11 Best Crime Shows On Netflix

There’s a certain pleasure found in the structure of well-crafted crime series, explaining their enduring success since Sir Arthur Conan Doyle penned Sherlock Holmes tales in the 19th century. Despite its grittier and nihilistic portrayals, crime fiction provides tension without genuine danger, offering a universe where clues can be examined and analyzed, with an unspoken assurance that every mystery will be solved – filled with characters whose complex moralities add depth to their humanity.

Netflix boasts an impressive collection of gripping crime series, ranging from original productions like the psychological thriller “Mindhunter” to critically acclaimed shows acquired from other streaming platforms or networks such as “Dexter.” Whether you’re looking for a straightforward crime series that keeps you entertained while multitasking, or something more profound and impactful like the historical drama “Peaky Blinders,” Netflix offers a diverse range of top-notch choices within the crime genre — including some of the best crime shows ever made.

Mindhunter

Before the television show “Criminal Minds” began using pop psychology to portray criminal profiles, John E. Douglas, a pioneer in the field of profiling as an FBI Special Agent, was working at Quantico’s Behavioral Science Unit (BSU). Based on Douglas’ book detailing his time profiling serial killers, “Mindhunter” offers a fictionalized account of Douglas’ early days, featuring interviews with notorious criminals such as Dennis Rader, Richard Speck, and David Berkowitz. The series features FBI agents Holden Ford (portrayed by Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany), who stand in for Douglas and his real-life counterpart Robert K. Ressler, respectively.

Though ‘Mindhunter’ might not be the darkest or intricate crime series on Netflix, its exploration into the psychological aspects of FBI profiling makes it an enjoyable viewing experience for enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate true crime documentaries. With characters like Ed Kemper, Jerry Brudos, and Charles Manson from real-life serial killers in its roster, this show offers a distinctive fusion of reality and drama.

Cast: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
Creator: Joe Penhall
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 34–73 minutes

The Blacklist

Throughout its entirety, the success of “The Blacklist” can be attributed to James Spader. Much like other characters he portrays, Spader brings a captivating charm and allure to his role as Raymond Reddington, a notorious figure known as the “Concierge of Crime.” Formerly an officer in the U.S. Navy and a master spy, Reddington possesses a flexible moral compass that allows him access to a list he calls the “Blacklist,” a unique collection of the world’s most dangerous criminals.

In this crime drama, James Spader’s character Reddington uses his expertise to infiltrate FBI intelligence, delve into a complex dynamic with a woman who might be his daughter, Elizabeth Keen (played by Megan Boone). Throughout the series, Red spends his days assisting Liz in tracking down his extensive roster of “Blacklisters.” The show’s intriguing narrative revolves around secrets concerning Red’s identity and his relationship with Liz, which are intertwined with the central enigma. The outlandish premise of this series, which is based on an implausible FBI-Reddington partnership, is one of the reasons it’s so enjoyable to watch. Although the FBI plays a role, they’re not the focal point of the story. Instead, the series can be seen as James Spader’s captivating performance with everything else serving as mere embellishment.

Cast: James Spader, Megan Boone, Ryan Eggold
Creator: Jon Bokenkamp
Rating: TV-14
Runtime: 40-45 minutes

The Lincoln Lawyer

A legal thriller titled “The Lincoln Lawyer” revolves around a defense attorney in Los Angeles who cruises around town in a Lincoln Navigator and manages to keep good terms with his former wives. This series, unlike many procedurals, offers a well-crafted narrative that’s both engaging and of high quality due to its strong scriptwriting and acting performances. Originally, the story was transformed into a 2011 movie starring Matthew McConaughey. It is inspired by real-life events and is based on a novel written by detective novelist Michael Joseph Connelly, who is also known for creating the “Bosch” book series.

The narrative centers around lawyer Mickey Haller, portrayed by Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, who harbors an affection for Lincolns and possesses a remarkable ability to empathize, which appears to be influenced by his own journey of recovery from addiction. Garcia-Rulfo delivers a captivating performance in an unusual case where the series isn’t primarily focused on characters marred by deep personal struggles or dysfunction. Instead, the wholesome interactions between Haller and his exes offer a refreshing change of pace.

In terms of themes, “The Lincoln Lawyer” bears similarities to Billy Bob Thornton’s “Goliath,” as both stories revolve around a California attorney with a complex personal backstory.

Cast: Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Neve Campbell, Becki Newton
Creator: David E. Kelley
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 43–56 minutes

The Gentlemen

A crime-themed TV show, modeled after Guy Ritchie’s 2019 film “The Gentlemen,” follows a storyline where a young man who is typically serious and responsible unexpectedly inherits both his family estate and the dukedom, as well as an unbeknownst-to-him cannabis business that has been secretly sustaining its financial health. It’s a dark comedy with a twist of surprises.

