If you were captivated by the chilling true-crime drama 'The Widower' (2014), you're likely craving more gripping stories of deception, betrayal, and psychological intrigue. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of dark secrets, manipulative characters, and real-life crime narratives, perfect for fans of this haunting series.

Luther (2010)
Description: A gritty crime thriller centered around a brilliant but emotionally damaged detective who becomes obsessed with catching a cunning and dangerous killer.
Fact: The character of Luther was inspired by Sherlock Holmes, with Idris Elba bringing a modern, intense portrayal to the role. The show's dark, moody aesthetic has become its trademark.


Top of the Lake (2013)
Description: A haunting crime mystery set in a remote New Zealand town, where a detective investigates the disappearance of a pregnant girl, uncovering dark secrets.
Fact: The series was co-created by Jane Campion, known for her atmospheric storytelling. The stunning landscapes of New Zealand play a pivotal role in the show's eerie tone.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: A dark and intense crime drama centered around a tough police sergeant dealing with personal trauma while solving brutal crimes in a small town.
Fact: The series is set in West Yorkshire, and its title refers to the local nickname for the area due to its drug problems. The show's realistic portrayal of police work has been praised by law enforcement professionals.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A gripping crime drama that focuses on the investigation of a young boy's murder in a small coastal town, highlighting the impact of the crime on the community.
Fact: The show's iconic cliffside scenes were filmed in West Bay, Dorset, which became a tourist attraction after the series aired. The soundtrack was composed by Ólafur Arnalds, adding a hauntingly beautiful layer to the narrative.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A psychological crime drama that delves into the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer, exploring themes of obsession and manipulation.
Fact: The series was initially intended to be a five-part miniseries but was extended due to its popularity. It was filmed in Northern Ireland, adding a unique atmospheric quality to its visuals.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A legal crime drama that explores the complexities of the justice system through the lens of a young man accused of murder, delving into themes of guilt and redemption.
Fact: The series is a remake of the British show 'Criminal Justice.' Riz Ahmed's performance earned him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: A dark psychological thriller about a journalist returning to her hometown to cover a murder, confronting her own traumatic past while uncovering disturbing truths.
Fact: The series is based on Gillian Flynn's debut novel. The haunting soundtrack and Southern Gothic atmosphere amplify the show's unsettling mood.


Unforgotten (2015)
Description: A cold case crime drama that meticulously unravels long-buried secrets, focusing on the emotional and psychological toll on both the investigators and the suspects.
Fact: Each season features a new case with a different set of suspects, but the core investigative team remains the same. The show is known for its intricate plotting and strong character development.


Marcella (2016)
Description: A noir-inspired crime drama following a detective with a troubled past who returns to work to solve a series of brutal murders, blurring the lines between her professional and personal life.
Fact: The series was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, who also created 'The Bridge.' Marcella's blackouts and memory loss add a unique twist to the detective genre.


The Undoing (2020)
Description: A psychological thriller that follows a wealthy therapist whose life unravels after a violent death and a web of lies, exploring themes of deception and privilege.
Fact: The series is based on the novel 'You Should Have Known' by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Its New York City setting adds a glamorous yet sinister backdrop to the story.
