If you're a fan of 'Forensic Files' (1996), you're likely captivated by its gripping true crime stories, meticulous forensic investigations, and dramatic courtroom revelations. This article is your next binge-worthy guide, featuring 10 similar shows and movies that deliver the same thrilling mix of mystery, science, and justice. Whether you love the forensic details or the suspenseful storytelling, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The FBI Files (1998)
Description: The FBI Files shares Forensic Files' focus on criminal investigations, particularly those involving federal law enforcement. Both shows highlight the use of forensic science and detailed investigative work to solve crimes.
Fact: The FBI Files was produced with the cooperation of the FBI, providing access to real case files. The show featured reenactments of crimes and investigations, similar to Forensic Files. It was narrated by Jim Kallstrom, a former FBI official.


Cold Case Files (1999)
Description: Similar to Forensic Files, Cold Case Files focuses on real-life criminal investigations, often involving forensic science to solve long-unsolved cases. Both shows emphasize the meticulous work of law enforcement and forensic experts, providing a detailed look at how crimes are solved through evidence and technology.
Fact: Cold Case Files was narrated by Bill Kurtis, known for his distinctive voice in true crime documentaries. The show often featured reenactments to illustrate the crimes and investigations, similar to Forensic Files. It was revived in 2017 with Danny Glover as the narrator.


See No Evil (2015)
Description: See No Evil shares Forensic Files' focus on the use of forensic evidence, particularly surveillance footage, to solve crimes. Both shows highlight the role of technology in modern criminal investigations.
Fact: See No Evil is produced by the same team behind Forensic Files. The show often features cases where surveillance footage played a key role in solving the crime. It has been praised for its detailed and engaging storytelling.


Evil Lives Here (2016)
Description: Evil Lives Here, like Forensic Files, explores real criminal cases, but with a focus on the personal stories of those who lived with the perpetrators. Both shows use interviews and reenactments to tell the stories of crimes and their impact.
Fact: Evil Lives Here often features interviews with family members of criminals. The show explores the psychological dynamics within families where a member commits a crime. It has been praised for its emotional depth and storytelling.


48 Hours (1988)
Description: 48 Hours is similar to Forensic Files in its focus on real criminal cases, often featuring forensic evidence and investigative techniques. Both shows provide a detailed look at the process of solving crimes, though 48 Hours often has a more journalistic approach.
Fact: 48 Hours is one of the longest-running true crime series on television. The show has won multiple awards for its investigative journalism. It often features interviews with victims' families and law enforcement officials.


The New Detectives (1996)
Description: The New Detectives shares Forensic Files' focus on forensic science and criminal investigations. Both shows highlight the role of forensic experts in solving crimes, often featuring interviews with investigators and detailed explanations of forensic techniques.
Fact: The New Detectives was produced by Discovery Channel, known for its educational and documentary programming. The show often featured cases that were solved using cutting-edge forensic technology at the time. It was narrated by Gene Galusha, who also worked on other true crime documentaries.


City Confidential (1998)
Description: City Confidential, like Forensic Files, explores real criminal cases, often focusing on the impact of crime on communities. Both shows use reenactments and interviews to tell the stories of crimes and their investigations.
Fact: City Confidential was known for its focus on the cultural and social context of the crimes it covered. The show was narrated by Paul Winfield, an acclaimed actor. It often highlighted lesser-known cases that had a significant impact on small towns.


The First 48 (2004)
Description: The First 48 is similar to Forensic Files in its focus on the critical early stages of criminal investigations. Both shows emphasize the importance of forensic evidence and quick action by law enforcement to solve crimes.
Fact: The First 48 follows real detectives as they work on cases in the first 48 hours after a crime. The show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of police work. It has spawned several spin-offs and specials.


Deadly Women (2005)
Description: Deadly Women shares Forensic Files' focus on criminal investigations, but with a specific emphasis on female perpetrators. Both shows use forensic evidence and expert interviews to explore the motives and methods behind crimes.
Fact: Deadly Women is hosted by Candice DeLong, a former FBI profiler. The show often explores psychological and sociological factors behind female criminals. It features reenactments and expert analysis, similar to Forensic Files.


American Justice (1992)
Description: American Justice, like Forensic Files, delves into real criminal cases, often focusing on the legal and investigative processes. Both shows provide a comprehensive look at how crimes are solved and prosecuted, with a strong emphasis on forensic evidence.
Fact: American Justice was hosted by Bill Kurtis, a prominent figure in true crime television. The show covered a wide range of cases, from high-profile murders to lesser-known crimes. It was known for its in-depth interviews with law enforcement and legal experts.
