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Netflix is a haven for fans of crime dramas, offering a rich collection of gripping tales filled with mystery, intrigue, and suspense. While popular shows like The Blacklist, Peaky Blinders, and Mindhunters take the spotlight, there are hidden gems awaiting discovery. Despite lacking widespread recognition, these lesser-known narratives are equally captivating and deserving of acclaim.
One such underrated series is Florida Man, which made its debut on Netflix in April 2023. With just seven episodes, this limited series combines a treasure hunt, romance, and crime, ensuring an engaging experience with no dull moments. Although critics gave it mixed reviews, many viewers found the show delightful. Florida Man is just the tip of the iceberg; Netflix houses other hidden gems that may not enjoy the same fame as larger crime series.
Explore the realm of underrated crime shows on Netflix with this curated list of 15 captivating series.
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15 Underrated Crime Series You Can Watch on Netflix
Florida Man (2023)
Florida Man excels as a romantic crime thriller, seamlessly blending captivating father-son dynamics and unexpected plot twists to captivate its audience. The narrative revolves around Mike Valentine, a former Philadelphia cop grappling with gambling issues. His journey to Florida in search of a local mobster’s girlfriend takes an intriguing turn, leading him into a quest for hidden gold.
The brilliance of Florida Man lies in its ability to transcend the superficial appearance of a mere comedy series, offering a realistic portrayal of a hidden underworld behind the idyllic vacation scenes. Amidst the palm trees and tranquil oceans, the series delves into underground criminal activities, family conflicts, treasure hunts, and a gripping mix of action and drama. The well-crafted storyline is complemented by an outstanding cast delivering stellar performances, elevating the overall impact of the plot.
The Sinner (2017-2021)
The Sinner is an anthology TV series with a distinctive narrative approach, tackling a different case each season. Detective Harry Ambrose takes center stage, delving into violent and inexplicable crimes to uncover the motives and perpetrators.
What sets the show apart is its compelling storytelling, standout performances, nuanced character portrayals, and its delve into gritty and dark themes. Despite earning positive reviews, The Sinner often flies under the radar. However, for enthusiasts of police procedurals and intricately woven psychological thrillers, it offers a disturbing, intense, and gradually unfolding experience that is oddly captivating.
Alias Grace (2017)
Directed by Mary Heron and written by Sarah Polley, inspired by Margaret Atwood’s compelling 1996 novel, this Canadian miniseries explores the gripping tale of Grace Marks, an Irish immigrant maid ensnared in her employer’s murder. The narrative takes an intriguing turn when a psychologist becomes interested in her case.
What Sets It Apart Despite its status as a meticulously crafted true crime narrative and a captivating period piece filled with human drama and mystery, this six-hour miniseries remains significantly underrated. Across its concise six episodes, Heron’s sharp direction unveils the distressing and challenging aspects of Grace’s story, providing insight into the difficulties faced by women in that era. Sarah Gadon’s portrayal of Grace is outstanding, as she captures the character’s essence with a mix of innocence and determination.
Marcella (2016-2021)
Marcella is a compelling British Nordic noir crime series that centers around the life and investigations of Marcella Brackland, a former London detective returning to the force to probe a string of murders. The show stands out due to its well-crafted psychological drama, featuring a suspenseful and intricate plot that captivates viewers with its crime-solving mysteries. The characters, particularly Marcella, are intricately developed, bringing emotional depth to the storyline as they grapple with personal struggles. What sets this underrated series apart is its nuanced approach, not only unraveling the dark crimes Marcella investigates but also delving into her mental state and connection to the cases. Marcella is a must-watch for fans of meticulously written and expertly acted mystery shows.
Fauda (2015-Present)
“Fauda stands out as a compelling choice for those who appreciate intense, character-driven dramas set amidst geopolitical conflicts. This highly engaging yet somewhat underrated series provides a gripping portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, focusing on the endeavors of an undercover Israeli counter-terrorism unit.
