6 Must-Watch Crime and Drama Movies Similar to 12 Angry Men

Perry Mason, released in 1960, is reminiscent of 12 Angry Men due to its gripping courtroom drama and its focus on the pursuit of justice. While 12 Angry Men takes place entirely in a jury room, Perry Mason expands its scope to cover the events leading up to the murder and the subsequent trial. Both stories involve complex legal cases that require meticulous examination of the evidence. The acting in both movies is stellar, with each cast member delivering a memorable performance. However, Perry Mason also shines with its intriguing plotlines, treating viewers with intelligence and keeping them engaged throughout. Moreover, the character of private detective Paul Drake adds an extra layer of intrigue, as he uncovers obscure facts that prove crucial to the cases. In essence, while 12 Angry Men is a masterpiece of cinema, Perry Mason is a classic television show that stands the test of time, offering a captivating blend of crime, drama, and mystery.

Witness for the Prosecution, released on June 21, 1960, is a delightful movie that shares several similarities with the main movie, 12 Angry Men. Both films fall under the genres of Crime and Drama, and are set in a courtroom, where the audience gets a front-row seat to the gripping trials and legal battles. While 12 Angry Men focuses on the jury's deliberation process and the challenges they face in reaching a unanimous verdict, Witness for the Prosecution takes us on a thrilling journey as a veteran British barrister defends his client in a murder trial that is filled with surprising twists and turns. The two movies share the common theme of the courtroom, but each approaches it from a different angle. 12 Angry Men explores the human dynamics and prejudices that can influence a jury's decision, while Witness for the Prosecution keeps us on the edge of our seats with its intricate plot and unexpected revelations.

Suspect. Alright, picture this: a murder trial in New York City, where the jury is stuck deliberating because of one skeptic. Now imagine that same level of tense courtroom drama, but with a twist. In Suspect, a homeless man is accused of killing a Justice Department file clerk, and it's up to a public defender to mount his legal defense. The similarities are striking, right? Both movies revolve around a trial and explore the intricacies of the justice system. But here's where Suspect sets itself apart. It introduces a deaf-mute defendant and throws in some unexpected plot twists that keep you on the edge of your seat. Cher, in a role you wouldn't expect, shines as the public defender, displaying her depth as an actress. And let's not forget about Liam Neeson and Dennis Quaid, who deliver standout performances.

The Judge is reminiscent of 12 Angry Men as both movies fall under the genres of Crime and Drama and have a courtroom setting. However, there are some notable differences. While 12 Angry Men focuses on a jury deliberation, The Judge explores the complicated relationship between a father and son. Additionally, 12 Angry Men is set in a single room and relies on dialogue-driven storytelling, while The Judge takes place in a small town and incorporates elements of a dysfunctional family. Despite their differences, fans of 12 Angry Men should watch The Judge for its compelling story, strong performances from Robert Downey Jr. and Robert Duvall, and its exploration of complex family dynamics.

Bull is a comedic crime drama series that shares similarities with the classic film 12 Angry Men. While 12 Angry Men takes place entirely in a jury room, Bull explores the dynamics of a courtroom. Both stories revolve around the legal system and the pursuit of justice, but with different approaches. 12 Angry Men focuses on the intense dialogue-driven discussions among the jurors, while Bull takes a more high-tech approach, combining psychology, human intuition, and data analysis to understand the behavior of jurors, attorneys, witnesses, and the accused. The acting in 12 Angry Men is top-notch, with each actor presenting one vision to the audience, while in Bull, Michael Weatherly shines as the brilliant, brash, and charming Dr. Bull. While 12 Angry Men is a timeless classic that should be on everyone's list of top films, Bull offers a fresh and entertaining take on the courtroom drama genre.

"Illegal" takes us back to the 1930s, with its black and white cinematography and the iconic Edward G. Robinson in the lead role. However, instead of playing a thug, Robinson portrays an ex-district attorney turned gangland lawyer. The film follows his character's journey after inadvertently sending an innocent man to the electric chair, leading to his resignation, drinking, and a clientele of criminals. It's a classic tale of redemption and self-loathing, as Robinson's character seeks big money while battling his own demons. The script, written by crime master WR Burnett, captures the essence of the era, although the final showdown between Ray and Ellen may leave some viewers questioning its believability. Nevertheless, Robinson's performance is as self-assured as ever, showcasing his versatility from his gangster days.