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Long before the rise of contemporary police procedural shows like CSI and Law & Order, as well as captivating crime dramas such as The Sopranos, there were already beloved crime series like Perry Mason and Dragnet that captivated audiences during the 1950s. This demonstrates that the fascination with crime shows is not a recent development and is likely to endure for the foreseeable future. As long as there exists the allure of solving crimes intertwined with engaging characters, viewers will continue to have an enduring appetite for crime series.
Some of the top crime shows on Netflix are incomplete without mentioning renowned series like Better Call Saul, Peaky Blinders, and Breaking Bad. These shows are considered iconic in the crime genre, with Breaking Bad standing out as the highest-rated show ever. It has garnered universal acclaim for its exceptional writing, stunning cinematography, and intricate character development.
Nonetheless, Netflix offers a range of other outstanding crime shows worth exploring. One such series is Top Boy, which is set to return for its fifth and final season in September. For those who have a passion for crime dramas, here’s a list of the best crime shows on Netflix to dive into.
15 Best Crime Shows on Netflix
Better Call Saul (2015-2020)
For those who first watched Breaking Bad before diving into the journey of Jimmy McGill in Better Call Saul, there’s a strong sense of empathy as they witness the humble beginnings of this lawyer. Created by Peter Gould and Vince Gilligan, this sequel explores Jimmy McGill’s transformation from a morally flexible and struggling lawyer to the infamous Saul Goodman. Like its outstanding predecessor, this crime series has also received plenty of acclaim, particularly for Bob Odenkirk’s portrayal of Jimmy McGill, which has been widely praised.
The show adeptly blends crime elements with legal drama, combining tragedy with just the right amount of humor to keep it truly engaging. While many viewers enjoy drawing comparisons with the original series, the praise and awards earned by Better Call Saul make it clear that it stands on its own as an exceptional show.
Ganglands (2021)
In the world of Ganglands, an experienced robber and an apprentice thief find themselves caught in a deadly conflict with a ruthless drug cartel, all while desperately working to protect their loved ones. This crime drama is packed with intense violence, betrayals, and high-speed action, and it’s filled with unexpected plot twists that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The intricate storyline is sure to engage and captivate audiences from beginning to end as Mehdi (played by Sami Bouajila) leads his band of thieves in a life-and-death struggle against this perilous cartel.
Although many of the cast members may not be well-known, they convincingly inhabit their characters, even though some viewers may have reservations about the acting quality. Nevertheless, the show’s commitment to realism, expertly crafted sound effects, unrelenting violence, and other attributes make it an incredibly addictive and enthralling series that will especially appeal to fans of gritty crime dramas.
Peaky Blinders (2013-2022)
If we were to compile a list of the greatest TV series of all time, it would be incomplete without mentioning this outstanding historical fiction show. Loosely inspired by a real English gang, this crime drama and psychological thriller revolves around the return of Thomas Shelby and his brothers to Birmingham after serving in the British Army during WWI. Thomas Shelby, as the leader of this gangster family, harbors ambitions that extend far beyond Birmingham, leading them into perilous conflicts.
Peaky Blinders masterfully blends historical facts with fictional storytelling, resulting in a truly distinctive and captivating narrative. The series has amassed a massive fan base thanks to its intricate plot, exceptional script, compelling characters, and gritty depiction of post-WWI Birmingham. Despite the fact that the show’s anti-hero characters should be detested, their exceptionally well-crafted portrayal elicits feelings of both sympathy and admiration from the viewers.
Narcos (2015-2017)
While Pablo Escobar is infamous as a drug lord, he has served as a muse for numerous movies, TV series, and various artistic expressions, showcasing humanity’s fascination with the enigmatic figure. One such show is “Narcos,” which delves into the criminal escapades of the Colombian drug lord and the emergence of other drug kingpins who plagued the nation over the years. It also depicts the relentless efforts of the US DEA to curtail the drug trade’s expansion and dismantle these powerful cartels.
In the crowded landscape of drug cartel-themed productions, “Narcos” distinguishes itself by offering a raw and authentic exploration of the intricacies of the trade and the immense risks individuals take to participate in such perilous endeavors. It is an enthralling series with a stellar ensemble cast, notably led by Wagner Moura and Pedro Pascal.
