The Best Movies About Being Wrongly Accused

Alex Alvarez
Updated April 13, 2024 45 items

Ever been in a tight spot where people think you did something that you didn't do? The characters in these movies about being wrongly accused know what it's like and it's not fun. No matter if it's a comedy or legal thriller, these wrongfully accused movies have characters fighting to clear their names. In most cases, these characters have been framed which is why law enforcement has wrongly accused them. With so many great wrongly accused movies like Double Jeopardy, and The Fugitive, both of which feature Tommy Lee Jones hunting down, you guessed it, characters wrongly accused of murder. But which of these films will make the top of the list? You can help decide with your votes.

Vote up your favorite new and classic “wrongly accused” movies and vote down any that you think are a miscarriage of justice. Thanks to great streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime, and Apple TV+ you stream most of these movies right now.

 

  • To Kill a Mockingbird
    1

    To Kill a Mockingbird

    Gregory Peck, Mary Badham, Phillip Alford
    7 votes

    Adapted from Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, To Kill a Mockingbird is a timeless and moving study of race, class, and the struggle for justice in the American South during the 1930s. Gregory Peck's iconic portrayal of attorney Atticus Finch, who defends a Black man wrongfully accused of raping a white woman, remains a powerful and inspiring symbol of integrity and moral courage. Through its captivating storytelling and indelible characters, To Kill a Mockingbird stands as an essential examination of the devastating human cost of prejudice, fear, and false accusations. This beloved classic continues to resonate with audiences, shining as a beacon of hope and empathy in the face of injustice.

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  • The Fugitive
    2

    The Fugitive

    Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward
    17 votes

    Starring Harrison Ford, The Fugitive is a thrilling masterpiece that encapsulates the nail-biting drama and desperation of being falsely accused. Its expert blend of intense chase scenes, interesting plot twists, and Ford's commanding performance as the unjustly condemned protagonist, Dr. Richard Kimble, set the gold standard for films within this genre. The movie effectively taps into the universal fear of being wrongly held responsible for a crime, while simultaneously showcasing the indomitable human spirit and the quest for justice. The Fugitive remains a timeless classic that powerfully portrays the harrowing experience of innocence caught in the crosshairs of falsehood.

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  • My Cousin Vinny
    3

    My Cousin Vinny

    Joe Pesci, Marisa Tomei, Ralph Macchio
    14 votes

    Set in the Deep South, My Cousin Vinny is a witty courtroom comedy that skillfully tackles the theme of wrongful accusation with humor and heart. Joe Pesci's unforgettable performance as Vincent LaGuardia Gambini, a brash New York lawyer who comes to the aid of his falsely accused cousin and friend, blends charm and hilarity with a keen sense of the complexities surrounding the quest for justice. This entertaining romp through the legal system not only serves up countless laughs but also highlights the importance of perseverance and critical thinking in the face of injustice. My Cousin Vinny endures as a beloved and insightful classic among movies featuring the wrongly accused.

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  • Shooter
    4

    Shooter

    Mark Wahlberg, Michael Peña, Danny Glover
    14 votes

    Following the harrowing journey of a former Marine sniper framed for a presidential assassination, Shooter delivers a relentless action-packed ride that delves deep into the grit and intrigue of being wrongfully accused. Mark Wahlberg's portrayal of protagonist Bob Lee Swagger provides an unforgettable performance that highlights the perils of standing up against a corrupt system and the lengths one must go to clear their name. From thrilling gunfights to heart-stopping conspiracies, Shooter offers a compelling study of betrayal, redemption, and the truth behind the facade of justice. In the pantheon of wrongly accused films, "Shooter" emerges as a modern adrenaline-fueled classic.

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  • Minority Report
    5

    Minority Report

    Tom Cruise, Colin Farrell, Samantha Morton
    7 votes

    In Minority Report, director Steven Spielberg masterfully combines elements of science fiction, crime thriller, and philosophical debate to explore a world where people are indicted and punished before actually committing any offense. The film's thought-provoking premise serves as fertile ground for exploring the consequences of wrongful accusations, as it follows the story of John Anderton (played by Tom Cruise), a law enforcement officer hunted down for a future murder he has not yet committed. With its groundbreaking visual effects, captivating storytelling, and relevance to contemporary discussions about policing and surveillance, Minority Report stands as a profound meditation on the injustice of premature judgment and the unwavering determination to prove one's innocence.

