10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to The Bureau (2015)

Description: This film, like 'The Bureau', is a meticulous, slow-burning spy thriller that emphasizes tradecraft, betrayal, and the psychological toll of espionage. Both are set in the Cold War era and focus on the internal politics of intelligence agencies.

Fact: Based on John le Carré's classic novel. Gary Oldman received an Oscar nomination for his role as George Smiley. The film's atmospheric tension is heightened by its muted color palette and meticulous attention to detail.

Description: Similar to 'The Bureau' in its deep dive into the psychological and moral complexities of intelligence work. Both shows explore the personal toll of espionage on agents, blending high-stakes spy operations with intense character drama. 'Homeland' also shares a focus on counterterrorism and the blurred lines between duty and personal ethics.

Fact: Claire Danes won two Emmy Awards for her role as Carrie Mathison. The show was inspired by the Israeli series 'Prisoners of War'. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of bipolar disorder.

Description: Like 'The Bureau', 'The Americans' delves into the intricate world of undercover spies, focusing on the emotional and psychological strain of maintaining a double life. Both series highlight the tension between professional obligations and personal relationships, set against the backdrop of Cold War-era espionage.

Fact: The show was created by a former CIA officer, Joe Weisberg. Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys learned to speak Russian for their roles. It was critically acclaimed for its historical accuracy and character development.

Description: Like 'The Bureau', 'Deutschland 83' offers a realistic and personal look at espionage during the Cold War. Both series explore the emotional and psychological challenges faced by spies, with a strong emphasis on historical context and character development.

Fact: The first German-language series to air on a U.S. network. It was praised for its authentic 1980s setting and soundtrack. The show was followed by sequels 'Deutschland 86' and 'Deutschland 89'.

Description: This series mirrors 'The Bureau' in its realistic portrayal of modern-day intelligence operations, focusing on the inner workings of a spy agency. Both shows emphasize the bureaucratic and political challenges faced by agents, along with the moral ambiguities of espionage.

Fact: The show was filmed on location in Berlin. It features a mix of fictional and real-life espionage scenarios. Richard Armitage starred as the lead, Daniel Meyer.

Description: Similar to 'The Bureau', 'Condor' explores the psychological and ethical dilemmas faced by intelligence officers. Both series feature young analysts thrust into high-stakes espionage, dealing with betrayal, trust, and the cost of secrecy.

Fact: Based on the novel 'Six Days of the Condor' by James Grady. The series updates the 1975 film 'Three Days of the Condor' for a modern audience. It stars Max Irons as the protagonist, Joe Turner.

Description: This miniseries, like 'The Bureau', is based on real-life espionage and focuses on the personal sacrifices of undercover agents. Both shows highlight the tension between duty and personal identity, with a strong emphasis on the psychological toll of spying.

Fact: Stars Sacha Baron Cohen in a dramatic role as Eli Cohen. Based on the true story of an Israeli spy in Syria. The series was praised for its tense, gripping narrative.

Description: Similar to 'The Bureau', 'The Night Manager' is a sophisticated spy thriller that blends personal drama with high-stakes espionage. Both series feature protagonists navigating dangerous underworlds, with a focus on moral ambiguity and intricate plotting.

Fact: Based on John le Carré's novel of the same name. Tom Hiddleston and Hugh Laurie star in the lead roles. The show won two Golden Globes and three Emmys.

Description: While 'Counterpart' adds a sci-fi twist with parallel universes, it shares with 'The Bureau' a focus on the bureaucratic and personal sides of espionage. Both series delve into identity, loyalty, and the consequences of secrecy, with a slow-burning, character-driven narrative.

Fact: J.K. Simmons plays dual roles as two versions of the same character. The show was praised for its unique blend of spy thriller and science fiction. It was canceled after two seasons despite critical acclaim.

Description: While 'Patriot' has a more darkly comedic tone, it shares with 'The Bureau' a focus on the psychological strain of espionage and the absurdities of bureaucratic intelligence work. Both series blend drama with a unique, offbeat sensibility.

Fact: Created by Steven Conrad, known for his work on 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty'. The show features a folk music soundtrack performed by the protagonist. It was praised for its originality and dark humor.