10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Sherlock (2010)

Description: Like Sherlock, The Mentalist features a brilliant, observant protagonist who solves crimes using his keen intellect and psychological insight. Both shows blend procedural elements with ongoing character arcs and a touch of humor.

Fact: Simon Baker based his portrayal of Patrick Jane on Robert Downey Jr.'s Sherlock Holmes. The show was inspired by real-life mentalist and illusionist Uri Geller. The character of Red John was named after a real serial killer from the 16th century.

Description: Luther shares with Sherlock a dark, intense tone and a protagonist who is a genius detective with a troubled personal life. Both shows feature complex, psychologically driven cases and a charismatic lead performance.

Fact: Idris Elba won a Golden Globe for his role as John Luther. The show was originally conceived as a more traditional police procedural before evolving into its current form. Luther's iconic coat was chosen because it made Elba look like a 'wolf on the prowl'.

Description: Similar to Sherlock (2010), Elementary is a modern adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes stories, featuring a brilliant detective with keen observational skills and a troubled personal life. The show shares a procedural format with a strong focus on character development and complex mysteries.

Fact: Jonny Lee Miller, who plays Sherlock Holmes in Elementary, is a close friend of Benedict Cumberbatch, who played Sherlock in the BBC series. The show is set in New York City, a departure from the traditional London setting. Lucy Liu's portrayal of Joan Watson marked the first time the character was depicted as a woman.

Description: Hannibal, like Sherlock, features a brilliant, charismatic protagonist with a dark side. Both shows are visually stunning and explore the psychology of their characters in depth.

Fact: The show was cancelled after three seasons despite critical acclaim. Mads Mikkelsen never blinked when playing Hannibal to make him seem more alien. The food stylist created all the elaborate meals seen on the show.

Description: Broadchurch, like Sherlock, is a British crime drama that combines a gripping mystery with deep character study. Both shows feature stunning cinematography and a focus on how crimes affect communities.

Fact: David Tennant and Olivia Colman starred in all three seasons. The show was filmed in Dorset, where the cliffs became a character in themselves. The identity of the killer in season one was kept secret from most of the cast until filming.

Description: The Fall shares with Sherlock a cat-and-mouse game between a brilliant detective and a cunning criminal. Both shows are psychological thrillers that delve deep into the minds of their characters.

Fact: Gillian Anderson's character was originally written as a man. Jamie Dornan prepared for his role by studying serial killer documentaries. The show was filmed in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Description: Line of Duty shares with Sherlock a focus on brilliant investigators solving complex cases. Both shows feature twisty plots, sharp dialogue, and a mix of procedural and serialized storytelling.

Fact: The show is known for its intense interrogation scenes. Each series focuses on a different case while maintaining ongoing character arcs. The creator, Jed Mercurio, is also a trained doctor.

Description: True Detective shares with Sherlock a focus on brilliant but flawed detectives solving complex cases. Both shows feature intricate storytelling, philosophical undertones, and a strong sense of atmosphere.

Fact: Each season features a completely new cast and storyline. The first season's famous six-minute tracking shot took seven takes to perfect. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson's characters were originally written as much older men.

Description: The Night Of, like Sherlock, is a crime drama that focuses on the details of an investigation while exploring broader themes about justice and society. Both shows feature strong performances and meticulous storytelling.

Fact: Originally developed with James Gandolfini in the lead role. Riz Ahmed won an Emmy for his performance. The show is based on the British series Criminal Justice.

Description: The Alienist shares with Sherlock a period setting and a focus on a brilliant, unconventional detective using innovative methods to solve crimes. Both shows explore the darker aspects of human nature and society.

Fact: Based on Caleb Carr's bestselling novel. The title refers to an old term for psychiatrists. The show features one of the most accurate depictions of 19th century New York ever put on screen.