If you loved the gritty, action-packed drama of 'Vigilante' (1982), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same raw intensity, vigilante justice, and urban chaos. Whether you're a fan of revenge thrillers or street-level heroics, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Dirty Harry (1971)
Description: A tough cop disregards the rules to bring a serial killer to justice, embodying the lone enforcer of justice trope.
Fact: The film popularized the phrase 'Do you feel lucky, punk?' which became a cultural catchphrase.


Walking Tall (1973)
Description: A former wrestler returns to his hometown to clean up corruption, using violent means to achieve justice.
Fact: The movie is loosely based on the real-life story of sheriff Buford Pusser.


Death Wish (1974)
Description: A man takes the law into his own hands after his family is attacked, embodying the theme of vigilantism and personal justice.
Fact: The film was controversial for its portrayal of vigilantism and sparked debates about urban crime and justice.


Taxi Driver (1976)
Description: A mentally unstable veteran works as a nighttime taxi driver and becomes increasingly violent, reflecting themes of urban decay and personal vengeance.
Fact: The film's iconic line 'You talkin' to me?' was improvised by the lead actor during filming.


Falling Down (1993)
Description: A frustrated man violently lashes out against the society he feels has failed him, exploring themes of alienation and personal retribution.
Fact: The film's protagonist was originally written as a villain, but audience sympathy led to a more ambiguous portrayal.


Man on Fire (2004)
Description: A former assassin seeks brutal revenge after the girl he was hired to protect is kidnapped, highlighting extreme measures for personal justice.
Fact: The film is based on a novel of the same name, which was previously adapted into a 1987 film.


A History of Violence (2005)
Description: A mild-mannered man's violent past catches up with him, forcing him to confront his true nature and the consequences of his actions.
Fact: The film is based on a graphic novel of the same name, though it significantly alters the source material's ending.


The Equalizer (2014)
Description: Features a retired intelligence officer who uses his skills to help the helpless, showcasing a lone figure dispensing justice outside the law.
Fact: The movie is based on a 1980s TV series of the same name, reimagining the concept for a modern audience.


The Brave One (2007)
Description: A woman becomes a vigilante after a brutal attack, seeking revenge against those who wronged her and others.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a male-led story but was reworked with a female protagonist.


Law Abiding Citizen (2009)
Description: A man orchestrates a series of elaborate revenge plots against the justice system that failed him, showcasing extreme vigilantism.
Fact: The film's script was featured on the 2008 Black List of best unproduced screenplays in Hollywood.
