If you loved 'The Detective from Beledweyne (2023)' and are craving more gripping crime dramas with intense investigations and cultural depth, this list is for you. We've curated 10 similar movies and shows that deliver suspense, compelling characters, and immersive storytelling, ensuring you stay on the edge of your seat.

Mare of Easttown (2021)
Description: A small-town murder mystery that delves into the life of a troubled detective investigating a local crime while dealing with personal demons. The show excels in character-driven storytelling and atmospheric tension.
Fact: Kate Winslet worked with a dialect coach to perfect her Delaware County accent, which was widely praised. The series was shot entirely on location in Pennsylvania, adding to its authenticity.


Luther (2010)
Description: A gritty crime drama centered around a brilliant but troubled detective whose unorthodox methods often blur the line between right and wrong. The series combines intense character study with high-stakes criminal cases.
Fact: The character of Luther was originally conceived as a middle-aged white man, but Idris Elba's audition completely changed the direction of the role. The show's iconic coat worn by Luther became a fashion statement.


The Bridge (2011)
Description: A Scandinavian crime drama that begins with a body found on the border between two countries, forcing detectives from different cultures to work together. The series excels in atmospheric tension and complex character dynamics.
Fact: The original Danish-Swedish version inspired multiple international remakes, including 'The Tunnel' (UK-France) and 'The Bridge' (US-Mexico). The show's theme song, 'Hollow Talk,' became hugely popular.


Top of the Lake (2013)
Description: A haunting mystery set in a remote New Zealand community, where a detective investigates the disappearance of a pregnant 12-year-old. The show blends crime procedural with poetic landscapes and deep psychological themes.
Fact: The series was filmed in Queenstown, New Zealand, with the stunning landscapes becoming almost a character themselves. Jane Campion co-created the show, making her one of the few female directors in the crime genre.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: A British crime drama focusing on a tough, no-nonsense police sergeant dealing with personal trauma while solving brutal crimes in her small town. The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of working-class life and strong female lead.
Fact: The title 'Happy Valley' is a local nickname for the area where the series is set, referring to its high rate of drug use. The show's writer spent time with real police officers to ensure authenticity.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, focusing on the investigation of a young boy's murder. The show delves deep into the impact of the crime on the tight-knit community, blending emotional depth with procedural elements.
Fact: The show was filmed in the actual town of Broadchurch, and many locals were used as extras. The stunning cliffside locations became iconic and attracted tourists.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. The series is notable for its slow-burn tension and focus on the killer's psyche as much as the investigation.
Fact: The show was one of the first BBC dramas to be picked up by Netflix, helping to popularize the 'binge-watching' model. It was also praised for its realistic portrayal of police work.


True Detective (2014)
Description: An anthology crime series known for its dark, philosophical tone and intricate storytelling. Each season follows a new case with deeply flawed detectives navigating moral ambiguity and personal demons.
Fact: The first season was shot entirely on film, giving it a distinct cinematic look. The show's opening credits sequence won an Emmy for its haunting visuals and music.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A legal crime drama that follows the arrest and trial of a young man accused of murder, exploring the flaws in the justice system. The series is intense and meticulously detailed, with a focus on the psychological toll of incarceration.
Fact: The show was originally developed with James Gandolfini in the lead role; after his death, the part was reworked for John Turturro. Much of the prison scenes were filmed in an actual decommissioned penitentiary.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: A psychological thriller about a journalist returning to her hometown to cover a murder, only to confront her own traumatic past. The series is dark, atmospheric, and rich with Southern Gothic elements.
Fact: The show's director used subliminal flashes of disturbing imagery throughout episodes to create an unsettling effect. Much of the series was filmed in California, despite being set in Missouri.
