If you loved the gritty, suspenseful atmosphere of 'The Drop' (2014), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that share similar themes of crime, tension, and moral ambiguity. Whether you're drawn to the underworld drama, complex characters, or slow-burning tension, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive in to discover your next favorite watch!

The Friends of Eddie Coyle (1973)
Description: Both 'The Friends of Eddie Coyle' and 'The Drop' are gritty crime dramas that focus on the lives of small-time criminals. The films share a realistic, unglamorous portrayal of crime, with a strong emphasis on dialogue and character over action.
Fact: Based on George V. Higgins' novel. Robert Mitchum's performance is considered one of his best. The film was shot on location in Boston, adding to its authenticity.


Casino (1995)
Description: Similar to 'The Drop', 'Casino' is a crime drama that delves into the intricacies of organized crime, with a focus on the personal and professional downfalls of its characters. Both films portray the glamour and brutality of criminal enterprises, with a meticulous attention to detail in their settings.
Fact: Directed by Martin Scorsese, it's based on the real-life story of Frank Rosenthal. The film's budget was $52 million, one of the most expensive at the time. Sharon Stone received an Oscar nomination for her role.


Mystic River (2003)
Description: Both 'Mystic River' and 'The Drop' are intense crime dramas that explore themes of loss, guilt, and the long shadows cast by past traumas. The films share a somber tone and a focus on how crime affects personal relationships and community bonds.
Fact: Directed by Clint Eastwood, the film won Oscars for Sean Penn and Tim Robbins. Based on Dennis Lehane's novel. The film's title refers to the Mystic River in Massachusetts, a key location in the story.


A History of Violence (2005)
Description: Both 'A History of Violence' and 'The Drop' examine the consequences of violence and the difficulty of escaping one's past. The films share a tense, atmospheric style and a focus on the psychological impact of crime on individuals and families.
Fact: Directed by David Cronenberg, it's based on a graphic novel. Viggo Mortensen's performance was highly praised. The film was nominated for two Oscars.


The Departed (2006)
Description: This film shares with 'The Drop' a deep exploration of crime and corruption, set against the backdrop of Boston's underworld. Both movies feature complex characters caught in webs of deceit and violence, with a strong emphasis on the psychological toll of criminal life.
Fact: Martin Scorsese won his first Oscar for Best Director for this film. It's a remake of the Hong Kong film 'Infernal Affairs'. Jack Nicholson's character was largely improvised, adding to the film's intensity.


Gone Baby Gone (2007)
Description: Like 'The Drop', this film delves into the dark underbelly of Boston's criminal world, with a narrative that intertwines crime, morality, and personal dilemmas. Both movies feature a slow-burning tension and a focus on the psychological impact of crime on individuals and communities.
Fact: This was Ben Affleck's directorial debut. The film is based on Dennis Lehane's novel of the same name. Casey Affleck's performance was critically acclaimed, earning him several award nominations.


Eastern Promises (2007)
Description: Like 'The Drop', 'Eastern Promises' explores the dark, violent world of organized crime, with a focus on the Russian mafia in London. Both films are character-driven, with a strong emphasis on the moral ambiguities and personal costs of criminal life.
Fact: Directed by David Cronenberg, known for his body horror films. Viggo Mortensen performed all his own stunts, including the famous bathhouse fight scene. The film was shot in London, with many real locations used.


The Town (2010)
Description: Similar to 'The Drop' (2014), 'The Town' is a crime thriller set in Boston, focusing on the gritty underworld of organized crime. Both films explore themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption, with a strong emphasis on character development. The atmospheric portrayal of urban decay and the moral ambiguity of the protagonists are key similarities.
Fact: Ben Affleck not only starred in but also directed 'The Town', marking his second directorial effort. The film is based on Chuck Hogan's novel 'Prince of Thieves'. Several real-life bank robbers were consulted to ensure the heist scenes were authentic.


Animal Kingdom (2010)
Description: Like 'The Drop', 'Animal Kingdom' is a crime drama that explores the dynamics of a criminal family, with a focus on loyalty, betrayal, and survival. Both films are tense, character-driven narratives that delve into the psychological and emotional toll of a life of crime.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life Pettingill crime family in Melbourne. Jacki Weaver received an Oscar nomination for her role. The film marked the breakthrough of director David Michôd.


Killing Them Softly (2012)
Description: This film, like 'The Drop', is a crime thriller that critiques the American dream through the lens of organized crime. Both movies feature a bleak, cynical tone and a focus on the economic and social decay that underpins criminal enterprises.
Fact: Directed by Andrew Dominik, who also directed 'The Assassination of Jesse James'. The film is based on George V. Higgins' novel 'Cogan's Trade'. Brad Pitt's character was originally written for a much older actor.