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  • If Beale Street Could Talk
    6

    If Beale Street Could Talk

    KiKi Layne, Stephan James, Regina King
    6 votes

    Adapted from James Baldwin's poignant novel, If Beale Street Could Talk offers an intimate and evocative portrayal of love, family, and racial injustice in 1970s Harlem. The film's central narrative revolves around a young African-American man, Fonny, who is falsely accused of a crime he didn't commit, shattering the lives of those closest to him. Director Barry Jenkins' beautiful cinematography, rich storytelling, and exceptional performances by the cast elevate this heartbreaking tale of innocence lost in a flawed system. If Beale Street Could Talk stands as an important and arresting study of the devastating impact of wrongful accusations on marginalized communities.

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  • Brian Banks
    7

    Brian Banks

    Aldis Hodge, Greg Kinnear, Sherri Shepherd
    13 votes

    Chronicling the inspiring true story of a young athlete unjustly accused of rape, Brian Banks is a powerful testament to perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. This compelling drama delves into the long-lasting effects of wrongful conviction, with a standout performance by Aldis Hodge as the title character seeking redemption and vindication. Tackling themes of hope, determination, and the pursuit of justice, Brian Banks is an essential addition to the pantheon of films exploring the devastating consequences of false accusations. This remarkable film serves as a poignant reminder that the path to exoneration often requires unwavering courage and faith.

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  • The Crucible
    8

    The Crucible

    Daniel Day-Lewis, Winona Ryder, Paul Scofield
    13 votes

    Adapted from Arthur Miller's celebrated play and set during the infamous Salem witch trials, The Crucible is a powerful study of the dangerous consequences of hysteria, fear, and false accusations. The film's stellar cast, which includes Daniel Day-Lewis, Winona Ryder, and Joan Allen, delivers riveting performances as ordinary people caught in the grip of mass panic and unfounded suspicions. With its searing indictment of mob mentality and the fragile nature of truth in times of crisis, The Crucible serves as a timeless cautionary tale that remains profoundly relevant today. This haunting film stands as an essential reminder of the human cost of unchecked persecution and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

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  • Double Jeopardy
    9

    Double Jeopardy

    Tommy Lee Jones, Ashley Judd, Bruce Greenwood
    5 votes

    Starring Ashley Judd as a woman falsely accused of her husband's murder, Double Jeopardy offers a thrilling study of deception, betrayal, and the struggle for justice. This engrossing crime thriller is anchored by Judd's fierce performance and an intriguing premise that stretches the limits of the legal system. As the protagonist seeks to uncover the truth and clear her name, Double Jeopardy delves into the psychological and emotional ramifications of being wrongfully accused. With its carefully crafted suspense and clever narrative twists, this film stands as an exemplary entry in the genre of wrongful accusation thrillers.

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  • Just Mercy
    10

    Just Mercy

    Brie Larson, Michael B. Jordan, Jamie Foxx
    14 votes

    In the critically acclaimed legal drama Just Mercy, Michael B. Jordan delivers a powerful performance as Bryan Stevenson, a young attorney who fights to exonerate an innocent man on death row. Based on a true story, this thought-provoking film showcases the complexities and flaws within the American justice system, highlighting the immense challenges faced by those who seek to overturn wrongful convictions. With its deeply empathetic storytelling and stellar performances from both Jordan and Jamie Foxx (as the falsely accused Walter McMillian), Just Mercy serves as an important reminder of the human cost of injustice. This sobering film stands as an essential examination of the long-lasting impact of wrongful accusations on individuals and communities.

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  • Presumed Innocent
    11

    Presumed Innocent

    Harrison Ford, Brian Dennehy, Raul Julia
    9 votes

    Adapted from Scott Turow's bestselling novel, Presumed Innocent is a interesting courtroom thriller that follows prosecutor Rusty Sabich (portrayed by Harrison Ford) as he grapples with being accused of murdering his colleague and mistress. The film's taut narrative, filled with unexpected twists and turns, expertly delves into the tangled web of lies, corruption, and deceit that underlies the search for truth and justice. Ford's compelling performance, coupled with Alan J. Pakula's nuanced direction, makes Presumed Innocent an enthralling portrait of the devastating repercussions of false accusations. It remains a classic entry in the genre, showcasing the desperate struggle for vindication in the face of overwhelming odds.

