10 Movies and Shows Similar to Mr Bates vs The Post Office (2024)

Description: Like 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office', 'Yes Minister' explores the absurdities and inefficiencies within government institutions. Both use sharp wit to critique how bureaucracy often prioritizes self-preservation over public service, though 'Yes Minister' is more comedic and less dramatic.

Fact: Praised by real politicians, including Margaret Thatcher. Won multiple BAFTA awards. Known for its timeless and still relevant political humor.

Description: Both 'The West Wing' and 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office' explore the inner workings of institutions, but from opposite angles. 'The West Wing' idealizes public service and competent governance, while 'Mr Bates' exposes its failures. Both, however, are deeply invested in the impact of policy on individuals.

Fact: Created by Aaron Sorkin, known for its idealistic tone. Used a 'walk and talk' filming style to create dynamic scenes. Won multiple Emmys, including Outstanding Drama Series.

Description: Similar to 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office' in its biting satire of bureaucratic incompetence and systemic failures, 'The Thick of It' delves into the chaotic world of government and public administration. Both highlight the human cost of institutional ineptitude, though 'The Thick of It' leans more into dark comedy.

Fact: Created by Armando Iannucci, who also worked on 'Veep' and 'In the Loop'. Features rapid-fire dialogue and improvisational elements. Inspired by real-life political scandals and spin tactics.

Description: Similar to 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office', 'The Good Wife' examines the intersection of law, politics, and personal ethics. Both shows feature protagonists fighting against powerful, entrenched systems, though 'The Good Wife' is more focused on legal battles and personal redemption.

Fact: Spin-off 'The Good Fight' continued its legacy. Known for its strong female lead and complex characters. Addresses contemporary political and social issues.

Description: Like 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office', 'Scandal' deals with uncovering hidden truths and fighting against powerful adversaries. Both shows emphasize the tension between public perception and private reality, though 'Scandal' leans more into melodrama and personal intrigue.

Fact: Created by Shonda Rhimes, a powerhouse in TV drama. Known for its fast-paced, twist-heavy plots. Features Kerry Washington as the first African American female lead in a network drama in decades.

Description: Shares with 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office' a deep dive into systemic corruption and power dynamics. However, 'House of Cards' is more about personal ambition within politics, whereas 'Mr Bates' focuses on collective injustice and grassroots resistance.

Fact: One of Netflix's first major original series. Features breaking the fourth wall, a technique borrowed from the UK original. Kevin Spacey's departure led to significant changes in the show's direction.

Description: Both 'The Newsroom' and 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office' tackle themes of institutional failure and the fight for justice. While 'The Newsroom' focuses on media ethics and corporate influence, both shows emphasize the importance of truth and accountability in powerful systems.

Fact: Created by Aaron Sorkin, known for his fast-paced dialogue. Features real-life news events woven into its narrative. Criticized for its idealistic portrayal of journalism.

Description: Like 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office', 'Madam Secretary' deals with ethical dilemmas within large institutions, though it focuses more on diplomacy and international relations. Both shows highlight the personal sacrifices and moral challenges faced by those within the system.

Fact: Starring Téa Leoni as the titular Secretary of State. Often incorporates real-world geopolitical issues. Blends political drama with personal storylines.

Description: Both 'Designated Survivor' and 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office' involve ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances due to systemic failures. While 'Designated Survivor' is more of a political thriller, both shows explore themes of resilience and justice.

Fact: Originally a Netflix series after being dropped by ABC. Kiefer Sutherland stars as an unlikely U.S. President. Combines elements of conspiracy and governance.

Description: A spiritual successor to 'The Good Wife', 'The Good Fight' shares with 'Mr Bates vs The Post Office' a focus on challenging corrupt systems. Both shows highlight the perseverance needed to fight institutional wrongdoing, with 'The Good Fight' adding a more surreal, satirical edge.

Fact: Directly addresses the Trump era and its political fallout. Features animated segments to illustrate abstract concepts. Known for its bold storytelling and social commentary.