Top Boy (2011-2023)
Created by Ronan Bennet, the TV series Top Boy is set in the fictional London Housing estate of Summerhouse, offering a glimpse into the lives of individuals caught up in the drug trade and underworld crime. The story primarily follows two central characters, Dushane and Sully, as they strive to establish themselves as leaders in the drug scene of East London. Along the way, they encounter obstacles from rival gangs and law enforcement in their quest for power and respect.
This series is renowned for its compelling narrative and intricately developed characters, earning acclaim for its genuine portrayal of urban life and insightful social commentary. Despite its status as a well-crafted British crime drama, it remains somewhat underappreciated. Devotees of this gritty exploration of the darker aspects of London’s neighborhoods will be thrilled to hear that the fifth and final season is set to premiere in September.
Blacklist (2013-2023)
Blacklist is a beloved series that fans wish could go on forever, but it concluded in July 2023 after its 10th season premiered. The story begins with a former government agent and a notorious criminal who has been a fugitive for a long time deciding to surrender to the FBI. However, he has one condition: he will cooperate with the FBI only if he can speak with Elizabeth Keen.
While Blacklist is unquestionably a captivating show, its true essence lies in James Spader’s outstanding portrayal of Raymond Reddington. Reddington is one of the most iconic and formidable characters ever seen in the world of crime TV shows, thanks to Spader’s exceptional acting. He has truly crafted a memorable character. Although the show is not without its flaws, it remains one of the most popular and entertaining crime series available on Netflix, even after a decade of seasons.
MindHunter (2017-2019)
Without a doubt, Mindhunter is regarded as one of the top-notch shows available on Netflix, despite its premature conclusion after just two seasons. Developed by Joe Penhall, the plot revolves around two FBI agents who extensively explore the psyches of serial killers in order to comprehend their motivations. Mindhunter offers a fictionalized account of the inception of the FBI’s profiling initiative during the 1970s, making it a compelling choice for fans of police procedural series.
The series is impeccably crafted from start to finish, even though it might appear slow-paced on occasion. From the outstanding direction to the excellently written script and the exceptional performances by the cast, the show is truly outstanding. For those who appreciate David Fincher’s Zodiac or human drama series that don’t rely on high-energy action sequences, this will be a delightful treat.
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The Alienists (2018-2020)
Adapted from Caleb Carr’s gripping novel of the same name, “The Alienists” is an enthralling psychological thriller that unveils a new unsettling murder mystery with each season. Once you start watching, it’s hard to resist the show’s clever and well-crafted storytelling. The narrative is situated in the heart of New York City and revolves around the early pioneers of psychology and psychiatry who embark on a mission to unravel a series of gruesome and perplexing crimes that have confounded the city.
The series features Daniel Bruhl and Luke Evans as Dr. Kreizler and John, two individuals driven by a keen interest in understanding the criminal minds behind these heinous acts in their urban landscape. They are accompanied by Sarah, played by Dakota Fanning, a police department secretary aspiring to become a detective herself. “The Alienists” is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a superb murder mystery set against a historical backdrop. However, it’s important to note that the show’s graphic content may not be suitable for everyone due to its intensity.
In From the Cold (2022-Present)
In this spy thriller series, we follow the life of a single mother who appears to have a normal existence, but everything changes when her true identity as a former Russian spy is exposed. After being kidnapped by a CIA team, she faces a difficult choice: cooperate with them or risk losing her family. “In From the Cold” adds an intriguing sci-fi twist to the classic female assassin theme, blending it with the world of espionage. While it may not reach masterpiece status, the acting is commendable, and the premise is engaging enough to maintain viewers’ interest.
The show also keeps its audience guessing with unexpected plot twists and surprises. Margarita Levieva delivers an exceptional performance, particularly appealing to those who admire strong female characters. Fans will be excited to know that there are plans for both a second and third season of the series.
How to Get Away with Murder (2014-2020)
Netflix helped increase the already-popular status of ABC’s “How to Get Away with Murder,” a legal drama thriller featuring Viola Davis as Annalise Keating, a brilliant law professor whose life becomes entangled with murder mysteries involving her students. Viola Davis’s exceptional portrayal of the lead character earned her the historic achievement of becoming the first Black woman to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series, as reported by NPR, further enhancing the show’s reputation and appeal. While the series enjoyed critical acclaim and a devoted fan base throughout its six-season tenure, it experienced a decline in viewership during its later seasons, a common occurrence for long-running shows.