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  • The Hurricane
    12

    The Hurricane

    Denzel Washington, Vicellous Reon Shannon, Deborah Kara Unger
    9 votes

    Based on a true story, The Hurricane chronicles the life of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, a former middleweight boxing champion wrongfully convicted of a triple murder. This powerful biographical drama showcases Denzel Washington's Oscar-nominated performance and offers a sobering look at the racism and injustice that pervaded the American legal system. With its emotionally charged narrative and gripping portrayal of Carter's fight for exoneration, The Hurricane stands as an essential testament to the indomitable human spirit's ability to triumph against all odds. It is a compelling reminder of the tragic consequences that wrongful convictions can inflict on innocent lives.

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  • Richard Jewell
    13

    Richard Jewell

    Paul Walter Hauser, Sam Rockwell, Kathy Bates
    13 votes

    Directed by Clint Eastwood and based on a true story, Richard Jewell chronicles the harrowing ordeal of an innocent security guard who becomes a prime suspect in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics bombing. The film poignantly portrays the personal and professional devastation that results from being wrongfully accused, with a standout performance by Paul Walter Hauser in the titular role. Through its interesting narrative and nuanced examination of the media's role in perpetuating false accusations, Richard Jewell serves as a sobering commentary on the dangers of premature judgment. This impactful film endures as a powerful reminder of the human cost of unfounded suspicions and the struggle for justice amid a sea of misinformation.

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  • Indictment: The McMartin Trial
    14

    Indictment: The McMartin Trial

    James Woods, Mercedes Ruehl, Sada Thompson
    13 votes

    Based on the infamous McMartin preschool trial of the 1980s, Indictment: The McMartin Trial is a riveting courtroom drama that examines the devastating consequences of mass hysteria, prejudice, and false accusations. James Woods delivers an exceptional performance as Danny Davis, the defense attorney fighting to prove the innocence of the McMartin family members accused of child abuse. With its taut storytelling and powerful study of the larger societal issues surrounding the case, Indictment offers a chilling look at the ease with which lives can be destroyed by unfounded allegations. This unforgettable film serves as a stark reminder of the importance of due process, critical thinking, and the relentless pursuit of the truth.

  • The Net
    15

    The Net

    Sandra Bullock, Jeremy Northam, Dennis Miller
    10 votes

    In the suspenseful cyber-thriller The Net, Sandra Bullock stars as a computer programmer who becomes entangled in a web of deceit and false accusations after stumbling upon a dangerous conspiracy. The film's engaging premise and tight pacing, along with Bullock's sympathetic performance, make The Net a thrilling study of the dark side of technology and the vulnerability of identity in the digital age. As Bullock's character desperately attempts to clear her name and unravel the conspiracy, The Net delves into the isolation, paranoia, and determination that often accompany false accusations. This standout thriller remains a chilling reminder of the dangers of identity theft and the vulnerability of our digital lives.

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  • JCVD
    16

    JCVD

    Jean-Claude Van Damme, François Damiens, Zinedine Soualem
    10 votes

    In the innovative and genre-defying film JCVD, action star Jean-Claude Van Damme plays a fictionalized version of himself, who becomes embroiled in a real-life hostage situation and is falsely accused of being the mastermind behind it. The film's clever meta-narrative and self-aware humor, combined with Van Damme's surprising dramatic range, make JCVD a unique cinematic experience that expertly explores the theme of false accusation. As Van Damme's character struggles to prove his innocence and save the hostages, the film blurs the lines between fiction and reality, offering a thought-provoking meditation on identity, celebrity, and truth. JCVD is a bold, original, and engaging portrait of the struggle for exoneration in the public eye.

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  • The Green Mile
    17

    The Green Mile

    Tom Hanks, David Morse, Michael Clarke Duncan
    4 votes

    Set during the Great Depression, The Green Mile is a poignant and supernatural tale of a wrongfully accused death row inmate with extraordinary abilities. Based on Stephen King's acclaimed novel, this moving film explores themes of redemption, compassion, and the inherent struggle for justice. With powerful performances by Tom Hanks as the sympathetic prison guard and Michael Clarke Duncan as the gentle giant on death row, The Green Mile stands as a haunting and unforgettable examination of the human capacity for empathy and forgiveness in the face of false accusations. This emotionally charged film remains an enduring masterpiece that deeply resonates with viewers.

