10 Shows and Movies Similar to The Outsider (2020)

Description: Both 'The Killing' and 'The Outsider' are crime dramas that emphasize the emotional and psychological depth of their characters over the procedural aspects. The slow unraveling of the mystery and the focus on the victims' families create a similar tone of dread and suspense.

Fact: Originally a Danish series titled 'Forbrydelsen'. The US adaptation was known for its moody, rain-soaked Seattle setting. The show was canceled twice but brought back due to fan demand.

Description: 'Top of the Lake' and 'The Outsider' both feature remote, atmospheric settings that become characters in their own right. The mysteries at their cores are deeply intertwined with the communities and landscapes, and both series explore themes of trauma and redemption.

Fact: Co-created by Jane Campion, the first woman to win the Palme d'Or at Cannes. Elisabeth Moss starred in the first season, which was filmed in New Zealand. The series blends crime drama with elements of surrealism and feminist themes.

Description: 'Hannibal' shares with 'The Outsider' a dark, almost surreal aesthetic and a focus on the psychological horror of its crimes. Both series blur the line between reality and nightmare, with stylized violence and deep explorations of their characters' psyches.

Fact: Developed by Bryan Fuller, known for his visually striking and thematically rich shows. Despite critical acclaim, it was canceled after three seasons due to low ratings. Mads Mikkelsen's portrayal of Hannibal Lecter is considered one of the best.

Description: 'Broadchurch' and 'The Outsider' both center on small communities rocked by horrific crimes, with the ensuing investigations exposing hidden truths and fractures within the town. The emotional weight and impact on the community are pivotal in both series.

Fact: David Tennant and Olivia Colman starred in the UK version, which became a cultural phenomenon. The series was filmed in Dorset, England, showcasing its stunning coastal landscapes. The identity of the killer in the first season was kept secret from the cast until filming.

Description: Like 'The Outsider', 'The Fall' is a tense, character-driven crime drama that delves into the minds of both the detective and the criminal. The cat-and-mouse dynamic and the psychological depth are central to both series, with a focus on the darker aspects of human nature.

Fact: Gillian Anderson starred as DSI Stella Gibson, a role that earned her widespread praise. Jamie Dornan played the serial killer Paul Spector, before his fame in 'Fifty Shades of Grey'. The series was set and filmed in Northern Ireland.

Description: Similar to 'The Outsider' (2020), 'True Detective' delves into dark, psychological crime dramas with supernatural undertones. Both series explore the blurred lines between reality and the supernatural, featuring deeply flawed protagonists and intricate storytelling. The atmospheric tension and slow-burning mystery are key elements in both.

Fact: The first season of 'True Detective' was directed entirely by Cary Fukunaga, which is rare for TV series. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson's performances were critically acclaimed, revitalizing their careers. The series is known for its philosophical dialogues and existential themes.

Description: 'The Night Of' shares with 'The Outsider' a gripping crime narrative that questions the nature of guilt and innocence. Both shows meticulously unravel their mysteries, focusing on the psychological toll on the accused and those around them. The legal and moral complexities are central to both stories.

Fact: Originally developed as a British series, it was adapted for HBO by Steven Zaillian and Richard Price. Riz Ahmed won an Emmy for his portrayal of Nasir Khan. The series was praised for its realistic depiction of the criminal justice system.

Description: Like 'The Outsider', 'Sharp Objects' is a psychological thriller with a haunting atmosphere and a protagonist grappling with personal demons while solving a crime. Both series feature small-town settings where secrets and trauma lurk beneath the surface, and both employ a slow, deliberate pacing to build suspense.

Fact: Based on Gillian Flynn's debut novel, who also wrote 'Gone Girl'. Amy Adams starred and executive produced the series. The finale's twist was heavily discussed and praised for its execution.

Description: 'The Undoing' shares with 'The Outsider' a high-profile cast and a mystery that unravels through psychological tension and twists. Both series keep viewers guessing until the end, with a focus on the personal fallout of the crimes on the protagonists.

Fact: Starred Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant, both delivering acclaimed performances. Based on the novel 'You Should Have Known' by Jean Hanff Korelitz. The series was a ratings hit for HBO, with its finale drawing massive viewership.

Description: 'The Sinner' mirrors 'The Outsider' in its exploration of crimes that seem inexplicable at first, delving into the psychological and sometimes supernatural elements behind them. Both series focus on detectives who are drawn into deeply personal and unsettling investigations.

Fact: Each season follows a different case, with Jessica Biel starring in the first. The show is based on a German novel by Petra Hammesfahr. Bill Pullman's performance as Detective Harry Ambrose has been a standout.