10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Valley of Bones (2017)

Description: Similar to 'Valley of Bones' (2017), 'Bones' is a crime drama that delves into forensic anthropology and solving mysteries through human remains. Both shows blend procedural elements with darker, psychological undertones, though 'Bones' leans more towards a lighter tone with comedic elements. The focus on forensic science and criminal investigations makes them thematically similar.

Fact: 'Bones' is loosely based on the life and writings of forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs. The show ran for 12 seasons, making it one of the longest-running crime dramas on television. Emily Deschanel, who plays Dr. Temperance Brennan, is a vegetarian in real life, just like her character.

Description: 'Luther' and 'Valley of Bones' both feature intense, brooding detectives who are deeply affected by their cases. The psychological depth and the moral ambiguity of the protagonists are central to both shows. The dark, gritty atmosphere and the focus on violent crimes are also key similarities.

Fact: 'Luther' stars Idris Elba in the title role, earning him a Golden Globe. The show was created by Neil Cross, who also wrote the episodes. The character of Luther was inspired by Sherlock Holmes, but with a darker, more troubled psyche.

Description: 'The Killing' and 'Valley of Bones' both focus on the emotional and psychological toll of solving violent crimes. Both shows are character-driven and feature slow-burning, suspenseful narratives. The rainy, gloomy settings of 'The Killing' mirror the atmospheric tone of 'Valley of Bones'.

Fact: 'The Killing' is based on the Danish series 'Forbrydelsen'. The show was initially canceled after two seasons but was revived due to fan demand. The first season follows a single murder case over 13 episodes, a structure that was innovative at the time.

Description: Like 'Valley of Bones', 'Hannibal' is a psychological thriller that explores the darker aspects of human nature. Both shows feature intricate, cerebral storytelling and a focus on the relationship between the investigator and the criminal. The visual style of 'Hannibal' is highly stylized and artistic, similar to the moody aesthetics of 'Valley of Bones'.

Fact: 'Hannibal' is based on the characters from Thomas Harris's novels, particularly 'Red Dragon'. The show was known for its graphic violence and surreal dream sequences. Despite critical acclaim, the show was canceled after three seasons due to low ratings.

Description: Both 'Broadchurch' and 'Valley of Bones' are crime dramas that focus on small communities rocked by violent crimes. The emotional tone and the impact of the crimes on the community are central to both shows. The cinematography and pacing of 'Broadchurch' also mirror the atmospheric and suspenseful style of 'Valley of Bones'.

Fact: 'Broadchurch' was filmed in Dorset, England, and the location plays a significant role in the show's atmosphere. The show stars David Tennant and Olivia Colman, who won a BAFTA for her performance. The identity of the killer in the first season was kept secret from the cast until the final episodes were filmed.

Description: 'The Fall' shares with 'Valley of Bones' a focus on the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. Both shows are psychological thrillers that delve into the minds of both the investigators and the criminals. The dark, moody visuals and the tension-filled storytelling are key similarities.

Fact: 'The Fall' stars Gillian Anderson as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson. The show was created by Allan Cubitt, who also wrote every episode. Jamie Dornan, who plays the serial killer Paul Spector, went on to star in 'Fifty Shades of Grey'.

Description: Like 'Valley of Bones', 'True Detective' is a dark, atmospheric crime drama that delves into the psychological and philosophical aspects of its characters. Both shows feature complex narratives and a focus on the personal demons of the investigators. The visual style and tone of 'True Detective' are very similar to the moody, intense atmosphere of 'Valley of Bones'.

Fact: Each season of 'True Detective' features a new cast and storyline, with the first season starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson. The show's first season was heavily influenced by the works of horror writer Thomas Ligotti. The long tracking shot in episode 4 of season 1 is considered one of the best single-take scenes in television history.

Description: 'Sharp Objects' shares with 'Valley of Bones' a focus on a troubled protagonist returning to her hometown to solve a crime. Both shows explore themes of trauma, family secrets, and psychological distress. The dark, haunting tone and the emphasis on the protagonist's inner demons are key similarities.

Fact: 'Sharp Objects' is based on the novel by Gillian Flynn, who also wrote 'Gone Girl'. The show stars Amy Adams in her first major television role. The series was directed by Jean-Marc Vallée, known for his work on 'Big Little Lies'.

Description: 'The Alienist' shares with 'Valley of Bones' a dark, gritty atmosphere and a focus on solving gruesome crimes. Both are period pieces that explore the psychological aspects of crime, with 'The Alienist' set in 19th-century New York. The visual aesthetics and the exploration of the human psyche in the face of violence are key similarities.

Fact: 'The Alienist' is based on the novel by Caleb Carr. The term 'alienist' refers to an early term for a psychiatrist or psychologist. The show features a young Theodore Roosevelt as a police commissioner before he became president.

Description: 'The Sinner' and 'Valley of Bones' both explore the psychological depths of their characters, often focusing on why crimes were committed rather than who committed them. Both shows have a dark, brooding tone and feature protagonists with troubled pasts. The mystery and suspense elements are central to both series.

Fact: 'The Sinner' is based on the novel by Petra Hammesfahr. Each season follows a different case, with Jessica Biel starring in the first season. The show was originally intended to be a limited series but was renewed due to its popularity.