If you enjoyed the gripping drama and ethical dilemmas of 'Absence of Malice' (1981), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores films and series that delve into investigative journalism, moral ambiguity, and the consequences of media power—perfect for fans of thought-provoking storytelling.

The Conversation (1974)
Description: A psychological thriller about surveillance and privacy, focusing on the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by a professional eavesdropper.
Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and is considered one of the greatest films of the 1970s.


The Parallax View (1974)
Description: A conspiracy thriller that explores themes of political assassination and media manipulation, with a noir-inspired visual style and a sense of paranoia.
Fact: The film is often cited as one of the best political thrillers of the 1970s, known for its unsettling tone and ambiguous ending.


All the President's Men (1976)
Description: A gripping investigative journalism drama that delves into uncovering political corruption, showcasing the power of the press and the ethical dilemmas faced by reporters.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life Watergate scandal, and the newsroom scenes were shot in the actual Washington Post offices.


The China Syndrome (1979)
Description: A tense drama about the risks of nuclear power and the media's role in exposing corporate negligence, blending thriller elements with social commentary.
Fact: The film's release coincided with the real-life Three Mile Island nuclear accident, adding to its cultural impact.


The Pelican Brief (1993)
Description: A suspenseful legal thriller involving a law student who uncovers a conspiracy, drawing parallels to the dangers faced by those who expose corruption.
Fact: The film is based on John Grisham's bestselling novel and features a young Julia Roberts in the lead role.


The Paper (1994)
Description: A fast-paced newsroom drama that captures the chaotic, deadline-driven world of journalism, with a focus on ethical dilemmas and the pursuit of truth.
Fact: The film features an ensemble cast and was praised for its authentic portrayal of the newspaper industry.


The Insider (1999)
Description: A high-stakes thriller about corporate whistleblowing and media ethics, exploring the tension between personal risk and public truth.
Fact: The story is inspired by the real-life experiences of Jeffrey Wigand, a tobacco industry whistleblower, and the 60 Minutes segment about him.


State of Play (2009)
Description: A political thriller that intertwines investigative journalism with personal and professional conflicts, emphasizing the blurred lines between truth and power.
Fact: The movie is an adaptation of a British TV series of the same name, condensed into a feature-length film.


Spotlight (2015)
Description: A meticulously crafted drama about investigative journalists uncovering systemic abuse, highlighting the importance of persistence and integrity in reporting.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture and is based on the Boston Globe's real-life investigation into the Catholic Church scandal.


The Post (2017)
Description: A tense and thought-provoking film about the ethical responsibilities of journalism, focusing on the publication of the Pentagon Papers and the fight for press freedom.
Fact: The movie reunites director Steven Spielberg with actors Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, marking their first collaboration with him.
