If you loved the gripping crime drama 'Bordertown' (2016), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that deliver the same intense storytelling, complex characters, and dark atmospheres. Whether you're a fan of Nordic noir or just crave more thrilling mysteries, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Wallander (2008)
Description: A brooding detective series set in Sweden, focusing on a troubled protagonist who solves crimes while grappling with his own inner turmoil and the bleakness of his surroundings.
Fact: The series is based on Henning Mankell's novels and has been adapted multiple times, including a British version starring Kenneth Branagh.


Dark Winds (2022)
Description: A psychological thriller set in the Navajo Nation, combining crime-solving with cultural and spiritual elements, creating a unique and immersive narrative.
Fact: The show is based on the Leaphorn & Chee novels by Tony Hillerman and features a predominantly Native American cast and crew.


The Killing (2011)
Description: A dark, atmospheric crime drama that delves deep into the psychological and emotional toll of solving a murder case, with a strong focus on character development and intricate storytelling.
Fact: The series is based on the Danish show 'Forbrydelsen' and was praised for its slow-burning narrative and complex characters.


The Bridge (2011)
Description: A Nordic noir series that combines a complex murder investigation with themes of social issues and personal demons, featuring a unique partnership between detectives from different countries.
Fact: The original series was a collaboration between Sweden and Denmark, leading to its iconic setting on the Øresund Bridge.


Top of the Lake (2013)
Description: A haunting mystery set in a remote New Zealand town, blending crime investigation with themes of trauma, community secrets, and stunning natural landscapes.
Fact: The series was co-created by Jane Campion, known for her distinctive visual style and strong female protagonists.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: A gritty British crime series that balances intense police procedural elements with deep emotional storytelling, focusing on a resilient female detective.
Fact: The show's title refers to the nickname for the Calder Valley in West Yorkshire, where the series is set.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A gripping murder mystery set in a small coastal town, exploring the ripple effects of crime on a tight-knit community, with a heavy emphasis on emotional depth and suspense.
Fact: The show's stunning cinematography and haunting score contributed significantly to its eerie and melancholic atmosphere.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A tense cat-and-mouse drama between a detective and a serial killer, exploring the psychological depths of both the hunter and the hunted, with a slow-burning narrative.
Fact: The series was notable for its portrayal of a female detective pursuing a male serial killer, subverting traditional gender roles in crime dramas.


Shetland (2013)
Description: A crime drama set in the remote Shetland Islands, where the isolation and harsh landscape play a significant role in the storytelling, adding to the atmospheric tension.
Fact: The show is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves and has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the Shetland community.


Marcella (2016)
Description: A psychological crime thriller featuring a detective with a fractured personal life, whose investigations often blur the lines between her professional and private struggles.
Fact: The show's creator, Hans Rosenfeldt, also created 'The Bridge,' lending it a similar Nordic noir sensibility.
