Johnny Depp's gritty crime thriller City of Lies is finally getting the attention it deserves as it lands on free streaming platform Plex in June 2026. The film, which many have compared to Training Day for its raw depiction of police work and corruption, stars Depp as LAPD detective Russell Poole, who spent years investigating the unsolved murders of Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G.
Directed by Brad Furman (The Lincoln Lawyer), City of Lies was released in 2018 but flew under the radar for many viewers. The movie pairs Depp with Forest Whitaker, who plays a journalist determined to uncover the truth behind the controversial cases. Together, they navigate a web of deceit, gang ties, and institutional cover-ups that plagued the LAPD during the 1990s.
For fans of true crime and police thrillers, this is a hidden gem that deserves a second look. The film's arrival on Plex makes it accessible to a wider audience without a subscription fee. If you enjoyed Harrison Ford's Oscar-Worthy Crime Thriller 'Witness' or Johnny Depp and Christian Bale's Crime Epic 'Public Enemies', this is right up your alley.
Why 'City of Lies' Stands Out
Unlike many Hollywood crime dramas, City of Lies sticks close to real events. Depp's portrayal of Russell Poole is both intense and nuanced, capturing the detective's obsession with justice. Whitaker's performance as journalist Randall Sullivan adds a layer of investigative journalism that keeps the story grounded.
The film doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of the case, including allegations of police corruption and the infamous Rampart scandal. It's a slow-burn thriller that rewards patient viewers with a complex narrative. For those who love 5 Thriller Series That Outpace Breaking Bad's Tension, this movie offers a similar level of suspense.
Streaming Details
City of Lies will be available to stream for free on Plex starting June 1, 2026. No subscription is required, though the platform is ad-supported. This is part of a broader trend of underrated thrillers finding new life on streaming services, much like Sigourney Weaver's Underrated Serial Killer Thriller 'Copycat' also hitting Plex this month.
If you missed City of Lies in theaters or on home video, now is the perfect time to catch up. It's a compelling addition to Depp's filmography and a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime or police procedurals. Don't let this overlooked thriller slip away again.
