If you're a fan of the psychological depth, chilling suspense, and intricate storytelling of 'Hannibal' (2013), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same dark allure, complex characters, and masterful tension. Whether you're drawn to the mind games, the gourmet horror, or the stylish cinematography, these recommendations will satisfy your craving for more thrilling and cerebral entertainment.

Prodigal Son (2019)
Description: Prodigal Son, like Hannibal, centers around a protagonist with a unique ability to understand serial killers, due to his personal connection to one (his father). Both series explore the blurred lines between good and evil, and the psychological impact of engaging with darkness. The show also shares Hannibal's mix of crime procedural and psychological thriller elements, with a touch of dark humor.
Fact: Prodigal Son stars Tom Payne as Malcolm Bright, a criminal psychologist with a notorious serial killer father. Michael Sheen plays Malcolm's father, Dr. Martin Whitly, also known as 'The Surgeon.' The series was created by Chris Fedak and Sam Sklaver, who also worked on Chuck.


Luther (2010)
Description: Luther, like Hannibal, features a brilliant but troubled detective who forms a complex relationship with a dangerous criminal. Both series explore themes of obsession, morality, and the fine line between justice and vengeance. The intense, character-driven storytelling and dark, gritty atmosphere of Luther are reminiscent of Hannibal's style.
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 episodes. Ruth Wilson's performance as Alice Morgan is one of the most memorable aspects of the show.


The Killing (2011)
Description: The Killing, similar to Hannibal, is a crime drama that focuses on the emotional and psychological toll of investigating gruesome murders. Both series feature a partnership between detectives with contrasting personalities and methods, and they delve into the darker aspects of human nature. The Killing's slow-burn storytelling and atmospheric tension are reminiscent of Hannibal's pacing and mood.
Fact: The Killing is based on the Danish series Forbrydelsen. The show was initially canceled after two seasons but was revived due to fan demand. Joel Kinnaman, who plays Detective Stephen Holder, gained significant recognition for his role in the series.


The Following (2013)
Description: The Following shares with Hannibal a focus on a charismatic, intelligent serial killer who manipulates those around him. Both series explore the psychological cat-and-mouse game between the killer and the investigator, with a strong emphasis on the themes of obsession and manipulation. The dark, intense tone and high-stakes storytelling are key similarities.
Fact: The Following stars Kevin Bacon as former FBI agent Ryan Hardy. James Purefoy plays Joe Carroll, a charismatic serial killer and cult leader. The series was created by Kevin Williamson, known for his work on Scream and Dawson's Creek.


Bates Motel (2013)
Description: Bates Motel shares with Hannibal a focus on the psychological unraveling of its central character, Norman Bates, much like how Hannibal explores the psyche of Will Graham. Both series blend horror and psychological thriller elements, with a strong emphasis on the relationship between the protagonist and a manipulative, darker figure (Hannibal Lecter and Norma Bates). The shows also share a gothic, eerie visual style.
Fact: Bates Motel is a contemporary prequel to Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho. Freddie Highmore, who plays Norman Bates, also wrote and directed several episodes of the series. The show was filmed in British Columbia, Canada, which stands in for the fictional town of White Pine Bay, Oregon.


The Fall (2013)
Description: The Fall shares similarities with Hannibal (2013) in its psychological depth and exploration of the minds of both the hunter and the hunted. Both series feature a cat-and-mouse game between a brilliant detective and a sophisticated serial killer, with a strong emphasis on character development and psychological tension. The visual aesthetics of The Fall also mirror Hannibal's dark, moody cinematography, creating a similarly unsettling atmosphere.
Fact: The Fall stars Gillian Anderson as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, a role that earned her critical acclaim. The series is set in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and explores the impact of the crimes on the local community. The show's creator, Allan Cubitt, was inspired by real-life serial killers to craft the character of Paul Spector.


True Detective (2014)
Description: True Detective, like Hannibal, is a crime drama that delves deep into the psychological and philosophical aspects of its characters. Both series feature complex, morally ambiguous protagonists and explore themes of existentialism, darkness, and the nature of evil. The storytelling in True Detective is non-linear and layered, much like Hannibal, and both shows are known for their cinematic quality and atmospheric tension.
Fact: The first season of True Detective was written entirely by Nic Pizzolatto and directed by Cary Fukunaga. The series features a famous six-minute single-take tracking shot in episode four, which was highly praised. Matthew McConaughey's performance as Rust Cohle is considered one of the highlights of his career.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: Sharp Objects shares with Hannibal a focus on psychological trauma and the lingering effects of past violence. Both series feature a protagonist with a troubled psyche who is drawn into a dark mystery, and both use visual storytelling to reflect the characters' inner turmoil. The slow-burn, atmospheric tension and exploration of family dysfunction are key similarities.
Fact: Sharp Objects is based on the novel by Gillian Flynn, who also wrote Gone Girl. The series stars Amy Adams in her first major television role. The show's director, Jean-Marc Vallée, is known for his work on Big Little Lies.


The Alienist (2018)
Description: The Alienist, set in the late 19th century, shares with Hannibal a focus on the early days of criminal psychology and profiling. Both series feature a team of investigators using unconventional methods to track down a serial killer, with a strong emphasis on the psychological and forensic aspects of the crimes. The dark, atmospheric visuals and period setting of The Alienist create a similarly immersive and unsettling experience.
Fact: The Alienist is based on the novel by Caleb Carr. The series stars Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans, and Dakota Fanning. The show's title refers to an outdated term for a psychiatrist or psychologist.


The Sinner (2017)
Description: The Sinner, like Hannibal, is a psychological thriller that delves into the motivations behind seemingly inexplicable crimes. Both series focus on the unraveling of a mystery through the lens of a detective with a deep understanding of human psychology. The intense, character-driven narratives and dark, moody visuals are key similarities.
Fact: The Sinner is based on the novel by Petra Hammesfahr. The first season stars Jessica Biel as Cora Tannetti, a woman who commits a violent act with no clear motive. The series was developed by Derek Simonds and has an anthology format, with each season focusing on a new case.
