Must-Watch Shows & Movies Like Women Behind Bars

Description: A tense thriller based on the true story of the only successful escape from the infamous Alcatraz prison. The film captures the meticulous planning and daring execution of the escape.

Fact: The real-life escape from Alcatraz remains unsolved, with the fate of the escapees still unknown.

Description: A brutal and unflinching look at the life of a Chicano gang member in prison, based on true events. The film delves into the violence, power dynamics, and racial tensions within the prison system.

Fact: The film's production was reportedly cursed, with several cast members involved in real-life violence and even murder after its release.

Description: A story of hope and friendship set within the walls of a harsh prison, highlighting the resilience of the human spirit. The film explores themes of injustice, redemption, and the bonds formed in confinement.

Fact: Despite its initial box office disappointment, the film became a cult classic and is often cited as one of the greatest films of all time.

Description: A gritty and intense portrayal of life inside a maximum-security prison, focusing on the power struggles, violence, and survival tactics among inmates. It's known for its raw and unflinching depiction of prison life.

Fact: Oz was HBO's first one-hour dramatic television series, paving the way for future shows like The Sopranos and The Wire.

Description: A supernatural drama set on death row, focusing on the lives of the guards and inmates, and the miracles that unfold among them. It examines themes of compassion, justice, and the supernatural.

Fact: The film is based on a serial novel by Stephen King, released in six monthly installments before being compiled into a single volume.

Description: A high-stakes drama centered around a man's elaborate plan to break his wrongfully accused brother out of prison. The series delves into themes of loyalty, survival, and the complexities of the penal system.

Fact: The show's iconic tattoo map was designed by the series' creator, Paul Scheuring, and took five hours to apply to the actor's body for filming.

Description: A poignant drama about a man released from death row after 19 years, struggling to reintegrate into society. The series explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the impact of incarceration on individuals and families.

Fact: The show was praised for its slow-burn storytelling and deep character development, earning a dedicated cult following.

Description: This series explores the lives of female inmates in a minimum-security prison, focusing on their personal stories, struggles, and relationships. It blends drama with dark humor, offering a nuanced look at the prison system and the women within it.

Fact: The show was based on Piper Kerman's memoir of the same name, detailing her experiences in a women's prison. It was one of Netflix's first original series to gain widespread acclaim.

Description: A gripping crime drama that follows a young man's journey through the criminal justice system after being accused of murder. The series highlights the brutal realities of incarceration and the legal process.

Fact: The series was originally developed by HBO in 2012 but was delayed due to the lead actor's injury, leading to a recasting and eventual release in

Description: A crime thriller that follows a businessman's transformation into a hardened criminal after being sentenced to prison. The film explores the harsh realities of prison life and the difficult choices inmates must make to survive.

Fact: The film's lead actor underwent a significant physical transformation to portray his character's evolution from a white-collar professional to a prison gang leader.