Must-Watch Thrillers Similar to ‘Bag of Lies’

Description: A masterclass in slow-burn espionage, this film follows a retired spy brought back to uncover a Soviet mole within British intelligence. The narrative is rich with betrayal, subtle performances, and a haunting atmosphere.

Fact: The film is an adaptation of John le Carré's novel, which was itself inspired by real-life mole hunts within MI6 during the Cold War.

Description: A tense and psychological thriller that explores the blurred lines between patriotism and paranoia, featuring intricate plots of counterterrorism and intelligence work. The narrative keeps viewers guessing with its twists and moral ambiguities.

Fact: The show was inspired by an Israeli series called 'Prisoners of War' and was initially conceived as a limited series.

Description: A gripping spy drama that delves deep into the complexities of espionage, loyalty, and deception, set against the backdrop of Cold War tensions. The show masterfully blends personal drama with high-stakes intelligence operations.

Fact: The series was praised for its historical accuracy, including the use of real KGB tactics and tradecraft from the 1980s.

Description: A French spy series renowned for its meticulous attention to the details of intelligence operations, focusing on the personal and professional lives of DGSE agents. The show is praised for its realism and slow-burn tension.

Fact: The series consulted former French intelligence officers to ensure accuracy in its portrayal of spycraft.

Description: A gritty and realistic portrayal of CIA operatives working in Berlin, dealing with moles, double agents, and geopolitical tensions. The series emphasizes the bureaucratic and personal challenges of intelligence work.

Fact: The show was filmed on location in Berlin, adding authenticity to its depiction of the city's espionage history.

Description: A modern take on the classic spy thriller, following a young analyst who uncovers a deadly conspiracy within the CIA. The series balances action with intellectual intrigue, reflecting the paranoia of contemporary intelligence work.

Fact: The show is based on the 1975 novel 'Six Days of the Condor' and its subsequent film adaptation, 'Three Days of the Condor.'

Description: A high-octane political thriller that combines personal trauma with professional duty, as a war veteran is assigned to protect a controversial politician. The show is known for its intense pacing and unexpected betrayals.

Fact: The opening scene featuring a tense train siege was filmed in a single, unbroken 20-minute take.

Description: A biographical drama that chronicles the real-life story of an Israeli spy operating in Syria, highlighting the personal sacrifices and constant danger of espionage. The series is a poignant exploration of identity and allegiance.

Fact: The show is based on the life of Eli Cohen, one of Israel's most famous spies, whose exploits are still taught in intelligence training programs.

Description: A sleek and suspenseful adaptation of John le Carré's novel, focusing on a former soldier who infiltrates the inner circle of a dangerous arms dealer. The series excels in its portrayal of undercover operations and moral dilemmas.

Fact: The production filmed in multiple international locations, including Morocco, Switzerland, and Spain, to capture the global scale of the story.

Description: A unique blend of spy thriller and science fiction, where a low-level bureaucrat discovers a parallel universe and becomes entangled in a shadowy war of espionage. The series explores themes of identity and duality.

Fact: The show was canceled after two seasons but gained a cult following for its innovative premise and stellar performances.