10 Shows Like Happy Valley (2014)

Description: A brooding detective series set in Sweden, focusing on a melancholic inspector solving crimes while grappling with his own mental health. The show is noted for its slow pace and introspective tone.

Fact: The series is based on Henning Mankell's novels. Kenneth Branagh, who plays Wallander, learned Swedish to better understand the character's background.

Description: A psychological crime thriller centered on a brilliant but emotionally damaged detective. The show balances intense action with deep character studies, often blurring the lines between right and wrong.

Fact: Idris Elba's portrayal of Luther earned him a Golden Globe. The show's iconic coat worn by Luther became a symbol of the character's rugged determination.

Description: A Scandinavian noir series that begins with a body found on the border between two countries, leading to a complex investigation. The show excels in atmospheric tension and cross-cultural dynamics.

Fact: The series sparked multiple international adaptations, including 'The Tunnel' between the UK and France. The original bridge used in filming is the Øresund Bridge between Denmark and Sweden.

Description: A haunting mystery set in a remote New Zealand town, exploring themes of trauma and resilience. The show combines stunning visuals with a slow-burning, emotionally charged plot.

Fact: The series was co-created by Jane Campion, the first female director to win the Palme d'Or. The landscape is almost a character in itself, adding to the eerie tone.

Description: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, focusing on the impact of a child's murder on the community. The show delves deep into personal and professional conflicts among the investigators.

Fact: The show's stunning cliffside locations became a tourist attraction, boosting local businesses. It was originally intended to be set in Sussex but was moved to Dorset for its dramatic coastline.

Description: A psychological thriller that explores the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. The narrative is intense, with a strong focus on the psychological depth of both the hunter and the hunted.

Fact: The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its slow-burn tension. It was one of the first BBC dramas to be picked up by Netflix for international distribution.

Description: A police procedural that scrutinizes the internal affairs of law enforcement, highlighting corruption and moral dilemmas. The show is known for its intricate plotting and high-stakes interrogations.

Fact: The show's creator, Jed Mercurio, is a former hospital doctor who turned to writing. The series has a cult following for its unpredictable twists and turns.

Description: A crime drama set in the remote Shetland Islands, blending murder mysteries with the stark beauty of the landscape. The protagonist's personal struggles add depth to the investigative narrative.

Fact: The series is based on novels by Ann Cleeves. The isolated setting plays a crucial role in the atmosphere and plot development.

Description: A cold case drama that unravels long-buried secrets, focusing on the emotional toll on both the victims' families and the detectives. The storytelling is meticulous and character-driven.

Fact: Each season features a new case but retains the same core cast of detectives. The show is celebrated for its realistic and respectful handling of sensitive topics.

Description: A dark crime drama featuring a troubled detective with a fragmented memory, struggling to solve cases while battling personal demons. The show is known for its gritty realism and complex protagonist.

Fact: The lead character's blackouts and memory loss were inspired by real-life cases of dissociative fugue. The series was originally titled 'The Forgotten' during development.