What sets Fauda apart is its ability to deliver not only a thrilling crime narrative but also a tumultuous blend of chaos, love, fear, hope, excitement, betrayal, and unwavering national loyalty. The series unfolds as a roller-coaster of emotions, prompting viewers to laugh, cry, and develop a deep connection with its intricately developed characters. With its exceptional production quality, Fauda presents a remarkably realistic and suspenseful plot that seamlessly combines elements of drama, espionage, and psychological thriller, enhanced by outstanding performances. Packed with action and adventure, Fauda offers a heart-pounding experience that rightfully earns its place among the elite crime shows on Netflix.”
The Stranger (2020)
The Stranger, an eight-part British miniseries available on Netflix, may not be as widely recognized as some other crime series, but it offers a compelling blend of crime, drama, and mystery. The story revolves around a contentedly married man whose life takes a dark turn when a mysterious stranger unveils shocking family secrets. This revelation triggers a series of events that expose more hidden truths and interconnected mysteries.
What sets The Stranger apart is its dedicated fan base, drawn to its captivating plot twists, suspenseful atmosphere, and the intricate web of mysteries. Despite occasional far-fetched elements and plot holes, the series succeeds in keeping viewers entertained. It has earned acclaim for its mystery-laden storytelling, thrilling action sequences, and intriguing characters.
Giri/Haji (2019)
Produced jointly by the BBC and Netflix, the acclaimed crime series Giri/Haji stands out for its rich cultural exploration. Set in both London and Tokyo, the narrative revolves around Kenzo, a Tokyo detective tasked with bringing his troubled brother back from London, suspected of a Yakuza murder that has ignited a gang war in Tokyo.
What sets Giri/Haji apart is its meticulous character development, devoting significant time to unraveling the backgrounds and motivations of its morally ambiguous characters. In contrast to typical police procedural shows, the series skillfully balances its dark themes with genuinely humorous moments. The exceptional cinematography and compelling soundtrack contribute to an immersive viewing experience, complementing Takehiro Hiraganas’ outstanding portrayal of the well-defined character, Kenzo. For those yet to discover this hidden gem, now is an ideal opportunity to delve into the masterfully crafted world of Giri/Haji.
Get Shorty (2017-2019)
Get Shorty, adapted from Elmore Leonard’s novel and the 1995 film, delivers an engaging and satirical exploration of the crossroads between crime and Hollywood. Chris O’Dowd takes on the lead as Miles, a hitman seeking an escape from his criminal life by entering the world of Hollywood production.
The show stands out for its clever and darkly humorous portrayal of the entertainment industry, skillfully blending crime and Hollywood elements. Miles leverages his criminal expertise to navigate the industry, offering a fresh and entertaining perspective on achieving one’s ambitions. With a mix of comedy, crime, and drama, Get Shorty captivates viewers with its violent sequences, occasional humor, and character-driven plot. Underrated on Netflix, the series is a hidden gem boasting excellent performances and a consistently engaging storyline.
Ferry (2023-Present)
Continuing the storyline from the 2021 film of the same title, Ferry features Frank Lammers as a budding drug dealer facing financial desperation. The series chronicles his ascent from obscurity to becoming a notorious drug lord in Brabant.
What Sets It Apart Ferry appeals to fans of crime stories, especially those captivated by narratives revolving around gangsters, similar to popular Netflix crime shows like Narcos, Top Boy, and Breaking Bad. Despite potentially being underrated compared to these counterparts, Ferry stands out as a gripping and distinctive crime series. It introduces a resilient protagonist unafraid of challenges, coupled with commendable performances and a well-crafted, unpredictable plot that keeps viewers eagerly anticipating each episode.
