11 Crime Dramas That Never Got Their Due
Crime dramas have always been a staple of television, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Yet, some standout shows have failed to get the attention they deserve. These underappreciated gems often have complex plots, compelling characters, and moments that stay with you long after the credits roll. If you are a fan of the genre, it is worth checking out these hidden treasures. Let us explore these shows that did not receive the recognition they truly earned.
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Terriers (2010)
Terriers tells the story of two unlicensed private investigators who take on cases that are often more trouble than they are worth. The show blends humor with a dark sense of realism, offering a unique take on the detective genre. Despite its critical acclaim, it was canceled after just one season, leaving many fans disappointed. Its witty dialogue, well-rounded characters, and unexpected twists deserved a longer run.
Set in the coastal town of Ocean Beach, California, the series captures the feeling of a laid-back but gritty neighborhood. The show’s blend of mystery and personal drama created a memorable experience for viewers. The characters’ flaws and vulnerabilities are part of what made them so relatable. If you are looking for an underappreciated gem in the crime drama category, this is a series you should not miss.
The Fall (2013-2016)
The Fall is a British crime drama that focuses on the hunt for a serial killer in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Gillian Anderson stars as a detective tasked with tracking down a cunning and meticulous killer, played by Jamie Dornan. What sets this show apart is its intense focus on the psychological cat-and-mouse game between the detective and the killer. Though praised for its performances, the show never reached the wide audience it deserved.
The series dives deep into the lives of both the victims and the killer, examining how personal trauma can shape behavior. Anderson’s portrayal of a dedicated but troubled detective is one of the highlights. The show’s slow-burn pacing and unsettling atmosphere keep viewers engaged throughout. With only three seasons, it is unfortunate that more people did not experience this chilling thriller.
Southland (2009-2013)
Southland is a police procedural set in Los Angeles, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal of the lives of police officers. The show stood out for its raw depiction of law enforcement, capturing both the intensity and the emotional toll of the job. Despite being critically praised for its performances and writing, it was canceled after five seasons. The show often featured real-life stories and complex characters, making it a standout in the genre.
From its gripping opening scenes to its powerful storylines, Southland showed the difficult realities officers face on a daily basis. The series focuses not only on crime but also on the personal lives of the officers, adding depth to the characters. Its unapologetically realistic approach to policing and crime is what set it apart. Sadly, it never gained the recognition it truly deserved.
The Bridge (2013-2014)
The Bridge is a Swedish-Danish crime drama centered on a murder investigation that begins on the Øresund Bridge between Sweden and Denmark. The show’s unique premise combines elements of international crime with an intriguing personal story between the lead detectives. The show was praised for its complex narrative and well-developed characters but never became a mainstream hit. Its depth and tension made it a standout, though it remained somewhat under the radar.
The series explores the complexities of human nature and the challenges of working across cultural divides. Detective Saga Norén, played by Sofia Helin, brings a unique, sometimes uncomfortable intensity to the show. The interplay between her character and her Danish counterpart, Martin, creates an engaging dynamic. If you enjoy European crime dramas, this is one that should not be overlooked.
Rubicon (2010)
Rubicon is a slow-burn, political thriller set around a secretive think tank that deals with intelligence analysis. The series focuses on Will Travers, a man who uncovers a conspiracy that goes much deeper than anyone could have imagined. Despite its strong premise and thoughtful writing, Rubicon was canceled after just one season. It struggled to find a wide audience, yet its intellectual depth and suspenseful plot make it an underrated classic.
The series is full of intricate details, requiring the audience to pay attention to every piece of the puzzle. Its quiet tension and focus on the dangers of hidden power structures give it a unique place in the crime drama world. Though it was not widely recognized, Rubicon remains a favorite among fans who appreciate its cerebral approach. Its slow pacing and focus on detail set it apart from other crime dramas of its time.
Banshee (2013-2016)
Banshee is an action-packed crime drama that follows an ex-convict who assumes the identity of a small-town sheriff in the town of Banshee, Pennsylvania. The show is known for its intense action sequences, complex characters, and dark humor. While it was well-received by a niche audience, it never reached mainstream success. The combination of crime, drama, and martial arts action made it a thrilling ride from start to finish.
