10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to The Tunnel (2011)

Description: 'Wallander' shares with 'The Tunnel' a brooding, introspective detective protagonist who is deeply affected by the crimes he investigates. Both series are adaptations of popular crime novels and focus on the procedural aspects of solving complex cases while exploring the personal toll on the investigators. The Scandinavian setting of 'Wallander' provides a similarly bleak and atmospheric tone.

Fact: Kenneth Branagh starred as Kurt Wallander and also served as an executive producer. The series is based on the novels by Swedish author Henning Mankell. 'Wallander' was filmed in Ystad, Sweden, and the locations closely match the descriptions in the books.

Description: 'Luther' and 'The Tunnel' both feature brilliant but flawed detectives who are consumed by their work. The series share a dark, intense tone and explore the psychological toll of crime-solving. Both John Luther and Karl Roebuck are charismatic yet deeply troubled characters who push the boundaries of the law to achieve justice.

Fact: Idris Elba's portrayal of DCI John Luther earned him a Golden Globe. The series is known for its stylish cinematography and atmospheric soundtrack. 'Luther' has been praised for its complex villains and moral ambiguity.

Description: 'The Bridge' is similar to 'The Tunnel' in that both series revolve around a crime that occurs on a border between two countries, necessitating a joint investigation. The dynamic between the two lead detectives, with their contrasting personalities and methods, is a key element in both shows. The themes of societal issues and political undertones are also prominent in both series.

Fact: 'The Bridge' is a collaboration between Sweden and Denmark, with dialogue in both Swedish and Danish. The series inspired several international adaptations, including 'The Tunnel', which is a UK-France version. The character of Saga Norén, played by Sofia Helin, became iconic for her blunt and socially awkward demeanor.

Description: 'Happy Valley' and 'The Tunnel' both feature strong, complex female leads who are deeply committed to their work but struggle with personal demons. The series share a gritty, realistic approach to crime-solving and explore the darker sides of human nature. The tension and suspense are built through meticulous storytelling and character development.

Fact: Sarah Lancashire's performance as Catherine Cawood earned widespread praise and several awards. The series is set in West Yorkshire and uses the local dialect extensively. Creator Sally Wainwright is known for her strong female characters and realistic dialogue.

Description: Like 'The Tunnel', 'Broadchurch' is a crime drama that delves deep into the psychological and emotional impact of a murder on a small community. Both series feature strong investigative leads and explore themes of grief, justice, and moral ambiguity. The coastal setting in 'Broadchurch' adds a similar atmospheric tension to 'The Tunnel's' Channel Tunnel backdrop.

Fact: 'Broadchurch' was filmed in Dorset, England, and the locations became tourist attractions after the show's success. The series won multiple BAFTA awards, including Best Drama Series. David Tennant and Olivia Colman's performances were critically acclaimed, with Colman winning a BAFTA for her role.

Description: 'The Fall' and 'The Tunnel' both delve into the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. The series are character-driven, with a focus on the psychological profiles of both the investigators and the criminals. The slow-burning tension and meticulous attention to detail are hallmarks of both shows.

Fact: Gillian Anderson stars as DSI Stella Gibson, a role that earned her critical acclaim. Jamie Dornan plays the serial killer Paul Spector, showcasing his range as an actor. The series is set in Belfast and explores the city's social and political landscape.

Description: 'Line of Duty' and 'The Tunnel' both focus on the intricacies of police work and the internal politics of law enforcement. The series are known for their twisty plots and high-stakes investigations. Both shows feature strong ensemble casts and explore themes of corruption, loyalty, and justice.

Fact: 'Line of Duty' is created by Jed Mercurio, who also wrote 'Bodyguard'. The series is known for its intense interrogation scenes. 'Line of Duty' has become one of the most-watched dramas in the UK.

Description: 'Shetland' and 'The Tunnel' both use their unique geographical settings to enhance the mood and tension of the story. The isolated, rugged landscapes of the Shetland Islands mirror the claustrophobic and tense atmosphere of the Channel Tunnel. Both series focus on tight-knit communities and the impact of crime on these insular societies.

Fact: 'Shetland' is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. The series is known for its stunning cinematography, showcasing the beauty and harshness of the Shetland Islands. Douglas Henshall won a BAFTA for his portrayal of DI Jimmy Perez.

Description: 'Unforgotten' and 'The Tunnel' both revolve around cold cases that are reopened, uncovering long-buried secrets and trauma. The series are character-driven, with a focus on the emotional and psychological impact of the investigations on both the victims' families and the detectives. The meticulous, methodical approach to solving the cases is a key similarity.

Fact: Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar star as the lead detectives. Each season focuses on a different cold case, with a new ensemble cast. The series has been praised for its sensitive handling of difficult subjects.

Description: 'Marcella' shares with 'The Tunnel' a focus on a troubled detective whose personal life is as complex as the cases they investigate. Both series feature nonlinear storytelling and psychological depth, with the protagonists grappling with their own mental health issues. The dark, moody visuals and intense pacing are also similar.

Fact: Anna Friel plays the titular character, Marcella Backland, and her performance was highly praised. The series was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, who also created 'The Bridge'. 'Marcella' is set in London and explores the city's underbelly.