If you're a fan of gripping crime dramas like 'London Kills' (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that deliver the same intense investigative thrill, complex characters, and dark urban mysteries. Whether you love the fast-paced storytelling or the gritty London setting, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dive in to discover your next binge-worthy obsession!

Vera (2011)
Description: 'Vera' shares with 'London Kills' a focus on a dedicated, no-nonsense female detective solving complex murders. Both shows feature detailed police work and a mix of personal and professional challenges for the lead character. The rural Northumberland setting of 'Vera' contrasts with urban London but both serve as integral backdrops.
Fact: Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. Brenda Blethyn stars as DCI Vera Stanhope. The series is known for its intricate plots and strong sense of place.


Scott & Bailey (2011)
Description: 'Scott & Bailey' shares with 'London Kills' a focus on female detectives navigating the challenges of police work and personal lives. Both shows emphasize realistic police procedures and the emotional weight of solving crimes. The strong female leads and workplace dynamics are key similarities.
Fact: Created by Sally Wainwright and Diane Taylor. Suranne Jones and Lesley Sharp star as the titular detectives. The series was praised for its authentic portrayal of female friendships and professional relationships.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: Like 'London Kills', 'Happy Valley' is a gritty British crime drama with a focus on a female detective navigating personal and professional challenges. Both shows blend police procedural elements with deep character studies and explore themes of trauma and resilience. The realistic dialogue and intense emotional stakes are key similarities.
Fact: Sarah Lancashire stars as Catherine Cawood, a no-nonsense police sergeant. The series is set in West Yorkshire and uses local dialects authentically. It won the BAFTA for Best Drama Series in


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: Like 'London Kills', 'Broadchurch' is a British crime drama that focuses on a tight-knit investigative team solving murders in a specific locale. Both shows emphasize character development and the emotional toll of police work. The picturesque yet eerie coastal setting of Broadchurch mirrors the urban grittiness of London, both serving as almost characters themselves in the narrative.
Fact: The show was filmed in Dorset, England, and significantly boosted tourism in the area. David Tennant and Olivia Colman's performances were critically acclaimed, with Colman winning a BAFTA for her role. The identity of the killer in Season 1 was kept secret from most of the cast to preserve suspense.


The Fall (2013)
Description: 'The Fall' shares with 'London Kills' a dark, psychological tone and a focus on a cat-and-mouse game between detective and killer. Both shows feature strong female leads and explore the psychological motivations behind crimes. The atmospheric tension and slow-burn narrative style are similar.
Fact: Gillian Anderson plays the lead role of Stella Gibson, a Metropolitan Police Superintendent. The series is set in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Jamie Dornan's portrayal of the serial killer Paul Spector earned widespread acclaim.


Line of Duty (2012)
Description: 'Line of Duty' shares with 'London Kills' a focus on police procedural elements and internal investigations, though it delves deeper into police corruption. Both series are known for their intense interrogation scenes and meticulous attention to detail in police work. The fast-paced storytelling and moral ambiguities are key similarities.
Fact: The series was created by Jed Mercurio, who also wrote 'Bodyguard'. It holds the record for the highest-rated drama series on BBC Two. The acronym 'AC-12' refers to the fictional Anti-Corruption Unit


Shetland (2013)
Description: 'Shetland' and 'London Kills' both feature small, close-knit investigative teams solving crimes in specific locales (the Shetland Islands vs. London). Both shows emphasize the interplay between setting and crime, with the environment playing a crucial role in the narrative. The slow-burn mystery and strong character arcs are similar.
Fact: Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. The show is filmed on location in the Shetland Islands, showcasing their stark beauty. Douglas Henshall won a BAFTA for his portrayal of DI Jimmy Perez.


No Offence (2015)
Description: Like 'London Kills', 'No Offence' is a British police procedural with a focus on a team of detectives solving crimes. However, 'No Offence' incorporates more dark humor and eccentric characters, balancing serious crime-solving with lighter moments. Both shows emphasize teamwork and the personal dynamics within the police force.
Fact: Created by Paul Abbott, known for 'Shameless'. The show is set in Manchester and features a predominantly female-led cast. It combines gritty crime drama with comedic elements, a unique blend for the genre.


Unforgotten (2015)
Description: This series, like 'London Kills', revolves around solving cold cases, emphasizing the impact of crime on victims' families and the detectives' personal lives. Both shows feature a female lead detective and explore themes of justice and redemption. The methodical, character-driven approach to solving crimes is a hallmark of both.
Fact: Each season deals with a different cold case, with storylines spanning multiple decades. Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar star as the lead detectives. The show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and emotional depth.


Marcella (2016)
Description: 'Marcella' and 'London Kills' both feature troubled female detectives returning to work after personal crises. Both shows blend police procedural elements with psychological drama, exploring the detectives' mental states as they solve crimes. The dark, atmospheric tone and complex narratives are key similarities.
Fact: Created by Hans Rosenfeldt, who also created 'The Bridge'. Anna Friel plays the titular character, Marcella Backland. The series uses non-linear storytelling to unravel its mysteries.
