14 Must-Watch Movies Like JFK: Drama, History, and Thrills

Join us on a thrilling journey through political intrigue and historical mysteries with our list of 14 must-watch movies similar to JFK. From dramas to historical thrillers, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat as you unravel the hidden truths behind some of the most significant events in history. Get ready for an exhilarating cinematic experience that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew.

1) Dances with Wolves

Dances with Wolves, released in 1991, shares striking similarities with JFK. Both movies were able to captivate audiences with their thought-provoking narratives and exceptional performances. While JFK delves into the conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination of President Kennedy, Dances with Wolves explores the relationship between Lieutenant John Dunbar and a Sioux settlement during the 19th century. In both films, the main characters find themselves questioning their own purpose and engaging with a world that challenges their preconceived notions. However, Dances with Wolves stands out with its breathtaking portrayal of Native American culture and the stunning landscapes of the American frontier. This movie transports viewers to a time and place that feels both familiar and foreign, leaving them with a profound appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Native American history. So, if you loved the intrigue and depth of JFK, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the richness of Dances with Wolves.

Release date: April, 1991
IMDB Rating: 8
15 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Dances with Wolves

2) The Untouchables

In "The Untouchables," we are transported back to the Prohibition era in Chicago during the 1930s. Just like in "JFK," we are thrown into a world of corruption and crime, where a small team of determined individuals takes on a powerful figure. While "JFK" focuses on the investigation of President Kennedy's assassination, "The Untouchables" follows Treasury agent Eliot Ness as he sets out to bring down the notorious gangster Al Capone. Both movies are thrilling and suspenseful, keeping us on the edge of our seats with their fast-paced narratives. However, while "JFK" delves into the realm of conspiracy theories and questions the official story, "The Untouchables" focuses more on the action and the battle between good and evil.

Release date: December, 1988
IMDB Rating: 7.8

3) Thirteen Days

Thirteen Days is reminiscent of JFK because both movies delve into historical events and shed light on the behind-the-scenes actions during critical moments in American history. While JFK focuses on the assassination of President Kennedy and the subsequent investigation, Thirteen Days zooms in on the Cuban Missile Crisis in October 1962. Both films skillfully capture the tension and high stakes involved in these real-life events, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats. Thirteen Days serves as a great history lesson, providing detailed and accurate information about the Cold War and the Cuban Missile Crisis, making it an excellent starting point for those interested in learning more about this period. The movie effectively conveys the gravity of the crisis, emphasizing how close the world came to a potential World War III. The performances of Bruce Greenwood and Steven Culp as President Kennedy and Robert Kennedy, respectively, are convincing, even if Greenwood doesn't exactly resemble JFK physically. Kevin Costner's performance, although occasionally flawed, is overall acceptable.

Release date: April, 2001
IMDB Rating: 7.3

4) Quiz Show

Quiz Show is reminiscent of JFK in its exploration of a scandalous event that challenges the official narrative. While JFK delves into the conspiracy theories surrounding the Kennedy assassination, Quiz Show examines the quiz show scandals of the 1950s. Both movies feature talented casts, with Ralph Fiennes and John Turturro delivering phenomenal performances that make you both admire and detest their characters. In terms of direction, Robert Redford's approach is rich and well-paced, allowing the viewer to come to their own conclusions without resorting to preaching. Quiz Show is an excellent film that I highly recommend, especially for its razor-sharp performances and its ability to captivate you with a true story. So if you enjoyed the intrigue and investigative nature of JFK, Quiz Show is definitely worth watching.

Release date: February, 1995
IMDB Rating: 7.5

5) 23

23 is reminiscent of JFK in its exploration of conspiracy theories and government secrets. Both movies delve into controversial topics and question the official narratives surrounding historical events. While JFK focuses on the assassination of President Kennedy, 23 takes a different approach by following the story of Karl Koch and his friend David as they break into government and military computers. The movies share a common theme of suspicion and the uncovering of hidden truths. However, they differ in terms of setting and time period, with JFK being set in 1960s America and 23 taking place in 1980s Germany. Despite these differences, both films captivate audiences with their thought-provoking plots and stellar performances. If you enjoyed JFK's exploration of conspiracy theories, you should definitely watch 23 to experience a similar thrill.

Release date: January, 1999
IMDB Rating: 7.2

6) Breach

**Breach** takes you on a thrilling ride through the world of espionage, just like **JFK** did with the investigation of Kennedy's assassination. While **JFK** delves into the murky waters of conspiracy theories and suspicion surrounding the event, **Breach** explores the power game between FBI agent Eric O'Neill and his boss Robert Hanssen, who was selling secrets to the Soviet Union. Both movies keep you on the edge of your seat, unraveling a web of intrigue and deception. However, while **JFK** focuses on a historical event, **Breach** is based on a true story set in the early 2000s. So, if you enjoyed the suspense and complexity of **JFK**, you'll definitely be captivated by the thrilling cat-and-mouse game of **Breach**.

Release date: May, 2007
IMDB Rating: 7

7) Lansky

Lansky is a fascinating movie that delves into the life of the famous gangster Meyer Lansky. The film takes a unique approach by using flashbacks to chronicle Lansky's journey from a Jewish immigrant to the boss of the National Crime Syndicate. Like JFK, Lansky is based on true events, providing an intriguing look into the world of organized crime. While JFK focuses on the Kennedy assassination and the conspiracy theories surrounding it, Lansky explores the rise and fall of a notorious mobster. Both movies captivate audiences with their thrilling narratives and historical contexts. However, Lansky stands out with its emphasis on personalities and relationships rather than acts of violence, offering a deeper exploration of the characters. With compelling performances from Harvey Keitel and Sam Worthington, Lansky is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the hidden secrets of the criminal underworld.

