If you loved the gripping Irish crime drama 'Single-Handed' (2007), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and TV shows that capture the same intense atmosphere, complex characters, and thrilling storytelling. Whether you're a fan of police procedurals, small-town mysteries, or character-driven narratives, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

Wallander (2008)
Description: A brooding detective series with a melancholic tone, focusing on a detective's personal struggles while solving crimes in a rural setting.
Fact: The series is based on Henning Mankell's novels and was filmed in Ystad, Sweden, the same location as the books.


Vera (2011)
Description: A character-driven detective series set in the rugged landscapes of Northumberland, featuring a no-nonsense detective solving complex cases.
Fact: The series is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves and has been running for over a decade, with Brenda Blethyn in the lead role.


The Bridge (2011)
Description: A Nordic noir crime series with a focus on cross-border investigations, featuring a mismatched pair of detectives and a dark, atmospheric tone.
Fact: The show's iconic opening scene takes place on the Øresund Bridge, which connects Sweden and Denmark.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: A gritty crime drama with a strong female lead, exploring dark themes and the emotional toll of policing in a small community.
Fact: The show's title refers to the nickname for the Calder Valley in West Yorkshire, where the series is set.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A small-town murder mystery that delves deep into the emotional and social impact of crime on a tight-knit community, with a slow-burning investigative approach.
Fact: The show's iconic cliffside scenes were filmed in West Bay, Dorset, which became a tourist attraction after the series aired.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A gripping crime drama with a strong focus on psychological tension and character-driven storytelling, featuring a complex detective pursuing a meticulous killer.
Fact: The series was initially planned as a five-part miniseries but was extended due to its popularity. It was filmed in Belfast, Northern Ireland.


Line of Duty (2012)
Description: A high-stakes police procedural that delves into corruption and moral ambiguity within law enforcement, with intense interrogation scenes and plot twists.
Fact: The show's creator, Jed Mercurio, is also known for writing the hit medical drama 'Bodyguard.'


Shetland (2013)
Description: A detective series set in a remote and atmospheric location, blending procedural elements with personal drama and a strong sense of place.
Fact: The show is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves and has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the Shetland Islands.


Unforgotten (2015)
Description: A cold-case crime drama that emphasizes the human stories behind the investigations, with a focus on meticulous detective work and emotional depth.
Fact: Each season features a new case with a different cast of suspects, but the core detective team remains the same.


Marcella (2016)
Description: A psychological crime thriller with a troubled female detective at its center, blending personal drama with intense investigative work.
Fact: The show was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, who also co-created 'The Bridge,' and features a nonlinear narrative structure.
