If you were moved by the gripping and emotional drama of 'Little Boy Blue' (2017), you might be searching for similar shows or movies that deliver the same intensity and depth. This article explores 10 compelling titles that share themes of crime, justice, and human resilience, perfect for fans of true crime and heartfelt storytelling.

Top of the Lake (2013)
Description: A haunting mystery set in a remote community, exploring themes of trauma, gender, and power, with a strong female protagonist and a slow-burning narrative.
Fact: The series was filmed in New Zealand, standing in for the story's setting in the South Island. Jane Campion, the co-creator, became the first female director to win the Palme d'Or at Cannes for 'The Piano.'


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: A dark and intense police procedural that explores themes of grief, justice, and resilience, centered around a strong female lead dealing with personal and professional challenges.
Fact: The series is set in West Yorkshire, and its title refers to the local nickname for the area due to its drug problems. The show's creator, Sally Wainwright, drew inspiration from real-life police work and interviews with officers.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A gripping crime drama that delves into the emotional and psychological impact of a child's murder on a small community, featuring meticulous police work and deep character studies.
Fact: The show was filmed on location in Dorset, England, and its stunning coastal scenery became almost a character in itself. The identity of the killer was kept secret from most of the cast until the final episodes to maintain authenticity in their performances.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A psychological thriller that examines the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer, with a strong emphasis on character development and the darker aspects of human nature.
Fact: The series was initially planned as a five-part story but was extended due to its popularity. It was one of the first BBC dramas to be picked up by Netflix, gaining a wider international audience.


Line of Duty (2012)
Description: A tense and twist-filled police procedural that focuses on corruption within the force, featuring intricate plotting and high-stakes interrogations.
Fact: The show's creator, Jed Mercurio, is a former doctor who also wrote the medical drama 'Bodies.' The series is known for its realistic portrayal of police jargon and procedures.


True Detective (2014)
Description: A dark and atmospheric crime anthology that blends police procedural with deep philosophical and psychological themes, featuring complex characters and nonlinear storytelling.
Fact: The first season was shot entirely on film, giving it a distinctive cinematic look. Each season features a new cast and storyline, with the first season being particularly acclaimed for its writing and performances.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A gritty crime drama that examines the criminal justice system through the lens of a single case, focusing on the personal and systemic consequences of a murder investigation.
Fact: The series was originally developed by James Gandolfini, who was set to star before his death. It is based on the British series 'Criminal Justice.'


Unforgotten (2015)
Description: A cold-case crime drama that focuses on the meticulous unraveling of long-buried secrets, emphasizing the human stories behind the investigations and the moral complexities involved.
Fact: Each season features a new case with a different cast of suspects, but the core investigative team remains the same. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of police work and its emotional depth.


Marcella (2016)
Description: A noir-inspired crime drama featuring a troubled detective with a fragmented memory, blending personal drama with a gripping murder investigation.
Fact: The series was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, who also wrote 'The Bridge.' It was originally intended to be set in Sweden but was relocated to London for production reasons.


The Sinner (2017)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the motives behind seemingly inexplicable crimes, focusing on the hidden traumas and secrets that drive people to violence.
Fact: The show is based on a novel by Petra Hammesfahr. Each season explores a different case, with the first season starring Jessica Biel in a rare television role.