Release date: June, 2021
IMDB Rating: 6.2

8) The Report

The Report is reminiscent of JFK in its exploration of government conspiracy and investigation. Both movies delve into controversial topics and challenge the official narrative. However, while JFK focuses on the assassination of President Kennedy, The Report centers around the CIA's post 9/11 Detention and Interrogation Program. Despite their differences in subject matter, both films share a common theme of uncovering shocking secrets and exposing the truth. If you enjoyed the intrigue and suspense of JFK, you will find The Report equally captivating as it sheds light on a different dark chapter in American history.

Release date: November, 2019
IMDB Rating: 7.2

9) Millennium

Millennium, released in 1997, is reminiscent of JFK. Both movies delve into investigations surrounding conspiracy theories and assassinations. While JFK focuses on the assassination of President Kennedy, Millennium follows a former FBI profiler who joins the mysterious Millennium Group to investigate serial killers, conspiracies, and the occult. Both films tackle dark and suspenseful themes that keep the audience on the edge of their seats. However, Millennium takes it a step further by incorporating elements of horror and the supernatural, creating a unique blend of drama, suspense, action, and mystery. The detailed historical and mythological connections in Millennium's storyline are commendable, adding an extra layer of depth to the plot. Additionally, the dark photography and surreal flash scenes in Millennium surpass the current mystery and horror series. The music by Mark Snow sets the perfect backdrop, using synthesized strings and altered human voices to enhance the eerie atmosphere.

Release date: October, 1997
IMDB Rating: 8

10) The Next Victim

The Next Victim is reminiscent of JFK in its thrilling and suspenseful plot. Just like JFK, The Next Victim keeps you on the edge of your seat, eager to uncover the truth behind a series of murders. However, while JFK focuses on the investigation of the Kennedy assassination, The Next Victim takes a different route and follows a young law student turned detective as she tries to unravel the identity of the murderer and predict who will be the next victim. With its well-written story and deep characters, The Next Victim is a captivating series that keeps you guessing until the very end. So, if you enjoyed the suspense and intrigue of JFK, you should definitely give The Next Victim a watch.

Release date: March, 1995
IMDB Rating: 8.2

11) The Dark Room

The Dark Room is reminiscent of JFK because both movies involve investigations surrounding crimes and conspiracies. In JFK, New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison delves into the Kennedy assassination and uncovers evidence that challenges the official story. Similarly, in The Dark Room, photographer Jinx Kingsley wakes up from a coma after a car crash and becomes the prime suspect in the brutal murder of her fiancé and best friend. With the help of a neuroscientist, she starts to remember the events leading up to the crash and uncovers her own desperate and terrifying past. While JFK focuses on a historical event and The Dark Room is a fictional crime drama, both films keep you at the edge of your seat with their gripping plots and unraveling mysteries. So, if you enjoyed the suspense and intrigue of JFK, you should definitely give The Dark Room a watch.

Release date: April, 1999
IMDB Rating: 6.5

12) C.I.D.

C.I.D. is reminiscent of JFK because both movies revolve around investigation and crime. While JFK focuses on the assassination of President Kennedy and the conspiracy theories surrounding it, C.I.D. follows a group of officers from the Crime Investigation Department as they solve various criminal cases with the help of a forensic expert. Both movies engage viewers with their thrilling plots and keep them on the edge of their seats as they uncover the truth. However, there are notable differences between the two. JFK is a historical drama that delves deep into the political and social implications of the assassination, while C.I.D. is a crime series set in modern times. Additionally, JFK is an American movie that sheds light on a significant event in U.S. history, while C.I.D. is an Indian series that offers a glimpse into the crime-solving techniques of the Indian police force. If you enjoyed the suspense and intrigue of JFK, C.I.D. will surely captivate you with its thrilling investigations and unique cultural perspective.

Release date: January, 1998
IMDB Rating: 6.8

13) Appointment with Death

Appointment with Death:
"Appointment with Death" takes a step into the mysterious world of crime and investigation, just like "JFK" did with its exploration of the Kennedy assassination. While "JFK" delves into the political landscape of the time, "Appointment with Death" focuses on the tangled web of family dynamics and murder. Both movies captivate the audience with their intricate plots and keep them on the edge of their seats, eager to uncover the truth. However, "Appointment with Death" adds a touch of humor and eccentricity to the mix, with Peter Ustinov's portrayal of Hercule Poirot providing a delightful performance. The film also boasts a star-studded cast, including Piper Laurie and Lauren Bacall, who bring their own charm and charisma to the screen. So, if you enjoyed the conspiracy-laden journey of "JFK," you should definitely watch "Appointment with Death" for its clever blend of mystery, humor, and legendary performances.

Release date: April, 1988
IMDB Rating: 6.1

14) Shoot to Kill

Shoot to Kill is reminiscent of JFK in its thrilling plot and suspenseful atmosphere. While JFK delves into the conspiracy theories surrounding the assassination of President Kennedy, Shoot to Kill takes a different approach, focusing on a murder investigation that leads to a chase in the mountains. Both movies keep viewers on the edge of their seats, with intense moments and unexpected twists. However, Shoot to Kill adds an element of comedy to the mix, providing some light-hearted moments amidst the tension. Sidney Poitier delivers a stellar performance, showcasing his talent and making Shoot to Kill a must-see for fans of suspense films.

Release date: February, 1988
IMDB Rating: 6.8

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