23 Movies like 'Training Day' That Explore the Dark Side of the Badge

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91%

85

8.5

Martin Scorsese's "The Departed" is a masterful tale of deception, identity, and loyalty set in the gritty underworld of Boston crime and police. The story revolves around two men on opposite sides of the law: Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio), an undercover cop infiltrating the Irish mob, and Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon), a mole within the police, working for the mob. Their paths cross as they each try to expose the other before their own cover is blown. Like "Training Day," "The Departed" delves deeply into the themes of moral ambiguity and the blurred lines between good and evil. It portrays the psychological turmoil and ethical dilemmas faced by those living double lives, reminiscent of the intense, morally complex world that Denzel Washington's character navigates.

CAST

Jack Nicholson

Leonardo DiCaprio

Matt Damon

Mark Wahlberg

Vera Farmiga

Martin Sheen

Ray Winstone

Anthony Anderson

Alec Baldwin

Kevin Corrigan

Directed by Martin Scorsese

2 degrees of seperation (similar to The Departed)

from /25 Stellar Movies Like 'The Departed'

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93%

92

8.2

This Coen Brothers' adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's novel is a stark, nihilistic exploration of fate, violence, and morality. Set in the desolate landscape of 1980s Texas, the film follows the aftermath of a drug deal gone wrong and the intersecting lives of an old-school sheriff (Tommy Lee Jones), a psychopathic hitman (Javier Bardem), and a Vietnam vet (Josh Brolin) who stumbles upon the drug money. The movie's tone of inevitable doom and moral decay echoes "Training Day's" exploration of the darker aspects of human nature and the moral compromises made in desperate situations. It's a haunting, contemplative piece that, like "Training Day," challenges viewers to consider the nature of evil and justice.

CAST

Tommy Lee Jones

Javier Bardem

Josh Brolin

Woody Harrelson

Kelly Macdonald

Garret Dillahunt

Tess Harper

Barry Corbin

Stephen Root

Rodger Boyce

Directed by Joel Coen

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83%

65

8.6

Directed by David Fincher, "Se7en" is a gripping psychological thriller that follows two detectives, the seasoned and weary Somerset (Morgan Freeman) and the idealistic Mills (Brad Pitt), as they hunt a serial killer using the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. As they delve deeper into the case, they find themselves drawn into a disturbing world of moral depravity and heinous crimes. This film shares with "Training Day" a gritty, atmospheric portrayal of a world where evil is pervasive and the lines between right and wrong are blurred. The moral challenges and the descent into the darker side of humanity in "Se7en" reflect the intense, ethical dilemmas presented in "Training Day," making it a compelling watch for fans of complex, thought-provoking crime dramas.

CAST

Morgan Freeman

Brad Pitt

Gwyneth Paltrow

R. Lee Ermey

John C. McGinley

Julie Araskog

Mark Boone Junior

John Cassini

Reg E. Cathey

Peter Crombie

Directed by David Fincher

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81%

76

7.8

"American Gangster" presents the true story of Frank Lucas, a Harlem drug lord who rose to power in the 1970s by smuggling heroin into the United States in the coffins of American soldiers returning from Vietnam. Denzel Washington's portrayal of Lucas is a study in power, ruthlessness, and cunning, as he builds his empire in the shadows of the law. Opposing him is Richie Roberts, an honest detective played by Russell Crowe, who seeks to bring Lucas down. This film echoes the themes of "Training Day" through its exploration of the blurred lines between law and crime, and the complex dynamics of power and morality. Like Alonzo Harris in "Training Day," Frank Lucas is a character who operates in a morally ambiguous world, challenging viewers' perceptions of right and wrong.

CAST

Russell Crowe

Denzel Washington

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Cuba Gooding Jr.

Josh Brolin

Ted Levine

Armand Assante

John Ortiz

John Hawkes

Directed by Ridley Scott

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89%

76

8.3

"Heat" is a crime drama that masterfully intertwines the lives of its protagonist, Lt. Vincent Hanna (Al Pacino), and antagonist, Neil McCauley (Robert De Niro), a seasoned thief. As McCauley plans his final heist, Hanna is determined to catch him, leading to a cat-and-mouse game through Los Angeles. This film shares with "Training Day" a deep dive into the psyche of both law enforcers and lawbreakers, illustrating the thin line separating the two. Both films offer a gritty, realistic portrayal of their respective cities and a profound examination of their characters' moral and ethical boundaries.

