10 Gripping Shows & Movies Similar to A Friend of the Family (2022)

Description: Like 'A Friend of the Family', this series combines crime investigation with deep character study, focusing on how trauma affects individuals and communities. Both feature strong female leads in complex roles.

Fact: Kate Winslet mastered a Delaware County accent for the role. The murder mystery kept audiences guessing until the end. Features an authentic portrayal of working-class life.

Description: Similar to 'A Friend of the Family' in its true crime basis and exploration of family dynamics under extreme pressure. Both series examine how legal cases affect personal relationships.

Fact: Based on the real-life case of Michael Peterson. Colin Firth learned to write with his opposite hand for his role. The original documentary series ran for 13 episodes over 16 years.

Description: Like 'A Friend of the Family', this series explores the impact of a crime on multiple lives, with a focus on the justice system and personal transformation. Both feature intense character studies.

Fact: Originally developed with James Gandolfini in mind. Based on the British series 'Criminal Justice'. Riz Ahmed's performance earned him an Emmy nomination.

Description: Shares a dark, psychological tone with 'A Friend of the Family', focusing on trauma, family secrets, and the impact of past events on present lives. Both series feature strong female leads navigating complex emotional landscapes.

Fact: Based on Gillian Flynn's debut novel. Amy Adams learned to play piano for her role. The series features an unconventional ending that sparked much discussion.

Description: Shares with 'A Friend of the Family' a focus on suburban secrets, female relationships, and the dark undercurrents beneath perfect facades. Both shows blend drama with psychological thriller elements.

Fact: Originally planned as a miniseries but extended due to popularity. Meryl Streep joined the cast in season The show's theme song became a chart hit.

Description: Shares with 'A Friend of the Family' themes of motherhood, class differences, and the secrets that bind families. Both explore how appearances can be deceiving and the consequences of buried truths.

Fact: Based on Celeste Ng's bestselling novel. Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon served as executive producers. Explores themes of racial and class tensions in 1990s America.

Description: Like 'A Friend of the Family', this series explores the unraveling of a seemingly perfect life when dark secrets come to light. Both deal with themes of deception, trust, and the facades people maintain.

Fact: Nicole Kidman's hair in the show became a cultural talking point. Based on Jean Hanff Korelitz's novel 'You Should Have Known'. Features one of the most expensive coats ever worn on television.

Description: Shares with 'A Friend of the Family' a sense of creeping dread and the unraveling of normal life due to extraordinary circumstances. Both blend psychological drama with elements of mystery.

Fact: Based on Stephen King's novel. Features a unique blend of crime drama and supernatural elements. Ben Mendelsohn's performance was widely praised.

Description: Similar to 'A Friend of the Family' in its exploration of psychological manipulation and true crime themes. Both series delve into the complexities of familial relationships under extreme circumstances, showcasing the dark side of human nature.

Fact: Based on the true story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee. Patricia Arquette won a Golden Globe for her role as Dee Dee Blanchard. The series explores Munchausen syndrome by proxy, a rare form of abuse.

Description: Similar to 'A Friend of the Family' in its exploration of unexpected crimes and the psychological motivations behind them. Both series peel back layers of normalcy to reveal disturbing truths.

Fact: Each season features a different crime story. Based on Petra Hammesfahr's novel. Bill Pullman's detective character appears in all seasons.