If you enjoyed the chilling suspense of The Watcher (2016), you're likely craving more eerie thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat. This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows with similar themes of psychological tension, mystery, and unsettling surveillance. Whether you're drawn to slow-burn horror or mind-bending narratives, these picks will satisfy your craving for the unnerving.

Mare of Easttown (2021)
Description: A gritty crime drama set in a small, close-knit community, where the protagonist's personal struggles intertwine with her professional investigation. The show excels in character development and atmospheric tension.
Fact: Kate Winslet worked closely with a dialect coach to perfect her Delco accent, which is specific to the Delaware County area of Pennsylvania.


The Killing (2011)
Description: A moody, character-driven crime drama that focuses on the emotional and psychological toll of a murder investigation. The show's slow-burn narrative and atmospheric setting create a sense of dread and suspense.
Fact: The series was based on a Danish show called 'Forbrydelsen' and was initially canceled after two seasons before being revived by Netflix for a final season.


Broadchurch (2013)
Description: A British crime drama that meticulously unravels the impact of a child's murder on a small coastal community. The show's strength lies in its emotional depth and the slow revelation of secrets.
Fact: The show's iconic cliffside scenes were filmed in West Bay, Dorset, which became a tourist attraction after the series aired.


True Detective (2014)
Description: A neo-noir crime anthology series that delves into the psychological and philosophical aspects of detective work. Each season features a self-contained story with complex characters and dark, atmospheric storytelling.
Fact: The first season was heavily influenced by the works of horror writer Thomas Ligotti, which contributed to its eerie and existential tone.


The Night Of (2016)
Description: A legal thriller that examines the criminal justice system through the lens of a murder case. The show's tension arises from the protagonist's uncertain guilt and the systemic pressures he faces.
Fact: The series was inspired by the British show 'Criminal Justice' and was originally intended to star James Gandolfini, who passed away before production began.


Sharp Objects (2018)
Description: A gripping mystery series that combines psychological horror with a deep dive into family dysfunction and small-town secrets. The protagonist's troubled past and unreliable narration add layers of suspense.
Fact: The series was filmed in Barnesville, Georgia, and the production team went to great lengths to create an authentic, eerie small-town atmosphere.


Big Little Lies (2017)
Description: A drama-thriller that blends domestic intrigue with dark humor, focusing on the lives of wealthy women whose perfect facades hide deep-seated tensions and secrets. The show's tension builds around a central mystery.
Fact: The series was initially marketed as a limited series but was renewed for a second season due to its massive popularity and critical acclaim.


The Undoing (2020)
Description: A high-stakes psychological thriller that explores themes of betrayal, privilege, and the fragility of relationships. The narrative keeps viewers guessing with its twists and turns.
Fact: The show was filmed in New York City and features several iconic locations, adding to its luxurious yet ominous tone.


The Outsider (2020)
Description: A supernatural crime drama that blends horror elements with a detective story, creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere. The show explores themes of grief, doubt, and the unknown.
Fact: Based on Stephen King's novel, the series was praised for its slow-burn tension and strong performances.


The Sinner (2017)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the dark secrets of seemingly ordinary people, exploring themes of guilt, trauma, and hidden pasts. The narrative is driven by a detective trying to uncover the truth behind a shocking crime.
Fact: The show is based on a novel by Petra Hammesfahr and was originally planned as an anthology series, with each season focusing on a different crime and detective.
