If you're a fan of the 1988 action-packed revenge thriller 'Getting Even,' you're probably craving more films that deliver the same adrenaline rush, gripping storylines, and intense showdowns. This article is your ultimate guide to 10 movies and shows that capture the essence of 'Getting Even'—whether it's the themes of vengeance, high-stakes action, or gritty protagonists. Dive in to discover your next favorite watch!

The Sting (1973)
Description: Like 'Getting Even', 'The Sting' revolves around elaborate revenge schemes and con artistry. Both films showcase protagonists meticulously planning their retaliation against powerful adversaries, with clever plot twists and a focus on the mechanics of the revenge plot. The period setting of 'The Sting' replaces the modern crime elements of 'Getting Even', but the core theme of calculated vengeance remains.
Fact: The film's iconic ragtime score by Marvin Hamlisch revived interest in Scott Joplin's music. Paul Newman and Robert Redford's chemistry led to their frequent pairing as 'the most beautiful couple in movies'. Won 7 Academy Awards including Best Picture.


The Usual Suspects (1995)
Description: While more complex in narrative structure, 'The Usual Suspects' shares with 'Getting Even' the theme of criminals seeking retribution against powerful figures. Both films feature elaborate schemes that aren't fully revealed until the end, with the satisfaction coming from seeing how all pieces fit together. The unreliable narration adds depth to the revenge theme.
Fact: Kevin Spacey prepared for his role by studying how stroke victims walk. The line-up scene was completely improvised. Director Bryan Singer shot the famous ending reveal in one take.


Payback (1999)
Description: Similar to 'Getting Even' (1988), 'Payback' is a gritty revenge thriller where the protagonist seeks retribution against those who wronged him. Both films feature antiheroes navigating a criminal underworld, with themes of betrayal and vengeance driving the narrative. The dark, neo-noir aesthetic and morally ambiguous characters are key similarities.
Fact: Mel Gibson's character, Porter, was originally written as more villainous, but Gibson insisted on making him more sympathetic. The film is based on the same novel ('The Hunter') as the 1967 Lee Marvin film 'Point Blank'. Director Brian Helgeland was fired during post-production and the ending was reshot by another director.


The Thomas Crown Affair (1999)
Description: Shares with 'Getting Even' the theme of a sophisticated protagonist executing a flawless plan, though Crown's motives are more playful than vengeful. Both films feature cat-and-mouse games with authorities and exude stylish confidence in their execution. The intellectual challenge of the perfect crime mirrors the satisfaction of perfect revenge.
Fact: Pierce Brosnan did all his own rock climbing scenes. The famous museum heist scene used real Degas paintings worth $300 million. The chess game is a nod to the 1968 original's famous chess scene.


The Score (2001)
Description: Similar to 'Getting Even', 'The Score' revolves around a meticulously planned criminal operation with elements of betrayal. Both films focus on professionals executing their craft perfectly, with tension arising from personal stakes and shifting alliances. The satisfaction comes from seeing a complex plan come together against powerful adversaries.
Fact: Marked Marlon Brando's final film role. Robert De Niro and Edward Norton improvised much of their dialogue. The film features one of the few jazz scores composed by Howard Shore.


Ocean's Eleven (2001)
Description: Shares with 'Getting Even' the theme of sophisticated, well-planned retribution against powerful figures. While more lighthearted in tone, both films feature ensemble casts executing intricate plans, with the satisfaction coming from seeing the villains outsmarted. The stylish execution of the heist mirrors the calculated revenge in 'Getting Even'.
Fact: The cast played actual poker games between takes, with Brad Pitt usually winning. Julia Roberts' salary was equal to the combined salaries of all the male leads. The film's success spawned two sequels and a female-led spin-off.


The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)
Description: This classic revenge story parallels 'Getting Even' in its central theme of a wronged man meticulously planning his vengeance over years. Both protagonists use their intelligence rather than brute force to destroy their enemies systematically. The period setting adds grandeur to the revenge plot, but the psychological satisfaction of seeing justice served is equally compelling in both films.
Fact: Jim Caviezel trained for 6 months in sword fighting for his role. The film combines elements from both Dumas' novel and the 1934 movie adaptation. The Château d'If prison scenes were filmed in the same Maltese fort used for 'Gladiator'.


Heist (2001)
Description: Like 'Getting Even', 'Heist' features a protagonist forced into criminal action by circumstances, dealing with betrayal and seeking justice through elaborate schemes. Both films maintain tension through unpredictable twists and feature protagonists who must outthink their adversaries. The gritty tone and moral ambiguity are shared characteristics.
Fact: David Mamet wrote the script in just 4 days. Gene Hackman performed many of his own stunts despite being 71 at the time. The film's dialogue is trademark Mamet, with its distinctive rhythmic patter.


The Italian Job (2003)
Description: Similar to 'Getting Even', this film features a team seeking retribution after being betrayed, with the added element of a heist. Both stories involve carefully planned operations against former allies, with the satisfaction coming from seeing the villains outmaneuvered. The balance of action and clever strategy mirrors the appeal of 'Getting Even'.
Fact: The Mini Cooper chase scene took 6 weeks to film. Edward Norton only agreed to star to fulfill a contract obligation. The film's ending was reshot after test audiences rejected the original ambiguous conclusion.


Inside Man (2006)
Description: Like 'Getting Even', 'Inside Man' features a meticulously planned operation that serves as both crime and moral justice. Both films satisfy the audience by revealing the cleverness of the plan gradually. The modern setting and blend of intelligence and action make it spiritually similar to 'Getting Even', though with more social commentary.
Fact: Spike Lee's highest-grossing film. Denzel Washington's character was originally written as white. The bank robbery was inspired by a real 1972 Brooklyn incident.
