10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Spy (2015)

Description: 'Alias' and 'Spy (2015)' both feature strong, capable female leads navigating the dangerous world of espionage. While 'Alias' is more dramatic and serialized, it shares with 'Spy' a sense of fun and adventure, along with elaborate disguises and high-stakes missions. Jennifer Garner's Sydney Bristow is a more serious counterpart to Melissa McCarthy's Susan Cooper.

Fact: Jennifer Garner performed many of her own stunts, including fight scenes. The show was created by J.J. Abrams, who also co-created 'Lost'. The series popularized the use of wigs as disguises in spy fiction.

Description: 'Burn Notice' and 'Spy (2015)' both explore the life of a spy who's been cut off from their agency, forcing them to rely on wit and unconventional methods. While 'Burn Notice' has a more serious tone, it shares with 'Spy' a focus on the mechanics of spycraft and the personal stakes involved in espionage.

Fact: The show's narration style was inspired by classic film noir. Bruce Campbell, who played Sam Axe, became a fan favorite for his comedic timing. The series was filmed in Miami, making extensive use of local landmarks.

Description: 'Chuck' mirrors 'Spy (2015)' in its comedic approach to espionage, featuring an unlikely hero thrust into the world of spies. Both blend action, romance, and humor, with 'Chuck' focusing on a tech-savvy everyman who becomes an accidental spy. The show's lighthearted tone and quirky characters make it a spiritual cousin to 'Spy'.

Fact: Zachary Levi, who played Chuck, performed many of his own stunts. The show was saved from cancellation twice by fan campaigns. The 'Buy More' store where Chuck works was inspired by real electronics stores like Best Buy.

Description: While 'Archer' is an animated series, it shares with 'Spy (2015)' a satirical take on the spy genre, filled with over-the-top action, witty banter, and a dysfunctional yet endearing team of spies. Both use humor to critique and celebrate spy tropes, with 'Archer' leaning more into absurdity and pop culture references.

Fact: The show was originally conceived as a more straightforward spy parody titled 'Duchess'. H. Jon Benjamin, the voice of Sterling Archer, has never served in the military or intelligence community. The animation style is inspired by mid-20th century advertising art.

Description: 'Homeland' shares with 'Spy (2015)' a focus on the psychological and emotional complexities of espionage. While 'Homeland' is a tense political thriller, both explore themes of trust, betrayal, and identity. Claire Danes' Carrie Mathison and Melissa McCarthy's Susan Cooper are both brilliant but flawed operatives navigating a male-dominated field.

Fact: The series is based on the Israeli show 'Prisoners of War'. Claire Danes studied bipolar disorder to prepare for her role as Carrie Mathison. The show was criticized by some for its portrayal of mental illness and the Middle East.

Description: Like 'Spy (2015)', 'The Americans' delves into the world of espionage with a mix of drama, action, and humor. Both explore the complexities of undercover operations, though 'The Americans' leans more into the psychological and emotional toll on its characters. The show's meticulous attention to period detail and spycraft mirrors the authenticity 'Spy' brings to its comedic take on the genre.

Fact: The show was praised for its accurate depiction of 1980s Cold War espionage. 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: 'Berlin Station' and 'Spy (2015)' both delve into the gritty, bureaucratic side of espionage, though 'Berlin Station' is more of a serious drama. Both shows emphasize the personal sacrifices and moral ambiguities of spy work, with 'Berlin Station' offering a more realistic, less comedic perspective.

Fact: The show was filmed on location in Berlin, adding to its authenticity. Richard Armitage, who plays the lead, is also known for his role in 'The Hobbit' trilogy. The series explores contemporary issues like cyber warfare and political corruption.

Description: 'Killing Eve' shares with 'Spy (2015)' a blend of espionage and dark comedy, focusing on the cat-and-mouse game between an MI6 agent and a psychopathic assassin. Both properties subvert traditional spy tropes with strong female leads and a sharp, witty script. The show's stylish visuals and unpredictable plot twists echo the playful yet thrilling nature of 'Spy'.

Fact: Sandra Oh became the first actress of Asian descent to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Lead Actress in a Drama Series for her role in 'Killing Eve'. The series is based on the 'Codename Villanelle' novellas by Luke Jennings. Jodie Comer learned multiple languages and accents for her role as Villanelle.

Description: '24' and 'Spy (2015)' both revolve around the high-pressure world of counterterrorism and espionage, though '24' is far more intense and dramatic. Both, however, showcase the ingenuity and resourcefulness of their protagonists in tight situations. '24's real-time format adds a layer of urgency that 'Spy' mirrors in its fast-paced narrative.

Fact: Kiefer Sutherland won an Emmy for his portrayal of Jack Bauer. The show's real-time format was initially considered a gimmick but became its defining feature. '24' was one of the first TV shows to popularize the use of split screens.

Description: 'The Night Manager' and 'Spy (2015)' both feature undercover operatives infiltrating dangerous organizations, though 'The Night Manager' is more of a sleek, sophisticated thriller. Both highlight the tension and glamour of spy work, with 'The Night Manager' offering a more subdued, atmospheric take on the genre.

Fact: Tom Hiddleston's performance earned him a Golden Globe. The series is based on a novel by John le Carré. Hugh Laurie, who plays the villain, was originally considered for the lead role.