12 Movies That Will Sting You with Comedy, Crime, and Drama

"The Sting" is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to movies that will sting you with a perfect blend of comedy, crime, and drama. Get ready to be dazzled as you delve into this list of 12 films that will take you on a rollercoaster ride of deception, wit, and unexpected twists.

1) Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl

"Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl" is a delightful rom-con that will keep you entertained from start to finish. Reminiscent of "The Sting," this film also revolves around the world of con artists and their elaborate schemes. While "The Sting" takes place in the US, "Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl" brings the con game to India, infusing it with a vibrant and colorful setting. Both movies feature clever and charming protagonists who use their wit and charisma to deceive their targets. However, unlike "The Sting," which primarily focuses on the male protagonists, "Ladies vs. Ricky Bahl" introduces a group of strong and determined female characters who team up to take down the conman. This adds a fresh and empowering twist to the familiar con artist narrative. With its catchy music, stylish promos, and the electrifying chemistry between Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma, "Ladies vs.

Release date: December, 2011
IMDB Rating: 6

2) Focus

Focus is reminiscent of The Sting in its portrayal of the world of con artists and their elaborate schemes. Both movies explore the art of deception and manipulation, showcasing the charismatic and witty nature of their main characters. While The Sting takes place in the 1930s and focuses on a team of grifters pulling off the ultimate con, Focus is set in modern times and revolves around a veteran con man whose plans are thrown off track by a woman from his past. While The Sting is more of a comedy-crime-drama, Focus incorporates elements of romance into its plot. The Sting received critical acclaim and won numerous awards, while Focus may not have received the same level of recognition. Nevertheless, Focus offers an entertaining and stylish portrayal of the con artist lifestyle, with a glamorous setting, exotic locations, and beautiful ladies. The chemistry between the charismatic leads, Will Smith and Margot Robbie, adds depth to the movie.

Release date: March, 2015
IMDB Rating: 6.6

3) Paper Moon

Paper Moon, released in 1976, is reminiscent of The Sting. Both films fall under the genres of Comedy, Crime, and Drama, and share similar themes of con artists and illegal activity. However, Paper Moon takes place during the Great Depression and follows a con man who reluctantly teams up with a young girl who may or may not be his daughter. The film captures the look and presence of a Golden Thirties movie, with the panache and style unique to the Golden Seventies. While The Sting is a thrilling and complex con game, Paper Moon offers a different kind of charm, with its period road picture setting and the delightful dynamic between the tough little girl and the slick con man. The performances in Paper Moon, particularly Tatum O'Neal's Oscar-worthy portrayal of little Addie, bring a fresh and nuanced approach to the story, while the black and white cinematography by Lazlo Kovacs adds a timeless richness.

Release date: January, 1976
IMDB Rating: 8.1
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4) Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is reminiscent of The Sting in many ways. Both movies feature the dynamic duo of Paul Newman and Robert Redford, who bring their incredible chemistry to the screen. Just like in The Sting, the two actors dominate the picture with their likability and playful banter. The plot of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, much like The Sting, revolves around a pair of outlaws on the run from the law. While The Sting takes place in the 1930s, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is set in the early 1900s, giving it a Western flavor. The stunning cinematography by Conrad Hall captures the beautiful Western scenery and adds to the overall appeal of the film. With its unforgettable moments, such as Paul Newman riding a bicycle to the tune of "Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head," Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid is a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed The Sting.

Release date: June, 1983
IMDB Rating: 8
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5) Cool Hand Luke

Cool Hand Luke is reminiscent of The Sting in its exploration of the indomitability of the human spirit in the face of oppression. Both films showcase Paul Newman's incredible acting abilities, with Luke being right up there as one of his finest performances. The analogy of Luke as Christ in Cool Hand Luke becomes a tad heavy-handed, but it adds a powerful image to the film. Similarly, The Sting leaves you thinking that you'd like to have been in Henry's gang, playing a part in separating Lonnegan from his dough. Both movies feature a superb cast, with George Kennedy's portrayal of Dragline in Luke being his finest achievement and deserving of the Oscar he received. It's also worth noting that both films have familiar faces among the supporting cast who would go on to fame in their own right. Cool Hand Luke, like The Sting, can unquestionably be called a classic.

Release date: November, 1967
IMDB Rating: 8.1
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6) Another You

Another You is reminiscent of The Sting in its portrayal of con artists and their elaborate schemes. Both movies explore the world of deception and the art of the con, showcasing the cleverness and wit of their characters. However, while The Sting is a classic that is widely regarded as one of the best films of all time, Another You falls short in comparison. Despite featuring the comedic duo of Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor, Another You fails to capture the same magic and charm as The Sting. The plot feels disjointed and the storyline never fully develops, leaving the audience disengaged. In contrast, The Sting is a masterclass in storytelling, with its pin-sharp editing, superb cast, and a musical track that keeps you company throughout. It's a film that leaves you wanting to be a part of the con, and even upon multiple viewings, it continues to captivate and entertain.

