If you enjoyed the gritty crime drama 'Beyond the Law' (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same intense action, moral dilemmas, and underworld intrigue. Whether you're drawn to the film's raw portrayal of crime or its complex characters, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Training Day (2001)
Description: Explores the dark side of policing through a corrupt veteran officer and his rookie partner, highlighting themes of power, corruption, and survival in a morally complex urban environment.
Fact: Denzel Washington won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Alonzo Harris, marking his second Oscar win.


Narc (2002)
Description: A visceral and unflinching portrayal of undercover narcotics officers, featuring a bleak tone and intense performances that highlight the psychological toll of police work.
Fact: The film's raw, handheld cinematography was inspired by documentaries, giving it a gritty, realistic feel.


Dark Blue (2002)
Description: Set during the 1992 LA riots, this film examines police corruption and racial tensions, offering a tense and politically charged narrative.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a sequel to 'L.A. Confidential' but was reworked into a standalone story.


The Shield (2002)
Description: A groundbreaking TV series that follows a corrupt strike team in the LAPD, blending brutal action with deep moral dilemmas and complex character arcs.
Fact: The show was one of the first to popularize the antihero protagonist in television, paving the way for series like 'Breaking Bad'.


The Wire (2002)
Description: A critically acclaimed series that offers a sprawling, nuanced exploration of crime, law enforcement, and urban decay, with a focus on systemic issues rather than individual heroes.
Fact: The show was created by former police reporter David Simon, who drew heavily from his own experiences covering crime in Baltimore.


The Departed (2006)
Description: A gritty crime thriller that delves deep into the moral ambiguities of law enforcement and undercover operations, featuring intense character dynamics and a high-stakes narrative.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 2002 Hong Kong movie 'Infernal Affairs' and won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


Street Kings (2008)
Description: A hard-hitting crime drama that follows a morally compromised detective navigating a web of corruption and violence within the LAPD.
Fact: The screenplay was co-written by James Ellroy, known for his gritty crime novels like 'L.A. Confidential'.


Harsh Times (2005)
Description: A tense drama about two friends navigating the violent underbelly of Los Angeles, blending crime thriller elements with a deep character study.
Fact: The film was written and directed by David Ayer, who also wrote 'Training Day,' and is known for his gritty portrayals of LA's criminal underworld.


End of Watch (2012)
Description: A raw and immersive look at the lives of two LAPD officers, blending intense action with deep personal bonds, set against the backdrop of street-level crime.
Fact: The film was shot in a documentary-style format, with actors Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña undergoing real police training to prepare for their roles.


Southland (2009)
Description: A realistic and unfiltered look at the daily lives of LAPD officers, focusing on both their professional challenges and personal struggles.
Fact: The series was praised for its authentic portrayal of police work, with many scenes shot on location in Los Angeles.
