10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Escape (2024)

Description: This classic film, like 'Escape (2024)', is based on a true story of Allied prisoners plotting an elaborate escape from a German POW camp during WWII. Both narratives highlight camaraderie, ingenuity, and the relentless pursuit of freedom against overwhelming odds. The tension and suspense in 'The Great Escape' are likely mirrored in 'Escape'.

Fact: Steve McQueen did most of his own motorcycle stunts. The film was shot in Germany, near the actual location of the real Stalag Luft III. The famous tunnel 'Harry' was replicated in exact detail for the movie.

Description: Like 'Escape (2024)', this film is based on a true story of inmates attempting to escape from the infamous Alcatraz prison. Both films focus on the meticulous planning and execution of the escape, as well as the psychological toll of imprisonment. The gritty realism and tension are key similarities.

Fact: Clint Eastwood performed many of his own stunts. The film was shot on location at Alcatraz, adding to its authenticity. The real-life escape remains unsolved, adding to the film's mystique.

Description: While 'The Fugitive' focuses more on the chase after escape, it shares with 'Escape (2024)' the theme of a wrongfully accused man fighting to prove his innocence. Both narratives are high-stakes, action-packed, and driven by the protagonist's determination to survive.

Fact: The film is based on a 1960s TV series. The famous train crash scene was one of the most expensive stunts at the time. Harrison Ford did many of his own stunts, including the waterfall jump.

Description: This film shares with 'Escape (2024)' the theme of a long-term, carefully planned escape from prison. Both stories explore themes of hope, perseverance, and the human spirit's resilience. The emotional depth and character development in 'Shawshank' are likely echoed in 'Escape'.

Fact: The film was initially a box office flop but gained fame through home video and TV. Tim Robbins' narration was recorded in one take. The oak tree where Andy leaves a note for Red is a real location in Ohio.

Description: 'Oz' and 'Escape (2024)' both delve into the dark, violent, and psychological aspects of prison life. While 'Oz' is more about survival within the prison, it shares with 'Escape' the themes of power struggles, alliances, and the constant threat of violence.

Fact: 'Oz' was HBO's first one-hour dramatic series. The show's creator, Tom Fontana, also wrote for 'St. Elsewhere'. Many actors from 'Oz' went on to star in 'The Wire' and other HBO series.

Description: Similar to 'Escape (2024)', 'Prison Break' revolves around a meticulously planned escape from a high-security prison. Both emphasize the intelligence, strategy, and teamwork required to break free, often under extreme pressure. The show's intense pacing and focus on the psychological and physical challenges of prison life mirror the themes likely present in 'Escape'.

Fact: The show's iconic blueprints and tattoos were inspired by real-life escape attempts. Wentworth Miller, who plays Michael Scofield, initially auditioned for a different role. The series was initially planned as a limited series but was extended due to its popularity.

Description: Like 'Escape (2024)', 'Escape Plan' focuses on a mastermind's attempt to break out of a high-tech, seemingly inescapable prison. Both films emphasize strategy, action, and the protagonist's ingenuity in overcoming extreme obstacles.

Fact: This was the first time Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger starred together in a major film. The prison set was designed to feel claustrophobic and futuristic. The film spawned two sequels, though neither matched the original's success.

Description: This TV series, like 'Escape (2024)', involves a team working to prevent prison escapes, offering a reverse perspective on the escape narrative. Both explore the cat-and-mouse dynamics between escapees and those trying to capture them, with a focus on strategy and suspense.

Fact: The show was created by the writers of 'Prison Break'. Each episode featured a different fugitive, keeping the storyline fresh. The series was canceled after two seasons despite a loyal fan base.

Description: Both 'Orange Is the New Black' and 'Escape (2024)' explore the complexities of life behind bars, though 'OITNB' does so with a more comedic and dramatic lens. The themes of survival, relationships, and the desire for freedom are central to both.

Fact: The series is based on Piper Kerman's memoir. It was one of Netflix's first original series to gain widespread acclaim. The show's diverse cast broke new ground for representation on TV.

Description: Both 'Papillon' and 'Escape (2024)' depict the brutal realities of prison life and the relentless pursuit of freedom. The protagonist's multiple escape attempts and the harsh punishments he endures highlight the physical and mental struggles common to both films.

Fact: This is a remake of the 1973 film starring Steve McQueen. The film was shot in Serbia and Montenegro, standing in for French Guiana. Charlie Hunnam lost a significant amount of weight for his role to depict the character's suffering.