10 Movies and Shows Similar to Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Description: 'Bonnie and Clyde' shares with 'Dog Day Afternoon' a focus on charismatic, media-savvy criminals who become folk heroes to the public. Both films explore themes of rebellion, the allure of crime, and the tragic consequences of living outside the law. The films' blend of violence, humor, and pathos, as well as their groundbreaking portrayal of antiheroes, make them kindred spirits in the crime genre.

Fact: The film's graphic violence was controversial at the time and helped usher in the New Hollywood era of filmmaking. Warren Beatty, who produced and starred as Clyde, fought tirelessly to get the film made after multiple studios rejected it. Faye Dunaway's fashion in the film, particularly her beret, became an iconic style trend in the late 1960s.

Description: This film is a direct precursor to 'Dog Day Afternoon', sharing its focus on a tense hostage situation in New York City and the bureaucratic chaos that ensues. Both films feature charismatic criminals who engage in psychological warfare with authorities and the media, and both highlight the gritty, urban atmosphere of 1970s New York. The realistic dialogue and tense, procedural storytelling make it a clear influence on 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: The film's title refers to the subway train's designation (Pelham Bay Park line, departing at 1:23 PM). Walter Matthau, known for his comedic roles, delivered a critically acclaimed dramatic performance as the transit police lieutenant. The film's iconic ending, featuring the criminals' escape plan, has been homaged in numerous other films and TV shows.

Description: While 'Point Break' is more of an action-thriller, it shares with 'Dog Day Afternoon' a focus on the complex relationship between a criminal and the law enforcement officer pursuing him. Both films explore themes of identity, loyalty, and the thin line between obsession and duty. The film's adrenaline-fueled heists and the charismatic, philosophical criminal (Bodhi) echo the dynamic between Sonny and the police in 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to win the Academy Award for Best Director for 'The Hurt Locker', but 'Point Break' was her breakthrough action film. Keanu Reeves performed many of his own stunts, including skydiving and surfing sequences. The film's title refers to the surfing term for the moment a wave breaks, symbolizing the characters' lives on the edge.

Description: Like 'Dog Day Afternoon', 'Reservoir Dogs' is a gritty, character-driven crime film that focuses on the aftermath of a botched heist and the ensuing paranoia and betrayal among the criminals. Both films use limited settings to create intense, claustrophobic tension and explore themes of loyalty, trust, and the consequences of crime. The non-linear storytelling and sharp, dialogue-heavy scenes in 'Reservoir Dogs' echo the raw, unfiltered style of 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: Quentin Tarantino's directorial debut was made on a shoestring budget of $

Description: Similar to 'Dog Day Afternoon', 'Heat' is a crime thriller that delves deep into the lives of both criminals and law enforcement, showcasing the psychological and emotional toll of their choices. Both films feature intense, realistic heist sequences and explore themes of desperation, loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. The film's gritty realism and character-driven narrative echo the raw, unfiltered storytelling of 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: 'Heat' features the first on-screen collaboration between Al Pacino and Robert De Niro, who had previously appeared in 'The Godfather Part II' but never shared a scene. The famous shootout scene in downtown Los Angeles was filmed without permits, using live ammunition blanks to enhance realism. Director Michael Mann based the film on real-life criminal Neil McCauley, whom he had previously portrayed in the TV movie 'L.A. Takedown'.

Description: 'Set It Off' shares with 'Dog Day Afternoon' a focus on desperate individuals turning to crime as a means of escape from systemic oppression. Both films explore themes of economic desperation, police brutality, and the media's role in shaping public perception of criminals. The film's emotional depth and social commentary, as well as its portrayal of flawed, sympathetic criminals, make it a modern counterpart to 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of a group of women who robbed banks in Los Angeles in the 1990s. Queen Latifah's performance as Cleo earned her critical acclaim and helped establish her as a serious actress. The film's soundtrack, featuring artists like TLC and En Vogue, was a commercial success and reflected the era's R&B and hip-hop influences.

Description: 'The Bank Job' mirrors 'Dog Day Afternoon' in its depiction of a meticulously planned heist that goes awry due to unforeseen complications. Both films are based on true events and explore the intersection of crime, politics, and media. The film's gritty, realistic tone and focus on the criminals' personal stakes make it a compelling companion to 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: The film is based on the 1971 Baker Street robbery in London, which was allegedly covered up by the British government due to its sensitive nature. Jason Statham, known for his action roles, delivers a more subdued, character-driven performance as the lead. The film's plot involves stolen compromising photos of a British royal family member, adding a layer of political intrigue.

Description: 'The Score' parallels 'Dog Day Afternoon' in its focus on a seasoned criminal planning one last heist, with the tension arising from the interplay between the characters' personalities and the high-stakes situation. Both films feature charismatic leads (Pacino in 'Dog Day Afternoon', De Niro and Brando here) and explore themes of trust, betrayal, and the allure of the criminal lifestyle. The film's meticulous heist planning and tense execution echo the procedural elements of 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: The film marked Marlon Brando's final on-screen performance before his death in 200Edward Norton prepared for his role by spending time with real-life thieves to understand their mannerisms and mindset. The film's Montreal setting and jazz club backdrop add a unique, atmospheric flavor to the heist genre.

Description: 'Inside Man' shares with 'Dog Day Afternoon' a focus on a high-stakes hostage situation and the intricate cat-and-mouse game between the criminals and law enforcement. Both films feature intelligent, charismatic criminals who manipulate the situation to their advantage, and both explore themes of media sensationalism and public perception. The film's clever plot twists and emphasis on psychological tension are reminiscent of the suspenseful storytelling in 'Dog Day Afternoon'.

Fact: Spike Lee directed the film, marking his first foray into the heist genre. The film's script was inspired by real-life bank heists, including the 1972 Brooklyn bank robbery that also influenced 'Dog Day Afternoon'. Denzel Washington and Clive Owen reportedly improvised many of their dialogue exchanges to enhance the film's spontaneity.

Description: Like 'Dog Day Afternoon', 'The Town' is a gripping heist film that focuses on the personal lives and relationships of the criminals, particularly their struggles with identity and the desire for a better life. The film's setting in a working-class neighborhood and its exploration of loyalty and betrayal mirror the themes of 'Dog Day Afternoon'. The tense, character-driven narrative and the portrayal of flawed, relatable criminals make it a spiritual successor to the 1975 classic.

Fact: Ben Affleck, who directed and starred in the film, grew up in Boston and used his local knowledge to ensure the film's authenticity. The film's climactic heist at Fenway Park was shot during an actual Red Sox game to capture the energy of a live crowd. Jeremy Renner received an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role as Jem, the volatile best friend of Affleck's character.