10 Shows & Movies Like Hinterland

Description: A brooding detective series following a troubled investigator as he solves crimes in a small Swedish town. The show is known for its slow-burning tension, psychological depth, and the protagonist's personal struggles mirroring the darkness of the cases he handles.

Fact: The series is based on Henning Mankell's novels. Kenneth Branagh, who plays Wallander, learned Swedish for the role to better understand the character's mindset.

Description: A high-intensity crime drama centered around a brilliant but troubled detective. The show is known for its dark tone, complex characters, and the moral ambiguity that permeates its storylines.

Fact: Idris Elba's portrayal of John Luther earned him a Golden Globe. The series is set in London but often focuses on the city's darker, less glamorous side.

Description: A Scandinavian crime drama that begins with a body found on the border between Sweden and Denmark. The series is known for its intricate plots, strong character dynamics, and the way it uses the cultural differences between the two countries to enhance the narrative.

Fact: The show's iconic opening scene features a body placed precisely on the border between Sweden and Denmark. The series has been remade in several countries, including the US and UK.

Description: A gritty crime drama centered around a determined police sergeant dealing with personal and professional challenges. The show is lauded for its realistic portrayal of policing, strong female lead, and the emotional weight of its storytelling.

Fact: The title 'Happy Valley' is a local nickname for the Calder Valley in West Yorkshire, where the series is set. The show's creator, Sally Wainwright, drew inspiration from real-life police work.

Description: A gripping crime drama set in a small coastal town, featuring a meticulous investigation into a tragic murder. The show excels in its atmospheric tension, deep character exploration, and the way it portrays the impact of crime on a tight-knit community.

Fact: The show was filmed in Dorset, England, and its stunning coastal landscapes became a character in their own right. The identity of the killer was kept secret from most of the cast until the final episodes to maintain authenticity in their performances.

Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the cat-and-mouse game between a detective and a serial killer. The show stands out for its intense character studies, slow-building suspense, and exploration of the darker aspects of human nature.

Fact: Gillian Anderson's character, Stella Gibson, was praised for her calm and calculated approach to solving crimes. The series was filmed in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Description: A police procedural that delves into the world of anti-corruption units, focusing on the internal investigations of potentially crooked officers. The show is renowned for its intricate plotting, tense interrogations, and shocking twists.

Fact: The series has become one of the UK's most-watched dramas, with its finale episodes drawing massive audiences. The acronym 'AC-12' refers to the fictional Anti-Corruption Unit

Description: A detective series set in the remote Shetland Islands, blending crime-solving with the stark beauty of the landscape. The show focuses on complex cases that often intertwine with local history and personal relationships, creating a layered narrative.

Fact: The series is based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. The rugged and isolated setting of the Shetland Islands plays a crucial role in the show's mood and storytelling.

Description: A cold case drama that meticulously unravels long-buried secrets through the investigation of historical crimes. The show is praised for its emotional depth, well-crafted mysteries, and the way it humanizes both victims and perpetrators.

Fact: Each season focuses on a different cold case, with a new set of suspects and victims. The series has been acclaimed for its sensitive handling of difficult subjects.

Description: A dark and twisty crime drama following a detective with a troubled past as she returns to work on a serial killer case. The show combines procedural elements with deep psychological exploration, keeping viewers guessing with its unpredictable plot twists.

Fact: The lead character, Marcella Backland, suffers from dissociative fugue states, which add a unique layer to the storytelling. The series was created by Hans Rosenfeldt, who also created 'The Bridge.'