If you loved 'The King's Man' (2021) for its stylish action, historical intrigue, and witty espionage, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same thrilling blend of period drama, sharp humor, and high-stakes adventure. Whether you're a fan of spy thrillers, historical epics, or clever storytelling, these recommendations will keep you entertained long after the credits roll.

Salt (2010)
Description: This action thriller shares with The King's Man a focus on a protagonist whose loyalties are constantly in question. Both films feature high-octane action sequences and a narrative that keeps the audience guessing about the true motives of the main character.
Fact: The role was originally written for a male actor, with Tom Cruise considered for the part. Angelina Jolie performed many of her own stunts. The film's plot twists were kept highly secret during production.


Sherlock Holmes (2009)
Description: Directed by Guy Ritchie, this film shares a similar visual style and period setting (late 19th century) with The King's Man. Both films blend action, mystery, and wit, with a focus on clever protagonists navigating a world of intrigue. The fast-paced editing and stylized fight sequences are also comparable.
Fact: Robert Downey Jr. learned violin for his role as Sherlock Holmes. The film's boxing scene was choreographed to resemble the slow-motion 'bullet time' effect from The Matrix. Jude Law's portrayal of Dr. Watson was praised for its physicality and humor.


Hanna (2011)
Description: This film shares with The King's Man a focus on a highly trained protagonist navigating a world of espionage and deception. Both films explore themes of identity and survival, though Hanna takes a more contemporary and surreal approach to the genre.
Fact: Saoirse Ronan trained in martial arts and weapons handling for the role. The film's electronic score was composed by The Chemical Brothers. Much of the movie was shot in remote locations in Finland and Morocco.


Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
Description: This film is a more subdued, cerebral take on the spy genre, but shares with The King's Man a focus on the intricacies of espionage and the moral ambiguities of intelligence work. Both films are set in historical periods (Cold War for Tinker Tailor, WWI for The King's Man) and feature meticulous attention to period detail.
Fact: The film is an adaptation of John le Carré's classic novel. Gary Oldman's performance as George Smiley earned him an Academy Award nomination. The movie was shot in various locations including London, Budapest, and Istanbul.


Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
Description: This sequel continues the themes and style of the first film, with even more elaborate action sequences and a deeper exploration of Holmes' rivalry with Moriarty. Like The King's Man, it combines historical setting with thrilling espionage elements, and features a charismatic lead performance.
Fact: The film's climax was inspired by the Reichenbach Falls scene from the original stories. Jared Harris' portrayal of Moriarty was critically acclaimed. The movie features a memorable slow-motion forest chase sequence.


The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (2015)
Description: Directed by Guy Ritchie, this film shares a similar blend of action, espionage, and period setting (Cold War era) with The King's Man. Both films feature stylish cinematography, witty dialogue, and a focus on the formation of an unlikely team to combat global threats. The retro aesthetic and playful tone are also comparable.
Fact: The film is based on the 1960s TV series of the same name. Henry Cavill and Armie Hammer's chemistry was praised, with Cavill's character often eating in scenes to highlight his nonchalant attitude. The movie was shot in multiple locations including Rome, Naples, and London.


Atomic Blonde (2017)
Description: This film shares the Cold War espionage theme with The King's Man, along with a strong focus on stylish action sequences and a gritty, yet visually striking aesthetic. Both films explore the complexities of loyalty and betrayal within the spy world, with Atomic Blonde offering a more modern, punk-inspired take on the genre.
Fact: Charlize Theron performed many of her own stunts, including a famous one-take fight scene. The film is based on the graphic novel 'The Coldest City' by Antony Johnston. The soundtrack features iconic 80s hits from artists like David Bowie and Depeche Mode.


Red Sparrow (2018)
Description: This film shares with The King's Man a focus on the brutal realities of espionage, with a strong emphasis on training and manipulation. Both films feature protagonists who must navigate a world of deception, though Red Sparrow takes a more modern and psychologically intense approach.
Fact: Jennifer Lawrence underwent extensive training for her role, including ballet and Russian language lessons. The film is based on the novel by former CIA officer Jason Matthews. Much of the movie was shot in Budapest, standing in for Moscow.


Kingsman: The Golden Circle (2017)
Description: This film is a direct sequel to the first Kingsman movie and shares the same director, Matthew Vaughn, as The King's Man. Both films blend action, espionage, and humor with a stylish, over-the-top aesthetic. The Golden Circle continues the theme of a secret organization fighting against global threats, much like the origins of the Kingsman agency explored in The King's Man.
Fact: The film features an all-star cast including Julianne Moore, Jeff Bridges, and Channing Tatum. It was partially inspired by the 1970s American spy series 'The Man from U.N.C.L.E.' The movie's soundtrack includes a memorable use of 'Take Me Home, Country Roads' by John Denver.


Mission: Impossible - Fallout (2018)
Description: While more modern in setting, this film shares with The King's Man a focus on high-stakes espionage, elaborate action sequences, and a globe-trotting narrative. Both films explore themes of loyalty and sacrifice, with Fallout emphasizing the physicality of its stunts and The King's Man focusing more on the origins of espionage.
Fact: Tom Cruise broke his ankle during a stunt, which is visible in the final cut of the film. The helicopter chase scene was filmed with Cruise actually piloting the helicopter. This was the first Mission: Impossible film to be shot in IMAX.
