If you loved the high-stakes action and gritty realism of 'Den of Thieves' (2018), you're in for a treat. This article dives into 10 movies and shows that deliver the same adrenaline-pumping heists, intense shootouts, and morally complex characters. Whether you're a fan of crime thrillers or just looking for your next binge-worthy watch, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to add some explosive titles to your watchlist!
Heat (1995)
Description: Similar to 'Den of Thieves' in its intense heist sequences and the cat-and-mouse dynamic between criminals and law enforcement. Both films explore the personal lives of the criminals and the detectives pursuing them, adding depth to the action.
Fact: The famous shootout scene was inspired by a real-life 1997 North Hollywood shootout. Robert De Niro and Al Pacino shared only two scenes together. The film's runtime is nearly three hours, allowing for deep character development.
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Set It Off (1996)
Description: Like 'Den of Thieves', this film features a group planning and executing bank robberies, though with more focus on social motivations. Both explore the camaraderie and tensions within a criminal crew.
Fact: Queen Latifah's breakout dramatic role. Inspired by real female bank robbers in LA. The film addresses issues of race, class, and gender in the criminal underworld.
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Ocean's Eleven (2001)
Description: While more stylish and less gritty than 'Den of Thieves', both films focus on elaborate heists executed by charismatic criminal teams. They share themes of loyalty among thieves and outsmarting security systems.
Fact: Remake of the 1960 Rat Pack film. George Clooney and Brad Pitt's chemistry was largely improvised. The Bellagio casino allowed filming in their actual vault.
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The Italian Job (2003)
Description: Shares with 'Den of Thieves' the theme of a well-planned heist with unexpected complications. Both feature charismatic criminal teams and high-energy action sequences, though 'The Italian Job' has a more lighthearted tone.
Fact: Features one of the most famous Mini Cooper chase scenes. The original 1969 version starred Michael Caine. The film's climax was shot in actual Los Angeles traffic.
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Inside Man (2006)
Description: Shares with 'Den of Thieves' a focus on a meticulously planned heist and the psychological battle between the criminals and authorities. Both films feature unexpected twists and a blend of action with intellectual cat-and-mouse games.
Fact: Spike Lee's highest-grossing film. The heist was inspired by a real-life bank robbery in Stockholm. Denzel Washington and Clive Owen never actually meet face-to-face in the film.
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The Town (2010)
Description: Like 'Den of Thieves', this film focuses on a group of professional bank robbers and their intricate heists. Both movies blend action with character-driven drama, set against the backdrop of a specific urban environment (Boston in 'The Town', LA in 'Den of Thieves').
Fact: Ben Affleck both directed and starred in the film. Many scenes were shot in actual Boston locations. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (Jeremy Renner).
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Takers (2010)
Description: Similar to 'Den of Thieves' in its focus on a crew of professional thieves executing high-stakes heists. Both films combine stylish action with interpersonal drama among the criminal team members.
Fact: Originally titled 'Bone Deep'. Features an early film appearance by Chris Brown. The heist sequences were inspired by real armored car robberies.
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Triple 9 (2016)
Description: This film mirrors 'Den of Thieves' in its gritty portrayal of corrupt cops and criminals in a major American city. Both feature intense action sequences and explore moral ambiguity among law enforcement and criminals alike.
Fact: The title refers to police code for 'officer down'. Features an ensemble cast including Casey Affleck and Woody Harrelson. The film underwent significant reshoots to alter its ending.
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Baby Driver (2017)
Description: Like 'Den of Thieves', this film features high-energy heist sequences and a focus on the getaway driver's skills. Both blend intense action with character-driven storytelling, though 'Baby Driver' has more musical elements.
Fact: All car stunts were done practically, not with CGI. The lead actor learned to drive stick shift for the role. Every action sequence is synchronized to the film's soundtrack.
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Widows (2018)
Description: While gender-flipped, this shares with 'Den of Thieves' a focus on meticulously planned heists and the personal lives of those involved. Both films blend crime thriller elements with deeper social commentary.
Fact: Based on a British TV series from the 1980s. Viola Davis performed many of her own stunts. The film explores themes of race, class, and gender in urban America.
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