If you're a fan of the gripping crime drama 'Wallander' (2008), you're likely craving more shows with intense mysteries, complex detectives, and atmospheric storytelling. This article highlights 10 similar movies and TV series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like Kurt Wallander's investigations in Ystad.

Luther (2010)
Description: A dark and intense crime drama centered around a brilliant but troubled detective, known for its gritty realism and complex moral dilemmas.
Fact: Idris Elba's portrayal of John Luther earned him a Golden Globe award for Best Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film.


Vera (2011)
Description: A detective series featuring a no-nonsense, brilliant investigator solving crimes in the rugged Northumberland landscape, with a focus on character-driven storytelling.
Fact: The lead character, DCI Vera Stanhope, is known for her disheveled appearance and sharp intellect, a departure from typical TV detectives.


The Bridge (2011)
Description: A Scandinavian crime drama that delves into complex investigations, often exploring societal issues and psychological depth, with a brooding atmosphere and meticulous detective work.
Fact: The series begins with a body found on the Øresund Bridge, exactly on the border between Sweden and Denmark, leading to a joint investigation between the two countries.


Baptiste (2019)
Description: A spin-off from The Missing, this series follows a retired detective drawn back into complex cases, featuring dark themes and meticulous investigations.
Fact: The character of Julien Baptiste was so popular in The Missing that he was given his own standalone series.


Happy Valley (2014)
Description: A gripping crime drama set in West Yorkshire, focusing on a tough, dedicated police sergeant dealing with personal and professional challenges.
Fact: The series was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and the strong performance of Sarah Lancashire as the lead.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A British crime drama focusing on a tight-knit community shaken by a tragic event, featuring a methodical investigation and deep emotional undercurrents.
Fact: The show's coastal setting in Dorset became a tourist attraction, with fans visiting the locations featured in the series.


The Fall (2013)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer, delving into the minds of both the hunter and the hunted.
Fact: The series was notable for its slow-burn tension and the chilling portrayal of the killer by Jamie Dornan.


Shetland (2013)
Description: Set in the remote Shetland Islands, this series combines stark landscapes with intricate murder mysteries, emphasizing the isolation and close-knit nature of the community.
Fact: The show is based on the novels by crime writer Ann Cleeves, who also created the Vera series.


Unforgotten (2015)
Description: A British crime drama that focuses on cold cases, unraveling long-buried secrets with a team of dedicated detectives, blending emotional depth with procedural elements.
Fact: Each season of Unforgotten revolves around a different historical case, with the team piecing together events from decades earlier.


Marcella (2016)
Description: A British noir crime drama featuring a detective with a fractured personal life, blending psychological depth with intricate crime-solving.
Fact: The show's creator, Hans Rosenfeldt, also created The Bridge, lending a similar Nordic noir influence to the series.
