20 Movies Like Boston Legal: Comedy, Crime, Drama

If you loved the cool and charming legal antics of Boston Legal, then get ready to discover 20 movies that are just as witty and entertaining. From comedy to crime to drama, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat while delivering the same level of smart and sassy dialogue that made Boston Legal a hit. Get ready to laugh, gasp, and be captivated by these cinematic gems that are sure to leave you wanting more.

1) Damages

Damages is a legal drama series that is reminiscent of Boston Legal. Both shows revolve around the world of law and the characters that inhabit it. However, while Boston Legal is a comedic take on the legal system, Damages is a much darker and more intense portrayal. The performances in Damages, particularly from Glenn Close, are mesmerizing and terrifying, giving the show a level of depth and complexity that sets it apart. The plot of Damages is filled with secrets and deception, making it a gripping crime thriller. While Boston Legal focuses more on the dynamics between the characters and their unorthodox approach to the law, Damages delves into the moral ambiguity of the legal world and the lengths people will go to in order to win. Overall, Damages is a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed the wit and charm of Boston Legal but is looking for a more intense and suspenseful legal drama.

Release date: July, 2007
IMDB Rating: 8.1

2) Ally McBeal

"Ally McBeal" is a delightful series that will transport you back to the late 90s. It follows the life of lawyer Ally, and just like "Boston Legal," it combines comedy, drama, and a touch of fantasy. While "Boston Legal" takes place in a legal firm that occasionally deals with criminal cases, "Ally McBeal" focuses on the personal and professional life of its main character. Both shows feature a cast of charming and eccentric characters that will keep you entertained throughout. While "Boston Legal" has the brilliant James Spader as the slimy yet captivating Alan Shore, "Ally McBeal" showcases the incredible talent of Calista Flockhart as the seductive and endearing Ally. So if you enjoyed the witty banter and legal shenanigans of "Boston Legal," you'll definitely want to give "Ally McBeal" a watch. It's a nostalgic trip that will make you smile and leave you wanting more.

Release date: September, 1997
IMDB Rating: 6.9

3) Harry's Law

Harry's Law is reminiscent of Boston Legal in its portrayal of an unconventional law firm. Both shows revolve around misfit lawyers who challenge the norm and handle cases in their own unique way. While Boston Legal focuses on a civil and corporate firm that occasionally deals with criminal cases, Harry's Law takes a more general approach to legal matters. The characters in both shows are complex and flawed, but they make up for their shortcomings with their excellent legal skills. James Spader's Alan Shore in Boston Legal is a shameless and self-destructive attorney, while Kathy Bates shines as the main character in Harry's Law. Both shows have their fair share of comedic moments, but they also address serious topics such as ethics and justice. Despite their similarities, Boston Legal has a more lighthearted and whimsical tone, with elements of David E. Kelley's signature style, while Harry's Law leans towards a more traditional lawyer show.

Release date: January, 2011
IMDB Rating: 7.3

4) The Defenders

The Defenders is reminiscent of Boston Legal because both shows fall under the legal drama genre and feature a cast of charismatic attorneys. However, while Boston Legal is set in a civil and corporate law firm, The Defenders takes place in flashy Las Vegas. The two shows also differ in terms of their runtime, with Boston Legal having a total runtime of 44 hours (2640 minutes) compared to The Defenders' 60 hours (3600 minutes). Despite its cancellation after one season, The Defenders offers genuine and fun storylines with excellent comedy partners in a great location. It's a shame the show wasn't given more time to develop, as many great shows have grown better and better when given the chance. If you enjoyed Boston Legal and are looking for another legal drama with charismatic characters and entertaining storylines, The Defenders is definitely worth a watch.