CAST

Al Pacino

Robert De Niro

Val Kilmer

Jon Voight

Tom Sizemore

Diane Venora

Amy Brenneman

Ashley Judd

Mykelti Williamson

Wes Studi

Directed by Michael Mann

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92%

82

7.7

"Sicario," set in the lawless border area stretching between the U.S. and Mexico, tells the story of an idealistic FBI agent, Kate Macer, who is enlisted by a government task force to aid in the escalating war against drugs. Led by the enigmatic consultant Alejandro (Benicio del Toro) and the pragmatic Matt Graver (Josh Brolin), Kate finds her ethics and beliefs tested as she delves deeper into a world of ambiguity and morally questionable tactics. Similar to "Training Day," "Sicario" delves into the murky waters of law enforcement and the ethical compromises made in the name of justice. It offers a stark, unflinching look at the complexities of the war on drugs, reflecting the same intense, morally complex tone of "Training Day."

CAST

Emily Blunt

Benicio del Toro

Josh Brolin

Victor Garber

Jon Bernthal

Daniel Kaluuya

Jeffrey Donovan

Raoul Max Trujillo

Julio Cedillo

Hank Rogerson

Directed by Denis Villeneuve

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99%

91

8.2

Set in the 1950s, "L.A. Confidential" explores the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, weaving a tale of crime, corruption, and Hollywood glamor. The plot revolves around three LAPD officers - Bud White, Ed Exley, and Jack Vincennes - each with their own approach to justice and morality. As they investigate a series of murders, their paths intertwine, uncovering a deep-rooted police corruption and a scandalous nexus between the department and a glamorous, yet dark, Hollywood. Like "Training Day," this film delves into the moral ambiguity of law enforcement, challenging the integrity of its characters and exposing the blurred lines between right and wrong. It's a stylish, neo-noir crime drama that, akin to "Training Day," offers a gritty, realistic look at the complexities of police work and corruption.

CAST

Russell Crowe

Guy Pearce

Kevin Spacey

Kim Basinger

Danny DeVito

James Cromwell

David Strathairn

Ron Rifkin

Matt McCoy

Paul Guilfoyle

Directed by Curtis Hanson

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"Collateral" is a thrilling crime drama set over one night in Los Angeles. The story follows Max, a cab driver, who becomes the unwilling accomplice of Vincent, a hitman, after he gets into his cab. As they move from hit to hit, Max is forced to question his morality and survival instincts. The film brilliantly portrays the psychological and moral conflict within Max, drawing a parallel to "Training Day" in terms of an ordinary individual's confrontation with the darker aspects of human nature and crime. Directed by Michael Mann, "Collateral" offers a tense, atmospheric journey through the night, showcasing the moral dilemmas and intense character dynamics similar to those in "Training Day."

CAST

Tom Cruise

Jamie Foxx

Jada Pinkett Smith

Mark Ruffalo

Javier Bardem

Barry Shabaka Henley

Bruce McGill

Irma P. Hall

Richard T. Jones

Directed by Michael Mann

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83%

68

7.6

"End of Watch" is a powerful and gritty portrayal of life on the front lines of law enforcement. It follows two young LAPD officers, Brian Taylor and Mike Zavala, as they patrol the city's most dangerous neighborhoods. Shot in a documentary-style format, the film intimately captures their daily experiences, ranging from mundane police work to harrowing encounters with drug cartels. Their strong brotherhood and commitment to their duty are tested as they become targets of a notorious cartel. Similar to "Training Day," this movie explores the harsh realities of police work, the bonds formed between officers, and the moral decisions they must make. It’s a poignant, unflinching look at the complexities and dangers of policing, echoing the gritty realism and ethical challenges showcased in "Training Day."

