If you loved the gripping drama and intense action of 'Lioness (2021),' you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that share similar themes of espionage, strong female leads, and high-stakes missions. Whether you're a fan of thrilling narratives or powerful character arcs, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive in to discover your next binge-worthy watch!

Alias (2001)
Description: 'Alias' and 'Lioness' both center on strong, skilled female spies who balance dangerous missions with personal struggles. The shows mix action, drama, and intricate plots, with a focus on undercover operations and global conspiracies. The stylish direction and emotional depth are common threads.
Fact: Jennifer Garner performed many of her own stunts. J.J. Abrams created the series before directing major films like 'Star Wars'. The show's soundtrack was composed by Michael Giacchino.


Covert Affairs (2010)
Description: 'Covert Affairs' and 'Lioness' both feature young, talented female spies navigating the perilous world of intelligence. The shows blend action, romance, and drama, with a focus on the protagonists' growth and resilience in high-pressure situations.
Fact: Piper Perabo trained with real CIA operatives for her role. The show was known for its exotic international locations. It ran for five seasons on USA Network.


Homeland (2011)
Description: Similar to 'Lioness' (2021), 'Homeland' is a gripping espionage thriller that delves into the complexities of intelligence operations and counterterrorism. Both shows feature strong female leads navigating high-stakes missions, moral dilemmas, and personal sacrifices. The intense, suspenseful storytelling and exploration of loyalty and betrayal are key parallels.
Fact: Claire Danes won two Emmy Awards for her role as Carrie Mathison. The show was inspired by an Israeli series called 'Prisoners of War'. It ran for eight seasons, concluding in


The Americans (2013)
Description: Like 'Lioness', 'The Americans' focuses on undercover operatives living double lives, blending personal and professional conflicts. Both series highlight the psychological toll of espionage, with deep character development and a tense, atmospheric tone. The Cold War setting adds a historical layer similar to the modern geopolitical tensions in 'Lioness'.
Fact: Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys learned to speak Russian for their roles. The show was praised for its accurate portrayal of 1980s culture. It won two Critics' Choice Television Awards.


The Bureau (2015)
Description: 'The Bureau' shares with 'Lioness' a realistic, nuanced portrayal of espionage, focusing on the personal and professional lives of intelligence officers. Both shows are praised for their authenticity, complex characters, and slow-burning tension.
Fact: The French series is titled 'Le Bureau des Légendes'. It was inspired by real-life DGSE operations. The show has been compared to 'Homeland' for its depth and realism.


Berlin Station (2016)
Description: Like 'Lioness', 'Berlin Station' offers a gritty, realistic look at intelligence work, focusing on field operatives and their dangerous assignments. Both shows highlight the bureaucratic and personal challenges faced by spies, with a strong emphasis on geopolitical intrigue.
Fact: Richard Armitage starred as Daniel Meyer. The series was shot on location in Berlin. It was praised for its authentic depiction of espionage tradecraft.


Condor (2018)
Description: 'Condor' mirrors 'Lioness' in its exploration of a young operative thrust into a deadly conspiracy, dealing with trust issues and moral ambiguity. Both series emphasize the psychological and physical challenges of espionage, with a blend of action and cerebral storytelling.
Fact: Based on the novel 'Six Days of the Condor' by James Grady. The series was filmed in Toronto, standing in for Washington, D.C. It features a mix of veteran and rookie CIA officers.


Bodyguard (2018)
Description: 'Bodyguard' and 'Lioness' both explore themes of protection, loyalty, and political intrigue, with a mix of action and psychological drama. The shows feature protagonists who must navigate complex relationships and threats, often with unpredictable twists.
Fact: Richard Madden won a Golden Globe for his performance. The series was created by Jed Mercurio, known for 'Line of Duty'. It became the UK's most-watched drama in over a decade.


24 (2001)
Description: '24' shares with 'Lioness' a real-time narrative structure and high-octane action, focusing on counterterrorism and national security. Both feature protagonists who must make split-second decisions under extreme pressure, often blurring the lines between right and wrong. The relentless pace and suspense are hallmark similarities.
Fact: Kiefer Sutherland won a Golden Globe for his role as Jack Bauer. Each season represents 24 hours in real time. The show popularized the use of split-screen technology.


The Night Manager (2016)
Description: Similar to 'Lioness', 'The Night Manager' is a sleek, suspenseful spy thriller with a focus on undercover operations and international crime. Both shows feature charismatic leads who must infiltrate dangerous organizations, with high production values and tense storytelling.
Fact: Based on John le Carré's novel. Tom Hiddleston won a Golden Globe for his role. The series was filmed in multiple countries, including Switzerland and Morocco.
