10 Shows & Movies Like Prisoners’ Wives

Description: A groundbreaking prison drama that explores the brutal realities of life behind bars, focusing on the inmates and staff of a maximum-security prison. It tackles themes of power, survival, and redemption.

Fact: Oz was HBO's first one-hour dramatic television series, setting the stage for future gritty, adult-oriented programming.

Description: This series provides a gritty, realistic portrayal of life in Baltimore, intertwining the stories of law enforcement, drug dealers, and the community. It examines systemic issues and the human cost of crime and punishment.

Fact: The Wire is often praised for its authenticity, with many storylines inspired by real events and characters based on actual people.

Description: A dark comedy-drama about a suburban widow who turns to selling marijuana to support her family. The series blends humor with serious themes of crime, family dynamics, and moral ambiguity.

Fact: The show's theme song, 'Little Boxes,' was performed by various artists in different styles for each episode's opening credits.

Description: A tense crime drama that follows the investigation of a single murder case over multiple seasons, exploring the ripple effects of the crime on the victim's family and the detectives.

Fact: The show was adapted from the Danish series 'Forbrydelsen' and is known for its slow-burning, character-driven storytelling.

Description: A mystery drama set in a small town, focusing on the disappearance of a pregnant girl. The series explores themes of trauma, community secrets, and the resilience of women in the face of adversity.

Fact: The show was co-created by Jane Campion, who also directed the acclaimed film 'The Piano.' It was filmed in New Zealand, doubling for the story's remote setting.

Description: A British crime drama following a police sergeant as she navigates personal and professional challenges while investigating violent crimes. The series highlights the resilience and determination of its protagonist.

Fact: Happy Valley was praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and its strong, complex female lead.

Description: A crime drama centered on the investigation of a young boy's murder in a small coastal town. The series focuses on the emotional fallout for the community and the personal lives of the detectives involved.

Fact: The show's stunning cliffside locations in Dorset, England, became a tourist attraction after the series aired.

Description: A psychological thriller about a detective hunting a serial killer, delving into the minds of both the hunter and the hunted. The series examines themes of obsession, violence, and the impact of crime on families.

Fact: The Fall was one of the first BBC dramas to be picked up by Netflix, helping to broaden its international audience.

Description: This series explores the lives of women in prison, focusing on their personal struggles, relationships, and the impact of incarceration on their families. It blends drama with dark humor, offering a raw and emotional look at the prison system.

Fact: The show was based on Piper Kerman's memoir, 'Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison.' It was one of Netflix's first original series to gain widespread acclaim.

Description: A gripping crime drama that delves into the complexities of the justice system, following a young man accused of murder. The series highlights the psychological toll of incarceration and the flaws in legal proceedings.

Fact: The show was inspired by the British series 'Criminal Justice.' It features a meticulous portrayal of the criminal justice process, from arrest to trial.