Set in a fictional Amish town, the series explores themes of identity, revenge, and redemption. The cast delivers strong performances, with Antony Starr’s portrayal of the anti-hero sheriff being a standout. Despite its cult following, Banshee failed to break into the larger public consciousness. It is an underrated show for those who appreciate high-octane crime thrillers with a touch of grit.
Hinterland (2013-2016)
Hinterland is a Welsh noir crime drama that takes place in the rugged and beautiful landscapes of Wales. It follows the investigations of two detectives, DCI Tom Mathias and DI Mared Rhys, as they work to solve complex crimes. The show is slow-paced and atmospheric, with a focus on character development and moral ambiguity. Despite its critical acclaim, Hinterland did not gain the widespread recognition it deserved.
The series explores the effects of crime on a small community, blending the beauty of its setting with the darkness of its mysteries. The characters’ personal struggles and interactions with the tight-knit community provide depth to the story. The show’s moody atmosphere, combined with the stunning Welsh backdrop, adds a unique element to the crime drama genre. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys slow-burning, character-driven mysteries.
Low Winter Sun (2013)
Low Winter Sun is a gritty crime drama set in Detroit, following two detectives who are drawn into a web of crime and corruption. The series is inspired by a British crime drama of the same name, but it struggles to find its place in the crowded TV landscape. Despite its strong performances and intense, noir-inspired atmosphere, it was canceled after just one season. The show’s exploration of moral conflict and betrayal made it an intriguing but underappreciated piece.
The show is dark, filled with tense moments that often leave you questioning who the real villain is. Its portrayal of a crime-ridden city adds a layer of realism to the story. Despite its limited run, Low Winter Sun remains a hidden gem for fans of hard-edged crime dramas. The show’s blend of gritty realism and psychological tension makes it worth checking out.
Kingdom (2014-2017)
Kingdom is a crime drama centered around a family-run MMA gym, offering a gritty and personal take on the world of mixed martial arts. The series delves into the lives of fighters, trainers, and the family that runs the gym, blending emotional drama with brutal fight scenes. While it received positive reviews for its character development and intense fight sequences, it was canceled after three seasons. The lack of mainstream appeal kept it from reaching a wider audience.
The show’s focus on family dynamics and personal struggles sets it apart from typical sports dramas. The performances by Frank Grillo and Nick Jonas were highly praised, bringing authenticity to their roles. The emotional depth of the characters and their battles both inside and outside the cage makes this a series that resonates with many viewers. Kingdom may have been overlooked, but it remains a standout in the sports crime genre.
The Killing (2011-2014)
The Killing is a crime drama that follows detectives Sarah Linden and Stephen Holder as they investigate the murder of a young girl in Seattle. The show is known for its dark atmosphere and complex, slow-building narrative. It received praise for its performances and detailed character study, but it was often criticized for its glacial pacing. Despite this, The Killing developed a dedicated fanbase and deserves recognition for its exploration of grief and loss.
Each season focuses on a different murder investigation, with the characters’ personal lives intertwining with the cases they are solving. The show digs deep into the psychological toll that solving such tragedies takes on the detectives. Its somber tone and portrayal of the human side of crime make it stand out from other crime dramas. The Killing may not have garnered mainstream attention, but it remains a powerful and emotional series.
Fortitude (2015-2018)
Fortitude is a psychological crime drama set in a small, isolated town above the Arctic Circle. The town, known for its peacefulness, is suddenly shaken by a series of violent events, leading to a gripping investigation. The show blends crime, mystery, and psychological horror, creating a chilling atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge. While it was praised for its unique setting and atmosphere, it never gained widespread recognition.
The series features strong performances from a talented cast, including Stanley Tucci and Michael Gambon. Its eerie and often unsettling tone, combined with the stark beauty of its Alaskan-like setting, makes it a standout. Fortitude’s slow-burn approach to crime storytelling offers a refreshing change from other fast-paced dramas. Its unique blend of genre elements makes it a crime drama worth revisiting.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.