Top 6 Gritty and Dark Movies Like No Country For Old Men

Stellar adaptation from the iconic and legendary novel of Cormac McCarthy; No Country For Old Men, is a suspenseful, neo-Western crime-drama film, directed by the legendary Cohen Brothers; Joel and Ethan Cohen, starring Josh Brolin, Tommy Jones, Javier Bardem, and many others, is an Academy Award-winning masterpiece.

The storyline has been revered for its morally complex thought-provoking drama filled with bloodshed and violence, including the ever-present theme of good vs. evil conflict. The plot unfolds when Vietnam War veteran Liewlyn Moss, played by Josh Brolin, has to defend himself against the psychopath Anton Chigurh when he is assigned to take a briefcase full of cash and acquire it. The story is centered around the fight between protagonists and antagonists, depicting the ever-present conflict of good vs. evil.

If you are on the lookout for movies that share similarities with Cohen’s picture, ‘No Country Like Old Men, here’s a list of some of the iconic films that will keep you hooked till the very end.

Fargo (1996)

Since we have already mentioned the Cohen Brothers, let’s start with another Cohen classic, Fargo. A gripping story arc that similarly resonates with the theme of No Country for Old Men is another cinematic masterpiece of the late 1990s. A blend of dark comedy and thrilling atmosphere, Fargo features a thought-provoking, suspenseful plot that will keep you on the edge of your seats.

Zodiac (2007)

Based on a true story and real-life events, another meticulously gripping thriller directed by David Fincher, Zodiac, is a compelling watch. The film follows the plot of a notorious killer embarking on a killing spree in San Francisco during the late 1960s and 1970s. The film echoes the same psychological theme as No Country for Old Men.

Mystic River (2003)

A great actor and even a better director, Clint Eastwood’s Mystic River explores the devastating impacts of trauma on childhood friends and the psychological depth of human relationships. A moving screenplay with a moving script and solid direction highlighted by the superb cast, Mystic River is one of the most haunting and emotionally charged dramas that is bound to bring tears to your eyes.

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007)

Another neo-noir Western drama similar to No Country Like Old Men, directed by Andrew Dominik, features a star-studded cast including Brad Pitt and Cassey Affleck, showcasing their brilliance and extraordinary theatrics on the screen. 

Cassey Affleck, delivering a spectacular performance of Robert Ford, a fan of Jesse James, played by Brad Pitt, embarks on a mission to join the notorious gang. Throughout the story arc, the movie delves deeper into an intriguing relationship between Jesse James and Robert Ford as they portray the bitter aspects of human personalities, such as an overwhelming feeling of fear, jealousy, and paranoia.

The movie was a critical success and was nominated for the Academy Awards for Best Cinematography and Best Supporting Actor.

Gangs of New York (2002)

Gangs of New York is a violent crime thriller. Based on the novel by Herbert Ashbury, this movie is centered around the themes of violence, revenge, patriotism, and politics. The movie illustrates the insightful underground events of 19th-century New York. Amsterdam Vallon is an Irish immigrant who sets himself on a journey to avenge his father’s death. The outstanding antagonist, Willam “Bill the Butcher,” resembles the personality traits of Chigurh from No Country Like Old Men.

The Harder They Fall (2021)

Compared to low-intensity action, this movie revolves around the themes of revenge and redemption. Director Jeymes Samuel, also known by the stage name ‘The Bullits’, depicts a tale of black cowboys. The plot is mainly driven by one major motif: revenge. Rufus Buck, played by Idris Elba, is a ruthless and notorious gang leader who uses his own judgment on who gets to live and who gets to die. 

In other words, he is the judge, the jury, and the executioner. Meanwhile, Nat Love, played by Jonathan Majors, is an outlaw and embarks on a hunt to assassinate Rufus Buck for killing his parents long ago.

Each of these movies share and depict unique perspectives in their own way. If you’re on the lookout for movies like No Country For Old Men, this list is the perfect fit.