Release date: November, 2010
IMDB Rating: 7.4

5) The Practice

The Practice is reminiscent of Boston Legal because it is a spin-off of the long-running David E. Kelley series. Both shows revolve around the world of law, taking place in Boston and featuring defense attorneys at a law firm. However, The Practice has a different tone and focus compared to its counterpart. While Boston Legal is a humorous and sometimes absurd look at a civil and corporate firm, The Practice delves into the darker side of the legal system, primarily defending criminals. The Practice explores complex cases and the moral dilemmas faced by defense attorneys, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of the characters. Despite their differences, both shows are highly regarded for their acting, writing, and casting, with talented actors such as James Spader and Dylan McDermott leading the way. So, if you enjoyed the entertaining and often outrageous world of Boston Legal, you should definitely give The Practice a watch to experience a more serious and gritty side of the legal drama genre.

Release date: March, 1997
IMDB Rating: 7.7

6) V.I.P.

"V.I.P." takes us back to the late 90s and early 2000s when women in silly clothes and gratuitous violence were all the rage. Pamela Anderson, in a surprising twist, pokes fun at herself in this show, and I must say, she's much funnier than I ever gave her credit for. While I'm not a fan of hers and never really seen anything she's been in, I found myself laughing at her antics in "V.I.P." It's mindless, it's silly, but it can also be downright funny. And let's not forget the great eye-candy! If you're up late and it's on, go for it! But don't worry, you won't need to set your VCR to record it.

Release date: September, 1998
IMDB Rating: 4.2

7) The Blacklist

The Blacklist, released in 2013, is reminiscent of Boston Legal, a series that aired in 2014. Both shows revolve around complex characters in the world of law and crime. While Boston Legal focuses on the exploits of Alan Shore, a cunning attorney at a civil and corporate firm, The Blacklist introduces us to Elizabeth Keen, an FBI profiler whose life is turned upside down when a notorious criminal, Raymond Reddington, turns himself in and insists on speaking only to her. These two shows share the common thread of featuring James Spader in a lead role, showcasing his incredible talent for playing charismatic and enigmatic characters. However, The Blacklist delves into the world of government agents, profiling, and intense cat-and-mouse games, while Boston Legal explores the more comedic side of the legal profession. If you enjoyed the captivating performances of James Spader in Boston Legal, you'll definitely be intrigued by his portrayal of Raymond Reddington in The Blacklist.

Release date: September, 2013
IMDB Rating: 8

8) Breaking Bad: Original Minisodes

Breaking Bad: Original Minisodes is a side series that focuses on the other scenarios revolving around Walter White or those connected to him. While it may not directly tackle the severity of meth use and production, it provides an intriguing perspective on the Breaking Bad universe. If you've been avoiding Breaking Bad because of its glamorization of meth, Original Minisodes might be a suitable alternative. It explores different storylines and characters, allowing you to dive deeper into the world created by the main series. Plus, it's a shorter watch, so you can get a taste of Breaking Bad without committing to the entire series. So if you're curious about the Breaking Bad universe but want a lighter approach, Original Minisodes is worth checking out.

Release date: February, 2009
IMDB Rating: 7.6

9) Madea Goes to Jail

"Madea Goes to Jail" takes us on a wild ride with the mischievous grandma Madea, who finds herself in jail and surrounded by a colorful cast of characters. While the plot may seem worlds apart from the legal drama of "Boston Legal," there is an unexpected similarity between the two. Both movies explore the complexities of the legal system and the flawed characters that inhabit it. In "Boston Legal," we follow the unorthodox and shameless attorney Alan Shore, brilliantly played by James Spader, as he navigates the circus-like environment of a civil and corporate law firm. Similarly, "Madea Goes to Jail" introduces us to Madea, a short-tempered and quick-to-shoot grandma who has had numerous encounters with law enforcement. The film brilliantly brings to light Madea's criminal past and the consequences she faces for disregarding authority.

Release date: February, 2009
IMDB Rating: 4.5

10) Boston Public

Boston Public is reminiscent of Boston Legal in its portrayal of the intricate workings of a professional setting, but in this case, it is a high school instead of a law firm. Both shows captivate viewers with their witty and clever writing, creating a delightful blend of comedy and drama. While Boston Legal focuses on the legal world, Boston Public delves into the lives of faculty members navigating their way through the challenges of teaching in a high school. The characters in both shows are flawed yet lovable, with standout performances from actors such as James Spader and Chi McBride. Although the two series have different settings and storylines, they share an ability to draw viewers in with their strong ensemble cast and exceptional writing. If you enjoyed the charm and humor of Boston Legal, you will find yourself hooked on Boston Public.

