10 Shows & Movies Similar to Philly Homicide (2024)

Description: Law & Order's procedural format and focus on the criminal justice system make it a precursor to shows like Philly Homicide. Both shows highlight the investigative process and the challenges of securing convictions. While Law & Order is more episodic, its realistic portrayal of crime and punishment aligns with Philly Homicide's themes.

Fact: The iconic 'dun dun' sound effect is one of the most recognizable in TV history. Ran for 20 seasons, making it one of the longest-running primetime dramas. Inspired multiple spin-offs, including SVU and Criminal Intent.

Description: The Shield, like Philly Homicide, explores the moral ambiguities and ethical dilemmas faced by police officers. Both shows feature intense, character-driven narratives and a raw, unfiltered look at police work. The Shield's antihero protagonist and its examination of corruption within the force resonate with Philly Homicide's themes.

Fact: Michael Chiklis won an Emmy for his role as Vic Mackey. The show was groundbreaking for its portrayal of police brutality and corruption. It was one of the first successful original series on FX.

Description: Like Philly Homicide, The Wire is a gritty, realistic portrayal of urban crime and law enforcement. Both shows delve deep into the complexities of police work, the justice system, and the communities they serve. The Wire's documentary-style storytelling and focus on the socio-economic factors influencing crime mirror the tone and themes of Philly Homicide.

Fact: The Wire was created by former police reporter David Simon, lending it an air of authenticity. Many of the actors were non-professionals or local Baltimore residents. The show was initially criticized for its slow pace but is now considered one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

Description: Criminal Minds, like Philly Homicide, delves into the psychological aspects of crime-solving. Both shows focus on the mindsets of both the criminals and the detectives pursuing them. While Criminal Minds is more focused on profiling and serial killers, its dark tone and procedural elements are similar to Philly Homicide.

Fact: Follows the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). Known for its detailed criminal profiles and intense storytelling. Featured a rotating cast of agents over its 15-season run.

Description: Blue Bloods and Philly Homicide both center on family dynamics within law enforcement. While Blue Bloods has a more traditional, network TV feel, its exploration of moral and ethical issues in policing aligns with Philly Homicide's themes. Both shows also emphasize the importance of community and legacy in police work.

Fact: Stars Tom Selleck as NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan. Features a multi-generational family of cops. Known for its Sunday dinner scenes, which highlight family debates about justice and morality.

Description: Chicago P.D. shares Philly Homicide's focus on the Intelligence Unit and their high-stakes cases. Both shows blend procedural elements with serialized storytelling, delving into the personal and professional lives of the detectives. The gritty, fast-paced action in Chicago P.D. is reminiscent of Philly Homicide's intensity.

Fact: Part of Dick Wolf's Chicago franchise. Features crossover episodes with Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. Known for its strong ensemble cast, including Jason Beghe and Sophia Bush.

Description: While The Rookie has a more optimistic tone than Philly Homicide, both shows explore the challenges of policing in a major city. The Rookie's focus on a diverse group of officers and their personal struggles mirrors Philly Homicide's character-driven approach. Both shows also highlight the procedural aspects of police work.

Fact: Starring Nathan Fillion as the oldest rookie in the LAPD. Inspired by the real-life story of LAPD officer William Norcross. Combines crime drama with elements of comedy and romance.

Description: Homicide: Life on the Street shares Philly Homicide's focus on the daily grind of homicide detectives. Both shows emphasize the psychological toll of the job and the bureaucratic challenges within police departments. The realistic, often bleak portrayal of crime-solving in an urban setting is a key similarity.

Fact: Based on David Simon's book Homicide: A Year on the Killing Streets. Known for its handheld camera work and naturalistic dialogue. Featured early appearances by actors like Andre Braugher and Giancarlo Esposito.

Description: NYPD Blue's realistic depiction of police work and its focus on the personal lives of detectives align with Philly Homicide's approach. Both shows balance crime-solving with character development, offering a nuanced look at the pressures of the job. The use of handheld cameras and naturalistic dialogue in NYPD Blue also mirrors Philly Homicide's aesthetic.

Fact: Created by Steven Bochco and David Milch. Known for its controversial content, including nudity and strong language. Dennis Franz's character Andy Sipowicz became one of TV's most iconic detectives.

Description: Southland's documentary-style filming and focus on the day-to-day lives of police officers make it similar to Philly Homicide. Both shows highlight the unpredictability and danger of police work, as well as the camaraderie among officers. The gritty, realistic tone of Southland is a key point of comparison.

Fact: Originally aired on NBC before moving to TNT. Known for its intense, fast-paced storytelling. Featured a young Regina King in a standout role.