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  • Reasonable Doubt
    18

    Reasonable Doubt

    Dominic Cooper, Samuel L. Jackson, Gloria Reuben
    9 votes

    Starring Dominic Cooper and Samuel L. Jackson, Reasonable Doubt is a suspenseful legal thriller that delves into the complex relationship between truth, justice, and morality. Following the story of an ambitious district attorney who is entangled in a hit-and-run case, the film expertly examines the consequences of wrongful accusations and the devastating impact on those involved. With its gripping narrative, unpredictable twists, and stellar performances, Reasonable Doubt offers a compelling study of guilt, responsibility, and the ethical dilemmas faced by those seeking to rectify injustice. This tense and thought-provoking film cements its place among the best movies about being wrongly accused.

  • Marshall
    19

    Marshall

    Chadwick Boseman, Josh Gad, Kate Hudson
    7 votes

    Chadwick Boseman shines in Marshall, a powerful biographical drama that tells the story of Thurgood Marshall, the first African-American Supreme Court Justice, and his battle to exonerate a Black man falsely accused of rape. The film focuses on one of Marshall's early cases, showcasing the pervasive racism and injustice he fought against while working for the NAACP. With its riveting storytelling, superb performances, and unflinching examination of racial prejudice, Marshall serves as an important and inspiring reminder of the tireless fight for justice and equality. This impactful film is an essential addition to the library of movies about the wrongly accused.

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  • U.S. Marshals
    20

    U.S. Marshals

    Tommy Lee Jones, Wesley Snipes, Robert Downey
    10 votes

    As a spin-off of The Fugitive, U.S. Marshals boasts an action-packed and suspenseful narrative centered around the relentless pursuit of a former government operative falsely accused of espionage. With Tommy Lee Jones reprising his role as the tenacious Marshal Sam Gerard, this high-stakes thrill ride delves into the murky world of government secrets and conspiracies. The film's edge-of-your-seat pacing and engrossing storyline make U.S. Marshals a standout entry among movies about being wrongly accused. Its interesting portrayal of the desperate quest for exoneration and truth remains an enduring testament to the power of determination and resilience.

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  • The Next Three Days
    21

    The Next Three Days

    Russell Crowe, Elizabeth Banks, Brian Dennehy
    8 votes

    In The Next Three Days, Russell Crowe stars as a devoted husband and father who takes matters into his own hands when his wife is wrongfully convicted of murder. This tense and exhilarating thriller explores the lengths one man is willing to go to prove his wife's innocence and secure her freedom. With its intricate plotting, heart-pounding action sequences, and emotional resonance, The Next Three Days provides a gripping and moving study of love, sacrifice, and the desperate pursuit of justice. This thrilling film continues to captivate audiences as a shining example of the wrongly accused genre.

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  • Honest Thief
    22

    Honest Thief

    Liam Neeson, Kate Walsh, Jai Courtney
    8 votes

    In a unique spin on the falsely accused theme, Honest Thief follows a former bank robber who, after turning himself in, finds himself framed for a murder he didn't commit. Liam Neeson delivers a riveting performance as a man caught in a web of corruption, deceit, and betrayal, determined to clear his name and uncover the truth. This fast-paced thriller skillfully combines high-stakes action with an emotionally charged story of redemption and the fight for justice. Honest Thief stands as a compelling addition to the lineup of movies about being wrongly accused that both entertains and intrigues.

  • Out of Time
    23

    Out of Time

    Denzel Washington, Eva Mendes, Sanaa Lathan
    4 votes

    Starring Denzel Washington as a small-town police chief embroiled in a double murder investigation where he becomes the prime suspect, Out of Time is a interesting and suspenseful crime thriller. The film expertly weaves a complex tale of deception, betrayal, and frame-ups, showcasing Washington's stellar performance as a man trapped in a tightening web of false accusations. With its engaging plot, dynamic pacing, and superb acting, Out of Time serves as an enthralling study of the desperate struggle for exoneration and redemption. This masterfully crafted thriller remains a standout entry among the best movies about being wrongly accused.

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  • Life
    24

    Life

    Eddie Murphy, Martin Lawrence, Obba Babatunde
    4 votes

    Starring Eddie Murphy and Martin Lawrence, Life is a heartwarming yet bittersweet comedy-drama that follows the story of two mismatched friends wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. Despite its comedic elements, the film poignantly explores themes of friendship, hope, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of injustice. With its memorable characters, engaging narrative, and emotional depth, Life offers a unique and touching perspective on the impact of wrongful accusations on individuals and their relationships. This deeply affecting film stands as a testament to the enduring power of hope, even in the darkest of circumstances.

