If you were captivated by the psychological intensity and gripping narrative of The Offence (1973), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 movies and shows that share its dark, suspenseful themes, complex characters, and raw emotional depth. Whether you're a fan of crime thrillers or character-driven dramas, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Dirty Harry (1971)
Description: A hard-hitting crime film that examines the blurred lines between justice and vengeance, featuring a morally complex protagonist who operates outside conventional norms.
Fact: The character of Harry Callahan became a cultural icon, spawning several sequels and influencing countless other tough-cop portrayals.


The French Connection (1971)
Description: A tense, realistic police procedural that explores the dark underbelly of crime and the obsessive nature of its protagonist, who is willing to bend the rules to achieve justice.
Fact: The famous car chase scene was filmed without permits and involved real-life stunts, making it one of the most iconic chase sequences in cinema history.


Get Carter (1971)
Description: A bleak, uncompromising revenge thriller set in the criminal underworld, with a protagonist whose relentless pursuit of justice leads to his own destruction.
Fact: The film's stark cinematography and realistic portrayal of violence were groundbreaking for British cinema at the time.


Klute (1971)
Description: A neo-noir thriller that combines psychological depth with a mystery plot, focusing on themes of isolation, surveillance, and the vulnerability of its central characters.
Fact: The film is notable for its atmospheric use of New York City locations, which contribute to its unsettling mood.


The Day of the Jackal (1973)
Description: A meticulously plotted thriller about an assassin's cold, calculated pursuit of his target, emphasizing tension and procedural detail over action.
Fact: The film's antagonist is never given a real name, adding to his enigmatic and impersonal nature.


Serpico (1973)
Description: A gritty crime drama focusing on police corruption and the psychological toll of standing alone against systemic dishonesty, with a strong emphasis on the protagonist's internal struggle.
Fact: Based on the true story of Frank Serpico, the film was shot on location in New York City, adding to its raw, authentic feel.


The Conversation (1974)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into themes of surveillance, paranoia, and moral ambiguity, featuring a protagonist whose obsession with his work leads to a personal crisis.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the 1974 Cannes Film Festival. Its sound design was highly innovative, using overlapping dialogue to create a sense of eavesdropping.


The Parallax View (1974)
Description: A conspiracy thriller that explores themes of paranoia and the elusive nature of truth, with a protagonist who becomes increasingly isolated as he uncovers a sinister plot.
Fact: The film's famous 'Parallax Test' sequence is a striking montage that uses subliminal imagery to unsettling effect.


Marathon Man (1976)
Description: A suspenseful thriller that delves into themes of betrayal, trauma, and survival, with a protagonist caught in a web of intrigue beyond his understanding.
Fact: The infamous dental torture scene has become one of the most memorable and disturbing moments in thriller cinema.


The Long Good Friday (1980)
Description: A British crime drama that combines brutal violence with a complex narrative about power, betrayal, and the downfall of a criminal empire.
Fact: The film features an iconic performance by Bob Hoskins, who was relatively unknown at the time but became a star after its release.
