10 Shows and Movies Similar to Murder in a Small Town (2024)

Description: Both 'Twin Peaks' and 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)' revolve around the investigation of a murder in a small, seemingly idyllic town that reveals hidden darkness. 'Twin Peaks' blends crime drama with surreal and supernatural elements, creating a unique tone that, while different, shares the small-town mystery and deep character exploration of 'Murder in a Small Town'.

Fact: The show was created by David Lynch and Mark Frost, and its quirky, surreal style was groundbreaking for television. The question 'Who killed Laura Palmer?' became a cultural phenomenon. The show's iconic soundtrack was composed by Angelo Badalamenti.

Description: Both 'Mare of Easttown' and 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)' are set in small, working-class communities where a murder investigation exposes the town's secrets and the protagonist's personal struggles. The shows share a gritty, realistic tone and a focus on the emotional and social impact of crime.

Fact: Kate Winslet's performance as Mare Sheehan earned her an Emmy Award. The series was filmed in and around Philadelphia, with many local actors cast in supporting roles. The show's creator, Brad Ingelsby, drew from his own experiences growing up in Pennsylvania.

Description: 'The Killing' shares with 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)' a slow-burning, character-driven approach to crime-solving, where the focus is as much on the psychological impact of the crime as on the investigation itself. Both shows delve into the complexities of human nature and the dark undercurrents beneath seemingly peaceful communities.

Fact: The original Danish title is 'Forbrydelsen', which translates to 'The Crime'. The show's protagonist, Sarah Lund, became iconic for her Faroese sweaters. The series was remade in the U.S., but the original Danish version is often considered superior.

Description: 'Top of the Lake' and 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)' both center on the investigation of a crime in a remote, insular community, with a female detective at the helm. Both series explore themes of gender, power, and the natural environment, with a moody, atmospheric tone.

Fact: The series was co-created by Jane Campion, the first woman to win the Palme d'Or at Cannes. Elisabeth Moss stars as Detective Robin Griffin, a role that showcased her range beyond 'Mad Men'. The stunning New Zealand landscapes are almost a character in themselves.

Description: 'Happy Valley' and 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)' both feature strong, flawed female leads navigating the complexities of crime in a small community. Both series balance intense crime drama with deep character studies, exploring themes of grief, justice, and resilience.

Fact: The series is set in West Yorkshire, and the title refers to the area's drug problems. Sarah Lancashire's performance as Catherine Cawood is often cited as one of the best in British television. The show's creator, Sally Wainwright, is known for her strong female characters and realistic dialogue.

Description: Like 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)', 'Broadchurch' is a gripping crime drama set in a small, close-knit community where the murder of a young boy shakes the town to its core. Both series explore the ripple effects of crime on the community, the personal lives of the investigators, and the secrets that surface during the investigation. The emotional tone is similarly intense and melancholic, focusing on grief and moral dilemmas.

Fact: The series was filmed in Dorset, England, and the stunning coastal scenery plays a significant role in the show's atmosphere. David Tennant and Olivia Colman's performances were critically acclaimed, with Colman winning a BAFTA for her role. The show's creator, Chris Chibnall, later became the showrunner for 'Doctor Who'.

Description: Like 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)', 'The Fall' is a psychological crime drama that delves into the minds of both the detective and the killer. Both shows feature a cat-and-mouse dynamic and explore themes of obsession, power, and violence. The atmospheric tension and slow-burning narrative are key similarities.

Fact: Gillian Anderson stars as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, a role that revitalized her career. Jamie Dornan's portrayal of the serial killer Paul Spector was both chilling and nuanced. The series was filmed in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Description: Like 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)', 'True Detective' is a crime drama that delves deep into the psychological and philosophical aspects of its characters. Both shows feature intricate plots, atmospheric settings, and a focus on the personal lives of the detectives. The first season, in particular, shares a similar tone of existential dread and moral ambiguity.

Fact: The first season starred Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, whose performances were widely praised. The show's creator, Nic Pizzolatto, drew inspiration from weird fiction and philosophical texts. The long tracking shot in episode 4 is considered one of the greatest moments in television history.

Description: 'Sharp Objects' and 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)' both explore the psychological toll of returning to one's hometown to investigate a crime. Both series feature complex female protagonists grappling with personal demons while uncovering dark secrets in a small community. The atmospheric, slow-burning storytelling is a key similarity.

Fact: The series is based on Gillian Flynn's debut novel of the same name. Amy Adams delivered a critically acclaimed performance as the troubled journalist Camille Preaker. The show's haunting soundtrack was composed by The Acid's Adam Freeland.

Description: 'The Sinner' and 'Murder in a Small Town (2024)' both focus on crimes that seem inexplicable at first, with investigations that uncover deep-seated trauma and hidden motives. Both series are character-driven, exploring the psychological backgrounds of both the perpetrators and the investigators.

Fact: The first season is based on Petra Hammesfahr's novel of the same name. Jessica Biel served as both star and executive producer for the first season. Each season features a new case and protagonist, with Bill Pullman's Detective Harry Ambrose as the connecting thread.