10 Movies & Shows Like The Dry (2021)

Description: A detective investigates a murder in her small Pennsylvania hometown while grappling with personal tragedies. The authentic portrayal of blue-collar life and complex female protagonist drive this character-rich mystery.

Fact: Kate Winslet worked with a dialect coach to perfect the distinctive Delaware County accent, which became a talking point among viewers.

Description: A moody, slow-burning mystery centered around the disappearance of a pregnant girl in a remote lakeside town. The series explores themes of isolation, trauma, and the dark underbelly of seemingly peaceful communities.

Fact: The show was co-created by Jane Campion, the first female director to win the Palme d'Or. Much of its eerie atmosphere was achieved by filming in New Zealand's South Island.

Description: A gritty police procedural set in a Yorkshire valley, where a tough female sergeant investigates brutal crimes while dealing with personal demons. The raw portrayal of crime's impact on a close-knit community stands out.

Fact: The series was praised for its authentic depiction of British policing procedures. Its title is actually ironic, referring to the area's high rates of drug use and crime.

Description: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, where the investigation of a young boy's murder unravels deep-seated secrets and tensions within the community. The atmospheric setting and focus on emotional trauma resonate strongly.

Fact: The show's iconic cliffside scenery was filmed in Dorset, England, and became a tourist attraction. It also features an original score by Ólafur Arnalds, which adds to its haunting tone.

Description: A tense cat-and-mouse thriller between a detective and a serial killer, with a strong focus on psychological depth and the lingering effects of violence. The atmospheric pacing and character-driven suspense create a compelling narrative.

Fact: Unlike many crime dramas, this series reveals the killer's identity early on, focusing instead on the psychological battle between hunter and prey.

Description: A psychological thriller following a journalist returning to her hometown to investigate a series of murders, while confronting her own traumatic past. The oppressive small-town setting and exploration of generational trauma create a deeply unsettling tone.

Fact: The series features haunting flashbacks and psychological symbolism, with the protagonist's self-harm scars playing a key visual and thematic role throughout the narrative.

Description: A drama that begins with a mysterious death and slowly reveals the dark truths beneath a wealthy community's perfect facade. The nonlinear storytelling and exploration of domestic violence create powerful tension.

Fact: Originally planned as a limited series, its popularity led to a second season that further explored the characters' trauma and relationships.

Description: A cold-case investigation drama that meticulously unravels long-buried secrets, showing how past crimes continue to haunt the present. The careful character development and emotional weight given to each case make it stand out.

Fact: Each season focuses on a different historical case, with the remains of victims discovered in the present day triggering new investigations.

Description: A psychological thriller about a therapist whose life unravels when her husband becomes the prime suspect in a murder case. The upper-class New York setting and themes of deception and privilege add layers to the mystery.

Fact: The series was filmed on location in New York City, with many scenes shot at the American Museum of Natural History, creating a striking visual contrast between beauty and darkness.

Description: An anthology series exploring why ordinary people commit violent acts, with each season delving into psychological trauma and hidden motives. The focus on character psychology over procedural elements creates a unique approach to crime storytelling.

Fact: The first season was adapted from a German novel, but subsequent seasons were original stories created specifically for the series.