If you were captivated by the gritty realism and intense drama of 'On the Job' (2013), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores films and series that share its themes of crime, corruption, and moral dilemmas, offering thrilling alternatives for fans of the genre.

Traffic (2000)
Description: A multi-narrative drama that examines the complexities of the drug trade, from law enforcement to users, highlighting systemic failures and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Director for Steven Soderbergh.


The Shield (2002)
Description: A groundbreaking police drama that delves into the corrupt practices of a rogue strike team, blending intense action with moral complexity.
Fact: The show was one of the first to feature antihero protagonists, paving the way for later series like 'Breaking Bad' and 'The Sopranos.'


The Wire (2002)
Description: A deeply layered series that examines the interconnectedness of crime, law enforcement, and societal institutions, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of urban life.
Fact: The show was praised for its realistic dialogue, much of which was drawn from the experiences of former police officers and drug dealers.


City of God (2002)
Description: A visceral depiction of life in the favelas, where crime and survival are intertwined, told through a dynamic and fast-paced narrative style.
Fact: Many of the actors were actual residents of Rio's favelas, adding a layer of realism to the film.


The Departed (2006)
Description: A gripping crime thriller that delves into the murky world of undercover operations and police corruption, showcasing intense moral dilemmas and violent confrontations.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 2002 Hong Kong movie 'Infernal Affairs' and won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


Elite Squad (2007)
Description: A hard-hitting exploration of police brutality and corruption within a special operations unit tasked with combating drug trafficking in Rio de Janeiro.
Fact: The film was a massive box office success in Brazil and sparked debates about police violence and social inequality.


Breaking Bad (2008)
Description: A character-driven drama that follows the transformation of a mild-mannered teacher into a ruthless drug kingpin, exploring themes of morality and consequence.
Fact: The series was initially rejected by several networks before being picked up by AMC, where it became a critical and commercial success.


Gomorrah (2014)
Description: A raw and unflinching portrayal of organized crime, focusing on the brutal realities of gang life and systemic corruption within a tightly-knit community.
Fact: Based on Roberto Saviano's bestselling book, the series was shot on location in Naples, often using non-professional actors for authenticity.


Sicario (2015)
Description: A tense and atmospheric thriller that explores the brutal realities of the drug war, focusing on covert operations and the blurred lines between justice and vengeance.
Fact: The title 'Sicario' means 'hitman' in Spanish, reflecting the film's dark and violent themes.


Animal Kingdom (2016)
Description: A dark and suspenseful series that explores the dynamics of a criminal family, focusing on loyalty, betrayal, and survival in a world of crime.
Fact: The show is based on the 2010 Australian film of the same name and has been praised for its strong performances and tense storytelling.