Following his appointment as a United Nations peacekeeping officer and his inheritance of Halstead Manor along with the title of 14th Duke of Halstead, Eddie Horniman (Theo James) encounters an unexpected series of troubles. Almost immediately, he is compelled to make an agonizing choice: sell his ancestral home or save his brother Freddy’s life from a menacing Liverpool cocaine dealer. In no time, Eddie finds himself ensnared in the marijuana trade, employing a crime scene cleaner to conceal a deceased body and crossing paths with a motley assortment of individuals, ranging from international criminal organizations to a hidden Nazi.

A rollercoaster journey right from the start, “The Gentleman” is vibrant, peculiar, intense, and absurd – even extravagant, making it hard to resist binge-watching in a single day. This witty, lesser-known series won an Emmy for exceptional stunt coordination in a comedy series, and it’s set in an unusual crime saga that you wouldn’t normally associate with a grand old manor in the British countryside. However, the presence of Giancarlo Esposito alone makes it worth giving a try.

Cast: Theo James, Joely Richardson, Giancarlo Esposito
Creator: Guy Ritchie
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 43–67 minutes

Dexter

Today, serial killer characters have their own distinct subcategory of stories, such as psychological thrillers like “You,” “Bates Motel,” and “Hannibal.” However, “Dexter,” the Miami-based crime drama starring Michael C. Hall as a professional blood spatter analyst with an affinity for blood, was one of the first to establish this genre.

In simpler terms, when young Dexter Morgan is learning about his inner “dark passenger,” his adoptive police father Harry (played by James Remar) shares a set of rules, or the “Code of Harry,” which allows Dexter to satisfy his bloodlust without getting caught. The series mainly revolves around Dexter’s challenging effort to maintain two distinct personalities and convincingly portray some semblance of humanity while living an ordinary life, all the while dealing with various investigations and forensics.

The critically acclaimed crime drama series, recognized with four Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globes, carries a dark, humorous tone while delving into themes of duality, morality, and the shortcomings of the American justice system. Originating from a collection of novels, “Dexter” offers a gratifying viewing experience, enriched by its two prequel shows, “Dexter: New Blood” and “Dexter: Original Sin.” A forthcoming spin-off titled “Dexter: Resurrection” is slated for release in 2025.

Cast: Michael C. Hall, Julie Benz, Jennifer Carpenter
Creators: Jeff Lindsay, James Manos Jr.
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 47-58 minutes

Narcos

Narcos” is a series that primarily follows the tale of Pablo Escobar (played by Wagner Moura), a notorious Colombian drug lord, and his criminal empire from the standpoint of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Steve Murphy, a DEA agent based in Colombia (portrayed by Boyd Holbrook), narrates this story as it unfolds over several decades, starting from the late 1970s when Escobar was establishing himself in the cocaine trade. The show delves into Escobar’s transformation, tracing his journey from his early days in the Medellín underworld, where a Chilean exile and chemist presented him with the idea that would make him millions.

The show chronicles how they ascend to wealth and recognition by entering the U.S. market with their product, unleashing a Pandora’s box that remains open indefinitely. As their enterprise flourishes, so do their conflicts with the DEA and rival cartels. Unlike many depictions of drug lords as stereotypical figures, “Narcos” offers a more comprehensive perspective on their reasons for action. Critics also commend Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Javier Peña, which is particularly noteworthy up until his departure at the end of Season 3.

Cast: Wagner Moura, Boyd Holbrook, Pedro Pascal
Creators: Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, Doug Miro
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 43–60 minutes

Dark Winds

Dark Winds”

Description: This is a gripping psychological thriller crime series from AMC, co-produced by Hollywood legend Robert Redford and renowned author George R.R. Martin. The show boasts a predominantly Native American cast and is based on Tony Hillerman’s “Leaphorn and Chee” Navajo Tribal Police crime novels.

Set in the 1970s in the Four Corners region of the Colorado Plateau, where the Navajo Nation coexists with other tribal nations, “Dark Winds” unfolds from the perspective of Navajo County tribal police officer Lieutenant Joe Leaphorn (played by Zahn McClarnon). The series delves into his investigation of a series of murders linked to an armored truck heist and a stolen helicopter.

Zahn McClarnon delivers a remarkable performance in this Native American-focused narrative that aspires to honor its origins. Following the first season receiving criticism from Navajo Times and various influencers for its flawed portrayal of their language and culture, the production team made significant changes, bringing on board Navajo cultural advisor George R. Joe to guide them towards improvement. The series boasts strong narrative flow, captivating characters, a nostalgic atmosphere, and cinematic plot development, making it a well-crafted modern western mystery.

The series cleverly blends supernatural aspects and Navajo spirituality, without sacrificing its main plot or authentic feel. One IMDb reviewer complimented this method by saying, “It’s not like X-Files with Bigfoot appearing randomly, but rather skillfully […] They grasp the idea, Less Is More.

Cast: Zahn McClarnon, Kiowa Gordon, Jessica Matten
Creator: Graham Roland
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 39-53 minutes

Ozark

Prior to his role in “Ozark”, Jason Bateman, once a renowned child actor, was primarily recognized for his comedic talent, featuring in numerous sitcoms and family movies, with his standout performance as the straight-man Michael Bluth in “Arrested Development” being particularly memorable. In contrast, “Ozark” presents Bateman as a new type of family man – one who could almost be an alternate version of Michael Bluth – as he takes on the character of Marty Byrde, a financial advisor turned money launderer.

