10 Movies and Shows Similar to Rubicon (2010)

Description: This film, like Rubicon, is a cerebral spy story that prioritizes atmosphere and tension over action. Both works explore the loneliness and moral complexity of intelligence work, with a focus on a mole hunt within a secretive organization. The muted color palette and deliberate pacing create a similar sense of unease and introspection.

Fact: Gary Oldman's performance as George Smiley earned him an Oscar nomination. The film is based on John le Carré's novel of the same name. Director Tomas Alfredson deliberately avoided action sequences to focus on the psychological aspects of spying.

Description: Homeland shares Rubicon's focus on intelligence analysis and the psychological strain of uncovering conspiracies. Both series feature protagonists who are brilliant but troubled analysts, grappling with paranoia and the weight of their discoveries. The themes of trust, betrayal, and the blurred lines between sanity and obsession are central to both narratives.

Fact: Homeland is based on an Israeli series called Prisoners of War. Claire Danes' portrayal of Carrie Mathison earned her two Emmy Awards. The show's depiction of mental illness was praised for its realism and sensitivity.

Description: Like Rubicon, The Americans is a slow-burning espionage thriller that delves deep into the psychological and emotional toll of intelligence work. Both shows emphasize the moral ambiguities and personal sacrifices inherent in the spy game, with a strong focus on character development over action. The meticulous attention to detail in tradecraft and the Cold War-era paranoia are also shared elements.

Fact: The Americans was inspired by a real-life Russian spy ring uncovered in the U.S. in

Description: The Bureau, like Rubicon, is a meticulously crafted spy drama that prioritizes realism over glamour. Both series delve into the psychological toll of maintaining cover identities and the bureaucratic intricacies of intelligence work. The slow-burning narratives and complex character arcs are hallmarks of both shows.

Fact: The Bureau is based on real accounts from former French intelligence officers. The show's creator, Eric Rochant, has a background in intelligence studies. It's often cited as one of the most realistic depictions of spy work on television.

Description: Deutschland 83, like Rubicon, is a period spy drama that captures the tension and paranoia of the Cold War. Both series focus on young protagonists thrust into high-stakes intelligence operations, struggling with loyalty and identity. The attention to historical detail and the exploration of political themes are common strengths.

Fact: Deutschland 83 was the first German-language series to air on a U.S. network. The show's soundtrack features iconic 1980s pop music. It spawned two sequels, Deutschland 86 and Deutschland

Description: Berlin Station mirrors Rubicon's focus on the inner workings of an intelligence agency and the personal dramas of its operatives. Both shows explore the ethical dilemmas faced by intelligence professionals and the bureaucratic challenges within their organizations. The realistic portrayal of spycraft and the emphasis on geopolitical relevance are shared traits.

Fact: The show was filmed on location in Berlin, adding to its authenticity. Richard Armitage, who plays the lead, is also known for his role in The Hobbit trilogy. The series was created by Olen Steinhauer, a renowned spy novelist.

Description: Condor, like Rubicon, follows an idealistic analyst who uncovers a dangerous conspiracy within his own organization. Both series explore themes of trust, betrayal, and the moral compromises of intelligence work. The high-stakes tension and focus on procedural details create a similar viewing experience.

Fact: Condor is based on the 1975 film Three Days of the Condor. The series updates the original story for the modern era of surveillance and cyber warfare. It features an ensemble cast including William Hurt and Max Irons.

Description: The Spy shares Rubicon's focus on the psychological toll of deep-cover espionage. Both stories explore the erosion of identity and the personal sacrifices made by intelligence operatives. The tense, character-driven narratives and the exploration of historical events through a personal lens are similar approaches.

Fact: The Spy is based on the true story of Israeli spy Eli Cohen. Sacha Baron Cohen delivers a dramatic performance far removed from his comedic persona. The series was created by Gideon Raff, who also created Homeland.

Description: The Night Manager shares Rubicon's themes of moral ambiguity and the personal cost of espionage. Both feature protagonists drawn into complex webs of deception, where the lines between right and wrong are constantly shifting. The high production values and focus on character-driven storytelling are also commonalities.

Fact: Tom Hiddleston trained with former SAS operatives to prepare for his role. The series is another adaptation of a John le Carré novel. Hugh Laurie's performance as the villainous Richard Roper marked a significant departure from his comedic roles.

Description: Counterpart shares Rubicon's themes of paranoia and conspiracy, albeit with a sci-fi twist. Both series explore the idea of hidden truths and the personal cost of uncovering them. The atmospheric tension and focus on character duality (literal in Counterpart's case) create a similar mood of existential unease.

Fact: J.K. Simmons plays dual roles in the series, showcasing his range as an actor. The show blends espionage thriller elements with alternate reality science fiction. It was canceled after two seasons despite critical acclaim.