10 Heart-Pounding Thrillers Similar to Contraband

Description: A multi-narrative film that examines the drug trade from various perspectives, including users, dealers, and law enforcement. The film's documentary-like approach and intersecting storylines provide a comprehensive view of the issue.

Fact: The film was shot in a distinctive color palette to differentiate between its various storylines. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Director for Steven Soderbergh.

Description: A biographical film about the rise and fall of a drug smuggler, illustrating the allure and eventual downfall of the drug trade. The film's emotional depth and tragic arc highlight the personal cost of criminal success.

Fact: The film is based on the life of George Jung, who was a key figure in the cocaine trade in the 1970s and 1980s. Johnny Depp prepared for the role by meeting Jung in prison.

Description: A realistic portrayal of the drug trade, law enforcement, and the systemic issues surrounding them. The series provides a multi-faceted view of the impact of illegal activities on society, from the streets to the highest levels of government.

Fact: The show was praised for its authenticity, with many actors being real-life former drug dealers and police officers. It was initially overlooked by awards but is now considered one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

Description: A crime drama based on the true story of a heroin kingpin and the detective determined to bring him down. The film contrasts the glamour and brutality of the drug trade, showing its impact on both criminals and law enforcement.

Fact: The real-life Frank Lucas, whom the film is based on, served as an executive producer. The movie was initially intended to be directed by Antoine Fuqua and star Denzel Washington and Benicio del Toro, but the project was shelved and later revived with Ridley Scott directing.

Description: Explores the gritty and dangerous world of drug trafficking, focusing on the transformation of an ordinary man into a criminal mastermind. The show delves deep into the consequences of illegal trade and the moral dilemmas faced by those involved.

Fact: The show was initially pitched as a dark comedy but evolved into a drama. It holds the Guinness World Record for the highest-rated TV series.

Description: Follows the rise of a woman in the drug cartel world, showcasing the power struggles, violence, and survival tactics involved. The series emphasizes the personal cost of entering the criminal underworld.

Fact: The show is based on a novel by Arturo Pérez-Reverte. It was initially developed as a telenovela before being adapted into an English-language series.

Description: Based on a true story, this film follows an undercover agent who infiltrates the money-laundering operations of a drug cartel. The tension and danger of undercover work are central to the narrative.

Fact: The real-life infiltrator, Robert Mazur, served as a consultant on the film. The movie's climax was shot in the same hotel where the actual events took place.

Description: A tense and brutal look at the war on drugs, focusing on the moral ambiguities and extreme measures taken by law enforcement. The film's stark visuals and unflinching portrayal of violence highlight the dark side of the drug trade.

Fact: The film's title, 'Sicario,' means 'hitman' in Spanish. The movie's aerial shots of the Mexican border were achieved using infrared cameras to create a unique visual style.

Description: A dramatization of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles during the 1980s, focusing on the interconnected lives of dealers, users, and law enforcement. The show highlights the socio-economic factors that fueled the drug trade.

Fact: The series was co-created by John Singleton, who drew from his own experiences growing up in South Central LA. It features a mix of fictional and real-life events.

Description: A global exploration of the cocaine trade, from production to distribution, showing the vast network and brutal realities of the business. The series' cinematic style and intense pacing mirror the high stakes of the drug world.

Fact: The title refers to the purest grade of flour, symbolizing the purity of the cocaine trade. The show was filmed in multiple countries to authentically depict the international scope of the drug trade.