10 Movies and Shows Similar to Lions for Lambs (2007)

Description: Like 'Lions for Lambs', 'All the President's Men' is a politically charged drama that examines the inner workings of American power structures. Both films feature journalists as key characters who must navigate ethical dilemmas while uncovering uncomfortable truths. They share a similar tension between idealism and the harsh realities of political systems.

Fact: The film is based on the book by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein about their Watergate investigation. Robert Redford (who played Woodward) was the one who initially optioned the book rights. The famous parking garage scenes were shot in an actual D.C. garage where some of the real meetings occurred.

Description: Both 'The American President' and 'Lions for Lambs' explore the personal and political challenges faced by those in the highest levels of government. While 'Lions for Lambs' takes a more critical view of military policy, 'The American President' offers a more romanticized but still thoughtful look at presidential leadership and the compromises required by public office.

Fact: The film was written by Aaron Sorkin and served as a precursor to 'The West Wing'. Michael Douglas's character was partially inspired by Bill Clinton. The White House sets were so accurate that actual White House staffers used them for orientation when they first came to work in the real White House.

Description: Both 'Wag the Dog' and 'Lions for Lambs' critique the manipulation of media and public perception in politics. While 'Lions for Lambs' focuses on military strategy and its political ramifications, 'Wag the Dog' satirizes the creation of a fake war to distract from a presidential scandal, but both films highlight the often-blurred line between reality and political spin.

Fact: The film was released just weeks before the Monica Lewinsky scandal broke, making its plot eerily prescient. Dustin Hoffman's character is loosely based on real-life Hollywood producer Robert Evans. The phrase 'wag the dog' comes from the saying 'Why does a dog wag its tail? Because the dog is smarter than the tail. If the tail were smarter, the tail would wag the dog.'

Description: Like 'Lions for Lambs', 'The West Wing' delves into the intricacies of American politics, focusing on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by those in power. Both works explore the tension between idealism and pragmatism in governance, and they share a similar fast-paced, dialogue-driven narrative style that emphasizes the complexities of political decision-making.

Fact: 'The West Wing' was created by Aaron Sorkin, known for his sharp, rapid-fire dialogue. The show won 26 Emmy Awards during its run. Many real-life political figures, including former presidents, have praised the show for its realistic portrayal of the White House.

Description: Like 'Lions for Lambs', 'Charlie Wilson's War' explores the intersection of politics, military strategy, and unintended consequences. Both films are based on true events and examine how American foreign policy decisions can have far-reaching, often unforeseen impacts. They share a similar tone of political realism mixed with dark humor.

Fact: The film is based on the book by '60 Minutes' producer George Crile. Tom Hanks gained 15 pounds to play the hard-drinking Congressman Charlie Wilson. The real Charlie Wilson made a cameo in the film as a congressman voting 'no' on a bill.

Description: Like 'Lions for Lambs', 'The Ides of March' is a political drama that examines the moral compromises and ethical dilemmas inherent in the pursuit of power. Both films feature a tense, dialogue-heavy narrative that reveals the often-ugly realities behind political idealism, and they share a similar tone of disillusionment with the political process.

Fact: The film is based on the play 'Farragut North' by Beau Willimon. George Clooney both directed and co-wrote the screenplay. The title refers to the date of Julius Caesar's assassination, symbolizing betrayal in politics.

Description: Both 'House of Cards' and 'Lions for Lambs' scrutinize the darker aspects of political power and ambition. While 'Lions for Lambs' focuses on the consequences of military and political decisions, 'House of Cards' provides a more personal, Machiavellian look at political maneuvering. Both are critical of the systems they depict, offering a cynical view of American politics.

Fact: 'House of Cards' was the first original series produced by Netflix. Kevin Spacey's character, Frank Underwood, frequently breaks the fourth wall to address the audience. The show is based on a British series of the same name from

Description: Similar to 'Lions for Lambs', 'The Newsroom' examines the role of media in shaping public opinion and political outcomes. Both works are deeply concerned with the ethical responsibilities of those who inform the public, and they share a Sorkin-esque style of intelligent, rapid-fire dialogue that challenges viewers to think critically about the issues presented.

Fact: 'The Newsroom' was also created by Aaron Sorkin. The show's pilot episode was inspired by real events, including the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Jeff Daniels won an Emmy for his portrayal of news anchor Will McAvoy.

Description: 'Madam Secretary' and 'Lions for Lambs' both explore the personal and professional challenges faced by individuals in high-stakes political roles. While 'Lions for Lambs' focuses on the immediate consequences of political decisions, 'Madam Secretary' offers a more long-term view of diplomacy and international relations, but both emphasize the weight of responsibility carried by their protagonists.

Fact: Tea Leoni, who stars as the Secretary of State, is the daughter of former U.S. Assistant Attorney General Anthony Pantaleoni. The show often incorporates current global issues into its storylines. Several former Secretaries of State, including Hillary Clinton, have advised the show's producers.

Description: Both 'The Post' and 'Lions for Lambs' deal with the ethical responsibilities of those in positions of power—whether in government or media. While 'Lions for Lambs' focuses on contemporary military policy, 'The Post' examines historical events (the Pentagon Papers) that similarly question the morality of government actions and the role of a free press in holding power accountable.

Fact: This was the first collaboration between Meryl Streep, Tom Hanks, and director Steven Spielberg. The film was shot in just 9 months from start to finish. Spielberg intentionally used lighting and camera techniques to mimic 1970s filmmaking styles.