Ozark (2017-2022)
A series that revolves around ordinary people getting caught up in the criminal underworld has an undeniable appeal. Perhaps viewers find a connection with these characters, seeing themselves in their struggles or empathizing with their attempts to escape a life of crime. “Ozark,” starring Jason Bateman and Laura Linney as Marty and Wendy Byrde, is one such series where a seemingly regular family becomes unexpectedly entangled with a dangerous drug cartel.
The show unfolds as Marty becomes ensnared in a money laundering scheme gone awry. Now, he must take drastic measures to protect his family from a menacing Mexican drug cartel while also expanding his operation in the Ozarks. While “Ozark” offers a premise and characters that feel grounded in reality, it’s important to note that the show is a work of fiction. Nonetheless, it delivers the same level of intensity and well-crafted storytelling as “Breaking Bad.”
Who Killed Sara? (2021-2022)
This Mexican crime drama series follows the story of a young man who is falsely accused and imprisoned for the death of his sister. After his release, he is determined to uncover the truth about his sister’s murder and seek revenge on the family responsible for his wrongful imprisonment. “Who Killed Sara?” is a crime series that may not be suitable for everyone due to its explicit content and occasionally far-fetched plot elements.
While it may not cater to those seeking highly realistic crime shows, “Who Killed Sara?” is a great choice for viewers who enjoy melodramatic storytelling. Much like many telenovelas, it is filled with unexpected twists, intense drama, and should be enjoyed by those who don’t take it too seriously. While it may not be the pinnacle of television, it is certainly a series that you can easily binge-watch.
Babylon Berlin (2017-Present)
Based on Volker Kutscher’s novels, Babylon Berlin is a historical crime drama set in late-Weimar Republic Berlin. The series follows the journey of a young and ambitious police inspector named Geron, who is transferred from Cologne to Berlin to work in the vice department. In Berlin, he becomes deeply involved in a complex and perilous investigation, unraveling a series of enigmatic events.
Babylon Berlin delves into themes of corruption, power, and the quest for order in a city teetering on the brink of chaos. All of this unfolds against the backdrop of a meticulously recreated historical Berlin, which is visually stunning and captivating. The show is renowned for its opulent production, which creates a vibrant and immersive atmosphere that transports viewers to the Weimar era. This outstanding German series not only offers a compelling political narrative but also incorporates elements of suspense, romance, drama, and action.
Good Girls (2018-2021)
“Good Girls” can be likened to a female-centric version of “Breaking Bad” as it centers around three ordinary suburban housewives who become entangled with a drug cartel. Much like Walter White, these three mothers struggle to make ends meet, leading them to compromise their moral principles and delve deeper into a life of crime.
While the characters in “Good Girls” feel authentic due to their relatable roles as housewives, the show occasionally takes them to unrealistic extremes, which may be frustrating for viewers seeking a more grounded narrative. Some argue that the series declined in quality over time, but others still find its mix of dark humor and intense drama to be captivating and addictive. However, the repetitive plot and unlikeable characters hindered it from becoming universally beloved.
Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
Breaking Bad, which premiered on AMC in 2008, has emerged as one of the most successful television series in history. This remarkable show boasts an impressive record of 248 award nominations, with 92 victories to its name. It’s no exaggeration to say that the series is a true masterpiece, revolving around the transformation of a high-school chemistry teacher who takes a dark path after receiving a cancer diagnosis. The ensemble cast, including Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn, Giancarlo Esposito, Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, and others, played pivotal roles in shaping the series.
Behind the scenes, Vince Gilligan and a highly creative team made significant contributions to the profound impact of the show. What sets Breaking Bad apart is the depth of its characters, their relatability, and the exceptional performances delivered by the cast. Additionally, the cinematography expertly captures the ordinary aspects of the characters’ lives while skillfully weaving a powerful narrative about the consequences of one’s actions. Without a doubt, Breaking Bad stands as one of the most riveting crime dramas ever brought to the screen.
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