CAST

Jake Gyllenhaal

Michael Peña

Natalie Martinez

Anna Kendrick

David Harbour

Frank Grillo

America Ferrera

Cody H. Carolin

Shondrella Avery

Hugh Daly

Directed by David Ayer

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59%

57

6.6

Set amidst the chaos of the Rodney King trial in Los Angeles, "Dark Blue" follows veteran LAPD detective Eldon Perry. Known for his ruthless methods and moral ambiguity, Perry mentors his young partner, Bobby Keough, in navigating the treacherous waters of police work amidst corruption and racism. As the city nears a boiling point, they're assigned to a high-profile quadruple homicide. The investigation uncovers disturbing truths about the department’s corruption, leading Perry to a moral crossroads. The film, much like "Training Day," offers a stark portrayal of the moral compromises and corrupt practices within the police force, set against a backdrop of societal tension and unrest, forcing both its characters and the audience to confront uncomfortable ethical questions.

CAST

Kurt Russell

Scott Speedman

Michael Michele

Brendan Gleeson

Ving Rhames

Kurupt

Dash Mihok

Jonathan Banks

Lolita Davidovich

Khandi Alexander

Directed by Ron Shelton

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37%

55

6.8

"Street Kings" thrusts us into the gritty underbelly of the LAPD, following Tom Ludlow, a morally ambiguous detective known for his unconventional tactics. Haunted by the death of his wife and fueled by a quest for justice, Ludlow finds himself embroiled in a complex web of corruption and conspiracy within his own department. As he delves deeper, he must confront not only the corruption around him but also his own ethical boundaries. Echoing "Training Day," "Street Kings" dives into themes of corruption, loyalty, and redemption in the police force. It challenges the viewer's perceptions of morality in law enforcement, presenting a raw, unvarnished look at the struggles and decisions faced by those in the line of duty.

CAST

Keanu Reeves

Forest Whitaker

Chris Evans

Hugh Laurie

Naomie Harris

Cedric the Entertainer

Martha Higareda

Common

Jay Mohr

Directed by David Ayer

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48%

56

6.8

"Harsh Times" is a gritty urban drama starring Christian Bale as Jim Davis, an ex-Army Ranger drifting through a morally ambiguous life in South Central Los Angeles. Struggling with PTSD and unable to find a steady job, Jim descends into a life of crime and violence, dragging his best friend Mike along. Their friendship is tested as they become embroiled in a world of drugs, gangs, and brutality. Like "Training Day," this film explores the dark and violent underbelly of Los Angeles, focusing on characters teetering on the edge of morality. It delves into themes of loyalty, desperation, and the struggle to maintain a sense of righteousness in a corrupt world, resonating with the moral complexity and tense atmosphere of "Training Day."

CAST

Christian Bale

Freddy Rodríguez

Eva Longoria

Chaka Forman

Tammy Trull

J.K. Simmons

Michael Monks

Samantha Esteban

Tania Verafield

Noel Gugliemi

Directed by David Ayer

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44%

6.7

This intense drama weaves together the lives of three conflicted New York City police officers over the course of one chaotic week. Each officer, at a different stage of their career, faces personal and ethical crises that challenge their moral compasses. As their narratives intersect, they must navigate the dangerous and morally complex streets of Brooklyn. The film's exploration of police corruption, personal dilemmas, and the blurred lines between right and wrong echoes the themes of "Training Day." It portrays the emotional and psychological challenges faced by law enforcement officers, similar to the internal conflict experienced by Ethan Hawke's character in "Training Day," presenting a raw and unflinching look at the realities of police life.

CAST

Richard Gere

Don Cheadle

Ethan Hawke

Wesley Snipes

Vincent D'Onofrio

Ellen Barkin

Michael Kenneth Williams

Shannon Kane

Brían F. O'Byrne

Will Patton

Directed by Antoine Fuqua

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83%

7.1

In "Narc," Jason Patric stars as Nick Tellis, a suspended narcotics officer brought back to investigate the murder of a fellow officer. Teamed with the dead officer's volatile partner, Henry Oak (played by Ray Liotta), Tellis descends into the seedy underworld of drug dealers and corrupt cops. As he unravels the mystery, Tellis must confront his own dark past and the dangerous implications of the case. This film shares with "Training Day" a focus on the narcotics division, emphasizing the moral ambiguities and intense pressures inherent in undercover work. It's a gripping narrative that delves into the complexities of loyalty, justice, and the cost of uncovering the truth, mirroring the ethical struggles and intense drama of "Training Day."