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  • Unlawful Entry
    25

    Unlawful Entry

    Kurt Russell, Ray Liotta, Madeleine Stowe
    4 votes

    In Unlawful Entry, Kurt Russell and Madeleine Stowe play a couple caught in a terrifying nightmare of police corruption and obsession, when a seemingly helpful officer (played chillingly by Ray Liotta) becomes increasingly dangerous. This tense psychological thriller delves into the insidious nature of abuse of power and the vulnerability of ordinary people when faced with false accusations. With its captivating story, suspenseful pacing, and superb performances, Unlawful Entry serves as a haunting study of the dark side of authority and the desperate struggle for truth and justice. This gripping film remains an unforgettable addition to the genre of movies about being wrongly accused.

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  • The Bonfire of the Vanities
    26

    The Bonfire of the Vanities

    Tom Hanks, Bruce Willis, Melanie Griffith
    14 votes

    Based on Tom Wolfe's celebrated satirical novel, The Bonfire of the Vanities is a darkly comedic study of ambition, greed, and the capricious nature of justice. The film follows the intertwined lives of several colorful characters, including a Wall Street trader (played by Tom Hanks) who becomes embroiled in a high-profile scandal and wrongful accusation. With its biting wit, incisive social commentary, and stellar ensemble cast, The Bonfire of the Vanities offers an entertaining and thought-provoking look at the absurdity and unpredictability of life in the spotlight. This compelling film endures as a sharp critique of a world where the quest for justice often takes a backseat to more salacious pursuits.

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  • Red Corner
    27

    Red Corner

    Richard Gere, Bai Ling, Bradley Whitford
    9 votes

    In Red Corner, Richard Gere stars as an American businessman framed for murder in China, who finds himself trapped in a nightmarish legal system rife with corruption and injustice. This interesting thriller delves into the harrowing ordeal of an innocent man caught in a web of false accusations, cultural barriers, and bureaucratic entanglements. With its suspenseful plotting, powerful performances, and unyielding portrayal of a foreign justice system, Red Corner stands as a sobering study of the devastating impact of being wrongly accused. This riveting film continues to captivate audiences with its thrilling and cautionary tale.

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  • The Life of David Gale
    28

    The Life of David Gale

    Kevin Spacey, Kate Winslet, Laura Linney
    9 votes

    In The Life of David Gale, Kevin Spacey delivers a compelling performance as a renowned death penalty opponent who suddenly finds himself on death row for the murder of a fellow activist. This provocative thriller weaves a complex and intriguing tale of conspiracy, betrayal, and the search for truth amid a sea of deception. With its thought-provoking narrative, dynamic pacing, and superb acting, The Life of David Gale serves as an enthralling study of the desperate struggle for exoneration and the harsh realities of capital punishment. This captivating film endures as a haunting testament to the high stakes surrounding the debate over wrongful convictions and the death penalty.

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  • The Hunt
    29

    The Hunt

    Mads Mikkelsen, Alexandra Rapaport, Thomas Bo Larsen
    9 votes

    The Hunt is a deeply unsettling and engrossing drama that tells the story of a beloved schoolteacher (played by Mads Mikkelsen) who is falsely accused of child abuse, resulting in a maelstrom of suspicion and hysteria within his tight-knit community. This critically acclaimed Danish film explores the devastating consequences of unfounded allegations, as well as the fragile nature of trust and the cruel power of mob mentality. With its poignant storytelling, mesmerizing performances, and uncompromising examination of social dynamics, The Hunt stands as a vital and haunting study of the devastating impact of wrongful accusations. This masterful film is an essential viewing for those seeking an unflinching examination of the human cost of false allegations.

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  • Suspect
    30

    Suspect

    Cher, Dennis Quaid, Liam Neeson
    7 votes

    In Suspect, Cher stars as a public defender assigned to represent a homeless deaf-mute man (played by Liam Neeson) who has been wrongfully accused of murder. This engrossing courtroom drama expertly explores themes of bias, prejudice, and the inherent flaws within the judicial system. With its captivating story, powerful performances, and thought-provoking study of the obstacles faced by marginalized communities in the pursuit of justice, Suspect remains a compelling addition to the genre of movies about being wrongly accused. This standout film serves as a gripping reminder of the importance of empathy and due process in the face of prejudice and injustice.

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