From ‘Law & Order’ to ‘Dexter’, crime dramas always find a way to our screens and never fail to keep us engaged. The genre remains consistently beloved and always refreshing.
Yet, with endless new shows produced every year, many gems are bound to go unnoticed. Here are 10 underrated crime TV series that definitely deserve more attention.
10. Godfather of Harlem (2019-present)
In ‘Godfather of Harlem’, Forest Whitaker takes up the role of the infamous gangster Bumpy Johnson, returning to Harlem after a decade in prison. Now, he finds his territory controlled by the Italian mob, and his community in shambles.
Though the series revolved around a historical figure, it is mostly fictional and has a dramatized narrative. But this makes it an even more compelling watch for fans of true crime, thanks to its layered narrative that explores politics, race, and power struggles that shaped the history.
Related: Top 10 Bone-Chilling Movies Inspired By True Crime That You Must Watch Next
9. Hap & Leonard (2016-2018)
This crime drama got the best balance between pulp, noir, and action. Set in 1980s East Texas, ‘Hap & Leonard’ follows the titular duo: a white working-class laborer and a gay Black Vietnam veteran.
The two of them lead the show with electric chemistry as they seek justice in their own way. ‘Hap & Leonard’ is not your conventional crime drama. Instead, it blends historical setting with stylized storytelling to present its own unique tone.
8. The Chicago Code (2011)
In ‘The Chicago Code’, we follow the officers of the Chicago Police Department battling their daily struggle against both crimes on the streets as well as the deep political corruption in the city’s high-rises.
It shows the clash between day-to-day police work and behind-the-scenes politics. The series transforms the city of Chicago into a living, breathing character in this urban crime narrative.
7. Giri/Haji (2019)
This bilingual British crime drama takes place between London and Tokyo. Takehiro Hira, aka Kenzo Mori, a detective from Tokyo, travels to London in search of his brother. What might seem like an ordinary setting soon takes a turn when you realize the brother is actually involved in a Yakuza conflict that is threatening to engulf Tokyo.
Takehiro Hira must navigate the unfamiliar territory and culture, especially the dangerous London underworld, and find his brother before it is too late.
6. Boomtown (2002-2003)
This series was overshadowed by its experimental narrative structure, but that makes it an even more compelling watch. Each week, ‘Boomtown’ would take up a criminal investigation in Los Angeles and examine it from various points of view, including police, prosecutors, paramedics, reporters, victims, witnesses, and even criminals.
Its non-linear storytelling and ensemble cast add remarkable depth to the genre of crime drama. It might have been too ambitious for the mainstream audience. But it is a truly underrated gem for fans of the crime genre.
In Case You Missed It: 8 Gritty Western TV Series for Fans of ‘Yellowstone’
5. Terriers (2010)
Two underdogs form an unlikely team to navigate the crime scene of Ocean Beach, San Diego. ‘Terriers’ follows a recovering alcoholic ex-cop and his best friend, who is also a former criminal.
The two of them begin an unlicensed private investigation business, taking unconventional methods to find justice. Along with brilliant chemistry between the two leads, the show is known for sharp writing and witty dialogue and is most definitely deserving of a longer run.
4. Unforgotten (2015-present)
Each season of this British crime drama takes up a decade-old cold case. It follows a team of detectives in London as they solve long-buried cases. Each season, the show introduces new characters and settings.
At first, they seem unrelated, but as the mystery unfolds gradually, we are left to question everything. But what makes this show unforgettable is how it approaches these cases. Instead of flashy twists and dramatic plot devices, ‘Unforgotten’ explores how these cold cases continue to affect lives today. Though the series has received BAFTA wins and critical acclaim, it still remains pretty obscure.
3. Rectify (2013-2016)
Want a crime drama that is slow-burning and has gothic elements? You’ve probably not heard of this underrated masterpiece. ‘Rectify’ tells the story of a man who was convicted as a teenager for the alleged rape and murder of his girlfriend.
But now, after two decades, new evidence surfaces casting doubt on his conviction. The court releases him, and he returns home. But the town and even his own family are still struggling to find the truth.
2. Mr. Mercedes (2017-2019)
Based on Stephen King’s trilogy, ‘Mr. Mercedes’ stars Brendan Gleeson as Bill Hodges, a retired detective who is haunted by an unsolved case involving the titular man who killed sixteen people with a stolen Mercedes.
When a mass murderer surfaces online, Hodges is pulled back into the action. But this time, even though he is retired, he is determined to catch the killer.
1. Whitechapel (2009-2013)
What happens when Jack the Ripper appears in today’s modern cities? ‘Whitechapel‘ is a must-watch for fans of atmospheric storytelling where the past bleeds into the present. It is set in the titular London district, where a string of murders is taking place. The twist is they are replicating infamous crimes from the city’s past.
A copycat killer is mirroring the methods of Jack the Ripper, the Kray Twins, and others to terrorize the city. A detective inspector, a seasoned sergeant, and a historical crime expert come together to catch this killer.
You Might Also Like To Read: Top 10 True-Crime Documentaries On Netflix
