10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Munch (2023)

Description: While 'The Wire' is more of an ensemble drama, it shares with 'Munch' a deep exploration of systemic issues and the human cost of crime. Both shows are praised for their realistic portrayals of their respective worlds and their complex, multi-layered storytelling. The social commentary in 'The Wire' resonates with the thematic depth of 'Munch'.

Fact: 'The Wire' was created by former police reporter David Simon, who drew on his experiences for the show. The series is often cited as one of the greatest TV shows of all time. Many of the actors were non-professionals or had limited acting experience before the show.

Description: 'Luther' and 'Munch' both feature brilliant but troubled detectives who are deeply affected by their cases. The shows blend crime procedural elements with psychological drama, creating intense, character-driven narratives. The dark, gritty tone of 'Luther' matches the emotional depth and visual style of 'Munch'.

Fact: 'Luther' stars Idris Elba in the title role, earning him a Golden Globe. The character of John Luther was inspired by Sherlock Holmes, but with a more modern and gritty twist. The show's creator, Neil Cross, wrote the first episode in just five days.

Description: Similar to 'Munch' (2023), 'The Killing' is a crime drama that delves deep into the psychological aspects of its characters, both the investigators and the suspects. The show's slow-burning narrative and focus on character development mirror the meticulous storytelling of 'Munch'. Both series explore the darker sides of human nature and the impact of crime on individuals and communities.

Fact: 'The Killing' is based on the Danish series 'Forbrydelsen'. The show was initially canceled after its third season but was revived for a fourth and final season due to fan demand. The series is known for its moody, rain-soaked Seattle setting, which adds to its atmospheric tension.

Description: Like 'Munch', 'The Bridge' is a Nordic noir series that combines a gripping crime story with complex character studies. Both shows feature strong, unconventional protagonists and explore themes of justice and morality. The bleak, atmospheric settings in 'The Bridge' enhance the tension, much like the visual style of 'Munch'.

Fact: 'The Bridge' is a collaboration between Sweden and Denmark, with the crime taking place on the Øresund Bridge connecting the two countries. The protagonist, Saga Norén, became an iconic character known for her blunt honesty and lack of social skills. The series has been remade in several countries, including the U.S. ('The Bridge') and the UK ('The Tunnel').

Description: 'Happy Valley' and 'Munch' both feature strong female leads dealing with personal trauma while solving crimes. Both shows blend crime drama with emotional storytelling, exploring the impact of violence on individuals and communities. The realistic, grounded approach of 'Happy Valley' is similar to the tone of 'Munch'.

Fact: 'Happy Valley' stars Sarah Lancashire as Catherine Cawood, a role that earned her critical acclaim. The show's title refers to the nickname for the Calder Valley, where the series is set. The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its strong female characters.

Description: 'Broadchurch' shares with 'Munch' a focus on a small community rocked by a crime, exploring the ripple effects on the town's residents. Both shows emphasize emotional depth and the personal toll of investigations. The cinematography in 'Broadchurch', with its sweeping coastal shots, parallels the visual storytelling in 'Munch', creating a sense of place that is almost a character in itself.

Fact: 'Broadchurch' stars David Tennant and Olivia Colman, whose performances were widely praised. The show's creator, Chris Chibnall, kept the killer's identity a secret from the cast until the final episode was filmed. The series was so popular that it was remade in the U.S. as 'Gracepoint', though it didn't achieve the same success.

Description: 'The Fall' shares with 'Munch' a focus on the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. Both shows delve into the minds of their antagonists, providing a chilling look at their motivations. The slow, deliberate pacing and atmospheric tension in 'The Fall' are similar to the storytelling in 'Munch'.

Fact: 'The Fall' stars Gillian Anderson as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson and Jamie Dornan as the serial killer Paul Spector. The series was initially planned as a five-part miniseries but was extended due to its popularity. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its exploration of gender dynamics.

Description: 'Line of Duty' and 'Munch' both focus on the internal workings of law enforcement and the moral ambiguities within the system. Both shows feature intense interrogations and a focus on procedural detail. The suspenseful, twist-filled narratives of 'Line of Duty' mirror the gripping storytelling in 'Munch'.

Fact: 'Line of Duty' is known for its lengthy, tense interrogation scenes. The show's creator, Jed Mercurio, also created the medical drama 'Bodies'. The series has a dedicated fan base that scrutinizes every detail for clues.

Description: 'True Detective' and 'Munch' both feature intricate, character-driven narratives and a focus on the psychological aspects of crime. Both shows employ non-linear storytelling and explore the personal demons of their protagonists. The dark, moody visuals of 'True Detective' are reminiscent of the aesthetic in 'Munch'.

Fact: Each season of 'True Detective' features a new cast and storyline, with the first season starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson. The show's first season was heavily influenced by the works of horror writer Thomas Ligotti. The long tracking shot in episode 4 of the first season is considered one of the most impressive sequences in television history.

Description: 'The Night Of' and 'Munch' both explore the criminal justice system and the personal toll of a crime investigation. Both shows are character-driven, with a focus on the psychological and emotional effects of the legal process. The meticulous attention to detail and the atmospheric tension in 'The Night Of' are reminiscent of 'Munch'.

Fact: 'The Night Of' is based on the British series 'Criminal Justice'. The show stars Riz Ahmed and John Turturro, both of whom received critical acclaim for their performances. The series was praised for its realistic depiction of the criminal justice system and its exploration of racial and class issues.