10 Gripping Shows Like Ridley (2022)

Description: A moody crime drama based on the novels by Henning Mankell, following a detective in the small Swedish town of Ystad. The series is known for its contemplative pace, existential themes, and stunning cinematography.

Fact: The show was filmed in Ystad, the actual setting of the novels, adding to its authenticity. Kenneth Branagh, who plays Wallander, learned Swedish for the role and insisted on doing many of his own stunts.

Description: A psychological crime drama following a brilliant but emotionally unstable detective. The series is known for its dark tone, complex characters, and the intense relationship between the protagonist and a ruthless killer.

Fact: The character of Luther was originally conceived as a much older man, but the role was rewritten for Idris Elba. The show's iconic opening title sequence was inspired by the work of artist Francis Bacon.

Description: A Scandinavian crime drama that begins with a body found on the border between Sweden and Denmark. The series is known for its bleak atmosphere, complex characters, and exploration of social issues.

Fact: The show was a co-production between Sweden and Denmark, with dialogue in both languages. The character of Saga Norén, with her blunt honesty and social awkwardness, became a cultural icon.

Description: A gritty crime drama set in West Yorkshire, focusing on a tough police sergeant dealing with personal and professional challenges. The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of policing and its strong female lead.

Fact: The title 'Happy Valley' is a local nickname for the Calder Valley, where the series is set, due to its high levels of drug use. The show was created by Sally Wainwright, who drew inspiration from real-life police work.

Description: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, focusing on the impact of a murder investigation on the tight-knit community. The show delves deep into personal and collective trauma, with a strong emphasis on character development and atmospheric tension.

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 the cast until the final episodes to maintain authenticity in their performances.

Description: A psychological thriller that explores the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. The series is known for its slow-burning tension, complex characters, and a focus on the psychological aspects of crime.

Fact: The show was initially intended to be a five-part series but was extended due to its popularity. It was one of the first BBC dramas to be picked up by Netflix for international distribution.

Description: A tense police procedural that focuses on anti-corruption investigations within the police force. The series is known for its intricate plotting, shocking twists, and realistic portrayal of police bureaucracy.

Fact: The show's creator, Jed Mercurio, is a former hospital doctor who turned to writing. The interrogation scenes in the series are renowned for their intensity and length, often running for over 20 minutes.

Description: A crime drama set in the remote Shetland Islands, known for its stunning landscapes and slow-paced, character-driven storytelling. The series often explores themes of isolation and community.

Fact: The show is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves, who also created the Vera Stanhope series. The rugged beauty of the Shetland Islands plays a central role in the show's atmosphere.

Description: A cold case crime drama that follows a team of detectives as they uncover long-buried secrets. The series is known for its meticulous attention to detail, emotional depth, and the way it humanizes both victims and perpetrators.

Fact: Each season of the show focuses on a different cold case, with a new set of suspects and victims. The series has been praised for its diverse casting and realistic portrayal of police work.

Description: A dark crime drama featuring a troubled detective who returns to work after a breakdown. The series blends elements of psychological thriller and police procedural, with a focus on the protagonist's personal demons.

Fact: The show was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, the writer behind the Swedish-Danish series 'The Bridge'. Marcella's blackouts and memory loss were inspired by real-life cases of dissociative amnesia.