If you were captivated by the intense drama and gripping storytelling of 'Painkillers' (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 9 similar movies and shows that delve into themes of addiction, crime, and moral dilemmas, offering the same level of suspense and emotional depth. Whether you're looking for another dark thriller or a thought-provoking narrative, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

The Whistleblower (2010)
Description: A dramatic portrayal of one woman's fight against corruption and cover-ups, resonating with the themes of exposing wrongdoing in powerful systems.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of Kathryn Bolkovac, a UN peacekeeper who exposed a sex trafficking ring. It stars Rachel Weisz.


The Crime of the Century (2021)
Description: This documentary delves into the opioid crisis, exposing corporate greed and systemic failures in the pharmaceutical industry, much like the referenced title. It highlights the devastating impact of addiction and the complicity of powerful entities.
Fact: The documentary was directed by Alex Gibney, known for his investigative style. It was released in two parts on HBO.


Spotlight (2015)
Description: A journalistic drama about uncovering systemic abuse and institutional cover-ups, mirroring the investigative approach to exposing the opioid crisis.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture. It is based on the Boston Globe's investigation into the Catholic Church scandal.


All the Beauty and the Bloodshed (2022)
Description: This documentary blends personal and political narratives, highlighting activism against powerful institutions, much like the fight against the opioid crisis depicted in the referenced title.
Fact: The film won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival. It focuses on artist Nan Goldin's campaign against the Sackler family.


The Devil We Know (2018)
Description: A documentary that uncovers corporate malfeasance and its deadly consequences, similar to the referenced title, but focusing on chemical pollution rather than pharmaceuticals.
Fact: The film investigates the DuPont company's cover-up of toxic chemicals in drinking water. It won several awards at film festivals.


The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley (2019)
Description: A documentary about corporate fraud and the dangers of unchecked ambition, paralleling the themes of deception and harm in the pharmaceutical industry.
Fact: The film was directed by Alex Gibney. It details the rise and fall of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos.


Crisis (2021)
Description: A gripping drama that intertwines multiple stories around the opioid epidemic, showcasing the human cost and the moral dilemmas faced by those involved in the drug trade and its regulation.
Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Gary Oldman and Armie Hammer. It was shot in Montreal, standing in for various U.S. locations.


Dr. Feelgood (2016)
Description: This documentary explores the rise of prescription drug abuse, focusing on a doctor whose practices contributed to the opioid epidemic, mirroring themes of medical malpractice and addiction.
Fact: The film was directed by Eve Marson. It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.


Warning: This Drug May Kill You (2017)
Description: A harrowing documentary that personalizes the opioid crisis through the stories of families affected by addiction, emphasizing the human toll and the lack of accountability.
Fact: The film was produced by HBO and directed by Perri Peltz. It includes interviews with medical professionals and grieving families.
