If you were captivated by the gripping drama and intense performances in 'Appropriate Adult' (2011), you're likely searching for similar films or shows that deliver the same level of suspense and emotional depth. This article highlights 10 movies and TV series that share themes of crime, psychological tension, and real-life legal drama, perfect for fans of this critically acclaimed British miniseries. Whether you're drawn to true crime, courtroom battles, or complex character studies, this list has something to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Des (2020)
Description: Des, like Appropriate Adult, is a British crime drama that focuses on the investigation and psychological profiling of a notorious serial killer. Both series are based on true events and feature a meticulous portrayal of the criminal justice system and the impact of crime on society.
Fact: Des stars David Tennant as Dennis Nilsen, one of the UK's most infamous serial killers. The series is based on the book 'Killing for Company' by Brian Masters. It was praised for its accurate depiction of the 1980s era and the police investigation.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: Happy Valley and Appropriate Adult are both British crime dramas that focus on strong female leads dealing with complex criminal cases. Both series are gritty and realistic, with a focus on the emotional and psychological toll of crime.
Fact: Happy Valley stars Sarah Lancashire as Sergeant Catherine Cawood. The series is set in West Yorkshire. It has won multiple awards, including BAFTAs for Best Drama Series and Best Actress.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: Broadchurch and Appropriate Adult are both British crime dramas that delve into the impact of crime on a small community. Both series are known for their strong performances, atmospheric settings, and intricate storytelling.
Fact: Broadchurch stars David Tennant and Olivia Colman as detectives investigating a child's murder. The series was filmed in Dorset, England. It won multiple BAFTA awards, including Best Drama Series.


The Fall (2013)
Description: The Fall, like Appropriate Adult, is a psychological crime drama that explores the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. Both series are intense and character-driven, with a focus on the psychological depth of the characters.
Fact: The Fall stars Gillian Anderson as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson. Jamie Dornan plays the serial killer Paul Spector. The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its strong female lead.


True Detective (2014)
Description: True Detective shares with Appropriate Adult a focus on crime investigation and the psychological depth of its characters. Both series are dark and atmospheric, with a strong emphasis on storytelling and character development.
Fact: True Detective features an anthology format, with each season telling a different story. The first season stars Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson. It was praised for its philosophical themes and cinematography.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: The Night Of, similar to Appropriate Adult, is a crime drama that examines the criminal justice system and the psychological toll of a high-profile case. Both series are gritty and realistic, with a focus on the human side of crime.
Fact: The Night Of is based on the British series 'Criminal Justice'. Riz Ahmed received critical acclaim for his performance as Nasir Khan. The series explores themes of racial prejudice and the flaws in the legal system.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: Sharp Objects, like Appropriate Adult, is a psychological thriller that delves into the dark corners of the human mind. Both series feature complex female protagonists and explore themes of trauma and family dysfunction.
Fact: Sharp Objects is based on the novel by Gillian Flynn. Amy Adams stars as journalist Camille Preaker. The series was directed by Jean-Marc Vallée, known for his work on 'Big Little Lies'.


The Serpent (2021)
Description: The Serpent shares with Appropriate Adult a focus on real-life criminal cases, with a strong emphasis on the psychological aspects of the perpetrators. Both series are set in the past and meticulously recreate the era to enhance the storytelling.
Fact: The Serpent is based on the crimes of Charles Sobhraj, a serial killer who targeted backpackers in the 1970s. The series was filmed in multiple countries, including Thailand and Nepal. Tahar Rahim, who plays Sobhraj, learned to speak Thai for the role.


The Undoing (2020)
Description: The Undoing, like Appropriate Adult, is a psychological thriller that explores the unraveling of a seemingly perfect life. Both series are suspenseful and feature strong performances, with a focus on the psychological impact of crime.
Fact: The Undoing stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant. It is based on the novel 'You Should Have Known' by Jean Hanff Korelitz. The series was a ratings success for HBO.


The Act (2019)
Description: Similar to Appropriate Adult (2011), The Act is a true crime drama that delves into psychological manipulation and the complexities of human relationships. Both series explore the dark side of human nature and are based on real-life events, providing a chilling look into criminal psychology.
Fact: The Act is based on the real-life story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee Blanchard. Patricia Arquette won a Golden Globe for her role as Dee Dee Blanchard. The series was initially titled 'Mommy Dead and Dearest' after the documentary it was based on.
