Looking for the best crime TV series? Check out our comprehensive reviews of the top shows in the genre. From thrilling plotlines to captivating characters, we’ve got you covered. Dive into the world of crime and suspense with our expert recommendations.
If you’re a fan of crime TV series, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a list of the best crime TV series reviews to help you find your next binge-worthy show. From gripping storylines to complex characters, these shows have it all. Whether you’re into thrilling police procedurals or intense psychological dramas, there’s something for everyone on this list. With our best crime TV series reviews, you can trust that we’ve done the research and handpicked only the most captivating and well-crafted shows. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of mystery, suspense, and intrigue with these top-rated crime TV series. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover your new favorite show!
| # | TV Series | Genre | IMDb Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Wire | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 9.3/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | Breaking Bad | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 3 | The Sopranos | Crime, Drama | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Sherlock | Crime, Drama, Mystery | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 |
| 5 | Mindhunter | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 6 | Better Call Saul | Crime, Drama | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | Ozark | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | True Detective | Crime, Drama, Mystery | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| 9 | Narcos | Biography, Crime, Drama | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Peaky Blinders | Crime, Drama | 8.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
Contents
Breaking Bad
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creator: Vince Gilligan
- Starring: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
- Number of Seasons: 5
- IMDb Rating: 9.5/10
Breaking Bad is a critically acclaimed crime TV series that follows the transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. The show delves into the dark world of drugs and crime, exploring the moral complexities and consequences of Walter’s choices.
The intense storytelling, brilliant performances, and intricate character development make Breaking Bad a must-watch for fans of the crime genre. With its gripping plot twists and thought-provoking themes, this series has become a cultural phenomenon.
The Wire
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creator: David Simon
- Starring: Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Sonja Sohn
- Number of Seasons: 5
- IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
The Wire is widely regarded as one of the greatest crime dramas ever created. Set in Baltimore, the series explores the interconnectedness of various institutions within the city, including law enforcement, drug trade, politics, and education.
This gritty and realistic portrayal of urban life offers a nuanced examination of social issues and systemic problems. The Wire stands out for its complex characters, exceptional writing, and its ability to shed light on the complexities of the criminal justice system.
True Detective
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Creator: Nic Pizzolatto
- Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Michelle Monaghan
- Number of Seasons: 3
- IMDb Rating: 9/10
True Detective is an anthology crime series that follows different investigations and detectives across multiple timelines. Each season offers a self-contained story with its own unique atmosphere and characters.
The show is known for its atmospheric cinematography, philosophical undertones, and exceptional performances by its lead actors. True Detective combines elements of crime, drama, and mystery to create a captivating viewing experience.
The Sopranos
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Creator: David Chase
- Starring: James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Lorraine Bracco
- Number of Seasons: 6
- IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
The Sopranos is a groundbreaking crime drama that follows the life of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss struggling to balance his criminal activities with his personal life. The series delves into the complexities of the mafia world and the psychological struggles faced by its characters.
This critically acclaimed show is known for its exceptional writing, character development, and exploration of existential themes. The Sopranos revolutionized television storytelling and remains a timeless classic in the crime genre.
Narcos
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Biography
- Creators: Carlo Bernard, Chris Brancato, Doug Miro
- Starring: Wagner Moura, Boyd Holbrook, Pedro Pascal
- Number of Seasons: 3
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
Narcos is a gripping crime series based on the true story of the rise and fall of infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar. Set in Colombia, the show explores the intricacies of the drug trade and the efforts of law enforcement to bring down powerful cartels.
This thrilling series combines elements of crime, drama, and biography to provide an immersive and captivating viewing experience. With its compelling storytelling and powerful performances, Narcos has gained a dedicated fan base worldwide.
Mindhunter
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creator: Joe Penhall
- Starring: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
- Number of Seasons: 2
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Mindhunter is a psychological crime thriller that follows two FBI agents as they delve into the minds of serial killers to understand their motives and behavior. Based on true events and real-life criminal cases, the series offers a chilling exploration of the human psyche.
This thought-provoking and meticulously crafted show delves into the complexities of criminal profiling and the toll it takes on the investigators. Mindhunter is praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and its ability to delve into the darkest corners of the human mind.
