If you're a fan of 'Bosch: Legacy' (2022) and its gripping mix of crime-solving, legal drama, and deep character development, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same intense atmosphere, complex storytelling, and compelling protagonists. Whether you love the gritty realism of Bosch's world or the intricate plots that keep you on the edge of your seat, these recommendations will satisfy your craving for more.

The Shield (2002)
Description: Like 'Bosch: Legacy', 'The Shield' is a gritty, morally complex police drama set in Los Angeles. Both shows feature antihero protagonists and explore the gray areas of law enforcement. The storytelling is intense and often unpredictable.
Fact: Starred Michael Chiklis as corrupt cop Vic Mackey. The show was groundbreaking for its raw, unflinching portrayal of police work. It was one of the first major hits for FX.


The Wire (2002)
Description: Like 'Bosch: Legacy', 'The Wire' is a gritty, realistic portrayal of crime and law enforcement. Both shows emphasize the systemic issues within the justice system and feature a large ensemble cast. The storytelling is slow-burning and deeply character-driven.
Fact: Created by former police reporter David Simon. The show is often cited as one of the greatest TV series of all time. It was filmed on location in Baltimore.


The Mentalist (2008)
Description: Both 'The Mentalist' and 'Bosch: Legacy' feature protagonists with unique skillsets solving crimes. While 'The Mentalist' is more lighthearted, both shows blend procedural elements with ongoing character arcs and explore themes of justice and redemption.
Fact: Starred Simon Baker as Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium. The show's main storyline revolved around Jane's hunt for the serial killer Red John. It was a major hit for CBS, running for seven seasons.


The Lincoln Lawyer (2022)
Description: Similar to 'Bosch: Legacy', 'The Lincoln Lawyer' is a legal drama with a strong focus on crime-solving and courtroom battles. Both shows feature protagonists who are deeply committed to justice, often bending the rules to achieve it. The storytelling is character-driven, with a mix of procedural and serialized elements.
Fact: Based on Michael Connelly's novels, just like 'Bosch: Legacy'. The protagonist, Mickey Haller, operates out of his Lincoln Town Car. The show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the legal system.


Justified (2010)
Description: 'Justified' and 'Bosch: Legacy' both feature charismatic, rule-bending lawmen as their protagonists. The shows blend procedural elements with long-form storytelling and have a strong sense of place (Kentucky for 'Justified', Los Angeles for 'Bosch'). Both also feature rich, well-developed supporting characters.
Fact: Based on Elmore Leonard's short story 'Fire in the Hole'. Starred Timothy Olyphant as U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens. The show was praised for its sharp dialogue and Western influences.


Longmire (2012)
Description: Both 'Longmire' and 'Bosch: Legacy' center around seasoned law enforcement officers dealing with personal and professional challenges. The shows mix procedural crime-solving with ongoing character arcs and explore themes of justice, morality, and redemption.
Fact: Based on the Walt Longmire mystery novels by Craig Johnson. The show was initially canceled by A&E but revived by Netflix. It blends modern crime drama with Western elements.


Elementary (2012)
Description: 'Elementary' and 'Bosch: Legacy' both modernize classic literary characters (Sherlock Holmes and Harry Bosch, respectively). The shows are character-driven, with a mix of procedural and serialized storytelling, and explore the protagonists' personal demons alongside their crime-solving.
Fact: Set in modern-day New York City. Starred Jonny Lee Miller as Sherlock Holmes and Lucy Liu as Joan Watson. The show was praised for its fresh take on the Holmes mythology.


Ray Donovan (2013)
Description: 'Ray Donovan' shares with 'Bosch: Legacy' a focus on a flawed protagonist navigating the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles. Both shows explore themes of family, loyalty, and corruption, and feature a mix of personal and professional storylines.
Fact: Starred Liev Schreiber as the titular fixer. The show was originally set in Los Angeles but moved to New York in later seasons. It was praised for its gritty realism and strong performances.


True Detective (2014)
Description: 'True Detective' shares with 'Bosch: Legacy' a noirish tone and a focus on complex, morally ambiguous characters. Both shows delve into the psychological toll of police work and feature intricate, multi-layered plots. The visual aesthetics are similarly moody and atmospheric.
Fact: Each season features a new cast and storyline. The first season starred Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson. The show is known for its philosophical dialogue and long takes.


Southland (2009)
Description: 'Southland' and 'Bosch: Legacy' both offer a realistic, street-level view of policing in Los Angeles. The shows are known for their authenticity, fast-paced storytelling, and focus on the day-to-day challenges faced by law enforcement.
Fact: Originally aired on NBC before moving to TNT. The show was praised for its documentary-style cinematography. It featured an ensemble cast including Regina King and Ben McKenzie.
