The Best Crime Dramas To Binge-Watch

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Summary

  • The Wire stands out for its unparalleled realism, based on real-life events observed by David Simon and Ed Burns.
  • True Detective captivates viewers with star power like Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, creating unforgettable drama.
  • The Sopranos breaks new ground by focusing on characters’ personal lives, leading to a unique portrayal of a New Jersey mafia family.

Crime dramas have consistently been a beloved genre across television eras, with each period boasting an iconic series that explores either the efforts of law enforcement or the illicit activities of criminals. These productions don’t only focus on local police departments but span from the FBI to the smallest beat cop. Remarkably, some outstanding crime shows even delve into the lives of individuals who find themselves on the wrong side of the law.

Shows that focus on crime can sometimes be graphic and intense, which might not make them ideal for a continuous viewing marathon or binge-watching session. However, their quality is often so compelling that once you start watching, it’s hard to stop, with each episode leading to the inevitable phrase, “just one more.

7. The Wire

Realism Ahead Of It’s Time

The gritty authenticity that catapulted “The Wire” to fame wasn’t just luck. In fact, the series was crafted by David Simon, a former Baltimore police reporter, and drew heavily from real-life incidents experienced or documented by Simon and his partner, Ed Burns. Burns, like Simon, had a diverse background, having worked as both a public school teacher and homicide detective.

In this television series, diverse characters and their plots weave together to form a larger tapestry representing different facets of a city. The casting choice was impressive, providing opportunities for lesser-known talents to shine, thereby kickstarting their careers. As the narrative unfolds across five seasons, viewers gain insights into Baltimore’s intricate societal fabric, with its intertwined web of criminal activities and those upholding the law who either struggle against or interact with them.

6. True Detective

Difficult To Watch, More Difficult To Stop Watching

True Detective is a captivating series, widely regarded as one of the finest in contemporary television. Once you begin watching, it’s hard not to get engrossed, so you might as well find a comfortable spot for all four seasons. The first season, in particular, has gained notoriety for its ability to draw viewers into its gripping drama, distinctive setting, hints of Lovecraftian themes, and exceptional acting. Subsequent seasons continue in a similar vein.

As a movie enthusiast, I find it refreshing that unlike other series opting for gritty realism by steering clear of A-list celebrities, shows like True Detective embrace the opposite approach – and it works marvelously. The first season’s enduring impact can be attributed to none other than Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson’s star power. Currently, Jodie Foster graces our screens in the latest installment, Night Country, set against the chilling backdrop of frigid northern Alaska.

5. The Sopranos

Wiseguys Need Love Too

The Sopranos gained popularity not only for being a crime drama centered around a powerful New Jersey mafia family, but also for delving into the individual personalities of Tony and some members of his crew. What set it apart was its unique perspective, portraying events from the viewpoint of a local therapist rather than the typical main character or law enforcement officer pursuing criminals.

In the show “The Sopranos”, the intertwining of personal human struggles and criminal activities was a recurring theme, typical of mafia stories. The series often delved into Tony’s personal issues such as his frequent panic attacks. Yet, despite his professional success in crime, these very accomplishments turned out to be his biggest challenge, as they eventually led to consequences in his criminal life.

4. Prison Break

Crime Drama Starring The Criminals

Prison Break gained immediate popularity due to its unique premise that portrayed the prisoners as heroes and their captors as the antagonists. The series managed to sustain this interest for an impressive span of five seasons, with the final season wrapping up in 2017. A movie was later released in 2009 to conclude the initial storyline.

The story primarily focuses on two brothers, Lincoln and Michael, who find themselves in prison. While Lincoln awaits execution for a crime he didn’t commit, the following seasons delve into more than just their escape attempts. Instead, they also explore the journey of tracking down the person responsible for planting evidence that led to Lincoln’s wrongful death sentence.

3. Gotham

Even More Batman Lore

If you’re enjoying “The Penguin,” it might be worth your while to check out “Gotham” too. This series delves into Gotham City after Bruce Wayne’s parents have been murdered, but before Batman emerged and started his crusade. Unlike a typical comic book adaptation, this show doesn’t follow an existing storyline from the graphic novels, as it presents unique events and characters drawn from DC lore.

In this series, many well-known characters make an appearance, but it’s James Gordon who takes center stage. He’s often recognized by viewers as the Police Commissioner during Batman’s era. The narrative explores the ascension and downfall of various political figures, while also depicting Bruce Wayne’s formative years, a period that precedes his transformation into Batman following his difficult childhood.

2. The X-Files

The Best Of Experimental Television

Initially, The X-Files started out as a lesser-known series filmed in a remote setting with a thin plotline and limited resources. However, through ingenious scriptwriting and exceptional casting decisions, it transformed into one of TV’s most beloved and enduring crime dramas. The brooding, foggy landscapes of British Columbia added an authentic touch to this supernatural drama, and as the series ran for over two decades, the settings frequently changed.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the risks taken by writers in the 90s, one of the reasons why shows like The X-Files stand out. It masterfully combines genres such as dark fantasy and science fiction with crime drama, creating a unique blend that keeps viewers hooked. What makes it even more intriguing is that Mulder and Scully are portrayed as real FBI agents, which lends an ironic sense of realism to their investigations into the paranormal. Their work, filled with forensics and research, feels surprisingly grounded amidst the supernatural elements.

1. Breaking Bad

The Saga Of Walter White

This show could very well be the most gripping crime drama on television today, and it’s distinctly American in its storytelling. The series titled “Breaking Bad” chronicles the unforeseen transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher, from a law-abiding suburban resident to a ruthless criminal mastermind. The show was brought to life by Vince Gilligan, who has previously worked on “The X-Files”, and encouraged Bryan Cranston to embody the leading character.

In a society where minor mishaps could leave a family financially crippled for years, White finds himself in an especially challenging situation. He has a special needs child to care for, and his own recent cancer diagnosis has added to the burden on his finances. Desperate for solutions, he resorts to extreme actions. Using his expertise in chemistry, he begins manufacturing crystal meth, which inevitably pulls him into a world of criminal activity. This ruthless and competitive market, ironically, seems tailored to White’s unique abilities.

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2025-02-17 10:35