CAST

Jason Patric

Ray Liotta

Chi McBride

Krista Bridges

John Ortiz

Busta Rhymes

Richard Chevolleau

Alan van Sprang

Anne Openshaw

Tony De Santis

Directed by Joe Carnahan

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79%

63

6.5

"Internal Affairs" is a gripping thriller that delves into the corrupt underbelly of the LAPD. The story revolves around Dennis Peck, a corrupt police officer, played by Richard Gere, whose manipulative and deceitful ways are challenged by the dogged determination of Internal Affairs investigator Raymond Avilla, portrayed by Andy Garcia. As Avilla delves deeper into Peck's nefarious activities, the line between hunter and hunted blurs, leading to a tense and psychological showdown. This film, much like "Training Day," showcases the darker side of the police force, where corruption and moral compromise are central themes. It portrays the complexities and challenges of distinguishing right from wrong within the law enforcement community, resonating with the same intense psychological and ethical conflicts seen in "Training Day."

CAST

Richard Gere

Andy García

Laurie Metcalf

Nancy Travis

Elijah Wood

Richard Bradford

William Baldwin

Michael Beach

Faye Grant

John Kapelos

Directed by Mike Figgis

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92%

74

7.5

Directed by Ben Affleck, who also stars in the film, "The Town" is a crime drama set in the Charlestown neighborhood of Boston, known for its high rate of bank robberies. The film focuses on Doug MacRay, a skilled thief, and his crew as they navigate high-stakes heists, evading the FBI, and dealing with personal entanglements. When Doug forms a relationship with a witness from one of their robberies, the stakes become even higher. "The Town" shares similarities with "Training Day" in its portrayal of a protagonist caught between a life of crime and the desire for redemption. The film delves into themes of loyalty, identity, and the possibility of change, echoing the intense character study and moral ambiguity central to "Training Day."

CAST

Ben Affleck

Jeremy Renner

Rebecca Hall

Jon Hamm

Blake Lively

Slaine

Pete Postlethwaite

Owen Burke

Titus Welliver

Chris Cooper

Directed by Ben Affleck

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89%

84

7.9

Directed by Clint Eastwood, Mystic River is set in a blue-collar Boston neighborhood, the story revolves around three childhood friends - Jimmy, Sean, and Dave - whose lives are irrevocably changed by a childhood incident. Years later, the murder of Jimmy's daughter reunites them, but under a cloud of suspicion and grief. As Sean, now a detective, investigates the crime, the film delves into themes of loss, guilt, and the corrosive nature of vengeance. Much like "Training Day," "Mystic River" explores the moral complexities and psychological depths of its characters, offering a raw and intense narrative. The film's portrayal of moral ambiguity and the exploration of justice in a world tainted by past traumas echoes the ethical dilemmas and character-driven storytelling seen in "Training Day."

CAST

Sean Penn

Tim Robbins

Kevin Bacon

Laurence Fishburne

Marcia Gay Harden

Laura Linney

Kevin Chapman

Tom Guiry

Emmy Rossum

Spencer Treat Clark

Directed by Clint Eastwood

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88%

82

7.4

This film, directed by David Cronenberg, follows the life of Tom Stall, a small-town diner owner who becomes a local hero after a self-defense killing. However, this act of heroism draws unwanted attention, unearthing Tom's dark and violent past, leading to a struggle to protect his family and his identity. "A History of Violence" explores the duality of human nature and the capacity for violence within everyone, akin to "Training Day's" exploration of moral complexity and the thin line between right and wrong. The film's central theme of a hidden past and the struggle to keep it buried resonates with the internal conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by the characters in "Training Day," making it an intriguing companion piece in terms of thematic content.

CAST

Viggo Mortensen

Maria Bello

Ed Harris

William Hurt

Ashton Holmes

Peter MacNeill

Heidi Hayes

Stephen McHattie

Greg Bryk

Kyle Schmid

Directed by David Cronenberg

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75%

64

7

Set in the fictional town of Garrison, New Jersey, a haven for NYPD officers, "Cop Land" stars Sylvester Stallone as Freddy Heflin, the unassuming sheriff who admires the NYPD cops he serves. When a local cop is involved in a questionable shooting, an internal affairs investigator, played by Robert De Niro, sees an opportunity to expose widespread corruption within the NYPD ranks in Garrison. Freddy, partially deaf and often overlooked, becomes entangled in this web, confronting his own limitations and moral compass. This film, like "Training Day," delves into police corruption and the difficult choices faced by law enforcement officials, exploring themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the blurry line between law enforcers and lawbreakers.

