Browse our collection of crime drama reviews and ratings.Showing 6 of 6 reviews.
Adolescence is a bold, four-part British series that kicks off with the chilling arrest of 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper) for the murder of a classmate. Told in real-time using unbroken single shots, the show throws you head-first into the emotional chaos of Jamie’s family as they reel from the accusation. It’s raw, claustrophobic, and intentionally disorienting - in the best way. Reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. The Guardian called it “the closest thing to TV perfection in decades,” and the show holds a near-perfect 99% on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics are praising its immersive direction, fearless storytelling, and standout performances - especially from Owen Cooper and Erin Doherty. It's also sparked real-world conversations around youth violence and online radicalization. This isn’t easy viewing, but it’s essential. Adolescence is one of the most powerful British dramas in years - beautifully acted, tightly written, and gut-wrenchingly real. If you’re in the mood for something emotionally intense and socially relevant, this one’s absolutely worth your time.
Justified is an American crime drama series that aired between 2010 and 2015, featuring lawman U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, a character created by novelist Elmore Leonard. It is set in Lexington, Kentucky and the Appalachian Mountains area of eastern Kentucky, where Givens was born and raised. The series unfolds as Givens goes head-to-head with outlaws and criminals while trying to keep a check on his own volatile persona. The show's strength lies in the captivating performance by Timothy Olyphant as the quick-draw marshal Givens. His cowboy hat-wearing Southern charisma is not just a caricature but a fully realized character. He's impulsive and violent, yet deeply principled, constantly grappling with his own moral compass. Similarly, the series’ other key characters, particularly Boyd Crowder (Walton Goggins), deliver superb performances, blending the common crime story with philosophical discussions about morality, power, and righteousness. Its weakness, however, might be that it can occasionally veer into an over-excessive depiction of violence. Also, some plot lines in later seasons feel a bit extended for the sake of additional episodes. Nevertheless, for fans of shows like Breaking Bad or Fargo, ones seeking thrilling narratives and multi-layered characters, Justified is an underrated gem that might have slipped under their radar.
Wallander is a British crime drama, adapted from Swedish novelist Henning Mankell's best-selling "Wallander" detective novels. The show, led by Kenneth Branagh as the grizzled Detective Kurt Wallander, revolves around solving gruesome crimes in the picturesque but often sinister landscapes of Skåne, Sweden. Branagh brings a tangible sense of world-weariness and existential dread to his character, making you feel the weight each case adds to his already heavy shoulders. One thing that sets this series apart is its stunning cinematography. Wallander is known for making the most of its rural Swedish setting, presenting us with a breath-taking but eerie backdrop which becomes a character in its own right. On top of this, there's a palpable blend of the melancholia, dread, and occasional humour that is characteristic of Scandinavian crime fiction. Wallander isn't without its flaws. Some of the episodes are way too grim, and the pacing can be a bit on the sluggish side. Nevertheless, for those seeking a deeply character-driven detective series that's willing to dive into the existential cesspool with its protagonist, "Wallander" is going to hit the spot.
The Closer follows the story of Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, played by the immensely talented Kyra Sedgwick, who arrives from Atlanta to head up the Priority Homicide Division of the LAPD. Johnson's unconventional and often controversial methods to solve cases set her apart, making the show a thrilling watch. The interplay between Johnson’s southern charm and her tough, no-nonsense approach to crime-solving creates an intriguing juxtaposition that truly drives the series. What stands out in this series is not just the fast-paced and intricate plotlines, but the brilliantly executed character development. You come for the crime-solving, but you stay for the richly drawn characters that you slowly get to know and love. At times the storylines can become a bit convoluted and may require your undivided attention. Yet, the compelling performances by the seasoned cast make it worth the watch. Fans of crime drama and strong female leads will certainly enjoy The Closer. It redefines the genre by placing a woman at its centre who is flawed, intelligent, and fiercely dogged in her determination to find the truth. If you are looking for a show that combines suspense, personal drama, and tactful humor, give this one a watch.
"NYPD Blue" is a crime drama series that followed the lives of the detectives of New York's 15th Precinct. Airing from 1993 to 2005, it dynamically portrayed the harsh realities of police work juxtaposed with the personal stories that humanize and sympathize the men and women in blue. The ensemble cast was constantly evolving, displaying an impressive range of performances and highlighting different aspects of institutional structure and personal relationships. Dennis Franz's iconic portrayal of Detective Andy Sipowicz stood out, his gruff yet empathetic persona resonating across each episode. The storytelling might seem jarring at times, with disconcertingly close camera techniques and a penchant for gratuitous nudity and language. That said, the raw and gritty narration is complemented by competent scripting that elevates this series from other procedurals. "NYPD Blue" isn't everyone's cup of tea with its gritty approach, but it's a must-watch if you're a fan of hard-hitting crime dramas. It offers a unique dynamic between visceral street crime and the intimate drama of its characters. But be prepared, it doesn't shy away from the dark or explicit.
Longmire is not your typical murder mystery show; it is set in rural Wyoming and puts a strong, silent, old-school sheriff at its heart - Walt Longmire, beautifully portrayed by Robert Taylor. The series digs deep into the tensions between the local community and a nearby Native American reservation, offering rich landscapes and intricate cultural conflicts. What stood out in Longmire is its frozen-in-time small-town vibe with complex and layered characters. It excellently presented the age-old conflict of progress versus tradition. Also, the chemistry between Walt and his deputy Vic, played by Katee Sackhoff, provides a romantic arc that will keep you hooked. However, it did take a season or two for the show's potential to fully emerge. The initial cases-of-the-week may feel a bit formulaic, but patience will reward the viewer splendidly. If you're a fan of character-driven stories with a dollop of mystery and law enforcement, Longmire could be your next binge-watch series.