10 Movies & Shows Like The Dictator (2012)

Description: The 'Austin Powers' series, like 'The Dictator', uses exaggerated characters and absurd humor to parody its genre (spy films in this case). Both films feature protagonists who are caricatures of their respective archetypes (spy and dictator), and both use humor to critique the conventions of their genres.

Fact: Mike Myers plays both Austin Powers and Dr. Evil. The film was initially a box office disappointment but became a hit on home video. The character of Austin Powers was inspired by 1960s spy films and comedies.

Description: This sequel continues the series' tradition of absurd humor and genre parody, much like 'The Dictator'. Both films use their protagonists' larger-than-life personalities to drive the comedy and satire. The over-the-top villains in 'Austin Powers' are similar to the exaggerated political figures in 'The Dictator'.

Fact: The film introduced the character Fat Bastard, also played by Mike Myers. It was the highest-grossing comedy of

Description: 'Zoolander' and 'The Dictator' both feature dim-witted protagonists who become embroiled in larger political or conspiratorial plots. Both films use their protagonists' ignorance to satirize their respective worlds (fashion and politics). The exaggerated characters and absurd humor are hallmarks of both films.

Fact: The film was inspired by a 1996 VH1 Fashion Awards skit. David Bowie makes a cameo as himself. Ben Stiller based Derek Zoolander's look on model Johnny Zander.

Description: The third 'Austin Powers' film, like 'The Dictator', relies on absurd humor, cultural satire, and exaggerated characters. Both films use their protagonists' ridiculousness to critique their respective subjects (spy films and political systems). The self-referential humor in 'Goldmember' is similar to the meta-commentary in 'The Dictator'.

Fact: The film features a cameo by Tom Cruise as Austin Powers. It was the first film to have its premiere streamed live on the internet. The title refers to the James Bond film 'Goldfinger'.

Description: Like 'The Dictator', 'Team America: World Police' is a satirical comedy that uses exaggerated characters and absurd situations to critique political systems and global politics. Both films employ humor to highlight the ridiculousness of authoritarianism and political extremism. The use of puppetry in 'Team America' adds a unique visual style, similar to how 'The Dictator' uses over-the-top caricatures to make its point.

Fact: The film was created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of 'South Park'. All the puppets were marionettes, requiring extensive training for the animators. The film's infamous sex scene took over a year to animate.

Description: 'Tropic Thunder' shares with 'The Dictator' a penchant for outrageous, over-the-top humor and satire. Both films parody their respective genres (war movies and political comedies) and feature characters who are clueless about their own absurdity. The self-referential humor and celebrity satire in 'Tropic Thunder' mirror the way 'The Dictator' satirizes political figures.

Fact: Robert Downey Jr.'s performance was controversial but earned him an Oscar nomination. Tom Cruise's role as Les Grossman was initially uncredited. The film was inspired by real-life actor experiences in war movies.

Description: 'In the Loop' shares with 'The Dictator' a sharp, satirical take on political incompetence and the absurdity of bureaucracy. Both films use rapid-fire dialogue and outrageous scenarios to expose the flaws in political systems. While 'The Dictator' focuses on a single authoritarian leader, 'In the Loop' examines the chaos of democratic governments, but both highlight the often ludicrous nature of political power.

Fact: The film is a spin-off of the BBC series 'The Thick of It'. Much of the dialogue was improvised. Peter Capaldi's character, Malcolm Tucker, is known for his creative swearing.

Description: Similar to 'The Dictator', 'Four Lions' uses dark comedy to tackle serious political and social issues, specifically terrorism. Both films employ humor to humanize and simultaneously ridicule extremist ideologies. The absurdity of the characters' actions in both films serves to critique the real-world consequences of such ideologies.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life reports of incompetent terrorists. Director Chris Morris spent three years researching terrorism for the film. The film was controversial upon release but has since been critically acclaimed.

Description: Like its predecessor and 'The Dictator', 'Zoolander 2' continues to use absurd humor and exaggerated characters to satirize its setting, this time the fashion industry and celebrity culture. The film's over-the-top style and comedic critique of superficiality align with 'The Dictator's' approach to political satire.

Fact: The film features numerous celebrity cameos, including Justin Bieber and Benedict Cumberbatch. It was filmed in Rome. The film received negative reviews but has a cult following.

Description: 'Jojo Rabbit' and 'The Dictator' both use satire to explore the dangers of authoritarianism and blind nationalism. While 'Jojo Rabbit' is set in Nazi Germany and 'The Dictator' in a fictional Middle Eastern country, both films use humor to expose the absurdity and horror of oppressive regimes. The child's perspective in 'Jojo Rabbit' adds a unique layer to its critique, similar to how 'The Dictator' uses an outsider's perspective.

Fact: Taika Waititi played Adolf Hitler in the film. The film is based on the book 'Caging Skies' by Christine Leunens. Waititi described the film as an 'anti-hate satire'.