10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Harry Wild (2022)

Description: Like 'Harry Wild', this long-running series features murder mysteries solved by an intelligent protagonist (DCI Barnaby). Both shows balance crime-solving with character development and have a distinctive English setting. While more procedural than 'Harry Wild', it shares the same blend of dark crimes with lighter moments.

Fact: Holds the Guinness World Record for 'most deaths in a TV show'. Despite the high body count, it's known for its picturesque English countryside settings. The fictional Midsomer county would have a higher murder rate than any real place.

Description: Like 'Harry Wild', this historical mystery series features an intellectual protagonist solving crimes using innovative methods. Both shows blend crime-solving with historical detail and character development. Murdoch's scientific approach parallels Harry's academic background.

Fact: Set in late 19th/early 20th century Toronto. Features appearances by historical figures like Nikola Tesla. One of Canada's longest-running drama series.

Description: Like Harry Wild, DCI Vera Stanhope is a sharp, no-nonsense older woman solving crimes, though Vera is a professional detective. Both shows feature strong female leads who don't conform to expectations and use their intelligence to outwit criminals. The Northeast England setting provides atmospheric backdrops.

Fact: Based on novels by Ann Cleeves, who also created 'Shetland'. Brenda Blethyn was initially reluctant to take the role. The character's trademark hat was Blethyn's own idea.

Description: Like 'Harry Wild', this series features an intellectual detective (usually an outsider) solving crimes, though with a tropical setting. Both shows balance murder mysteries with humor and character development. The 'fish out of water' element is similar to Harry's transition from academia to crime-solving.

Fact: Filmed on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe. Has had four different lead detectives over its run. The production faced challenges from hurricanes and volcanic activity.

Description: Like 'Harry Wild', 'Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries' features a strong, independent female lead who solves crimes with wit and charm. Both shows blend mystery with a touch of humor and are set in distinctive historical periods, offering a visually rich backdrop. The protagonist's unconventional methods and sharp intellect mirror Harry's approach to solving cases.

Fact: The series is based on the Phryne Fisher detective novels by Kerry Greenwood. The show's 1920s setting is meticulously recreated, with authentic costumes and jazz music. It has a dedicated fan base known as 'Fisheries'.

Description: Like 'Harry Wild', 'Father Brown' features an unlikely detective - a Catholic priest - whose deep understanding of human nature helps solve crimes. Both protagonists are older, wise figures who use their intellect rather than physical prowess. The shows share a cozy mystery vibe with occasional darker undertones.

Fact: Based on G.K. Chesterton's short stories written in the 1910s-30s. The series is filmed in the Cotswolds, providing picturesque English village settings. Father Brown holds the record for most episodes of any UK crime drama.

Description: This series shares with 'Harry Wild' the theme of intelligent women solving crimes, though 'The Bletchley Circle' focuses on former WWII codebreakers. Both shows highlight the protagonists' unique problem-solving skills and their ability to see patterns others miss. The post-war setting adds a layer of historical intrigue similar to Harry's academic background.

Fact: The show was inspired by the real-life Bletchley Park codebreakers. It was initially planned as a one-off miniseries but was expanded due to popularity. The lead characters are based on composite traits of actual female codebreakers.

Description: While darker in tone than 'Harry Wild', 'Shetland' shares the theme of an intelligent protagonist solving crimes in a distinctive location. Both shows blend mystery with strong character development and explore the impact of crimes on small communities. The island setting creates a unique atmosphere.

Fact: Also based on novels by Ann Cleeves. Many exterior scenes are filmed in mainland Scotland due to Shetland's unpredictable weather. The show has boosted tourism to the Shetland Islands.

Description: This New Zealand series shares with 'Harry Wild' the theme of an unlikely detective (a music-loving homicide detective) solving crimes in a small community. Both shows mix murder mysteries with quirky characters and lighter moments. The rural setting provides a distinctive backdrop like Harry's Dublin.

Fact: Despite the New Zealand setting, the lead actor is Australian. The show's theme song is an original country music track. Many episodes feature New Zealand's wine industry.

Description: Similar to 'Harry Wild', 'Grantchester' pairs an intellectual (in this case, a vicar) with a police detective to solve crimes. Both shows blend mystery with character-driven drama and explore the protagonists' personal lives. The post-WWII setting provides historical context like Harry's academic world.

Fact: Based on The Grantchester Mysteries novels by James Runcie. The real Grantchester village near Cambridge attracts fans of the show. The series explores the vicar's struggles with faith and sexuality.