15 Mind-bending Movies Similar to Dexter

Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of crime, drama, mystery, and suspense with our list of 15 mind-bending movies similar to Dexter. Just like America's favorite serial killer, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat as you navigate through twisted plots, lovable yet twisted characters, and unexpected twists and turns. So grab your popcorn and get ready for a cinematic experience that will leave you intrigued and wanting more.

1) Banshee

Banshee is reminiscent of Dexter in the sense that both shows revolve around a protagonist leading a double life. While Dexter is a lovable serial killer who spends his days solving crimes and nights committing them, Banshee's main character assumes the identity of a murdered sheriff in Banshee, Pennsylvania, where he has some unfinished business. Both shows are filled with dark secrets and explore the themes of crime and mystery. However, Banshee takes a more action-packed approach with its high-octane pulp cinema style, raw grittiness, and brutal nature. It's a show that doesn't hold back and delivers an adrenaline rush from the very beginning, featuring spectacular chase scenes and shoot-outs that rival those of big-budget action movies. With its fantastic cast and top-notch production values, Banshee is a hidden gem that deserves a bigger audience. If you're a fan of Dexter's thrilling storytelling and Michael C.

Release date: January, 2013
IMDB Rating: 8.4
16 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Banshee

2) All Good Things

All Good Things is reminiscent of Dexter in its exploration of a protagonist with a dark secret and a double life. Both stories delve into the theme of murder and the consequences that come with it. However, while Dexter focuses on a vigilante serial killer who solves crimes by day and commits them by night, All Good Things takes a more realistic approach. It tells the story of David Marks, a real estate scion suspected of killing his wife Katie, who disappeared in 1982. The movie captures the essence of a love story and murder mystery set against the backdrop of a New York real estate dynasty in the 1980s. Ryan Gosling and Kirsten Dunst give captivating performances, with their on-screen chemistry being the highlight of the story. As the film progresses, secrets from David's past surface, leading to a crumbling marriage and irreversible consequences.

Release date: December, 2010
IMDB Rating: 6.3

3) Confessions of a Dangerous Mind

"Confessions of a Dangerous Mind" is reminiscent of "Dexter" in its exploration of characters leading double lives. While "Dexter" focuses on a lovable serial killer who solves crimes by day and commits them by night, "Confessions of a Dangerous Mind" delves into the life of Chuck Barris, a game show producer by day and a CIA hitman by night. Both stories showcase the complexity of these characters, blurring the lines between good and evil. However, the tone of the two movies differs significantly. "Dexter" maintains a dark and intense atmosphere, while "Confessions of a Dangerous Mind" takes a more satirical and surreal approach, adding a layer of humor to the narrative. This juxtaposition of genres makes "Confessions of a Dangerous Mind" a refreshing watch for fans of "Dexter" who are looking for a lighter take on the double life theme.

Release date: November, 2003
IMDB Rating: 7

4) Easy Money

Easy Money is reminiscent of Dexter in several ways. Both films explore the theme of leading a double life, with the main characters involved in criminal activities while also trying to maintain a façade of normalcy. In Dexter, the protagonist solves crimes during the day and commits them at night, whereas in Easy Money, JW becomes a drug runner to maintain his double life. Additionally, both movies delve into the dark underbelly of society, with Dexter focusing on the world of homicide and serial murder, while Easy Money delves into drug trafficking and criminality in Sweden. Despite their similarities, there are notable differences between the two films. While Dexter is a television series, Easy Money is a cinema movie, resulting in a difference in runtime and storytelling format. Furthermore, Dexter is set in the US, while Easy Money takes place in Sweden, offering a fresh perspective and cultural backdrop.

