If you were captivated by the intense drama and historical significance of 'Waco' (2018), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores gripping narratives centered around real-life events, cults, and high-stakes standoffs that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're a fan of true crime, psychological thrillers, or historical dramas, there's something here for you.

The Battle of Algiers (1966)
Description: A seminal film depicting the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule, renowned for its realistic portrayal of guerrilla warfare and counterinsurgency tactics.
Fact: The film was banned in France for several years due to its controversial subject matter.


The Siege (1998)
Description: A fictional portrayal of martial law declared in New York City after a series of terrorist attacks, examining the balance between security and civil liberties.
Fact: The film was criticized for its portrayal of Arab characters, leading to debates about Hollywood's representation of terrorism.


Munich (2005)
Description: A historical thriller about the aftermath of the 1972 Munich Olympics massacre, exploring themes of vengeance, justice, and the moral cost of counterterrorism.
Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


The Kingdom (2007)
Description: A tense action-thriller set in the Middle East, focusing on an FBI team investigating a terrorist attack, highlighting the dangers and political intricacies of such missions.
Fact: The film's opening sequence provides a brief history of U.S.-Saudi relations, setting the stage for the plot.


The Baader Meinhof Complex (2008)
Description: A German film that chronicles the rise and fall of the Red Army Faction, a left-wing terrorist group, highlighting the ideological fervor and violent actions of its members.
Fact: The film was Germany's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 81st Academy Awards.


Zero Dark Thirty (2012)
Description: This film chronicles the decade-long hunt for Osama bin Laden, showcasing the relentless pursuit and moral complexities faced by intelligence operatives.
Fact: The film's director, Kathryn Bigelow, won an Oscar for Best Picture for her previous film, 'The Hurt Locker.'


The Terror (2018)
Description: A historical horror series that blends real events with supernatural elements, focusing on the psychological and physical toll of extreme isolation and survival under dire circumstances.
Fact: The series is based on the novel by Dan Simmons, which fictionalizes the doomed Franklin Expedition to the Arctic.


The Mauritanian (2021)
Description: This legal drama explores the detainment of a suspected terrorist without trial, shedding light on the ethical dilemmas and human rights issues surrounding counterterrorism efforts.
Fact: The film is based on the memoir 'Guantánamo Diary' by Mohamedou Ould Slahi, who was held without charge for 14 years.


The Looming Tower (2018)
Description: This series delves into the events leading up to 9/11, focusing on the rivalry between the FBI and CIA, similar to the intense bureaucratic and investigative tensions seen in other high-stakes government dramas.
Fact: The series is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Lawrence Wright and features a mix of real-life and fictionalized characters.


The Report (2019)
Description: A gripping political thriller that examines the CIA's use of torture post-9/11, mirroring the deep dive into controversial government actions and their consequences.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life investigation by Senate staffer Daniel J. Jones, played by Adam Driver.
