If you loved the gripping tension and high-stakes drama of 'Stronghold' (2023), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that deliver similar thrills, from intense action sequences to complex character dynamics. Whether you're a fan of military epics or survival stories, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Great Escape (1963)
Description: A classic war film centered around a large-scale escape from a German POW camp during WWII. The camaraderie, resourcefulness, and sheer audacity of the prisoners are key elements.
Fact: The film is based on a true story, and many of the characters are composites of real-life prisoners. The motorcycle jump scene, performed by Steve McQueen, is one of the most iconic moments in cinema history.


Cool Hand Luke (1967)
Description: A story of defiance and resilience in a Southern chain gang. The protagonist's unbreakable spirit and refusal to conform inspire fellow inmates and challenge authority.
Fact: The famous 'egg-eating contest' scene was not in the original script but was improvised on set, becoming one of the most memorable moments in the film.


Escape from Alcatraz (1979)
Description: A gripping tale of meticulous planning and execution of an escape from one of the most notorious prisons in history. The film highlights the ingenuity and determination of the inmates.
Fact: The movie was shot on location at the actual Alcatraz Island, adding to its authenticity. It remains one of the most famous prison escape films ever made.


Brubaker (1980)
Description: A dramatic expose of corruption and abuse within a prison system, led by a warden who goes undercover as an inmate to uncover the truth. The film emphasizes reform and justice.
Fact: The movie was inspired by the real-life experiences of Thomas O. Murton, a prison reformer who worked in Arkansas prisons during the 1960s.


The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Description: A story of hope, friendship, and perseverance within the walls of a harsh prison. The protagonist's strategic planning and unwavering spirit are central to the plot.
Fact: Despite its initial box office disappointment, the film gained a massive following through home video and television, becoming one of the most beloved movies of all time.


Oz (1997)
Description: A gritty and intense portrayal of life inside a experimental prison unit. The series explores themes of power, survival, and the complexities of human behavior in confinement.
Fact: Oz was one of the first hour-long drama series produced by HBO, paving the way for future groundbreaking shows like The Sopranos and The Wire.


The Green Mile (1999)
Description: A supernatural drama set in a Depression-era prison, focusing on the lives of guards and inmates, particularly one with mysterious healing powers. The film blends emotional depth with themes of redemption.
Fact: The film was adapted from a serial novel by Stephen King, released in six monthly installments, mimicking the episodic nature of old-fashioned serialized storytelling.


The Last Castle (2001)
Description: A military prison drama focusing on leadership, rebellion, and the struggle for justice within a confined environment. The tension between authority and inmates drives the narrative.
Fact: The film's prison set was built specifically for the movie and was one of the largest sets constructed at the time. It was designed to resemble a medieval castle, emphasizing the themes of power and control.


Prison Break (2005)
Description: A high-stakes series revolving around a meticulously planned escape from a maximum-security prison. The narrative thrives on suspense, strategy, and the bonds formed under extreme pressure.
Fact: The show's iconic protagonist, Michael Scofield, has a full-body tattoo of the prison's blueprints, which became one of the most recognizable symbols of the series.


Escape Plan (2013)
Description: A modern take on the prison escape genre, featuring a security expert who must break out of a high-tech, inescapable facility. The film combines action, strategy, and suspense.
Fact: This movie marked the first time Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger starred together in a major film, fulfilling a long-awaited collaboration for fans.