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The Valhalla Murders (2019-2020)
The Valhalla Murders is a captivating crime series on Netflix that tends to be overlooked despite its impressive and gripping nature. Set in Iceland, this murder mystery follows a police profiler returning home to investigate the country’s first serial killer case, teaming up with a local cop named Kata. What sets it apart is its atmospheric setting, intricate characters, emotional depth, and exploration of cultural and religious themes within a modern mystery. The series is lauded for its visually stunning cinematography and well-executed suspense, creating a gritty atmosphere that keeps viewers engrossed and on the edge of their seats. The seamless combination of these elements results in a truly immersive and captivating experience.
Seven Seconds (2018)
If you have an inclination towards unhurried, emotionally charged storylines, Seven Seconds, the gripping crime series, is a perfect fit. Focused on the aftermath of a hit-and-run involving a Black teenager in Jersey, the narrative delves into the police department’s efforts to conceal the incident and the tumultuous trial that unfolds.
What Sets It Apart Apart from its impressive production quality, refined editing, compelling narrative, and a stellar cast featuring Emmy-winner Regina King, Claire-Hope Ashitey, and other talented actors, Seven Seconds stands out for its ability to evoke genuine empathy for its characters. The show captivates viewers right from the beginning, keeping them glued to the screen and eager for the next plot twists. Rooted in the exploration of racial tension, corruption, and a poignant quest for justice, it strikes a realistic yet heart-wrenching chord.
American Vandal (2017-2018)
American Vandal skillfully takes a humorous approach to true crime documentaries, making it a perfect choice for fans who enjoy satirical takes on the genre. The plot follows high school student filmmakers investigating a series of pranks, uncovering mysteries, secrets, and unexpected twists.
What Sets it Apart Despite being a well-executed and entertaining show filled with humor and a compelling mystery, American Vandal remains underrated on Netflix. While it may appear superficial or silly initially, the exceptional acting, directing, and writing elevate the seemingly trivial act of vandalism into a captivating mockumentary. The show balances humor and heartfelt moments, featuring great acting and beautiful cinematography that make it ideal for binge-watching.
Collateral (2018)
“Collateral, an eight-part miniseries set in London, provides a compelling option for those in search of concise yet captivating crime dramas. Following Detective Kip Glapsie’s inquiry into the shooting of a pizza delivery driver, the plot delves into organized crime, immigration challenges, and political corruption.
What Sets It Apart Collateral is a superb British crime series that improves with each episode. Despite its underrated status, it offers a unique perspective on the crime genre by tackling broader societal issues like immigration and human trafficking. The well-crafted characters, skillfully portrayed by a stellar cast led by Carey Mulligan, contribute to the show’s authenticity. Additionally, the series maintains a strong pace, building tension and keeping viewers engaged.”
Pieces of Her (2022)
Adapted from Karin Slaughter’s novel of the same name, Pieces of Her is a gripping crime thriller starring Toni Collette as the protagonist, Andrea. The story begins with a violent incident at a diner, unraveling dark secrets about Andrea’s mother. As Andrea delves into the truth, she becomes entangled in a dangerous web of secrets.
What sets Pieces of Her apart is its appeal to fans of mystery thrillers, particularly those interested in exploring family dynamics and the revelation of hidden truths. The series keeps viewers engaged with teasing glimpses of future developments and features intense action scenes. Given its absorbing and mysterious qualities, the show certainly deserves more recognition.
Safe (2018)
Crafted by crime novelist Harlan Coben and penned by Danny Brocklehurst, this gripping British crime series centers around Tom Deleaney (portrayed by Michael C. Hall), a widowed surgeon residing in a secure community. The narrative unfolds as he endeavors to locate his vanished teenage daughter, unraveling a tapestry of concealed truths about those in his proximity.
What Sets It Apart Safe captivates audiences with its fusion of a missing person storyline, intricately developed characters steering the narrative, and unexpected twists that catch viewers off guard. This underappreciated series is a must-see for enthusiasts of suspenseful dramas, mysteries, and whodunits, warranting more attention and conversation.
For those intrigued by this write-up and in search of compelling movies on Netflix, consider exploring this captivating video showcasing the most-watched films on the streaming platform.
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