If you were captivated by the raw emotional intensity and gripping drama of Broken (2012), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of family turmoil, resilience, and heart-wrenching storytelling. Whether you loved the film’s poignant performances or its unflinching look at human fragility, these recommendations will keep you equally enthralled.

Mare of Easttown (2021)
Description: A crime drama centered on a detective grappling with personal demons while solving a harrowing case. The raw emotional weight and focus on community dynamics mirror the reference's intense character-driven narrative.
Fact: Kate Winslet's portrayal of Mare Sheehan earned widespread acclaim, with many praising her authentic Delaware County accent.


Top of the Lake (2013)
Description: A dark crime drama set in a small, isolated community, exploring themes of trauma, hidden secrets, and the psychological toll of violence. The slow-burning mystery and atmospheric tension mirror the unsettling tone of the reference.
Fact: The series was filmed in New Zealand, doubling for the fictional town in the story. It features stunning but eerie landscapes that amplify the show's mood.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: A gritty police procedural that blends crime-solving with deep character study, particularly around trauma and resilience. The unflinching portrayal of violence and its aftermath aligns closely with the reference's tone.
Fact: The series was praised for its realistic depiction of British policing, with many officers citing its accuracy.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: Centers on a tight-knit community shattered by a tragic crime, delving into grief, suspicion, and moral ambiguity. The layered storytelling and focus on character psychology create a similarly intense and emotionally raw experience.
Fact: The show's iconic beach scenes were filmed in Dorset, England, which became a tourist attraction after its release.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A psychological thriller that examines the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer, with a focus on the perpetrator's psyche. The slow, methodical pacing and exploration of darkness make it a strong thematic match.
Fact: The show was one of the first BBC dramas to be picked up by Netflix, boosting its international popularity.


True Detective (2014)
Description: A neo-noir crime anthology that blends existential philosophy with gritty detective work. The atmospheric tension, complex characters, and exploration of moral decay make it a strong thematic fit.
Fact: The first season's six-minute tracking shot in episode four is considered one of the most impressive sequences in television history.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A crime drama that dissects the criminal justice system while exploring themes of guilt, innocence, and racial tension. The meticulous character development and morally complex narrative echo the reference's depth.
Fact: The series was originally developed as a British show but was adapted for an American audience, retaining its intense, slow-burn style.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: A haunting psychological thriller that delves into family trauma, repressed memories, and small-town secrets. The atmospheric dread and nonlinear storytelling create a similarly immersive and unsettling experience.
Fact: The series was filmed in Barnesville, Georgia, which perfectly captured the eerie, decaying Southern Gothic vibe of the story.


The Undoing (2020)
Description: A high-suspense mystery that unravels layers of deception within a seemingly perfect life. The psychological tension and exploration of hidden truths align with the reference's themes of betrayal and unraveling reality.
Fact: The show's finale became one of HBO's most-watched episodes, sparking widespread debate among viewers.


The Sinner (2017)
Description: An anthology series that explores the psychological underpinnings of violent crimes, often revealing buried trauma. The deep dive into motive and human darkness aligns with the reference's exploration of fractured psyches.
Fact: Each season features a standalone mystery, allowing for diverse storytelling while maintaining a consistent tone of psychological intrigue.
