The Best TV Crime Shows You’ve Never Seen

The crime genre extends far beyond the mainstream hits that dominate popular streaming services and cable networks. Viewers willing to explore international productions and cult classics will find a treasure trove of gritty dramas and complex character studies. These series often provide a raw and unflinching look at the criminal underworld or police procedure without the gloss of Hollywood production. Many of these shows have garnered critical acclaim in their home countries but remain relatively obscure to a global audience. This list highlights exceptional crime dramas that deserve a spot on your watchlist.

‘Mr Inbetween’ (2018–2021)

Ray Shoesmith navigates the contrasting worlds of his domestic life and his profession as a hitman for hire. This Australian black comedy drama balances brutal violence with poignant moments of fatherhood and friendship. The protagonist handles disputes with a calm demeanor that makes his violent outbursts even more unsettling. Critics praised the series for its tight writing and the charismatic performance of creator Scott Ryan. It offers a unique perspective on the criminal lifestyle through its concise storytelling and dry humor.

‘Gomorrah’ (2014–2021)

This Italian series provides a gritty and unromanticized look at the Camorra crime syndicate in Naples. The narrative follows Ciro Di Marzio as he maneuvers through internal power struggles and dangerous external threats. Characters frequently switch allegiances in a brutal environment where loyalty is a fleeting concept. ‘Gomorrah’ is renowned for its intense realism and the absence of any purely heroic figures. The show has been sold to over one hundred countries and is often compared to the best American crime dramas.

‘Spiral’ (2005–2020)

Known originally as ‘Engrenages’ in France, this police procedural delves into the machinery of the French justice system. The series follows a group of police officers and lawyers as they investigate heinous crimes across Paris. It explores the blurred lines between corruption and justice while exposing the personal lives of those involved. Viewers appreciate the complex character arcs and the refusal to shy away from gruesome details. The show ran for eight seasons and is considered a landmark in French television.

‘Love/Hate’ (2010–2014)

Dublin serves as the backdrop for this intense drama about the local drug trade and the criminals who operate within it. The story chronicles the rise and fall of gang members as they deal with the pressures of police surveillance and rival factions. It captures the post-boom atmosphere of Ireland with a gritty aesthetic and sharp dialogue. The series became a cultural phenomenon in Ireland during its original broadcast run. Critics lauded the show for its fearless approach to violence and its compelling ensemble cast.

‘ZeroZeroZero’ (2020)

This globe-trotting limited series tracks a massive shipment of cocaine from its purchase in Mexico to its sale in Italy. The narrative weaves together the stories of the sellers, the brokers, and the buyers across three continents. It highlights the immense economic power of the international drug trade and the human cost associated with it. The production values are cinematic and the storytelling is relentlessly paced. Based on the book by Roberto Saviano, the show offers a terrifying glimpse into global organized crime.

‘Suburra: Blood on Rome’ (2017–2020)

Organized crime, corrupt politicians, and the Vatican collide in this prequel to the 2015 film ‘Suburra’. The series depicts the battle for land in a seaside town near Rome that is slated for a gambling development. Three young criminals from different backgrounds join forces to seize their own piece of the pie. The show is known for its stylish direction and the dynamic chemistry between its leads. It paints a cynical portrait of how power operates in the eternal city.

‘Shadows’ (2014–2019)

Relu acts as a collector for a local mob boss in Bucharest while trying to keep his criminal life secret from his family. This Romanian drama combines dark humor with tension as Relu’s two worlds begin to collide disastrously. The protagonist is a taxi driver by day who uses his intelligence to solve problems for the underworld by night. The series is celebrated for its clever writing and the transformation of its main character. It offers a fresh and distinct voice in the crowded genre of mob dramas.

‘4 Blocks’ (2017–2019)

A Lebanese crime family in Berlin faces threats from rival gangs and the police in this German drama series. Toni Hamady wants to leave his life of crime behind to protect his wife and daughter but finds himself pulled back in. The show explores themes of family loyalty, integration, and the loss of control. It received praise for its authentic portrayal of the setting and the intensity of the narrative. The series provides a rare look into the Arab clans operating within the German underworld.

‘Top Boy’ (2011–2013)

Two drug dealers in East London strive to become the dominant local kingpins while navigating the dangers of street life. The series offers a raw and honest depiction of life in public housing estates and the choices young men are forced to make. Dushane and Sully face constant challenges from rivals and the law as they try to grow their business. The show was revived by Netflix years later, but the original two seasons remain essential viewing. It is highly regarded for its social realism and powerful performances.

‘Happy Valley’ (2014–2023)

Police Sergeant Catherine Cawood pursues the man who assaulted her late daughter in this gripping British drama. The series is set in the Calder Valley and deals with the ripple effects of a kidnapping gone wrong. It balances a tense crime thriller plot with a deep exploration of grief and family dynamics. Sarah Lancashire gives a career-defining performance as the tough and resilient protagonist. The show is frequently cited as one of the best British dramas of the twenty-first century.