Release date: December, 2009
IMDB Rating: 7.3

11) Sex and the City

Sex and the City: A New York City writer on sex and love is finally getting married to her Mr. Big. But her three best girlfriends must console her after one of them inadvertently leads Mr. Big to jilt her.
Boston Legal and Sex and the City have some common elements that make them reminiscent of each other, despite belonging to different genres. Both shows are set in iconic American cities and revolve around the lives and relationships of a group of charismatic individuals. While Boston Legal focuses on the legal profession, Sex and the City explores the complexities of modern relationships. Both shows feature strong and memorable characters who navigate through their personal and professional lives with wit, charm, and occasional missteps. James Spader's Alan Shore and Sarah Jessica Parker's Carrie Bradshaw share a magnetic presence that keeps viewers hooked on their every word. However, the similarities end there.

Release date: June, 2008
IMDB Rating: 5.7

12) White Collar

White Collar is reminiscent of Boston Legal because both shows revolve around the legal world but with a twist. While Boston Legal focuses on a civil and corporate law firm with occasional criminal cases, White Collar follows the story of a white-collar criminal who helps the FBI catch other white-collar criminals using his expertise as an art and securities thief, counterfeiter, and conman. These series share the common thread of showcasing unconventional lawyers or criminals who possess remarkable skills and a unique approach to their work. However, White Collar introduces a new layer of mystery by incorporating elements of comedy, crime, and drama, making it an exciting and captivating watch for fans of Boston Legal.

Release date: October, 2009
IMDB Rating: 8.2

13) Bored to Death

Bored to Death is reminiscent of Boston Legal because both shows revolve around the legal world, but with a twist. While Boston Legal focuses on a civil and corporate firm that occasionally deals with criminal cases, Bored to Death takes a more whimsical approach by following a struggling writer who pretends to be a private detective using methods he read about in old detective novels. Both shows have a unique sense of humor that sets them apart from typical legal dramas. Boston Legal combines dark cleverness with a circus-like atmosphere, reminiscent of David E. Kelley's other hit show, Ally McBeal. Bored to Death, on the other hand, captivates viewers with its slow-burning pace and offbeat humor, featuring some of the funniest and most subtle dialogues seen on American TV.

Release date: September, 2009
IMDB Rating: 7.9

14) Republic of Doyle

Republic of Doyle is reminiscent of Boston Legal because both shows fall under the genres of comedy, crime, and drama. However, while Boston Legal revolves around a civil and corporate law firm, Republic of Doyle focuses on a private investigations agency. The main characters in both shows are charismatic and unconventional, with Alan Shore in Boston Legal being a shameless and subtly self-destructive attorney, while Jake Doyle in Republic of Doyle is a charming investigator who hasn't quite grown up. Both shows have developed deeper characters and more complex plots over time, making them highly entertaining. So if you enjoyed the witty banter and legal shenanigans of Boston Legal, you'll definitely find Republic of Doyle just as enjoyable, with its unique blend of crime-solving and comedic moments set in St. John's, Newfoundland.

Release date: January, 2010
IMDB Rating: 7.6

15) Vincenzo

Vincenzo takes the audience on an exciting journey, much like Boston Legal. While Boston Legal revolves around the exploits of a former character from The Practice, Vincenzo introduces us to a Korean-Italian mafia lawyer seeking justice against a powerful conglomerate. Both series provide a fresh take on the legal genre, but Vincenzo adds a unique flavor with its black comedy elements and action-packed storyline. The characters in both shows are captivating, with charismatic leads who excel at their craft. The chemistry between the main characters in Vincenzo is spot on, blending romance, comedy, and authenticity. Although set in different countries and with different cultural nuances, Vincenzo offers a thrilling and humorous viewing experience that will keep you hooked, just like Boston Legal did.

