If you enjoyed the intricate twists and suspenseful storytelling of 'The Spanish Prisoner' (1997), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that deliver the same level of mystery, deception, and psychological intrigue. Whether you're a fan of clever cons or mind-bending plots, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Sting (1973)
Description: A classic con artist film filled with intricate schemes, double-crosses, and a meticulously crafted plot that keeps the audience guessing until the very end.
Fact: The film's iconic ragtime soundtrack helped revive interest in Scott Joplin's music, particularly 'The Entertainer,' which became a hit again.


House of Games (1987)
Description: A neo-noir thriller centered around psychological manipulation and con games, where the protagonist becomes entangled in a world of deceit and moral ambiguity.
Fact: This film marked the directorial debut of a renowned playwright, blending his sharp dialogue with a gripping, twist-filled narrative.


The Grifters (1990)
Description: A dark, stylish thriller about the dangerous world of con artists, where loyalty is fleeting, and betrayal is always just around the corner.
Fact: The film is based on a novel by Jim Thompson, a master of noir fiction known for his bleak and morally complex stories.


The Game (1997)
Description: A psychological thriller that revolves around deception, manipulation, and a protagonist caught in an elaborate scheme where nothing is as it seems.
Fact: The film's intricate plot was kept highly secretive during production, with even the cast receiving only portions of the script to maintain suspense.


Nine Queens (2000)
Description: A clever and twist-filled Argentine thriller about a pair of con artists who team up for a high-stakes scam, only to find themselves in over their heads.
Fact: The film was a critical and commercial success in Argentina and helped popularize Argentine cinema internationally.


Matchstick Men (2003)
Description: A con artist drama that explores themes of trust, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and illusion, featuring a protagonist whose life unravels due to a meticulously planned deception.
Fact: The film's script was rewritten multiple times to perfect the balance between the con artist elements and the emotional core of the story.


The Brothers Bloom (2008)
Description: A whimsical yet intricate con artist story that blends humor, romance, and deception, with a narrative that constantly plays with the audience's expectations.
Fact: The film's elaborate con sequences were inspired by classic literature and fairy tales, giving it a unique, storybook quality.


Now You See Me (2013)
Description: A flashy, high-energy heist film centered around illusionists who use their skills to pull off audacious crimes, blurring the line between magic and deception.
Fact: The film's magic tricks were choreographed by real-life illusionists to make the performances as believable as possible.


Focus (2015)
Description: A stylish crime drama about a seasoned con artist who takes a novice under his wing, leading to a series of twists and betrayals in a high-stakes world of deception.
Fact: The film's elaborate con scenes required extensive research into real-life grifters and their techniques to ensure authenticity.


Confidence (2003)
Description: A slick, fast-paced con artist film where the protagonist must navigate a web of lies and shifting alliances to pull off an elaborate scam.
Fact: The film's nonlinear narrative and stylish visuals were inspired by classic noir and heist films, giving it a modern yet timeless feel.