‘Line of Duty’ (2012–2021)

A controversial police anti-corruption unit investigates officers suspected of perverting the course of justice. The series is famous for its intricate plotting and long interrogation scenes that serve as the dramatic centerpiece. Each season focuses on a different target while an overarching conspiracy slowly unravels in the background. Viewers must pay close attention to every detail as the narrative is filled with twists and turns. It became one of the most-watched drama series in the United Kingdom.

‘Unforgotten’ (2015–Present)

Detectives Cassie Stuart and Sunny Khan solve cold cases by uncovering long-buried secrets. The show distinguishes itself with a compassionate tone and a focus on the emotional impact of the crimes on all involved. Each season unravels a single historical murder by examining the lives of several seemingly unconnected suspects. The chemistry between the two leads provides a warm anchor amidst the tragic stories. It is a thoughtful procedural that emphasizes the human cost of unresolved trauma.

‘River’ (2015)

John River is a brilliant police inspector whose genius is inextricably linked to the fragility of his mind. He interacts with manifestations of victims and killers as he tries to solve the murder of his partner. Stellan Skarsgård delivers a haunting performance in a show that blends crime drama with psychological study. The series is visually striking and carries a melancholic atmosphere throughout its six episodes. It stands out for its emotional depth and unique approach to the detective genre.

‘The Fall’ (2013–2016)

A metropolitan police superintendent is drafted to Belfast to oversee the investigation of a series of murders. The show reveals the identity of the serial killer from the start and follows his double life alongside the police investigation. It creates unbearable tension by juxtaposing the killer’s mundane family life with his horrific crimes. Gillian Anderson and Jamie Dornan engage in a psychological cat-and-mouse game that spans three seasons. The series is noted for its slow burn pacing and feminist subtext.

‘Giri/Haji’ (2019)

A detective from Tokyo travels to London to find his missing brother who has been accused of murdering a Yakuza member. The title translates to Duty/Shame and reflects the internal conflicts faced by the main characters. The series mixes noir elements with family drama and includes animated sequences to tell its story. Critics praised it for its ambitious scope and the seamless blending of Japanese and British cultures. It is a visually inventive show that defies easy categorization.

‘Delhi Crime’ (2019–Present)

This Indian police procedural dramatizes the investigation into the horrific 2012 Delhi gang rape case. The series follows Deputy Commissioner of Police Vartika Chaturvedi as she leads the hunt for the perpetrators. It is shot with a documentary style realism that emphasizes the procedural aspects of the case. The show won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series for its sensitive handling of the subject matter. It highlights the determination of the police force amidst immense public pressure.

‘Paatal Lok’ (2020)

A cynical inspector is assigned a high-profile case involving an assassination attempt on a journalist. The investigation leads him into the dark underbelly of society and the caste politics of India. The show uses a mythological metaphor to divide the world into heaven, earth, and hell. It is a gritty neo-noir that offers a scathing commentary on modern Indian society and media. The performances and the multi-layered narrative received widespread critical acclaim.

‘Sacred Games’ (2018–2019)

A troubled police officer receives a phone call from a missing gangster who warns him of an impending disaster in Mumbai. The story alternates between the officer’s race against time and the gangster’s rise to power decades earlier. It was the first Indian original series on Netflix and set a high standard for production quality. The show explores the nexus of religion, politics, and organized crime in India. It is based on the novel by Vikram Chandra and features powerhouse performances.

‘Mirzapur’ (2018–Present)

The iron-fisted ruler of Mirzapur and his son face challenges to their authority in a lawless region of Uttar Pradesh. Two brothers find themselves inadvertently caught in the crossfire and eventually become players in the game. The series is known for its excessive violence and colorful vernacular. It has gained a massive cult following for its raw energy and memorable characters. ‘Mirzapur’ presents a world where guns and opium dictate the social order.

‘Undercover’ (2019–2022)

Two undercover agents infiltrate the operation of a major ecstasy producer living on the Dutch-Belgian border. They pose as a couple at a camping ground where the drug lord spends his weekends. The tension arises from their need to maintain their cover while living in close proximity to their target. The series was inspired by real events and became a surprise hit on Netflix. It combines suspense with moments of dark comedy as the agents navigate their dangerous assignment.

‘Penoza’ (2010–2017)

Carmen van Walraven is forced to take over her husband’s role in the criminal underworld after he is assassinated. She must protect her children while proving she is capable of running a drug empire. This Dutch series inspired the American remake ‘Red Widow’ but the original ran for five successful seasons. It focuses heavily on the struggle to balance maternal duties with the ruthless decisions required by her new life. The show is a compelling character study of a woman transforming into a crime boss.

‘Crime novel – The series’ (2008–2010)

This Italian series recounts the rise of the Banda della Magliana in Rome during the late 1970s. A group of small-time criminals unite to take control of the city’s drug trade and form connections with the mafia and secret services. The show captures the political volatility of the Years of Lead in Italy with style and precision. It is praised for its period detail and the tragic arc of its ambitious characters. The series is considered a masterpiece of the European crime genre.

