10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to The Equalizer (2021)

Description: 'Alias' and 'The Equalizer' both center on protagonists with extraordinary skills navigating a world of espionage and moral ambiguity. Sydney Bristow's dual life as a spy and her quest for justice parallels McCall's vigilantism. The series' mix of action, drama, and intricate plots is similar to 'The Equalizer's' storytelling style.

Fact: Created by J.J. Abrams before his work on 'Lost' and 'Star Wars'. Jennifer Garner's breakout role, earning her a Golden Globe. Known for its elaborate disguises and high-stakes missions.

Description: 'Burn Notice' shares with 'The Equalizer' the theme of a highly skilled operative using their expertise to help the defenseless, often employing unconventional methods. Both protagonists operate outside traditional law enforcement, offering a mix of action, humor, and heart. The Miami setting provides a vibrant backdrop similar to the urban environments in 'The Equalizer'.

Fact: The show's title refers to the spy term for being disavowed by one's agency. Bruce Campbell's character, Sam Axe, became so popular he got his own TV movie. Known for its witty voiceovers explaining spy techniques.

Description: 'Nikita' shares with 'The Equalizer' a strong, skilled protagonist who takes down corrupt systems from within. Both series feature intense action sequences, espionage, and themes of redemption. The lead character's transformation from victim to avenger mirrors McCall's journey in 'The Equalizer'.

Fact: A reboot of the 1990s series 'La Femme Nikita'. Maggie Q performed many of her own stunts. The show was praised for its strong female lead and complex storytelling.

Description: Similar to 'The Equalizer' (2021), 'Person of Interest' revolves around a mysterious protagonist with a particular set of skills who helps those in need, often outside the law. Both series blend action, suspense, and moral dilemmas, focusing on vigilante justice and the fight against corruption. The show's high-tech surveillance elements parallel the resourcefulness seen in 'The Equalizer'.

Fact: Created by Jonathan Nolan, who also worked on 'The Dark Knight' trilogy. Initially perceived as a crime procedural but evolved into a complex sci-fi narrative. Features a memorable AI character, 'The Machine', which predicts crimes before they happen.

Description: 'Banshee' shares with 'The Equalizer' a protagonist with a violent past seeking redemption through vigilantism. Both series are known for their brutal, stylized action and morally complex characters. The small-town setting of 'Banshee' contrasts with 'The Equalizer's' urban backdrop but maintains a similar tone of gritty realism.

Fact: Created by Jonathan Tropper, who also wrote the novel 'This Is Where I Leave You'. Features some of the most intense fight scenes on television. Antony Starr's performance as Lucas Hood was critically acclaimed.

Description: 'The Blacklist' parallels 'The Equalizer' in its focus on a enigmatic, highly skilled individual who operates outside conventional law enforcement to combat crime. Both protagonists have a moral code and a mysterious past that drives their actions. The series' blend of procedural elements with overarching conspiracy themes is reminiscent of 'The Equalizer's' narrative structure.

Fact: James Spader's performance as Raymond 'Red' Reddington earned widespread acclaim. The show was inspired by real-life fugitives and criminals. Initially conceived as a limited series but expanded due to its popularity.

Description: 'Condor' aligns with 'The Equalizer' in its depiction of an ordinary man thrust into a world of espionage and violence, relying on his wits and skills to survive. Both series explore themes of betrayal, trust, and the moral complexities of vigilantism. The high-stakes tension and action sequences are reminiscent of 'The Equalizer'.

Fact: Based on the novel 'Six Days of the Condor' and the 1975 film 'Three Days of the Condor'. Stars Max Irons, grandson of actor Cyril Cusack. The series was praised for its modern take on classic spy thriller tropes.

Description: 'Hanna' and 'The Equalizer' both focus on a highly trained individual using their skills to evade and combat powerful enemies. The series' blend of action, suspense, and emotional depth mirrors 'The Equalizer's' approach. Hanna's journey of self-discovery and resistance against oppressive forces parallels McCall's mission.

Fact: Based on the 2011 film of the same name. Esmé Creed-Miles trained extensively in martial arts for the role. The series explores themes of identity and freedom.

Description: Like 'The Equalizer', 'Reacher' features a lone wolf protagonist with exceptional combat and investigative skills, delivering brutal justice to those who deserve it. Both characters are nomadic, moving from place to place to help those in need, embodying the classic vigilante archetype. The series' gritty tone and action-packed sequences mirror the intensity of 'The Equalizer'.

Fact: Based on Lee Child's bestselling Jack Reacher novels. Alan Ritchson, who plays Reacher, is a former model and played Aquaman in 'Smallville'. The show was filmed in Ontario, Canada, despite being set in the American South.

Description: '24' and 'The Equalizer' both feature protagonists who operate outside standard protocols to protect the innocent, often at great personal cost. The real-time format of '24' creates a relentless pace akin to the high tension in 'The Equalizer'. Both series explore themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the cost of justice.

Fact: Pioneered the real-time narrative format in television. Kiefer Sutherland's portrayal of Jack Bauer became iconic. The show's suspenseful ticking clock became a cultural phenomenon.