10 Movies and Shows Similar to Deadwater Fell (2020)

Description: Similar to 'Deadwater Fell', 'Top of the Lake' is a mystery drama set in a remote community, where the investigation of a crime reveals deeper societal and personal issues. Both series feature strong female leads and explore themes of gender, power, and trauma. The haunting, atmospheric cinematography and the slow unraveling of secrets are key similarities.

Fact: 'Top of the Lake' was co-created by Jane Campion, known for her distinctive visual style. The series stars Elisabeth Moss and Holly Hunter, with Hunter's performance earning critical acclaim. It was filmed in New Zealand, doubling for the story's remote setting.

Description: 'Happy Valley' shares with 'Deadwater Fell' a focus on a strong female protagonist navigating personal trauma while solving crimes in a rural setting. Both series blend police procedural elements with deep character studies, exploring themes of loss, resilience, and moral ambiguity. The bleak, realistic tone and the exploration of societal issues are also common threads.

Fact: 'Happy Valley' was created by Sally Wainwright, known for her strong female characters. The series is set in West Yorkshire and uses the local dialect extensively. Sarah Lancashire's performance as Catherine Cawood earned widespread acclaim.

Description: Like 'Deadwater Fell', 'Broadchurch' is a British crime drama that delves into the dark undercurrents of a small, close-knit community following a tragic event. Both series explore themes of grief, suspicion, and the unraveling of relationships in the wake of a crime. The atmospheric coastal setting and the focus on the psychological impact on the characters are key similarities.

Fact: 'Broadchurch' was a critical and commercial success, reviving interest in British crime dramas. The series starred David Tennant and Olivia Colman, whose performances were highly praised. The show's theme music, composed by Ólafur Arnalds, became iconic and set the tone for the series.

Description: Similar to 'Deadwater Fell', 'The Fall' is a psychological thriller that examines the duality of human nature and the darkness beneath seemingly normal lives. Both series feature a cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and a perpetrator, with a slow-burning tension and a focus on the psychological impact of crime.

Fact: 'The Fall' stars Gillian Anderson as a detective hunting a serial killer played by Jamie Dornan. The series was notable for its exploration of the killer's psyche and personal life. It was one of the first BBC dramas to be picked up by Netflix, gaining international popularity.

Description: Like 'Deadwater Fell', 'Shetland' is set in a remote, atmospheric location that plays a significant role in the story. Both series combine crime-solving with explorations of community dynamics and personal histories. The slow-paced, character-driven narratives and the emphasis on the setting's isolation and beauty are key similarities.

Fact: 'Shetland' is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. The series is filmed on location in the Shetland Islands, showcasing their unique landscape. Douglas Henshall's portrayal of DI Jimmy Perez has been a standout feature of the show.

Description: Like 'Deadwater Fell', 'Sharp Objects' is a dark, psychological thriller that delves into the protagonist's troubled past while investigating a crime in a small town. Both series explore themes of family secrets, mental health, and the lingering effects of trauma. The atmospheric, unsettling tone and the focus on the protagonist's personal journey are key similarities.

Fact: 'Sharp Objects' is based on the novel by Gillian Flynn, who also wrote 'Gone Girl'. The series stars Amy Adams in a critically acclaimed performance. Its haunting soundtrack and visual style were widely praised.

Description: 'Big Little Lies' shares with 'Deadwater Fell' a focus on a seemingly perfect community hiding dark secrets. Both series blend crime drama with domestic drama, exploring themes of marriage, motherhood, and violence. The star-studded ensemble casts and the exploration of female relationships and power dynamics are common elements.

Fact: 'Big Little Lies' was based on the novel by Liane Moriarty. The series stars Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, and Shailene Woodley, among others. Its first season was a cultural phenomenon, winning multiple awards.

Description: 'Unforgotten' and 'Deadwater Fell' both revolve around cold cases that resurface, disrupting the lives of those involved. Both series emphasize the long-term effects of crime and secrets, with a focus on character-driven storytelling and emotional depth. The meticulous unraveling of the past and its impact on the present are central to both.

Fact: 'Unforgotten' features a rotating cast of guest stars alongside its core detectives. The series is known for its realistic portrayal of police work and its compassionate handling of victims' stories. Each season focuses on a different historical case, with connections to the present day.

Description: 'Marcella' shares with 'Deadwater Fell' a complex female lead dealing with personal demons while investigating crimes. Both series blend elements of psychological drama with crime thriller, exploring themes of memory, identity, and trauma. The dark, moody tone and the intertwining of personal and professional crises are common elements.

Fact: 'Marcella' was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, the writer behind 'The Bridge'. Anna Friel plays the titular character, a detective with a fragmented memory. The series has been praised for its unconventional narrative structure and twists.

Description: 'The Undoing' and 'Deadwater Fell' both center on affluent families whose lives are shattered by a crime, revealing hidden truths and tensions. Both series are psychological thrillers that explore themes of trust, deception, and the fragility of relationships. The high production values and star-studded casts are also common features.

Fact: 'The Undoing' stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, with Kidman also serving as a producer. The series is based on the novel 'You Should Have Known' by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Its twist-filled narrative and Manhattan setting set it apart from typical crime dramas.