10 Movies & Shows Similar to Agent of Influence (2002)

Description: As one of the quintessential Cold War spy films, it shares with 'Agent of Influence' a focus on the moral complexities and personal sacrifices inherent in espionage. Both films portray spies as flawed individuals caught in larger political machinations.

Fact: The film is based on John le Carré's debut novel. Richard Burton was nominated for a BAFTA for his role as Alec Leamas. The black-and-white cinematography was praised for its stark, realistic portrayal of the spy world.

Description: Also known as 'MI-5' in the US, 'Spooks' resembles 'Agent of Influence' in its depiction of the British intelligence service. Both focus on the high-stakes, often morally ambiguous world of counterterrorism and espionage.

Fact: The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of MI5 operations. It featured early performances by actors like Matthew Macfadyen and Keeley Hawes. The series was known for its shocking character deaths, adding to its tension.

Description: This film, like 'Agent of Influence', is a slow-burning spy thriller set during the Cold War. Both focus on the intricate, often bureaucratic world of intelligence gathering and the psychological toll it takes on those involved. The visual aesthetics of muted colors and period-accurate settings are also similar.

Fact: The film is based on John le Carré's novel of the same name. Gary Oldman's performance as George Smiley earned him an Academy Award nomination. The movie was shot in London, Budapest, and Istanbul to recreate the Cold War era.

Description: Both 'Homeland' and 'Agent of Influence' explore the psychological and emotional strain of intelligence work. They feature complex characters who must navigate personal and professional betrayals, with a strong emphasis on counterintelligence operations.

Fact: Claire Danes won two Emmy Awards for her portrayal of Carrie Mathison. The show was inspired by the Israeli series 'Prisoners of War'. The series was known for its unpredictable plot twists and high tension.

Description: Like 'Agent of Influence', 'The Americans' delves into the world of espionage, focusing on deep-cover Soviet spies living in the US during the Cold War. Both explore themes of loyalty, deception, and the personal costs of espionage. The series also shares a similar tone of tension and moral ambiguity.

Fact: The show was praised for its historical accuracy in depicting Cold War espionage tactics. Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys, who played the lead roles, began a real-life relationship during the show's production. The series finale was directed by Chris Long, who also directed episodes of 'Homeland'.

Description: This French series, much like 'Agent of Influence', offers a realistic portrayal of spy work, focusing on the personal and professional lives of intelligence officers. Both highlight the psychological toll and ethical complexities of espionage.

Fact: The series is known for its meticulous attention to detail in depicting the DGSE (French intelligence). It was created by Eric Rochant, a filmmaker with a background in spy thrillers. The show has been compared to 'Homeland' for its tense, character-driven storytelling.

Description: Similar to 'Agent of Influence', 'Berlin Station' focuses on the gritty, often unglamorous side of espionage. Both depict the challenges faced by intelligence officers operating in foreign territories, with a strong emphasis on realism.

Fact: The series was created by Olen Steinhauer, a spy novelist. Richard Armitage starred as the lead character, Daniel Meyer. The show was praised for its authentic portrayal of Berlin's espionage scene.

Description: Like 'Agent of Influence', 'Condor' deals with a young analyst thrust into a deadly conspiracy. Both explore themes of trust, betrayal, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in the intelligence community.

Fact: The series is based on the novel 'Six Days of the Condor' by James Grady. It stars Max Irons as the protagonist, Joe Turner. The show was filmed in Toronto, standing in for Washington, D.C.

Description: This miniseries, like 'Agent of Influence', involves a protagonist drawn into the world of espionage to take down a powerful enemy. Both highlight the glamorous yet dangerous aspects of spy work, with a focus on undercover operations.

Fact: Tom Hiddleston's performance earned him a Golden Globe. The series is based on John le Carré's novel. It was filmed in multiple countries, including the UK, Spain, and Morocco.

Description: While 'Counterpart' introduces a sci-fi twist with parallel universes, it shares with 'Agent of Influence' a deep exploration of espionage, identity, and betrayal. Both series feature protagonists who must navigate complex, shadowy worlds.

Fact: J.K. Simmons played dual roles as two versions of the same character. The series was created by Justin Marks, who also wrote 'The Jungle Book' (2016). It was filmed in Berlin, adding to its Cold War-esque atmosphere.