10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Dragnet (1987)

Description: Hill Street Blues shares with Dragnet (1987) a focus on the lives of police officers, but it adds a more serialized and ensemble-driven approach. Both shows delve into the personal and professional challenges faced by law enforcement, though Hill Street Blues is known for its more complex characters and overlapping storylines.

Fact: Hill Street Blues was groundbreaking for its use of handheld cameras and overlapping dialogue. The show won 26 Emmy Awards during its run. It was one of the first shows to depict the personal lives of police officers in depth.

Description: Law & Order shares with Dragnet (1987) a focus on the procedural aspects of police work and the criminal justice system. Both shows are known for their realistic portrayal of law enforcement and their use of real-life cases as inspiration. However, Law & Order splits its focus between the police investigation and the legal proceedings, adding a courtroom drama element.

Fact: Law & Order is one of the longest-running TV shows in history, with 20 seasons. The show has spawned multiple spin-offs, including Law & Order: SVU. It was known for its distinctive 'dun-dun' sound effect.

Description: The Shield shares with Dragnet (1987) a focus on police work, but it takes a much darker and more morally ambiguous approach. Both shows explore the challenges of law enforcement, but The Shield is known for its antihero protagonist and its exploration of corruption within the police force.

Fact: The Shield was groundbreaking for its portrayal of a corrupt police officer as the protagonist. The show won multiple awards, including an Emmy for Michael Chiklis. It was one of the first shows to be produced by FX, helping to establish the network as a leader in original programming.

Description: Blue Bloods, like Dragnet (1987), is a police procedural that focuses on the work of law enforcement. However, Blue Bloods adds a family drama element, following the Reagan family, who are all involved in law enforcement in some way. Both shows emphasize the importance of duty and honor in police work.

Fact: Blue Bloods stars Tom Selleck as the police commissioner. The show is known for its family dinner scenes, which are a staple of each episode. It has been on the air for over a decade and remains popular with audiences.

Description: Hawaii Five-0, like Dragnet (1987), is a police procedural that focuses on the work of a specialized police unit. Both shows emphasize action and teamwork, though Hawaii Five-0 is more action-packed and less procedural in its storytelling. The tropical setting of Hawaii Five-0 adds a unique visual aesthetic.

Fact: Hawaii Five-0 is a reboot of the 1968 series of the same name. The show is known for its stunning Hawaiian locations and action sequences. It features a mix of local and international actors, reflecting the diversity of Hawaii.

Description: Brooklyn Nine-Nine shares with Dragnet (1987) a focus on police work, but it adds a comedic twist. Both shows highlight the camaraderie and challenges of law enforcement, though Brooklyn Nine-Nine is more lighthearted and character-driven. The show's diverse cast and witty writing set it apart.

Fact: Brooklyn Nine-Nine was created by Dan Goor and Michael Schur, who also worked on Parks and Recreation. The show won two Golden Globes, including one for Andy Samberg. It was canceled by Fox after five seasons but was revived by NBC due to fan demand.

Description: The Rookie shares with Dragnet (1987) a focus on the procedural aspects of police work, but it adds a modern twist by following a middle-aged rookie cop. Both shows highlight the challenges and rewards of police work, though The Rookie is more character-driven and less procedural in its storytelling.

Fact: The Rookie is inspired by the real-life story of LAPD officer William Norcross, who joined the force in his 40s. The show stars Nathan Fillion, who is also known for his role in Castle. It has been praised for its diverse cast and realistic portrayal of police work.

Description: Similar to Dragnet (1987), Adam-12 is a police procedural drama that focuses on the daily lives of police officers. Both shows emphasize realism and the procedural aspects of police work, often based on real-life cases. They share a straightforward storytelling style and a commitment to portraying law enforcement in a positive light.

Fact: Adam-12 was created by Jack Webb, who also created Dragnet. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and was used as a training tool in some police academies. Adam-12 ran for seven seasons and was one of the most popular shows of its time.

Description: NYPD Blue, like Dragnet (1987), is a police procedural that focuses on the daily grind of police work. However, NYPD Blue is known for its more gritty and realistic portrayal of the NYPD, including the moral ambiguities and personal struggles of its characters. Both shows emphasize the procedural aspects of police work but NYPD Blue adds a layer of character depth and drama.

Fact: NYPD Blue was controversial for its use of nudity and strong language, which was rare for network TV at the time. The show won 20 Emmy Awards. It was created by Steven Bochco and David Milch, who also created Hill Street Blues.

Description: Southland, like Dragnet (1987), is a police procedural that focuses on the daily lives of police officers. Both shows emphasize realism and the procedural aspects of police work, though Southland is known for its gritty and intense storytelling. The show's handheld camera work adds a documentary-like feel.

Fact: Southland was originally aired on NBC but was canceled after one season and picked up by TNT. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of LAPD officers. It was known for its intense and often violent scenes.