The ordeal for the Byrde family starts when their patriarch, Marty, witnesses his business partner being brutally murdered due to their involvement in a money laundering operation. To avoid meeting the same fate, Marty makes a dangerous pact with a drug cartel by devising a quick plan to launder money along the Ozarks’ lakefront. With no warning, the Byrde family hastily moves to this area, where they are compelled to wash $8 million within three months under the watchful eye of the cartel. Upon settling into the seemingly magical surroundings, they soon realize they’ve taken on more than they can handle. Despite their ability to navigate tricky situations, Marty and his wife Wendy (played by Laura Linney) find themselves in over their heads.

This series stands out with its compelling storyline, filled with tension, set in a Southern Gothic atmosphere. It garnered four Primetime Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe, reflecting its power. Notably, it features exceptional performances from guest actors like Esai Morales, Janet McTeer, Bruce Davison, Jason Butler Harner, and Lisa Emery.

Cast: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Julia Garner
Director: Bill Dubuque, Mark Williams
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 51-80 minutes

Peaky Blinders

Peaky Blinders”, a BAFTA-winning crime drama, is modeled after an actual 20th-century British street gang of the same name, known for activities such as racketeering, robbery, gambling, and chaos. This series offers a raw portrayal of life in Birmingham’s underworld following World War I. The cast includes Cillian Murphy, who played the title character in “Oppenheimer” not long ago, as Tommy Shelby, head of the Peaky Blinders gang, which comprises Romani and Irish Travelers. The Shelby family tree members manage this gang while dealing with law enforcement, rival gangs, and a society grappling with social and political turmoil.

The unique and multi-layered relationships within the family have received acclaim from both critics and viewers, along with Cillian Murphy’s outstanding portrayal of the unyielding Tommy Shelby. As a reviewer on IMDb stated, “Cillian Murphy is exceptional as Tommy Shelby; he’s powerful, strategic, and utterly captivating.

In the realm of aristocratic soap operas like “Downton Abbey,” I found myself immersed in the grittier, rawer world of “Peaky Blinders.” This series takes us deep into the underbelly of early 20th century England’s working class, a time when Winston Churchill was grappling with IRA militants and Communist factions. It’s often compared to “Boardwalk Empire,” another hard-hitting crime drama, this one starring Steve Buscemi, set in the ruthless streets of 1920s New Jersey.

Cast: Cillian Murphy, Sam Neill, Helen McCrory
Creator: Steven Knight
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 55–83 minutes

Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad,” a gripping tale that blends elements of moral cautionary tales and critiques on the American dream, garnered an impressive 16 Emmy Awards, setting the stage for Jason Bateman’s transformation from charming sitcom dad to ruthless criminal in “Ozark.” The character portrayed by Bryan Cranston, a once-humble high school chemistry teacher turned notorious methamphetamine producer Walter White, has become one of the most enduring and influential roles on television. Decades after the series finale, it continues to inspire countless memes and cultural references.

In a shocking turn of events, when White discovers he has terminal cancer following an unexpected collapse at work, he becomes acutely aware that he leaves behind nothing for his wife Skyler (Anna Gunn) and their teenage son, who suffers from cerebral palsy. A chance encounter on a police ride-along with his DEA brother-in-law triggers an impractical plan to exploit his chemical expertise by manufacturing methamphetamine in large quantities. With the assistance of his ex-student Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), White sets his enterprise into motion, unaware that it would eventually evolve into something far more sinister and beyond his grasp.

Cast: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul
Creator: Vince Gilligan
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 43–58 minutes

Better Call Saul

In an unusual case, “Better Call Saul” stands out as a series that may surpass its original show, “Breaking Bad.” This spin-off serves both as a prequel and sequel, focusing on the life of Saul Goodman, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk. Over time, this morally questionable lawyer finds himself becoming an advisor to Walter White and Jesse Pinkman.

The narrative of “Breaking Bad” prequel series, “Better Call Saul,” primarily focuses on the transformation of Jimmy McGill, a lawyer frustrated with his role as a struggling public defender, into the character we know as Saul. This metamorphosis unfolds as Jimmy tries to defend a county treasurer accused of embezzlement, which in turn introduces him to Nacho Vargo (Michael Mando) and Tuco Salamanca (Raymond Cruz). Over time, these connections lead Jimmy into the world of drugs.

Instead of “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul” doesn’t chart Jimmy’s transformation into a criminal mastermind. Instead, it delves into the ongoing struggle between his yearning for honesty and his constant inclination towards questionable actions, which eventually leads to the character we encounter in “Breaking Bad.” Unlike “Breaking Bad,” which is a grim drama, “Better Call Saul” is a dark comedy-drama that thrives on the absurdities found within its surroundings.

Cast: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Rhea Seehorn
Creators: Vince Gilligan, Peter Gould
Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 41–69 minutes

2025-02-08 15:31