If you were captivated by the intense political drama and gripping narrative of 'Tandav' (2021), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of power struggles, intrigue, and moral dilemmas. Whether you're a fan of high-stakes political thrillers or complex character-driven stories, this list will keep you hooked.

House of Cards (2013)
Description: A political drama that exposes the ruthless machinations of power in Washington. The story follows ambitious politicians willing to manipulate, betray, and even destroy others to climb the ladder of success.
Fact: The series was the first original online-only web television series to receive major Emmy nominations. Kevin Spacey's character frequently breaks the fourth wall to address the audience directly.


The Blacklist (2013)
Description: A sophisticated crime drama featuring a master criminal who assists law enforcement in capturing dangerous fugitives. The series explores complex relationships between criminals and those who pursue them, filled with twists and hidden agendas.
Fact: James Spader's character Raymond Reddington was originally written as a much younger man. The show has one of television's most elaborate mythology structures, with clues hidden throughout episodes.


The Bureau (2015)
Description: A realistic espionage drama focusing on the daily operations of France's external security service. The series delves deep into the psychological toll of undercover work and the moral compromises of intelligence gathering.
Fact: The show's creators consulted with former French intelligence officers to ensure accuracy. Many storylines are inspired by real-life espionage cases from France's DGSE.


Designated Survivor (2016)
Description: A political thriller about an unexpected leader thrust into the presidency after a catastrophic attack. The narrative explores the challenges of maintaining democracy while dealing with conspiracies and power vacuums.
Fact: The concept is based on a real-life protocol in U.S. government continuity plans. Kiefer Sutherland's casting marked his return to television after his iconic role in '24'.


Inside Edge (2017)
Description: A dramatic exploration of power plays and corruption in the world of professional cricket. The series reveals the dark underbelly of sports management, where ambition often trumps ethics.
Fact: This was Amazon Prime Video's first Indian original series. It was nominated for an International Emmy Award in the Best Drama category.


Mirzapur (2018)
Description: A gritty crime drama set in the heartland of India, focusing on power struggles, political intrigue, and violent clashes between rival factions. The show delves into themes of ambition, betrayal, and the corrupting influence of power.
Fact: The series was initially conceptualized as a film but was later developed into a web series due to its expansive narrative. It became one of the most-watched Indian web series on Amazon Prime Video.


Bodyguard (2018)
Description: A tense political thriller following a war veteran assigned to protect a controversial politician. The series masterfully blends personal trauma with high-stakes security threats and political conspiracies.
Fact: The opening episode features one of the most intense bomb disposal sequences ever filmed for television. It became the BBC's most-watched drama since current records began.


The Family Man (2019)
Description: A high-stakes espionage thriller blending personal drama with national security threats. The narrative explores the duality of a middle-class man balancing family life with his dangerous job as an intelligence officer.
Fact: The show's creators conducted extensive research with real-life intelligence officers to ensure authenticity. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of counter-terrorism operations.


Paatal Lok (2020)
Description: A neo-noir crime thriller that peels back the layers of Indian society through a gripping murder investigation. The story examines systemic corruption, media sensationalism, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Fact: The series was originally titled 'Dilli' before being renamed. It's known for its unflinching portrayal of social inequalities and police procedures in India.


Asur (2020)
Description: A psychological crime thriller that combines forensic investigation with ancient mythology. The narrative weaves together modern technology and age-old beliefs in a cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and a brilliant killer.
Fact: The show's title refers to demons in Hindu mythology. It gained popularity for its unique blend of crime procedural elements with mythological references.
