10 Movies and Shows Similar to The Light in the Hall (2022)

Description: Like 'The Light in the Hall', 'Top of the Lake' is a mystery drama that deals with dark themes and features a strong female investigator. Both shows explore the impact of crime on small communities and feature stunning but foreboding natural landscapes that become characters in their own right. The emotional complexity and slow-burning suspense are key similarities.

Fact: Elisabeth Moss learned to ride a motorcycle for her role. The series was filmed in New Zealand, standing in for the story's Australian setting. Jane Campion co-created the series, making her one of the few female directors in the crime drama genre.

Description: 'Happy Valley' shares with 'The Light in the Hall' a focus on a female protagonist dealing with personal trauma while investigating dark crimes. Both series are set in rural areas, which play a significant role in the storytelling, creating a sense of isolation and tension. The realistic portrayal of police work and the emotional depth of the characters are also key similarities.

Fact: Sarah Lancashire, who plays the lead role, did most of her own stunts. The series was inspired by real-life cases from the Calder Valley where it's set. Writer Sally Wainwright based the character of Catherine Cawood on strong women she knew growing up in Yorkshire.

Description: Like 'The Light in the Hall', 'Broadchurch' is a gripping crime drama that delves into the emotional and psychological impact of a crime on a small community. Both series feature strong female leads and explore themes of grief, justice, and the complexities of human nature. The atmospheric coastal setting in 'Broadchurch' adds to the haunting tone, similar to the Welsh backdrop in 'The Light in the Hall'.

Fact: 'Broadchurch' was filmed in Dorset, England, and the local economy benefited significantly from the production. The show's creator, Chris Chibnall, went on to become the showrunner for 'Doctor Who'. The first season's mystery was kept so secret that even the actors didn't know the killer's identity until the final episodes were filmed.

Description: Both 'The Fall' and 'The Light in the Hall' explore the psychological cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a criminal. The series share a slow-burning tension and a focus on character development over action. The female leads in both shows are complex, driven professionals dealing with personal demons, adding depth to the narrative.

Fact: Gillian Anderson's character was originally written as a man. Jamie Dornan prepared for his role as Paul Spector by studying serial killer documentaries. The show was filmed in Belfast, Northern Ireland, though it's set in London.

Description: Like 'The Light in the Hall', 'True Detective' features a crime investigation that spans years, with deep psychological and philosophical undertones. Both shows use non-linear storytelling and focus on how past events shape the present. The atmospheric cinematography and strong character development are also similar.

Fact: Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson are close friends in real life. The now-famous tracking shot in episode 4 took seven takes to perfect. Creator Nic Pizzolatto wrote all episodes himself for the first season.

Description: 'The Night Of' shares with 'The Light in the Hall' a focus on how a single crime affects multiple lives. Both shows are character-driven crime dramas that explore the justice system's complexities and the psychological impact of crime. The atmospheric tension and moral ambiguity are key similarities.

Fact: The series is a remake of a British show called 'Criminal Justice'. Riz Ahmed prepared for his role by spending time with real public defenders. John Turturro's character's foot condition was based on the actor's real-life eczema.

Description: 'Sharp Objects' shares with 'The Light in the Hall' a focus on a journalist returning to her hometown to investigate a crime, uncovering personal and community secrets. Both shows feature complex female protagonists dealing with trauma and addiction, and both use flashbacks to reveal character backstories. The atmospheric, oppressive small-town settings are remarkably similar.

Fact: Amy Adams learned to type with two fingers to stay in character as Camille. The series was filmed in Barnesville, Georgia, though set in Missouri. Director Jean-Marc Vallée used the same editor from 'Big Little Lies', creating a similar visual style.

Description: Like 'The Light in the Hall', 'Unforgotten' focuses on cold cases that resurface, affecting both victims' families and investigators. Both series emphasize the emotional toll of long-unsolved crimes and feature meticulous police work. The ensemble casts and multi-layered storytelling are also points of similarity.

Fact: Each season features a completely new case with some returning characters. Creator Chris Lang based the series on real cold cases. Nicola Walker's character was originally written as male, but she was cast after producers saw her audition.

Description: 'Marcella' shares with 'The Light in the Hall' a troubled female detective protagonist dealing with personal issues while solving crimes. Both shows feature psychological depth, unreliable narrators, and explore themes of memory and identity. The dark, moody atmospheres and complex plotting are also similar.

Fact: Anna Friel learned to speak Swedish for her role. The show's creator, Hans Rosenfeldt, also created 'The Bridge'. Friel performed many of her own stunts, including fight scenes.

Description: Both 'The Undoing' and 'The Light in the Hall' explore how a crime unravels the lives of those involved, with a focus on psychological drama over action. The wealthy New York setting of 'The Undoing' contrasts with the Welsh valleys of 'The Light in the Hall', but both use their locations to enhance the storytelling. The themes of secrets, betrayal, and the facades people maintain are central to both.

Fact: Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant had never worked together before this series. The show was filmed in New York during winter, with temperatures often below freezing. Director Susanne Bier insisted on shooting in chronological order to maintain tension.