10 Movies & Shows Like The Tower (2023)

Description: A dark, psychological crime drama following a brilliant but emotionally intense detective in London. The series is notable for its stylish direction and exploration of moral ambiguity.

Fact: Idris Elba won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of John Luther, and the show has inspired an upcoming film continuation.

Description: A long-running detective series featuring an unorthodox but brilliant DCI solving crimes in Northumberland. The show is beloved for its strong central character and picturesque northern English settings.

Fact: The character of Vera Stanhope was inspired by creator Ann Cleeves' friend, a female prison governor.

Description: A spin-off from 'The Missing', featuring a retired detective drawn into complex international investigations. The show maintains the same tense atmosphere and intricate plotting as its predecessor.

Fact: The character of Julien Baptiste was so popular in 'The Missing' that he was given his own standalone series.

Description: A tense and emotionally charged crime drama centered around a determined police sergeant dealing with personal trauma while solving brutal crimes in a small town. The series is known for its raw realism and strong female lead.

Fact: The title 'Happy Valley' is a local nickname for the Calder Valley in West Yorkshire, where the series is set, due to its high rates of drug use.

Description: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, focusing on the investigation of a young boy's murder and the ripple effects on the community. The show excels in its slow-burn storytelling and deep character development.

Fact: The show was filmed in Dorset, England, and its stunning coastal scenery became a character in itself. It also sparked a tourism boom in the area.

Description: A psychological thriller that follows a detective hunting a serial killer in Belfast. The show stands out for its cat-and-mouse dynamic and exploration of the killer's psyche.

Fact: Gillian Anderson's character was originally written as a man, but the role was reworked for her after she expressed interest.

Description: A high-stakes police procedural that delves into the murky world of corruption within the force. The show is renowned for its intricate plotting and intense interrogation scenes.

Fact: The series was initially intended to be a one-off drama but became a long-running hit due to its popularity.

Description: A atmospheric crime drama set in the remote Shetland Islands, where a local detective solves murders while navigating the tight-knit community. The show is known for its stunning landscapes and slow-burning mysteries.

Fact: Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves, the series was initially filmed as standalone episodes before transitioning to serialized storytelling.

Description: A cold case drama that explores the impact of uncovering long-buried secrets on both the victims' families and the perpetrators. The show is praised for its compassionate storytelling and strong ensemble cast.

Fact: Each season focuses on a different historical case, with the remains of the victim discovered in the first episode.

Description: A noir-ish crime drama featuring a troubled detective returning to work after a breakdown. The series blends personal drama with complex murder investigations.

Fact: The show's creator also wrote the Swedish-Danish series 'The Bridge', which inspired its gritty tone.