Release date: July, 1991
IMDB Rating: 5.3

7) Only When I Larf

Only When I Larf takes us on an international adventure of dirty tricks, much like The Sting. While the latter focuses on two grifters pulling off the ultimate con, Larf follows a master conman leading a pair of British accomplices in their highly profitable escapades. Both movies explore the world of con artists, showcasing their clever schemes and the thrill of outsmarting their targets. However, Larf takes a slightly different approach, presenting a series of episodic cons rather than a tightly woven central story. Despite its uninspiring title, Larf offers a brisk and smartly-directed experience that keeps you entertained, with Richard Attenborough delivering a strong performance. If you enjoyed the wit and charm of The Sting, Larf is a delightful choice to continue your journey into the world of con games.

Release date: April, 1973
IMDB Rating: 6

8) The Swindle

The Swindle takes us back to the world of con artists, just like The Sting. While The Sting is set in the US and revolves around two grifters teaming up for the ultimate con, The Swindle takes place in Italy and follows a trio of con-men, led by a lonesome swindler, as they navigate the pressures of their job and family. Both movies belong to the genres of Comedy, Crime, and Drama, and share key topics like con men and crime. However, they differ in their settings and plots. The Sting is a delightful tale set in the 1930s, with Paul Newman and Robert Redford at their charming best, while The Swindle is a Fellini classic from the 1950s, showcasing the dark and depraved side of con artists. If you enjoyed the wit and cleverness of The Sting, The Swindle offers a different perspective on the world of conning, with its own intriguing characters and unexpected twists.

Release date: June, 1957
IMDB Rating: 7.5

9) Double Dhamaal

Double Dhamaal is reminiscent of The Sting in its genre and plot. Both movies fall into the Comedy, Crime, and Drama genres, and revolve around a group of individuals seeking revenge. In The Sting, two grifters team up to pull off the ultimate con, while in Double Dhamaal, four slackers decide to avenge their humiliation at the hands of a con-man. Despite their similarities, the two movies differ in several aspects. The Sting, released in 1976, is a classic American film that has stood the test of time with its brilliant editing, sharp photography, and a superb musical track. It garnered numerous nominations and wins, including Oscars. On the other hand, Double Dhamaal, released in 2011, is an Indian comedy that received mixed reviews. While it has some laugh-out-loud scenes, it falls short in terms of execution and originality.

Release date: June, 2011
IMDB Rating: 3.9

10) Squad 38

Squad 38, also known as 38 Task Force, is reminiscent of The Sting in many ways. Both movies fall under the genres of Comedy, Crime, and Drama, and they both revolve around con men trying to pull off a big heist. However, while The Sting takes place in the US during the 1930s, Squad 38 is set in modern-day Seoul, South Korea. The main characters in both films are charismatic and clever, using their wit and charm to outsmart their opponents. The Sting focuses on a grifter duo played by Paul Newman and Robert Redford, while Squad 38 features the task force chief of Seoul City Hall teaming up with a con man. Both movies keep you on the edge of your seat with their intricate plot twists and unexpected turns. The Sting is a classic that has stood the test of time, while Squad 38 offers a contemporary twist on the con artist genre.

Release date: June, 2016
IMDB Rating: 7.6

11) The Brothers Bloom

The Brothers Bloom is a delightful romp that brings to mind The Sting. Both movies revolve around the world of con artists, with characters who are masters of their craft. The Brothers Bloom, much like The Sting, showcases the intricate and complex scenarios that these con men create to swindle their targets. However, where The Sting focuses more on the comedic and thrilling aspects of the con, The Brothers Bloom adds a touch of romance and adventure to the mix. The plot revolves around the Bloom brothers and their explosive sidekick as they take on one last job: showing a beautiful and eccentric heiress the time of her life. This romantic adventure takes them around the world, which adds a sense of globetrotting excitement to the story. The Brothers Bloom also shares the same witty and charming dialogue that made The Sting so enjoyable. The characters in both movies have a unique way of speaking that adds to the quirkiness and fun of the films.

Release date: June, 2009
IMDB Rating: 6.7

12) Money Money Money

Money Money Money: When they realize the times are changing, five crooks decide to switch from bank robberies to personality abductions. Among their hostages are singer Johnny Hallyday and an ambassador in Latin America. They get framed by a guerrilla leader, who had been kidnapped by them before, and while being tried the French Government decides to let them flee to Africa where they get on with the same old game.
In many ways, Money Money Money reminds me of The Sting. Both movies are set in the 70s and involve criminal activities, although the crimes committed are quite different. While The Sting focuses on con artists and their elaborate scheme, Money Money Money revolves around a group of bank robbers turned kidnappers. Both movies have a comedic tone, showcasing the wit and charm of their characters. The plots of both films are filled with twists and turns, keeping the audience engaged and entertained.

Release date: October, 1972
IMDB Rating: 6.8

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