10 Shows and Movies Similar to Vera (2011)

Description: Like Vera, Midsomer Murders is a British crime drama that focuses on detective work in rural settings. Both shows feature strong, no-nonsense detectives solving complex cases with a mix of intuition and methodical investigation. The picturesque yet eerie countryside serves as a backdrop, adding to the atmospheric tension.

Fact: Midsomer Murders holds the record for the highest number of deaths per capita in a fictional setting. The show is based on the novels by Caroline Graham. Despite its idyllic setting, the fictional county of Midsomer has a murder rate higher than most urban areas.

Description: Wallander, like Vera, features a detective solving crimes in a rural setting (Sweden's Ystad). Both protagonists are introspective and haunted by personal demons, adding depth to the crime-solving narrative.

Fact: Wallander is based on the novels by Henning Mankell. Kenneth Branagh plays the titular character. The show is known for its bleak, atmospheric tone.

Description: Scott & Bailey, like Vera, focuses on female detectives navigating the challenges of their profession. Both shows blend procedural elements with personal drama, offering a realistic portrayal of police work.

Fact: The show was created by Sally Wainwright and Diane Taylor. Suranne Jones and Lesley Sharp play the titular characters. The show was praised for its strong female leads and realistic storytelling.

Description: Happy Valley shares with Vera a focus on a tough, resilient female detective navigating a male-dominated profession. Both shows blend crime-solving with deep character studies, exploring the personal lives and struggles of their protagonists.

Fact: Happy Valley was created by Sally Wainwright, known for her strong female characters. Sarah Lancashire's performance as Catherine Cawood is widely acclaimed. The show's title refers to the drug-ridden valley where the series is set.

Description: Broadchurch, like Vera, is a crime drama that delves into the emotional and psychological impact of crimes on small communities. Both shows feature strong female leads (Vera and DS Ellie Miller) and explore themes of grief, justice, and redemption.

Fact: Broadchurch was a critical and commercial success, revitalizing the career of David Tennant. The show's twist was so well-guarded that even the actors didn't know the killer's identity until the final episodes. Olivia Colman won a BAFTA for her role as DS Ellie Miller.

Description: The Fall, like Vera, is a British crime drama with a strong female lead (Stella Gibson). Both shows are character-driven, focusing on the detective's personal and professional life while hunting a serial killer. The psychological depth and tension are key similarities.

Fact: The Fall stars Gillian Anderson, famous for her role in The X-Files. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work. Jamie Dornan's performance as the serial killer Paul Spector earned widespread acclaim.

Description: Line of Duty, like Vera, is a British police procedural with a focus on corruption and internal investigations. Both shows feature strong, morally complex characters and high-stakes storytelling.

Fact: Line of Duty is known for its intense interrogation scenes. The show has a large and dedicated fan base. It has won multiple BAFTA awards.

Description: Shetland shares with Vera a strong sense of place, with the remote and rugged Shetland Islands playing a central role in the narrative. Both series feature detectives who are deeply connected to their communities and must navigate personal and professional challenges while solving crimes.

Fact: Shetland is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves, who also created the Vera character. The show is known for its stunning cinematography, capturing the stark beauty of the Shetland Islands. Douglas Henshall, who plays DI Jimmy Perez, won a BAFTA for his performance.

Description: Unforgotten, like Vera, is a British crime drama that focuses on cold cases. Both shows emphasize the emotional toll of solving long-buried crimes and the impact on victims' families.

Fact: Unforgotten stars Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar. The show is known for its intricate plotting and emotional depth. Each season focuses on a different cold case.

Description: Prime Suspect, like Vera, features a strong female detective battling sexism in a male-dominated profession. Both shows are gritty, realistic, and focus on the personal and professional challenges of their protagonists.

Fact: Prime Suspect stars Helen Mirren as DCI Jane Tennison. The show was groundbreaking for its portrayal of a female detective. It won multiple awards, including Emmys and BAFTAs.