If you loved 'Booked: First Day In (2023)' and are craving more gripping stories about survival, crime, or the harsh realities of incarceration, you're in the right place. This article highlights 10 movies and shows that share similar themes, intensity, and raw storytelling. Whether you're drawn to the drama, the suspense, or the emotional depth, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

American Me (1992)
Description: A raw and unflinching look at the life of a Mexican-American gangster in prison, exploring themes of power, loyalty, and the cyclical nature of violence, akin to gritty prison dramas.
Fact: The film's production was reportedly plagued by real-life gang interference, adding to its controversial reputation.


The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
Description: A classic tale of hope and perseverance within the confines of a brutal prison system, emphasizing friendship and the human spirit's resilience, similar to stories of survival and redemption behind bars.
Fact: Despite its initial box office disappointment, the film became a cultural phenomenon through home video and television broadcasts.


Oz (1997)
Description: A gritty and intense portrayal of life in a maximum-security prison, delving into the power dynamics, violence, and survival strategies among inmates, mirroring the harsh realities of prison life.
Fact: Oz was HBO's first one-hour dramatic television series and is often credited with paving the way for future HBO dramas like The Sopranos and The Wire.


Prison Break (2005)
Description: Centers around a meticulously planned escape from prison, highlighting themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and the lengths one will go to for freedom, akin to stories of incarceration and escape.
Fact: The show's popularity led to a revival season in 2017, more than a decade after its original run ended.


Rectify (2013)
Description: Follows a man's reintegration into society after spending years on death row, examining themes of justice, redemption, and the struggle to adapt to life outside prison, paralleling stories of post-incarceration challenges.
Fact: Rectify was praised for its slow-burn storytelling and deep character studies, earning a dedicated cult following.


Orange Is the New Black (2013)
Description: This series explores the complexities of life inside a women's prison, focusing on character development and the emotional struggles of inmates, similar to the themes of incarceration and personal transformation.
Fact: The show was based on Piper Kerman's memoir of the same name, and it was one of Netflix's first major original series successes.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A gripping narrative about a young man's experience in the criminal justice system, focusing on the psychological and emotional toll of incarceration, similar to the exploration of prison life and its impacts.
Fact: The series was originally developed by HBO in 2012 but was delayed due to creative differences and casting changes.


Shot Caller (2017)
Description: Chronicles a businessman's transformation into a hardened criminal after being sentenced to prison, highlighting the brutal realities of prison life and the struggle for power, similar to narratives of incarceration and personal change.
Fact: The film's script was praised for its authenticity, with input from former inmates and prison consultants.


Brawl in Cell Block 99 (2017)
Description: A violent and visceral depiction of prison life, focusing on one man's descent into brutality as he fights to survive, mirroring the intense and often savage nature of incarceration stories.
Fact: The film's extreme violence and practical effects were noted for their realism and impact, earning it a cult following among genre fans.


Escape at Dannemora (2018)
Description: Based on a true story, this miniseries details a daring prison escape, focusing on the planning, execution, and aftermath, much like narratives centered around prison breaks and their consequences.
Fact: The series was filmed at the actual Clinton Correctional Facility where the real-life escape occurred.
