If you enjoyed the gritty crime drama 'The Tax Collector' (2020), you're likely craving more films with similar themes of loyalty, violence, and underworld tension. This article highlights 10 movies and shows that deliver the same raw intensity, complex characters, and high-stakes action. Whether you're a fan of crime thrillers or street-level drama, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Training Day (2001)
Description: Explores the moral ambiguities and corruption within law enforcement, set against the backdrop of Los Angeles' criminal underworld.
Fact: Denzel Washington won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as the morally ambiguous detective Alonzo Harris.


A Man Apart (2003)
Description: Focuses on a law enforcement officer's personal vendetta against a drug cartel, blending action with emotional depth.
Fact: The movie was originally titled 'Diablo' and underwent significant reshoots to alter its tone and storyline.


The Shield (2002)
Description: A groundbreaking TV series that explores the complexities of policing in a corrupt and violent urban environment.
Fact: The show was one of the first to use handheld cameras extensively, giving it a raw and realistic feel.


Street Kings (2008)
Description: Delves into the dark side of policing, featuring a protagonist navigating a world of corruption and violence within the LAPD.
Fact: The screenplay was co-written by James Ellroy, known for his hard-boiled crime novels set in Los Angeles.


Harsh Times (2005)
Description: A raw and intense look at life on the streets, focusing on characters entangled in crime and the struggle for survival.
Fact: This was the directorial debut of David Ayer, who also wrote the screenplay, drawing from his own experiences growing up in Los Angeles.


Den of Thieves (2018)
Description: A cat-and-mouse game between elite criminals and law enforcement, filled with heists, shootouts, and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The film's plot was inspired by real-life bank heists in Los Angeles, adding a layer of authenticity to the story.


Triple 9 (2016)
Description: A tense crime thriller involving corrupt cops and heists, showcasing the blurred lines between law enforcement and criminals.
Fact: The title refers to the police code '999,' which signals an officer down, a central plot point in the film.


Sabotage (2014)
Description: A high-octane action thriller centered around a DEA task force dealing with betrayal and violence within their ranks.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events involving elite law enforcement units and the challenges they face.


End of Watch (2012)
Description: A gritty, realistic portrayal of street-level law enforcement, focusing on the bond between partners and the dangers they face daily.
Fact: The film was shot in a documentary-style format, with actors Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña undergoing real police training to prepare for their roles.


Southland (2009)
Description: A realistic depiction of the daily lives of LAPD officers, highlighting both their professional challenges and personal struggles.
Fact: The series was praised for its authentic portrayal of police work, with many scenes shot on location in Los Angeles.
