10 Shows & Movies Like Last Resort

Description: Focuses on an elite military team handling covert operations, blending action with personal drama. The balance between mission objectives and personal sacrifices is a central theme.

Fact: The show was created by David Mamet, known for his sharp dialogue and intricate plots. It was based on the experiences of real-life Delta Force operatives.

Description: A small town's struggle for survival after a nuclear attack mirrors themes of isolation, leadership, and societal collapse. The focus on community resilience under extreme pressure is a key similarity.

Fact: The show was canceled after its first season but was revived for a second season due to a fan-led campaign that involved sending tons of nuts to CBS.

Description: A psychological thriller exploring espionage, terrorism, and the personal cost of intelligence work. The blurred lines between allies and enemies, as well as the toll of paranoia, are key themes.

Fact: The show was adapted from an Israeli series called 'Prisoners of War.' It won multiple Emmys, including for Claire Danes' performance as Carrie Mathison.

Description: A Cold War-era drama about undercover spies balancing their mission with family life. The tension between duty and personal relationships is a recurring theme, along with the psychological strain of deception.

Fact: The show was praised for its historical accuracy and attention to detail. It was one of the first critically acclaimed dramas to air on FX.

Description: This series shares a high-stakes military and survival theme, focusing on a crew navigating a post-apocalyptic world. The tension between duty and morality is central, much like in the reference title.

Fact: The show was inspired by a novel of the same name by William Brinkley. It was praised for its realistic depiction of naval warfare.

Description: A mix of crime thriller and espionage, with a mysterious protagonist navigating a shadowy world of criminals and government agencies. The cat-and-mouse dynamics and moral ambiguity are central to the story.

Fact: James Spader's performance as Raymond Reddington earned widespread acclaim. The show has one of the most-watched pilot episodes in NBC history.

Description: This political thriller revolves around an unexpected leader thrust into power during a crisis, exploring themes of governance, trust, and conspiracy. The tension between personal integrity and political maneuvering is a strong parallel.

Fact: Kiefer Sutherland, who starred in '24,' took on the lead role, bringing a similar intensity to his character. The show was initially developed by ABC but later moved to Netflix for its third season.

Description: A gritty portrayal of Navy SEALs balancing dangerous missions with personal struggles. The emphasis on teamwork, loyalty, and the psychological toll of combat is a key similarity.

Fact: The show consulted real Navy SEALs to ensure authenticity in its action sequences and dialogue. It originally aired on CBS before moving to Paramount+.

Description: A spy thriller delving into the origins of a covert CIA program, featuring trained operatives with enhanced skills. The exploration of loyalty, identity, and the cost of secrecy is a strong parallel.

Fact: The series is a spin-off from the 'Bourne' film franchise, expanding on the Treadstone program mentioned in the movies. It was canceled after one season but developed a cult following.

Description: Real-time storytelling and high-stakes counterterrorism operations create a relentless pace. The moral dilemmas faced by operatives in extreme situations are a recurring theme.

Fact: The show was groundbreaking for its real-time format, with each season representing 24 hours. It won numerous awards, including Emmys for Outstanding Drama Series.