10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Watson (2025)

Description: Like Watson (2025), The Mentalist focuses on a protagonist with exceptional observational skills, using them to solve crimes. Both series blend procedural elements with ongoing character arcs and personal vendettas, adding emotional depth to the crime-solving narrative.

Fact: Simon Baker, who plays Patrick Jane, won a Golden Globe for his performance. The character of Patrick Jane was inspired by real-life mentalist and illusionist Uri Geller. The show's fictional serial killer, Red John, became one of TV's most intriguing villains.

Description: Luther and Watson (2025) both feature intense, psychologically complex detectives who often operate in moral grey areas. The shows share a dark, atmospheric tone and explore the personal costs of a life dedicated to solving crimes.

Fact: Idris Elba won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of DCI John Luther. The series was originally conceived as a more traditional police procedural before evolving into its darker, more character-driven format. The show's theme music, composed by Massive Attack, contributes significantly to its distinctive atmosphere.

Description: Similar to Watson (2025), Sherlock is a modern take on a classic detective story, blending crime-solving with deep character development. Both feature brilliant protagonists with unique methods of deduction, and a strong emphasis on psychological depth and intricate plots.

Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes earned him widespread acclaim and a BAFTA award. The series is known for its fast-paced editing and visual effects that represent Sherlock's thought process. Each episode is 90 minutes long, resembling a mini-movie rather than a traditional TV episode.

Description: The Killing, like Watson (2025), is a character-driven crime drama that focuses as much on the emotional impact of crimes as on their solutions. Both shows feature complex female detectives and employ slow-burn storytelling to build tension.

Fact: The American version is based on the Danish series Forbrydelsen. The show's signature rain-soaked Seattle setting was actually filmed in Vancouver. The first season's 'Who killed Rosie Larsen?' mystery became a cultural phenomenon, with fans passionately debating the outcome.

Description: Elementary shares with Watson (2025) the theme of a genius detective working with a trusted partner to solve complex crimes. Both shows explore the dynamics of their central relationships and the personal growth of their characters amidst criminal investigations.

Fact: This was the first American television series to feature a female Dr. Watson, played by Lucy Liu. The show is set in New York City, a departure from the traditional London setting of Sherlock Holmes stories. Jonny Lee Miller and Benedict Cumberbatch, who both played Sherlock Holmes in different series, are friends in real life.

Description: Hannibal and Watson (2025) both explore the psychological interplay between detective and criminal, often blurring the lines between the two. Both shows feature stunning visual aesthetics and delve into the darker aspects of human nature.

Fact: Despite its violence, the show never showed blood in its first season due to network restrictions. The elaborate food scenes were created by a professional food stylist and were actually edible. The series developed a cult following despite low ratings, leading to campaigns for its revival after cancellation.

Description: Broadchurch shares with Watson (2025) a focus on a single, devastating crime and its impact on a community. Both shows combine detective work with deep emotional storytelling, examining how crimes affect both victims and investigators.

Fact: The identity of the killer in season one was kept secret from most of the cast during filming. The show's coastal setting became so popular it boosted tourism in the actual filming locations. David Tennant and Olivia Colman's performances were widely praised, with Colman winning a BAFTA for her role.

Description: The Fall, like Watson (2025), is a psychological thriller that delves into the minds of both the detective and the criminal. Both shows feature strong female leads and explore themes of obsession, power, and the nature of evil.

Fact: Gillian Anderson prepared for her role as Stella Gibson by studying real-life female detectives. Jamie Dornan's portrayal of Paul Spector launched his international career. The series was praised for its realistic depiction of police procedures and its slow-burn tension.

Description: True Detective and Watson (2025) both feature complex, flawed detectives investigating crimes that reveal deeper societal issues. Both shows employ non-linear storytelling and explore philosophical themes alongside their criminal investigations.

Fact: Each season features a completely new cast and storyline, making it an anthology series. The first season's six-minute tracking shot in episode four is considered one of TV's most impressive technical achievements. Matthew McConaughey's performance revitalized his career, leading to his Oscar win for Dallas Buyers Club.

Description: The Alienist shares with Watson (2025) a historical setting and a focus on early forensic psychology. Both shows feature unconventional investigators using emerging scientific methods to solve gruesome crimes in period settings.

Fact: Based on Caleb Carr's bestselling novel, the series was in development for over 20 years before being made. The show meticulously recreates 1890s New York, including building full-scale sets of period streets. It was one of the first TV series to be produced by Paramount Television.