10 Shows & Movies Similar to Cardinal (2017)

Description: Wallander shares with Cardinal a brooding, introspective detective who is deeply affected by the crimes he investigates. Both series are set in cold, remote locations that contribute to the overall mood of isolation and melancholy. The pacing and focus on the detective's personal struggles are also key similarities.

Fact: Wallander is based on the novels by Swedish author Henning Mankell. The British adaptation stars Kenneth Branagh as Kurt Wallander. The series is known for its beautiful yet bleak cinematography, which captures the stark beauty of the Swedish countryside.

Description: Luther, like Cardinal, is a crime drama centered around a brilliant but troubled detective who is deeply affected by the cases he works on. Both series feature intense, character-driven storytelling and a dark, moody aesthetic. The emotional and psychological toll of the job is a recurring theme in both shows.

Fact: Luther stars Idris Elba as DCI John Luther, a role that earned him a Golden Globe. The series was created by Neil Cross, who also wrote the novelizations of the show. The show is known for its high-stakes, adrenaline-fueled storytelling and its iconic villain, Alice Morgan.

Description: Like Cardinal, The Killing is a slow-burning crime drama that delves deep into the psychological and emotional toll of solving a murder case. Both series feature complex characters and a strong sense of place, with the harsh, wintry landscapes playing a significant role in setting the tone. The intricate plotting and focus on the personal lives of the detectives are also key similarities.

Fact: The Killing is an American adaptation of the Danish series Forbrydelsen. The show was initially canceled after its third season but was revived for a fourth and final season due to fan demand. The series is known for its moody, atmospheric cinematography, which mirrors the bleakness of the story.

Description: The Bridge, much like Cardinal, is a crime drama that thrives on its stark, atmospheric setting and complex characters. Both series feature detectives from different backgrounds working together to solve a high-stakes case, with the setting (a border bridge in The Bridge, a wintry Canadian town in Cardinal) playing a crucial role in the narrative.

Fact: The Bridge is a Scandinavian series that was later remade in several countries, including the U.S. as The Bridge (2013). The show's protagonist, Saga Norén, is known for her blunt, socially awkward demeanor, which has made her a fan favorite. The series explores themes of immigration, social inequality, and corruption.

Description: Happy Valley shares with Cardinal a focus on a strong, morally complex female protagonist who is deeply invested in her community. Both series explore the personal and professional challenges faced by their lead characters, with a gritty, realistic tone. The crimes at the center of each story are deeply personal, adding to the emotional weight.

Fact: Happy Valley was created and written by Sally Wainwright, known for her strong female characters. The series stars Sarah Lancashire as Catherine Cawood, a role that earned her critical acclaim. The show's title is ironic, referring to the nickname for the Calder Valley where the series is set.

Description: Broadchurch shares with Cardinal a focus on a small, tight-knit community rocked by a brutal crime. Both series explore the ripple effects of the crime on the town and its inhabitants, with a strong emphasis on character development and emotional depth. The stunning yet somber coastal setting of Broadchurch is reminiscent of the wintry landscapes in Cardinal.

Fact: Broadchurch was created by Chris Chibnall, who later became the showrunner for Doctor Who. The series stars David Tennant and Olivia Colman, whose performances were widely praised. The show's theme music, composed by Ólafur Arnalds, became iconic and won several awards.

Description: The Fall, like Cardinal, is a psychological crime drama that delves into the minds of both the detective and the killer. Both series feature a cat-and-mouse game between the investigator and the perpetrator, with a slow-burning tension that builds over time. The dark, moody atmosphere is another key similarity.

Fact: The Fall stars Gillian Anderson as DSI Stella Gibson and Jamie Dornan as the serial killer Paul Spector. The series was created and written by Allan Cubitt. The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its exploration of gender dynamics.

Description: True Detective, like Cardinal, is a dark, atmospheric crime drama that blends procedural elements with deep character studies. Both series feature detectives grappling with personal demons while solving gruesome crimes. The visual style of True Detective, with its haunting landscapes and meticulous attention to detail, is similar to the aesthetic of Cardinal.

Fact: The first season of True Detective was written entirely by Nic Pizzolatto and directed by Cary Fukunaga. The season is often cited as one of the best in television history, particularly for its performances by Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson. The show's nonlinear storytelling and philosophical undertones set it apart from traditional crime dramas.

Description: Shetland, like Cardinal, is a crime drama set in a remote, windswept location that becomes almost a character in itself. Both series feature a dedicated detective who must navigate the complexities of small-town life while solving brutal crimes. The strong sense of place and community is a hallmark of both shows.

Fact: Shetland is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. The series stars Douglas Henshall as DI Jimmy Perez, a role for which he won a BAFTA. The show is filmed on location in the Shetland Islands, adding to its authenticity.

Description: Marcella shares with Cardinal a troubled detective who must confront personal demons while solving a series of brutal crimes. Both series feature a strong, complex female lead and a dark, atmospheric tone. The psychological depth and intricate plotting are also key similarities.

Fact: Marcella was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, the writer behind The Bridge. The series stars Anna Friel as the titular character, a role that required her to undergo significant physical and emotional transformation. The show is known for its twisty, unpredictable plotlines.