What Are the Most Underrated Crime Dramas You Wish More People Knew About?

Exploring Underrated Crime Dramas: Hidden Gems Worth Your Time

In the vast landscape of television, crime dramas have carved out a significant niche. From gripping police procedurals to intricate legal dramas, the genre captivates viewers with its suspenseful narratives and complex characters. While mainstream hits like Line of Duty, The Fall, and Broadchurch dominate the conversation, there's a treasure trove of lesser-known series that deserve the spotlight. In this article, we delve into these underrated crime dramas that promise to keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're in the mood for dark comedy, psychological thrillers, or heart-wrenching tales of loyalty and betrayal, we’ve got you covered.

1. Mr Inbetween: A Darkly Comic Australian Gem

One of the standout recommendations from avid viewers is Mr Inbetween, an Australian series that offers a unique blend of dark comedy and crime drama. Following the life of Ray Shoesmith, a hitman balancing his personal life and criminal career, the series masterfully intertwines humor with chilling scenarios.

• Realism and Authenticity: Fans have praised the show for its realistic dialogue and situations that resonate with everyday life. It’s not just a story about crime; it encapsulates the struggles of relationships, parenthood, and friendship.
• Critical Acclaim: With a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s been labeled as "criminally underrated," drawing comparisons to iconic series like Breaking Bad.

Where to watch: Seasons one to three are available to stream on Disney Plus.

2. Giri/Haji: A Cross-Cultural Thriller

Another hidden gem is Giri/Haji, a BBC production that blends Japanese and British cultures in a gripping narrative. Set against the backdrop of Tokyo and London, the series follows a detective's search for his missing brother entangled with the Yakuza.

• Stunning Visuals: The series has been lauded for its gorgeous cinematography and stylistic approach, immersing viewers in the contrasting worlds of its characters.
• Critical Recognition: With a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, it has been described as "violently stylish" and "bold," making it a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers.

Where to watch: All eight episodes are available to stream on Netflix.

3. Wallander: The Swedish Detective

For those who appreciate the nuances of Scandinavian noir, Wallander provides a compelling narrative rooted in Henning Mankell's novels. Starring Kenneth Branagh as the titular detective, the series explores the psychological toll of investigating gruesome crimes.

• Character Depth: Viewers are drawn to Branagh's powerful performance, which captures the essence of a detective grappling with personal demons while seeking justice.
• Reboot Announcement: With a reboot in the works, now is a perfect time to discover or revisit this classic series.

Where to watch: Series one to four are available for free on BBC iPlayer.

4. The Glass Dome: A Haunting Mystery

The Glass Dome, or Glaskupan in Swedish, is a recent addition to the crime drama genre that has captivated audiences. Following a criminologist returning to her hometown, the series intertwines her past with a current investigation into a missing girl.

• Gripping Storyline: Critics have praised it for its haunting narrative and compelling character development, making it a gripping watch from start to finish.
• Viewer Reception: Despite being a non-English language show, it quickly climbed Netflix's most-watched charts, proving its universal appeal.

Where to watch: Stream all six episodes on Netflix.

5. The Åre Murders: A Nordic Noir Experience

The Åre Murders transports viewers to a snowy Swedish ski resort, where a detective investigates a mysterious disappearance. Based on Viveca Sten's popular novels, this series encapsulates the essence of Nordic noir.

• Atmospheric Setting: The breathtaking backdrop of Åre adds a chilling atmosphere that complements the storyline beautifully.
• High Viewer Engagement: The series achieved impressive viewership, indicating its strong connection with the audience.

Where to watch: Stream all five episodes on Netflix.

6. Damages: A Legal Thriller with Depth

Starring Glenn Close, Damages is a unique blend of legal drama and character study, focusing on the complex relationship between a mentor and her protégé. The series delves into high-stakes legal battles while exploring the moral ambiguities of its characters.

• Critical Acclaim: With a 91% average score on Rotten Tomatoes, it has frequently been referred to as one of the best shows on television.
• Multi-layered Narrative: The series intricately weaves together legal struggles, personal conflicts, and ethical dilemmas, keeping viewers engaged through its multi-faceted storytelling.

Where to watch: Available for purchase on Amazon Prime Video from £2.49.

7. The Capture: A Contemporary Thriller

The Capture explores the frightening implications of deepfake technology through the lens of an ambitious detective inspector. The series examines how easily truth can be manipulated in the age of digital media.

• Gripping Narrative: With a storyline that tackles current societal issues, the series keeps viewers on their toes with unexpected twists and turns.
• Viewer Praise: Fans have lauded its pacing and character development, making it a standout in modern crime dramas.

Where to watch: Series one and two are available on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.

8. Major Crimes: A Spin-off with Depth

Major Crimes serves as a worthy successor to The Closer, following Captain Sharon Raydor and her team as they tackle high-profile cases while navigating the complexities of their personal lives.

• Character-Driven Storytelling: The series emphasizes character development, showcasing the dynamics within the team and their individual struggles.
• Viewer Loyalty: It has garnered a devoted fan base, with many praising its compelling storylines and relatable characters.

Where to watch: Available for purchase on Amazon Prime Video from £2.49.

Conclusion: The Hidden Treasures of Crime Dramas

While mainstream crime dramas often dominate our screens, these underrated series provide fresh narratives and unique perspectives that are just as captivating. From the dark humor of Mr Inbetween to the suspenseful intrigue of Giri/Haji, each show brings something special to the table. Whether you're seeking a thrilling binge or a thought-provoking watch, these hidden gems are worth adding to your watch list.

So, the next time you find yourself scrolling through streaming platforms, consider diving into these lesser-known crime dramas that promise to keep you entertained and engaged. Who knows? You might just discover your new favorite series!

FAQs

What makes a crime drama underrated?

An underrated crime drama often lacks mainstream recognition despite having strong narratives, excellent acting, and critical acclaim. These series may not have the marketing budget of larger productions, leading to fewer viewers.

Are there any crime dramas worth watching in different languages?

Absolutely! Shows like The Glass Dome and The Åre Murders demonstrate that non-English language crime dramas can be gripping and just as engaging as their English counterparts.

How can I find more underrated crime dramas?

Explore streaming platforms’ curated lists, check viewer recommendations on social media, and read reviews. Engaging with communities that discuss television can also lead to discovering hidden gems.

Have you watched any of these underrated crime dramas? Which one are you most excited to check out? #CrimeDrama #HiddenGems #BingeWorthy