If you were captivated by the raw, gritty storytelling of 'Desperate Souls, Dark City and the Legend of Midnight Cowboy' (2023), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its themes of urban isolation, desperate dreams, and unlikely friendships. Whether you're a fan of the documentary's deep dive into 'Midnight Cowboy' or its exploration of 1960s counterculture, these picks will keep you hooked.

The French Connection (1971)
Description: A gripping crime thriller that captures the tension and danger of urban life. Its realistic portrayal of police work and the moral ambiguities of its characters add depth to the story.
Fact: The car chase scene is considered one of the greatest in film history. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.


Klute (1971)
Description: A psychological thriller that blends crime and drama, focusing on a detective's investigation into a missing person case. Its atmospheric tension and exploration of urban loneliness are key elements.
Fact: Jane Fonda won her first Academy Award for her role as a call girl. The film is noted for its innovative use of sound design to create suspense.


Mean Streets (1973)
Description: A raw and unfiltered look at life in the streets, focusing on small-time criminals and their struggles. The film's authentic dialogue and gritty realism make it a standout.
Fact: This was the first collaboration between Martin Scorsese and Robert De Niro. The film is considered a landmark in American independent cinema.


Serpico (1973)
Description: A biographical crime drama that follows an honest cop fighting corruption within the police force. Its themes of integrity, isolation, and the struggle against systemic corruption are powerfully presented.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Frank Serpico, a New York City police officer who exposed widespread corruption. It was nominated for two Academy Awards.


Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Description: A tense, character-driven drama based on a real-life bank robbery. The film's exploration of desperation, media scrutiny, and societal pressures resonates deeply.
Fact: Al Pacino's character was based on a real person who robbed a bank to pay for his partner's gender confirmation surgery. The film was nominated for six Academy Awards.


Taxi Driver (1976)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a lonely, disillusioned man navigating the seedy underbelly of a city. Its dark tone, urban decay, and exploration of alienation make it a compelling watch.
Fact: The famous line 'You talkin' to me?' was improvised by Robert De Niro. The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


Midnight Express (1978)
Description: A gritty, intense drama that explores themes of survival, desperation, and the harsh realities of the criminal justice system. The film's raw portrayal of human struggle and its dark, urban setting create a visceral experience.
Fact: The film was based on the real-life experiences of Billy Hayes, who wrote a memoir about his time in a Turkish prison. It won two Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay.


The Warriors (1979)
Description: A stylized action film that follows a gang trying to survive a night in a hostile urban environment. Its themes of loyalty, survival, and the brutality of street life are central to the narrative.
Fact: The film was inspired by a novel set in ancient Greece but transposed to 1970s New York. It has since become a cult classic.


Escape from New York (1981)
Description: A dystopian action film set in a futuristic, crime-ridden New York City. Its dark, gritty atmosphere and themes of survival and rebellion are compelling.
Fact: The film's premise was inspired by the rising crime rates in New York City during the 1970s. It has influenced numerous other dystopian films and video games.


The Pope of Greenwich Village (1984)
Description: A crime drama that explores the lives of small-time criminals in New York City. Its focus on friendship, betrayal, and the struggles of urban life makes it a poignant story.
Fact: The film features a memorable performance by Mickey Rourke and is known for its authentic portrayal of 1980s New York City. It has gained a cult following over the years.
