10 Movies & Shows Like River (2023)

Description: A brooding detective series set in Sweden, featuring a protagonist grappling with personal struggles while solving intricate crimes. The show's slow-burning tension and melancholic tone are hallmarks of its storytelling.

Fact: Based on Henning Mankell's novels, the series was filmed in Ystad, Sweden, and its landscapes are integral to the show's somber mood. Kenneth Branagh learned Swedish for his role but ultimately performed in English.

Description: A Nordic noir series that revolves around a murder investigation spanning two countries, blending complex characters with a dark, moody atmosphere. The show explores themes of societal issues and personal demons, wrapped in a meticulously paced narrative.

Fact: The original Danish-Swedish version inspired several international remakes. The iconic Öresund Bridge, connecting Denmark and Sweden, plays a central role in the series.

Description: A spin-off focusing on a retired detective drawn back into complex cases, blending personal drama with intricate crime-solving. The series maintains a dark, suspenseful tone and explores the cost of obsession.

Fact: The character of Julien Baptiste first appeared in 'The Missing,' another critically acclaimed series. The show was filmed in Amsterdam, and its canals and urban landscapes play a significant role in the story.

Description: A gritty crime drama set in West Yorkshire, focusing on a tough but compassionate police sergeant dealing with personal and professional challenges. The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of crime and its emotional depth.

Fact: The title refers to the nickname for the Calder Valley, where the series is set. Sarah Lancashire's performance earned widespread acclaim, and the show was a critical and commercial success.

Description: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, focusing on the investigation of a child's murder. The series delves deep into the emotional and psychological impact on the community, with a strong emphasis on character development and atmospheric tension.

Fact: The show was filmed in Dorset, England, and its stunning coastal landscapes became a character in their own right. The identity of the killer was kept secret from most of the cast until the final episodes to maintain authenticity in their performances.

Description: A chilling cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer, exploring the psychological depths of both hunter and prey. The series is known for its slow-burning tension and meticulous character development.

Fact: Gillian Anderson's character was originally written as a man, but the role was reimagined for her. The show was filmed in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and its urban setting adds to the eerie tone.

Description: A high-stakes police procedural delving into corruption within the force, with intricate plotting and relentless tension. The series is renowned for its twisty narratives and moral ambiguity.

Fact: The show's interrogation scenes are famously intense and often run much longer than typical TV scenes. 'Line of Duty' became one of the UK's most-watched dramas, with its finale drawing record ratings.

Description: A crime drama set in the remote Shetland Islands, where the isolation and harsh environment amplify the intensity of the investigations. The series combines procedural elements with deep character studies and a strong sense of place.

Fact: The show is based on Ann Cleeves' novels and has boosted tourism to the Shetland Islands. Many locals were cast as extras, adding authenticity to the series.

Description: A cold case drama that meticulously unravels long-buried secrets, focusing on the human stories behind the crimes. The series is known for its emotional resonance and thoughtful exploration of justice and redemption.

Fact: Each season features a new case with a different cast, while the core investigative team remains. The show's title reflects its theme of unresolved pasts coming to light.

Description: A dark psychological thriller following a detective with a fractured personal life as she returns to work on a cold case. The series blends crime-solving with intense personal drama and a haunting atmosphere.

Fact: The show was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, who also co-created 'The Bridge.' Marcella's blackouts and memory lapses add a unique twist to the detective genre.