Release date: October, 2012
IMDB Rating: 6.7

5) Sherlock

"The quirky spin on Conan Doyle's iconic sleuth pitches him as a "high-functioning sociopath" in modern-day London. Assisting him in his investigations: Afghanistan War vet John Watson, who's introduced to Holmes by a mutual acquaintance." If you're a fan of Dexter, then Sherlock is a must-watch for you. Both shows belong to the crime, drama, mystery, and thriller genres, but Sherlock takes a unique approach in modernizing the iconic detective. Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, a high-functioning sociopath, is brilliant and captivating, just like Michael C. Hall's performance as Dexter Morgan. While Dexter solves crimes during the day and commits them at night, Sherlock showcases the quirky detective's investigations in modern-day London. The friendship and dynamic between Holmes and Watson, played by Martin Freeman, adds depth to the series, reminiscent of Dexter's relationships. With an average rating of 9.

Release date: July, 2010
IMDB Rating: 9.1
15 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Sherlock

6) Dexter: Early Cuts

Dexter: Early Cuts is an animated web series that delves into the backstory and relationships of Dexter's character. It's a great companion to the original Dexter series, providing additional depth to the main character. While Dexter focuses on Dexter Morgan's double life as a lovable serial killer, Early Cuts explores his early days and the development of his dark secret. Both series share the common theme of a protagonist with a hidden side, but Early Cuts takes a different approach by using animation to tell its story. With a solid average rating of 7.6, this web series is definitely worth watching for fans of the main show who want to further explore Dexter's world and gain a deeper understanding of his character.

Release date: October, 2009
IMDB Rating: 7.6

7) Mystery

Mystery: "Mystery" is a captivating film that shares similarities with the TV series "Dexter." Both narratives revolve around characters leading double lives ? Dexter Morgan, a beloved serial killer by night and crime solver by day, and Lu Jie, who discovers her husband's infidelity while investigating a murder. While "Dexter" delves into the darker aspects of a police department and homicide, "Mystery" focuses on the consequences of an affair and the unraveling of secrets. Both projects bring the audience on an exhilarating journey, but "Mystery" adds an extra layer of complexity by exploring the choices and emotions of its characters in extreme circumstances. With its impressive performances and unique portrayal of crisis-ridden relationships, "Mystery" is a must-watch for fans of "Dexter" who enjoy intriguing dramas with a touch of crime.

Release date: October, 2012
IMDB Rating: 6.4

8) Battle in Heaven

Battle in Heaven is reminiscent of Dexter in its exploration of characters leading double lives. While Dexter Morgan is a lovable serial killer solving crimes by day and committing them by night, Marcos in Battle in Heaven is a man who lusts after his boss's daughter and becomes consumed with guilt after a failed extortion scheme. Both stories delve into the dark secrets and hidden lives of their protagonists, revealing the complexities of human nature. However, the two movies differ in their genres, with Dexter being a crime thriller series and Battle in Heaven a crime drama film. Additionally, Dexter is set in the US and focuses on a police department, while Battle in Heaven takes place in Mexico and sheds light on cultural aspects of the country, such as the gap between the rich and the poor, the informal commerce, and the lifestyle in Mexico City. If you enjoyed the thrilling and intriguing nature of Dexter, Battle in Heaven offers a thought-provoking exploration of human nature in a different cultural context.

Release date: October, 2005
IMDB Rating: 5.5

9) Sons of Anarchy

Release date: October, 2011
IMDB Rating: 8.6
3 Movies Similar to Sons of Anarchy: Crime, Drama, Thriller

10) Speed Kills

**Speed Kills**: Speedboat racing champion and multimillionaire Ben Aronoff leads a double life that lands him in trouble with the law and drug lords. But I've seen so many bad movies, if I even see some resemblance of something good, I guess I am satisfied to a degree. And I'm not talking about the good looking female actors who got cast here, I mean certain plot points and whatever was made of something that is if I understood correctly, based on a true story and true characters. Some very fine actors turn up in this, some a bit over the top and certain things feel like they are planted but no one gets near to ... well reap whatever that might have suggested. Still, there is enough suspense even in the phoned-in performances...just don't expect too much from it.
Dexter fans, this movie might remind you of your beloved series.

