10 Best Movies Like ‘Mission Impossible'
Blending espionage drama, thrilling action set pieces and an inspired Tom Cruise in the driver's seat, Mission Impossible has cemented itself as one of the best action movie series out there.
With 8 different films, a ton of nail-biting sequences and a long-running storyline for our titular character, there's plenty to whet the appetite here.
If you've finished streaming this one and are looking for alternative movies – fret not. We've combed through the archives and saved you the hassle with our top 10 picks that aren't spin-offs or set in the same universe.
As always let us know your thoughts in the comments below and which of these you've seen. So without further ado, we present 10 movies to check out when you've finished watching the Mission Impossible movies!
The Man From U.N.C.L.E. (2015)
Set during the Cold War, The Man From U.N.C.L.E. follows CIA agent Napoleon Solo and KGB operative Illya Kuryakin as they team up to stop a criminal organization threatening global security. Alongside Gaby Teller, they're tasked with tracking down a rogue scientist to prevent a nuclear disaster.
Directed by Guy Ritchie, this stylish spy film combines fast-paced action with witty banter and sleek 1960's aesthetics. Cavill and Hammer's contrasting chemistry brings humour and tension to a film that interweaves all of that around a dynamic soundtrack.
The film is a breezy, entertaining spy caper with plenty of flair. If you're after a stylish and fun espionage adventure, this one's a solid pick.
Spy Game (2001)
Spy Game follows retiring CIA agent Nathan Muir as he learns his protégé, Tom Bishop, has been captured in China. In a race against time, Muir reflects on their past missions together while navigating agency politics to secure Bishop's release.
With its sharp cinematography and engaging storytelling, Spy Game is a clever, suspenseful thriller that examines the moral costs of life as a spy. If you're after a fast-paced and intelligent espionage thriller, you should add this to your watch-list.
The Bourne Identity (2002)
The Bourne Identity is the first in a series of movies that center on amnesiac Jason Bourne, who's rescued from the Mediterranean Sea, only to discover he possesses lethal skills and no memory of his past. As he searches for answers (which are unveiled across the movies) Bourne becomes the target of assassins and government agents.
The film blends gritty realism with intense action, from brutal hand-to-hand combat to iconic car chases and thrilling gun fights. Damon's portrayal of the conflicted, lethal protagonist set a new standard for modern spy thrillers.
This grounded, visceral movie adds in mystery nicely for what's definitely a must-watch.
Three Days of the Condor (1975)
Three Days of the Condor follows CIA researcher Joe Turner, returning from lunch only to find his entire office murdered. On the run and unsure who to trust, Turner is tasked with uncovering who ordered the hit – and why.
This tense, paranoid thriller captures the post-Watergate distrust of government perfectly. Redford's everyman performance as Turner grounds the story, while Faye Dunaway adds complexity as his reluctant ally.
With its tight pacing and intelligent script, this is a classic in every sense of the word, blending suspense with a sharp critique of institutional power.
Enemy of the State (1998)
When lawyer Robert Clayton Dean (played by Will Smith) unknowingly receives evidence of a political assassination, he becomes the target of a ruthless NSA team. As his life unravels, he teams up with a former intelligence operative called Brill to survive.
Expect high-octane action interwoven with a chilling look at surveillance overreach throughout the movie's run-time. Smith's relatable everyman contrasts with Hackman's grizzled paranoia, creating a dynamic duo caught in a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game.
Packed with tension, Enemy of the State is both a gripping thriller and a cautionary tale about the power of surveillance, making it as relevant today as it was on release.
The Eiger Sanction (1975)
Clint Eastwood's underrated gem stars the man himself in the lead role as Jonathan Hemlock, an art professor and ex-assassin forced out of retirement to avenge a murdered friend. To complete his mission, he joins a dangerous climbing expedition on the treacherous Eiger mountain.
Eastwood not only stars but also directs this unique blend of espionage and mountaineering. The mountain climbing sequences add authenticity, while its mix of dry humour and tense action make for an unconventional but gripping spy thriller.
Sneakers (1992)
Sneakers centers on a group of eclectic hackers, led by Martin Bishop, who are blackmailed by the NSA into stealing a powerful decryption device. However, things take a dark turn when they realize they've been double-crossed.
Directed by Phil Robinson, Sneakers combines heist elements with clever espionage twists. The ensemble cast are great and deliver a blend of comedy and tension throughout.
The film's lighthearted approach, combined with its intricate plotting, makes Sneakers an entertaining and thought-provoking caper.
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)
Not to be confused with the excellent TV series, Tinker Tailer Soldier Spy is set during the Cold War, following retired spy George Smiley as he's brought back to root out a Soviet mole within the British intelligence service. As Smiley digs deeper, he uncovers a web of lies and betrayal.
The film's muted tone and meticulous storytelling build a sense of unease throughout, while Gary Oldman's understated performance is bolstered by a strong ensemble cast, and complex plotting.
This is a sophisticated, slow-burn thriller that rewards patience and attention to detail.
The Third Man (1949)
American writer Holly Martins arrives in post-war Vienna to meet his friend Harry Lime. Unfortunately, things quickly go awrywhen he finds that Lime has died in mysterious circumstances. As Martins digs deeper, he uncovers a conspiracy and questions just who he can trust.
The film's moody black-and-white cinematography and iconic score create a haunting atmosphere in this intriguing and oft-overlooked flick.
The Third Man is a masterclass in noir, blending espionage with moral ambiguity in a city torn apart by war.
Casino Royale (2006)
Casino Royale marks Daniel Craig's debut as James Bond – and what a debut it is! Here, Bond is tasked with defeating terrorist financier Le Chiffre in a high-stakes poker game. As Bond navigates danger and deception, he finds himself unexpectedly drawn to Vesper Lynd whom he becomes entangled with.
Martin Campbell's direction breathes new life into the franchise, showcasing a grittier, more human Bond than we've seen in previous iterations. Craig's raw intensity certainly elevates the film, while the poker scenes deliver nail-biting tension throughout.
Seamlessly blending sleek action with emotional depth, Casino Royale revitalized the series and remains one of the best Bond films to date.
So there we have it, our 10 movie alternatives to watch when you're finished watching the Mission Impossible series!
What do you think of our picks? Do you agree? Are there any notable omissions? Let us know in the comments below!
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