If you enjoyed the gripping Finnish crime drama 'Maria Kallio' (2021), you're likely craving more shows with strong female leads, intense mysteries, and Nordic noir vibes. This article highlights 10 similar movies and TV series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, blending suspense, character depth, and atmospheric storytelling.

Wallander (2008)
Description: A Nordic noir crime drama featuring a brooding detective solving complex cases in a small town, with a strong focus on character development and atmospheric storytelling.
Fact: The series is based on the novels by Swedish author Henning Mankell. It was filmed in Ystad, Sweden, the same town where the books are set.


The Bridge (2011)
Description: A gritty crime series that explores dark themes and complex investigations, often involving cross-border cooperation between detectives from different countries.
Fact: The show's iconic opening scene features a body found exactly on the border between Sweden and Denmark. It has been remade in several countries, including the US and UK.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A small-town murder mystery that explores the ripple effects of crime on a community, with strong character development and emotional depth.
Fact: The iconic cliffside locations became a tourist attraction after the show's success. The first season's whodunit mystery was kept so secret that even the actors didn't know the killer's identity until filming the reveal scene.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A psychological crime thriller featuring a cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer, with deep character studies and tense atmosphere.
Fact: The series was notable for being one of the first BBC dramas to be set and filmed entirely in Northern Ireland. It gained international acclaim for its slow-burn tension.


Shetland (2013)
Description: A Scottish crime drama featuring a thoughtful detective solving cases in a remote island community, with beautiful landscapes and tight-knit community dynamics.
Fact: Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves, who also created the Vera series. Many local Shetland residents appear as extras in the show.


Marcella (2016)
Description: A British noir series about a troubled detective returning to work on complex cases while dealing with personal demons and memory loss.
Fact: Creator Hans Rosenfeldt also created The Bridge. The series was originally conceived as a Swedish production before being adapted for UK television.


Wisting (2019)
Description: A Norwegian crime thriller that combines a gripping serial killer investigation with personal drama and stunning Nordic landscapes.
Fact: Based on the novels by Jørn Lier Horst, a former police investigator himself. The series features one of the longest single-take shots in television history during a bank robbery scene.


Beforeigners (2019)
Description: A unique blend of crime procedural and sci-fi, featuring detectives investigating crimes involving time-displaced individuals from different historical periods.
Fact: The series was the first Norwegian-language original production for HBO Europe. It mixes historical accuracy with contemporary social commentary.


The Investigation (2020)
Description: A meticulously detailed crime drama focusing on a real-life investigation, with emphasis on police procedure and the emotional toll on investigators.
Fact: The series dramatizes the actual investigation into the murder of Swedish journalist Kim Wall. Creator Tobias Lindholm conducted extensive research with the real investigators involved.


Bordertown (2016)
Description: A Finnish crime drama that delves into psychological profiling and intricate police work, set against the backdrop of a small border town with its own secrets.
Fact: The series was inspired by real-life Finnish detective Jari Louhelainen, known for his work on cold cases. It became one of Finland's most successful TV exports.