Release date: November, 2018
IMDB Rating: 4.3

11) The Kiss of Evil

The Kiss of Evil, also known as Vares - Pahan suudelma, is a Finnish cinema movie that shares similarities with the TV series Dexter. Both belong to the Crime, Drama, Mystery, and Thriller genres and revolve around homicide investigations. However, while Dexter is centered around a lovable serial killer who solves crimes during the day and commits them at night, The Kiss of Evil follows the story of Vares, a private eye hired to investigate the stabbing of a young student. Both shows have their own unique charm and appeal, with Dexter's Michael C. Hall delivering an amazing performance as the titular character, and Antti Reini's portrayal of Jussi Vares being equally captivating. Despite their differences, both Dexter and The Kiss of Evil offer thrilling and complex storylines that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Release date: January, 2011
IMDB Rating: 6

12) Detroit 1-8-7

Detroit 1-8-7 is reminiscent of Dexter because both shows revolve around a police department and the investigation of homicides. However, while Dexter focuses on a unique protagonist who leads a double life as a serial killer, Detroit 1-8-7 takes a more traditional approach to the police procedural genre. What sets Detroit 1-8-7 apart is its gritty portrayal of the city of Detroit, which serves as a backdrop for the everyday trials and tribulations of the homicide unit. The show's realistic depiction of policing, combined with its well-written storylines and compelling characters, make it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas. So if you're looking for a cop show that doesn't shy away from the realities of the job, Detroit 1-8-7 is the perfect choice.

Release date: September, 2010
IMDB Rating: 7.6

13) Seeking Justice

Seeking Justice is a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat, just like Dexter. Both films fall under the genres of Crime, Drama, Mystery, and Thriller, and share key topics such as secret organizations and vigilante justice. While Dexter focuses on a lovable serial killer solving crimes and committing them at night, Seeking Justice tells the story of a husband seeking revenge with the help of a vigilante group after his wife is assaulted. The plot of Seeking Justice revolves around a 'favor' that the husband must fulfill in return for their assistance, adding an intriguing twist. With its action-packed storyline and talented cast including Nicolas Cage and Guy Pearce, Seeking Justice is reminiscent of Dexter and is definitely worth watching for fans of thrilling and suspenseful movies.

Release date: March, 2012
IMDB Rating: 6.1

14) Passion of Mind

**Passion of Mind**: How much one enjoys this film depends greatly on how much of Demi Moore you can stand. If you like long-drawn-out schmaltzy romances with Demi as the romantic heroine, you will love this film times two. Otherwise, hide any weapons lest you begin attacking your screen. This film was toasted by the critics, but I didn't think it was that bad. In fact, I liked it. I guess I fall more into the first (sucker for schmaltz) category. The story was criticized as being a contrived version of "Me, Myself and I," where a woman is torn over the choice between life as a professional and the family shtick. That criticism really misses the point. This is a story about a woman's psychological attempt to deal with her traumatic past and has nothing whatever to do with lifestyle choices.

Release date: June, 2000
IMDB Rating: 5.5

15) Central Park

Central Park is a classic film that takes us back to Depression-era New York. Although it may seem worlds apart from Dexter, there are some surprising similarities between the two. Both movies fall under the genres of Crime, Drama, Mystery, and feature the themes of deception and police departments. However, while Dexter revolves around a modern-day serial killer with a dark secret, Central Park presents us with gangsters posing as police officers and a woman caught in their web of deceit. The runtime of Central Park is slightly longer than Dexter, giving us even more time to immerse ourselves in the gripping story. With its exciting action scenes and a quality cast, including Joan Blondell and Wallace Ford, this B movie is a hidden gem that provides a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. So if you're a fan of Dexter and want to explore a different side of crime and drama, Central Park is definitely worth seeking out.

Release date: December, 1932
IMDB Rating: 6.2

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