CAST

Sylvester Stallone

Harvey Keitel

Ray Liotta

Robert De Niro

Janeane Garofalo

Robert Patrick

Michael Rapaport

Annabella Sciorra

Noah Emmerich

Directed by James Mangold

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41%

41

7.3

"Running Scared" follows the story of Joey Gazelle (Paul Walker), a low-level mobster who finds himself in a race against time when a gun he's supposed to dispose of after a drug deal gone wrong ends up in the wrong hands. The film is a gritty, action-packed thriller that takes the audience through a nightmarish underworld, where the lines between good and bad blur. Like "Training Day," it presents a morally ambiguous protagonist caught in a web of crime and desperate to protect his family. The movie's relentless pace, complex characters, and dark thematic elements resonate with the intense, morally complex world depicted in "Training Day."

CAST

Paul Walker

Cameron Bright

Vera Farmiga

Chazz Palminteri

Karel Roden

Johnny Messner

Ivana Miličević

Alex Neuberger

Michael Cudlitz

Bruce Altman

Directed by Wayne Kramer

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55%

52

6.3

In "Triple 9," a crew of dirty cops is blackmailed by the Russian mob to execute a virtually impossible heist. The only way to pull it off is to manufacture a 999, police code for "officer down." Their plan is turned upside down when the unsuspecting rookie they set up to die foils the attack. This heist thriller explores themes of betrayal, corruption, and survival, similar to "Training Day." It offers a gritty, intense look into the lives of corrupt cops and criminals, where loyalty is fleeting, and every character must navigate a dangerous path between right and wrong. The moral ambiguity and high-stakes drama align closely with the narrative style and thematic essence of "Training Day."

CAST

Casey Affleck

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Anthony Mackie

Kate Winslet

Woody Harrelson

Aaron Paul

Clifton Collins Jr.

Norman Reedus

Teresa Palmer

Michael Kenneth Williams

Directed by John Hillcoat

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79%

5.3

7.3

"Shot Caller" is a riveting tale of transformation and survival. It follows Jacob Harlon, a successful businessman and family man who, after a fatal DUI accident, is sentenced to prison. Inside, he must adapt to the harsh realities of life behind bars, becoming embroiled in a gang for protection. As he ascends the ranks, Jacob, now known as "Money," becomes a key player in gang operations both inside and outside prison. Upon release, he's trapped in a cycle of violence and crime, forced to orchestrate a major gang deal. This film echoes "Training Day" in its exploration of moral corruption and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It portrays a harrowing journey into the depths of criminal life, mirroring the intensity and moral complexity found in Denzel Washington's character in "Training Day."

CAST

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau

Omari Hardwick

Lake Bell

Emory Cohen

Jeffrey Donovan

Jon Bernthal

Holt McCallany

Evan Jones

Benjamin Bratt

Chris Browning

Directed by Ric Roman Waugh

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35%

45

6.6

In "Pride and Glory," a multi-generational family of NYPD officers faces a moral crisis when a corruption scandal surfaces. Detective Ray Tierney, played by Edward Norton, is assigned to investigate a case that unexpectedly leads him to his brother, Francis Jr., and brother-in-law, Jimmy Egan. As the investigation deepens, Ray's loyalty to his family clashes with his commitment to justice, unraveling a web of corruption and betrayal. This film mirrors "Training Day" in its depiction of the ethical challenges within the police force and the personal battles officers face when confronted with corruption in their ranks. It's a gripping narrative that examines the cost of integrity and the complex dynamics of familial and professional loyalty, akin to the moral quandaries presented in "Training Day."

CAST

Edward Norton

Jon Voight

Colin Farrell

Noah Emmerich

Jennifer Ehle

John Ortiz

Frank Grillo

Shea Whigham

Lake Bell

Carmen Ejogo

Directed by Gavin O'Connor