Better Call Saul
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Creators: Vince Gilligan, Peter Gould
- Starring: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Rhea Seehorn
- Number of Seasons: 5
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Better Call Saul serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad. The show follows the transformation of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer, into the morally ambiguous character known as Saul Goodman.
This character-driven drama explores the complexities of the legal world and provides insight into the backstory of one of Breaking Bad’s most beloved characters. Better Call Saul features exceptional writing, nuanced performances, and a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged.
Ozark
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creators: Bill Dubuque, Mark Williams
- Starring: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Sofia Hublitz
- Number of Seasons: 4 (ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Ozark is a gripping crime thriller that follows the life of financial planner Marty Byrde as he is forced to relocate his family to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong. In order to keep his family safe, Marty must navigate the dangerous world of drug cartels and criminal enterprises.
This intense and suspenseful series is known for its complex characters, intricate plotlines, and stunning cinematography. Ozark offers a dark and thrilling exploration of the consequences of one man’s choices and the lengths he will go to protect his loved ones.
Peaky Blinders
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Creator: Steven Knight
- Starring: Cillian Murphy, Paul Anderson, Helen McCrory
- Number of Seasons: 6 (upcoming)
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
Peaky Blinders is a British crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. The series follows the Shelby crime family as they rise to power and navigate the treacherous world of organized crime.
This stylish and atmospheric show is known for its exceptional performances, captivating storytelling, and its ability to blend historical events with fictional narratives. Peaky Blinders has gained a dedicated fan base for its compelling characters and its unique take on the crime genre.
Sherlock
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Creators: Mark Gatiss, Steven Moffat
- Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Una Stubbs
- Number of Seasons: 4
- IMDb Rating: 9.1/10
Sherlock is a modern-day adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous detective stories. The series follows the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal companion Dr. John Watson as they solve complex crimes in contemporary London.
This critically acclaimed show is known for its clever writing, dynamic performances, and its ability to bring the iconic characters into the 21st century. Sherlock offers a fresh and exciting take on the crime genre, combining thrilling mysteries with compelling character dynamics.
How to find the best crime TV series?
Finding the best crime TV series can be subjective, as it depends on personal preferences. However, you can start by checking popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, which offer a wide range of crime series. Additionally, reading reviews from trusted sources and checking ratings can help you make an informed decision. Consider factors such as compelling storytelling, well-developed characters, and positive audience feedback when selecting a crime TV series.
What makes a crime TV series great?
A great crime TV series often combines elements like a gripping plot, intriguing mysteries, well-written dialogues, and strong performances by the cast. It should keep viewers engaged and guessing throughout each episode. The development of complex characters, realistic portrayal of crimes and investigations, and unexpected twists also contribute to making a crime TV series stand out. Additionally, high production values, effective cinematography, and a captivating soundtrack can enhance the overall viewing experience.
Are there any highly recommended crime TV series?
Yes, there are several highly recommended crime TV series that have received critical acclaim and garnered a large fan base. Some popular choices include “Breaking Bad,” known for its intense storytelling and character development; “True Detective,” praised for its atmospheric setting and stellar performances; and “The Wire,” celebrated for its realistic depiction of urban crime. Other notable mentions include “Mindhunter,” “Narcos,” “Peaky Blinders,” and “Sherlock.” These series have consistently received positive reviews for their compelling narratives and exceptional execution.
Review of “Breaking Bad”
“Breaking Bad” is an intense crime TV series that follows the journey of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. The show is known for its gripping storyline, complex characters, and exceptional acting performances. With its dark and gritty atmosphere, “Breaking Bad” keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, exploring themes of morality, power, and the consequences of one’s actions. It is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.
Review of “True Detective”
“True Detective” is a critically acclaimed anthology crime series that delves into the lives of detectives working on complex murder cases. Each season offers a self-contained story with a different cast and setting, providing a fresh and captivating experience. With its atmospheric cinematography, thought-provoking narratives, and stellar performances from actors like Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, “True Detective” stands out as one of the best crime TV series to date.
Review of “Mindhunter”
“Mindhunter” is a psychological crime thriller that revolves around two FBI agents who delve into the minds of serial killers to solve ongoing cases. The series explores the development of criminal profiling and showcases the intricate psychology behind heinous crimes. With its meticulous attention to detail, brilliant performances, and gripping storytelling, “Mindhunter” offers a unique and chilling perspective on the world of criminal investigations.
