10 Shows and Movies Similar to Poirot (1989)

Description: Like 'Poirot (1989)', 'Murder, She Wrote' features a charismatic, intelligent protagonist (Jessica Fletcher) who solves crimes through observation and deduction. Both series are episodic, with each episode presenting a self-contained mystery, often in a small-town or closed community setting.

Fact: Angela Lansbury starred as Jessica Fletcher for 12 seasons. The series was a ratings juggernaut in the 1980s. Cabot Cove, the fictional setting, has an improbably high murder rate.

Description: Like 'Poirot (1989)', 'Midsomer Murders' is a long-running British detective series with a focus on intricate, often bizarre murder plots in picturesque rural settings. Both series feature a methodical detective who uncovers secrets and deceptions in seemingly idyllic communities.

Fact: One of the longest-running British crime dramas. Known for its high body count and darkly comedic tone. The fictional county of Midsomer is notorious for its high murder rate.

Description: Similar to 'Poirot (1989)', 'Foyle's War' is a period detective series with a meticulous and principled protagonist. Both shows are set against historical backdrops (World War II for 'Foyle's War', interwar and post-war Britain for 'Poirot') and explore moral and social issues through their mysteries.

Fact: Created by Anthony Horowitz, who also wrote for 'Poirot'. The series often incorporates real historical events into its plots. Michael Kitchen's portrayal of Foyle is praised for its understated intensity.

Description: Similar to 'Poirot (1989)', 'Vera' is a detective series with a brilliant but unconventional lead (DCI Vera Stanhope). Both shows feature complex, character-driven mysteries and a strong sense of regional identity (Northumberland for 'Vera', various English locales for 'Poirot').

Fact: Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. Brenda Blethyn's portrayal of Vera has been widely praised. Known for its atmospheric cinematography.

Description: Like 'Poirot (1989)', 'Death in Paradise' is a detective series with a distinctive setting (a Caribbean island) and a methodical, detail-oriented detective. Both shows feature 'locked room' mysteries and emphasize the puzzle aspect of crime-solving.

Fact: The series has had multiple lead detectives over its run. Filmed on the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe. Known for its sunny visuals juxtaposed with dark crimes.

Description: Similar to 'Poirot (1989)', 'Father Brown' is a detective series set in a quaint English village, featuring a brilliant but unassuming protagonist who solves crimes with sharp intellect and keen observation. Both series emphasize character-driven mysteries and a nostalgic, period setting.

Fact: Based on the short stories by G.K. Chesterton. The character of Father Brown is a Catholic priest, adding a unique moral dimension to the mysteries. The series is known for its gentle humor and pastoral settings.

Description: Like 'Poirot (1989)', 'Shetland' is a detective series with a thoughtful, methodical protagonist (DI Jimmy Perez) and a focus on tightly plotted mysteries. Both shows explore the impact of crime on small, close-knit communities.

Fact: Based on the novels by Ann Cleeves. Filmed on location in the Shetland Islands. Known for its bleak, beautiful landscapes and slow-burning narratives.

Description: Like 'Poirot (1989)', 'The Brokenwood Mysteries' is a detective series with a quirky protagonist and a focus on intricate, character-driven mysteries. Both shows feature a mix of humor and drama, with a strong sense of place.

Fact: Set in a fictional New Zealand town. Known for its country music soundtrack. The lead detective, Mike Shepherd, has an unorthodox approach to solving crimes.

Description: Similar to 'Poirot (1989)', 'Grantchester' is a period detective series with a charismatic lead (a vicar turned sleuth) and a focus on character-driven mysteries. Both shows explore moral dilemmas and feature picturesque English settings.

Fact: Based on the novels by James Runcie. The series explores the personal life of its protagonist, Sidney Chambers. Known for its blend of crime drama and romance.

Description: Similar to 'Poirot (1989)', 'The Mrs Bradley Mysteries' is a period detective series featuring an eccentric, sharp-witted protagonist. Both shows blend mystery with elements of comedy and social commentary, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Britain.

Fact: Based on the novels by Gladys Mitchell. Diana Rigg starred as the unconventional detective. The series was noted for its stylish Art Deco aesthetic.