valor (2012)
Description: A realistic portrayal of modern-day special operations forces, blending action with a documentary-style approach to showcase the intensity of military missions.
Fact: The film features active-duty U.S. Navy SEALs in lead roles, adding an unprecedented level of authenticity.


Zero Dark Thirty (2012)
Description: A gripping thriller about the decade-long hunt for a notorious terrorist leader, blending real-life events with intense procedural drama.
Fact: The film's climactic raid scene was shot in near-total darkness to replicate the actual conditions of the operation.


American Sniper (2014)
Description: A biographical war drama focusing on the life of a sniper, exploring the psychological toll of warfare and the challenges of returning home.
Fact: The film's production used real-life military veterans as consultants to ensure accuracy in depicting combat scenarios.


The Outpost (2020)
Description: A war film based on true events, showcasing the bravery of soldiers defending a remote outpost against a relentless enemy attack.
Fact: The movie was filmed in a single continuous take during the battle scenes to immerse the audience in the chaos of combat.
