10 Shows and Movies Similar to Matlock (2024)

Description: 'The Practice' shares with 'Matlock' (2024) a focus on the ethical dilemmas faced by defense attorneys. Both shows are grounded in realistic legal scenarios and feature intense courtroom battles. The moral complexity of the characters is a key element in both series.

Fact: Created by David E. Kelley. Won multiple Emmy Awards, including Best Drama Series. Dylan McDermott starred as the lead attorney Bobby Donnell.

Description: 'Boston Legal' and 'Matlock' (2024) both blend legal drama with humor and eccentric characters. Both shows feature seasoned attorneys who are unorthodox in their methods but deeply committed to justice. The courtroom scenes are both dramatic and entertaining.

Fact: A spin-off of 'The Practice'. Stars James Spader and William Shatner. Known for its closing arguments, which often address broader societal issues.

Description: 'Damages' and 'Matlock' (2024) both delve into high-stakes legal battles with a focus on the personal costs of pursuing justice. Both shows feature strong female leads and intricate, multi-layered storytelling. The tension and suspense are palpable in both series.

Fact: Stars Glenn Close as the ruthless lawyer Patty Hewes. The narrative is non-linear, with frequent flash-forwards. The show was critically acclaimed for its writing and performances.

Description: 'The Lincoln Lawyer' shares similarities with 'Matlock' (2024) in its focus on a charismatic defense attorney who operates outside the traditional law firm setting. Both shows highlight the protagonist's unconventional methods and moral dilemmas. The storytelling is driven by legal cases that often reveal deeper societal issues.

Fact: Based on Michael Connelly's bestselling novels. The protagonist, Mickey Haller, works out of his Lincoln Town Car. The show was initially developed as a film series starring Matthew McConaughey.

Description: 'The Good Wife' parallels 'Matlock' (2024) in its blend of legal drama and personal storytelling. Both shows feature strong, intelligent protagonists navigating the legal world while dealing with personal challenges. The courtroom scenes are meticulously crafted, and the cases often reflect contemporary issues.

Fact: Julianna Margulies won multiple awards for her role as Alicia Florrick. The show spawned a spin-off, 'The Good Fight'. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of legal and political maneuvering.

Description: 'Suits' and 'Matlock' (2024) both revolve around brilliant lawyers who use their wits to win cases. While 'Suits' has a more corporate law focus, it shares 'Matlock's' emphasis on clever dialogue, strategic thinking, and the personal dynamics between characters.

Fact: Launched the careers of Meghan Markle and Patrick J. Adams. The show is known for its fast-paced, jargon-heavy dialogue. It was filmed in Toronto, despite being set in New York City.

Description: Similar to 'Matlock' (2024), 'Perry Mason' is a legal drama that focuses on a determined defense attorney who takes on challenging cases. Both shows emphasize courtroom drama, intricate legal strategies, and the personal lives of the lawyers involved. The period setting of 'Perry Mason' adds a unique visual aesthetic, much like how 'Matlock' might blend modern legal issues with classic storytelling.

Fact: 'Perry Mason' is a reboot of the classic 1957 series. The show stars Matthew Rhys, known for his role in 'The Americans'. It is set in 1930s Los Angeles, offering a noir-inspired visual style.

Description: Like 'Matlock' (2024), 'How to Get Away with Murder' centers on a brilliant defense attorney and her team. Both shows mix legal drama with personal intrigue and mystery. The fast-paced storytelling and unexpected twists are hallmarks of both series.

Fact: Stars Viola Davis, who became the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Best Actress in a Drama. Created by Peter Nowalk, a protégé of Shonda Rhimes. The show is known for its shocking mid-season and finale twists.

Description: Like 'Matlock' (2024), 'Goliath' features a seasoned lawyer taking on powerful adversaries. Both shows explore themes of justice, redemption, and the underdog fighting against the system. The gritty tone and complex characters are central to both series.

Fact: Stars Billy Bob Thornton as a disgraced lawyer seeking redemption. Created by David E. Kelley, known for legal dramas like 'The Practice'. The show won a Golden Globe for Billy Bob Thornton's performance.

Description: A spin-off of 'The Good Wife', 'The Good Fight' continues the tradition of sharp legal drama akin to 'Matlock' (2024). Both shows feature dynamic female leads and tackle timely social and political issues within the framework of legal cases. The writing is witty and the pacing is brisk.

Fact: Stars Christine Baranski reprising her role from 'The Good Wife'. The show was one of the first original series on CBS All Access (now Paramount+). It incorporates animated sequences to satirize current events.