If you were captivated by the intense drama and psychological depth of 'Monster (2014),' you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of crime, redemption, and complex characters. Whether you're a fan of gripping narratives or powerful performances, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a brilliant yet terrifying serial killer, exploring themes of manipulation, fear, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Fact: It is one of only three films to win the 'Big Five' Academy Awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Screenplay.


Se7en (1995)
Description: A dark and gritty crime thriller that follows two detectives as they hunt a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his motives, creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere.
Fact: The film's title is stylized as 'Se7en' to reflect the killer's obsession with the number seven, including the seven deadly sins and the seven days of the week.


Zodiac (2007)
Description: A meticulous and chilling exploration of the hunt for the infamous Zodiac Killer, focusing on the psychological toll the investigation takes on those involved.
Fact: The film is based on real-life events and includes detailed recreations of the Zodiac Killer's letters and ciphers, some of which remain unsolved to this day.


The Killing (2011)
Description: A slow-burning crime drama that follows the investigation of a single murder case, exploring the emotional and psychological impact on both the detectives and the victim's family.
Fact: The show was originally based on a Danish series called 'Forbrydelsen,' and its American adaptation retained much of the original's moody, atmospheric tone.


Hannibal (2013)
Description: A psychological horror series that explores the complex relationship between a brilliant psychiatrist and a gifted criminal profiler, filled with dark themes and visceral imagery.
Fact: The show's elaborate food scenes, often featuring human flesh, were created by a professional food stylist and are entirely edible, though made from non-human ingredients.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A British crime drama that examines the aftermath of a young boy's murder in a small coastal town, focusing on the community's grief and the detectives' relentless pursuit of the truth.
Fact: The show's stunning coastal scenery was filmed in Dorset, England, and the location became a tourist attraction after the series aired.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A crime drama that focuses on the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer, with a strong emphasis on character development and psychological tension.
Fact: The series was filmed in Northern Ireland, and its depiction of Belfast as a modern, cosmopolitan city was a deliberate choice to contrast with its usual portrayal in media.


True Detective (2014)
Description: An anthology crime series that delves deep into the psyches of its detectives and criminals, with a strong emphasis on atmospheric storytelling and moral ambiguity.
Fact: The first season features a single, continuous six-minute tracking shot during a shootout, which was filmed without any cuts or digital effects.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: A psychological thriller that follows a journalist returning to her hometown to investigate a series of murders, uncovering dark family secrets and personal demons.
Fact: The series features a haunting soundtrack and uses subliminal imagery to reflect the protagonist's fractured mental state.


The Sinner (2017)
Description: A mystery thriller that explores the reasons behind seemingly ordinary people committing violent crimes, delving into themes of trauma, memory, and hidden darkness.
Fact: Each season of the show focuses on a different crime and protagonist, with the first season being based on a novel by Petra Hammesfahr.
