10 Movies and Shows Similar to The American (2010)

Description: This film, like 'The American,' features a protagonist who is a skilled craftsman drawn into espionage. Both films explore themes of deception and the blurred lines between truth and lies. The tropical setting of Panama provides a contrast to the European locales of 'The American,' but the sense of isolation and danger is similar.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by John le Carré. Pierce Brosnan plays against type as a morally ambiguous spy. The film was shot on location in Panama and Ireland.

Description: This film, like 'The American,' is a slow-burning espionage thriller that focuses on the personal cost of a life of secrecy. Both films are meticulously detailed and emphasize the psychological toll of their protagonists' professions. The historical context and realistic portrayal of spy craft are also similar.

Fact: The film was directed by Robert De Niro, who also has a supporting role. Matt Damon plays a character loosely based on real-life CIA officer James Jesus Angleton. The film's script was co-written by Eric Roth, who also wrote 'The American.'

Description: Both 'The Constant Gardener' and 'The American' feature protagonists who are drawn into dangerous situations beyond their control. The films share a sense of paranoia and a focus on the personal cost of uncovering hidden truths. The cinematography in both films is striking, with a focus on natural landscapes.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by John le Carré. Rachel Weisz won an Academy Award for her performance. Much of the film was shot in Kenya, and the production worked closely with local communities.

Description: This film, like 'The American,' explores themes of surveillance, trust, and the moral complexities of espionage. Both films are character studies that delve into the psychological impact of living a life of secrecy. The restrained direction and emotional depth are key similarities.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It was the first feature film directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck. The film's depiction of East Germany's Stasi is based on extensive research and real-life accounts.

Description: Both 'The Ghost Writer' and 'The American' are thrillers that emphasize atmosphere and tension over action. The protagonists in both films are professionals who become entangled in dangerous conspiracies. The films also share a similar visual style, with a focus on bleak, wintry landscapes.

Fact: The film was directed by Roman Polanski. It won the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin International Film Festival. The film's score was composed by Alexandre Desplat, who also worked on 'The American.'

Description: Both 'The Debt' and 'The American' deal with themes of past actions catching up with the present. The films are character-driven thrillers that focus on the psychological toll of a life of secrecy. The tension in both films builds slowly, leading to climactic confrontations.

Fact: The film is a remake of an Israeli film of the same name. Helen Mirren and Jessica Chastain play the same character at different ages. The film's plot spans several decades, with scenes set in both the 1960s and 1990s.

Description: Similar to 'The American' in its slow-burning tension and themes of deception and identity. Both films feature protagonists who are skilled in their craft but find themselves in dangerous situations that test their abilities. The European setting and the use of beautiful, atmospheric locations also draw parallels.

Fact: Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp starred in this film, which was a departure from their usual action-packed roles. The film was shot in Venice, Italy, and the city's canals and architecture play a significant role in the story. Despite mixed reviews, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $278 million worldwide.

Description: Like 'The American,' this film is a slow-paced, character-driven spy thriller that focuses on the psychological toll of espionage. Both films emphasize meticulous attention to detail and the loneliness of their protagonists. The muted color palette and restrained performances create a similar mood of quiet intensity.

Fact: The film is based on John le Carré's novel of the same name. Gary Oldman's performance as George Smiley earned him an Academy Award nomination. The film's production design meticulously recreated the 1970s Cold War era.

Description: This film shares with 'The American' a focus on a lone operative navigating a morally ambiguous world. Both protagonists are professionals who operate in the shadows, and both films explore themes of trust and betrayal. The somber tone and deliberate pacing are also similar.

Fact: This was one of Philip Seymour Hoffman's final film roles. The film is based on a novel by John le Carré. It was shot on location in Hamburg, Germany, adding to its authentic, gritty feel.

Description: Like 'The American,' this film features a professional operative who is pulled back into the world of espionage. Both protagonists are highly skilled but find themselves in situations where their expertise may not be enough. The films share a gritty, realistic approach to the spy genre.

Fact: Pierce Brosnan plays a retired CIA agent, a role that contrasts with his more famous portrayal of James Bond. The film is based on a series of novels by Bill Granger. The film was shot in Serbia and Austria.