Movies and Shows Similar to Shake Hands with the Devil

Description: This film depicts the Cambodian genocide under the Khmer Rouge, focusing on the friendship between a journalist and his local assistant. Its harrowing depiction of war crimes and human resilience resonates with the emotional and historical weight of the reference film.

Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography. Many of the Cambodian extras in the film were actual survivors of the genocide.

Description: This war film depicts the Battle of Mogadishu, emphasizing the chaos and brutality of modern warfare. Its realistic and gritty portrayal of combat aligns with the reference film's unflinching depiction of war's horrors.

Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, with many real-life soldiers serving as technical advisors. It was nominated for four Academy Awards.

Description: A military drama set during a Nigerian civil war, this film focuses on the moral choices faced by soldiers and civilians in a war zone. Its intense action sequences and emotional depth are reminiscent of the reference film's portrayal of conflict.

Fact: Bruce Willis performed many of his own stunts in the film. The movie was criticized for its fictionalized portrayal of Nigeria's political situation.

Description: A political thriller set in Kenya, this film examines corporate exploitation and government corruption in Africa. Its themes of injustice and the personal cost of uncovering the truth align with the reference film's focus on moral and ethical dilemmas.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by John le Carré. Much of it was shot in the slums of Nairobi, using real residents as extras.

Description: This film explores the Rwandan genocide, focusing on the human cost and moral dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the conflict. Its unflinching portrayal of violence and political betrayal mirrors the intense and harrowing narrative style of the reference film.

Fact: The movie was shot in Rwanda, using many real survivors of the genocide as extras. It was the first major film to depict the Rwandan genocide from the perspective of both Hutus and Tutsis.

Description: This film tackles the issue of conflict diamonds in Sierra Leone, blending action with a deep exploration of war's human cost. Its combination of personal drama and political commentary mirrors the reference film's approach to storytelling.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio learned to speak with a South African accent for his role. The film brought international attention to the issue of blood diamonds.

Description: Set against the backdrop of Uganda's brutal dictatorship, this film delves into themes of power, corruption, and complicity. Its gripping narrative and psychological depth align closely with the intense and morally complex storytelling of the reference film.

Fact: Forest Whitaker's portrayal of Idi Amin won him an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film is based on a novel that blends historical events with fictional characters.

Description: Based on true events, this film exposes the corruption and human trafficking in post-war Bosnia. Its focus on institutional failure and personal courage mirrors the reference film's themes of justice and accountability.

Fact: Rachel Weisz's character is based on Kathryn Bolkovac, a real-life whistleblower. The film was shot in Romania, standing in for Bosnia.

Description: This biographical film tells the story of a former criminal who becomes a crusader for Sudanese children. Its themes of redemption and the fight against injustice align with the reference film's exploration of moral courage.

Fact: The film is based on the life of Sam Childers, who continues to run an orphanage in Sudan. Gerard Butler trained with real-life mercenaries for his role.

Description: A Canadian drama about a child soldier in an unnamed African country, this film explores the psychological and emotional toll of war. Its raw and intimate storytelling resonates with the reference film's focus on personal trauma amidst conflict.

Fact: The film was shot in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.