Release date: February, 2021
IMDB Rating: 8.4

16) Body of Proof

Body of Proof is reminiscent of Boston Legal in its unique approach to solving crimes. While Boston Legal focuses on the legal world, Body of Proof takes a different path and delves into the world of forensics. Both shows feature strong and unconventional lead characters who often clash with their superiors. In Boston Legal, we have the shameless and self-destructive Alan Shore, brilliantly portrayed by James Spader, while in Body of Proof, Dana Delany plays the blustery and baggage-laden medical examiner Megan Hunt. These characters bring a refreshing and unpredictable dynamic to their respective shows. While Boston Legal has a comedic tone and explores the complexities of the legal profession, Body of Proof adds an extra layer of mystery to the mix. Despite their differences in genre and setting, both shows captivate their audiences with compelling storylines and outstanding performances. If you enjoyed the witty banter and unconventional approach of Boston Legal, you'll find yourself equally engrossed in the intriguing world of Body of Proof.

Release date: February, 2011
IMDB Rating: 7.1

17) M.I.High

Release date: January, 2007
IMDB Rating: 6.2

18) Bon Cop Bad Cop

Bon Cop Bad Cop is a Canadian buddy cop movie that combines action, comedy, crime, and thriller genres. Released in 2006, it tells the story of two detectives from Ontario and Quebec who have to join forces when a murder occurs on the Ontario-Quebec border.
While Bon Cop Bad Cop may seem like a departure from the legal drama of Boston Legal, it shares some similarities with its American counterpart. Both shows are set in the crime genre, albeit in different formats: Boston Legal as a television series and Bon Cop Bad Cop as a feature film. However, what makes Bon Cop Bad Cop reminiscent of Boston Legal is not just its crime elements, but also its humor and the dynamic between the central characters.
In both Boston Legal and Bon Cop Bad Cop, the banter between the leads is a highlight. James Spader and William Shatner's chemistry in Boston Legal is comparable to the camaraderie between the two Canadian detectives in Bon Cop Bad Cop.

Release date: August, 2006
IMDB Rating: 6.7

19) Totally Spies! The Movie

Totally Spies! The Movie takes us on a thrilling adventure with three newly-befriended teen girls who embark on their first mission as total spies. Reminiscent of Boston Legal, this film introduces us to a team of unconventional heroes who use their unique skills to uncover a sinister plot. While Boston Legal explores the unpredictable world of a civil and corporate law firm, Totally Spies! The Movie dives into the glamorous world of espionage. Both stories feature a strong ensemble cast with quirky characters that add humor and charm. However, where Boston Legal focuses on legal drama, Totally Spies! The Movie combines animation, action, adventure, comedy, crime, family, mystery, and sci-fi elements to create an epic and badass experience. So, if you loved the witty banter and unconventional approach of Boston Legal, get ready for an awesome and action-packed ride with Totally Spies! The Movie.

Release date: October, 2014
IMDB Rating: 6.3

20) Bank Bang

Bank Bang is reminiscent of Boston Legal, but with a comedic twist. While Boston Legal focuses on the legal world, Bank Bang takes us into the world of bank robbery. The two movies share the common theme of unconventional characters and situations. In Boston Legal, we have the unorthodox lawyers, Alan Shore and Denny Crane, while in Bank Bang, we have the two brothers, Mihalis and Nondas, who work in a mortuary and decide to rob banks. Both movies also have a touch of romance, with Alan Shore's relationships and Mihalis falling in love with a bank employee. However, Bank Bang takes the comedy to a whole new level with its insane situations and unpredictable characters. The undercover police officers in the banks add a layer of complexity and hilarity to the story. So if you enjoyed the witty banter and unconventional antics of Boston Legal, you'll definitely get a kick out of Bank Bang's comedic take on the world of bank robbery.

Release date: December, 2008
IMDB Rating: 6.1

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