‘Rocco Schiavone’ (2016–Present)

An unconventional deputy commissioner is transferred from Rome to a snowy Alpine town as punishment for his behavior. Rocco Schiavone hates the cold, the mountains, and often the people he has to work with. He is a brilliant but ethically flexible cop who smokes pot in his office and talks to the ghost of his wife. The series balances dry humor with intricate murder mysteries and deep melancholy. It offers a refreshing twist on the classic fish-out-of-water trope.

‘The Bridge’ (2011–2018)

A body is found on the exact center of the Oresund Bridge linking Sweden and Denmark. Two detectives from either side of the border must work together to catch a killer who is highlighting social problems. The relationship between the socially awkward Saga Norén and the empathetic Martin Rohde drives the emotional core of the show. ‘The Bridge’ defined the Nordic Noir genre with its bleak atmosphere and complex plotting. It spawned multiple remakes around the world but the original remains the gold standard.

‘The Killing’ (2007–2012)

Detective Sarah Lund investigates the murder of a young girl in Copenhagen in this landmark Danish series. The show dedicates an entire season to a single case which allows for a detailed examination of the investigation and the grieving process. It intertwines the police work with the local political landscape and the personal lives of the suspects. ‘The Killing’ is credited with popularizing subtitled drama in the UK and US. The sweater-wearing protagonist became an iconic figure in television history.

‘Trapped’ (2015–2021)

A mutilated torso washes up in a remote Icelandic town just as a blizzard cuts off all access to the outside world. The local police chief must solve the crime without backup while trapping the killer among the residents. The claustrophobic setting and the stunning landscape play a major role in the atmosphere of the series. It is the most expensive television series ever made in Iceland. The show builds tension masterfully as nature itself becomes an antagonist.

‘Bordertown’ (2016–2020)

A gifted detective moves his family to a town on the border between Finland and Russia hoping for a quieter life. He soon finds himself investigating a series of gruesome murders that seem connected to the geopolitical location. The protagonist possesses a Sherlockian mind that allows him to visualize crime scenes in unique ways. ‘Bordertown’ combines family drama with the darker elements of Nordic crime fiction. The snowy landscapes and brooding tone are staples of this Finnish hit.

‘Deadwind’ (2018–2021)

Sofia Karppi returns to her work as a homicide detective in Helsinki shortly after the death of her husband. She is paired with a rookie partner to investigate the murder of a woman found on a construction site. The investigation leads them into the world of renewable energy corruption and personal vendettas. The dynamic between the two detectives evolves from friction to mutual respect. It is a fast-paced thriller that keeps viewers guessing until the end.

‘Wisting’ (2019–Present)

William Wisting is a meticulous detective hunting an American serial killer who is hiding in his Norwegian town. The case becomes personal when his journalist daughter unwittingly gets close to the investigation. The series features Carrie-Anne Moss as an FBI agent who arrives to assist with the manhunt. It is based on the best-selling novels by Jørn Lier Horst. The show is praised for its realistic police procedure and wintery setting.

‘The Valhalla Murders’ (2019–2020)

An Oslo detective returns to his native Iceland to help a local cop hunt for a serial killer linked to an old boys’ home. The investigation uncovers a history of abuse and corruption that powerful figures want to keep hidden. The bleak winter setting enhances the sense of dread and isolation throughout the series. It was the first Icelandic series to be featured on Netflix worldwide. The show delivers a solid mystery with a satisfyingly dark conclusion.

‘The Chestnut Man’ (2021)

A woman is found brutally murdered in a playground with a small figurine made of chestnuts left at the scene. Two detectives discover a fingerprint on the figurine belonging to a government minister’s missing daughter. The killer strikes again and leaves the same signature calling card. This Danish psychological thriller is based on the novel by the creator of ‘The Killing’. It is a terrifying and atmospheric series that keeps the tension high.

‘Quarry’ (2016)

A Marine returns home to Memphis from Vietnam in 1972 only to find himself shunned by society. He is drawn into a network of contract killing and corruption along the Mississippi River. The series captures the hazy atmosphere of the era with a fantastic soundtrack and period-accurate visuals. Logan Marshall-Green gives an intense performance as the disillusioned veteran. The show was canceled after one season but remains a cult favorite for its noir style.

‘Terriers’ (2010)

Two unlicensed private investigators operate in Ocean Beach, San Diego without a car or a proper office. Hank and Britt scrape by solving low-level crimes until they stumble upon a massive real estate conspiracy. The show is beloved for its witty dialogue and the genuine friendship between the two leads. It failed to find an audience during its initial run but critics have since hailed it as a lost classic. The sunny California setting belies the noir heart of the story.

‘Brotherhood’ (2006–2008)

Two brothers in Providence, Rhode Island stand on opposite sides of the law. One is a local gangster trying to maintain his power and the other is a politician trying to navigate the system. The show explores the gray areas of morality where the worlds of politics and crime intersect. It draws comparisons to ‘The Sopranos’ for its focus on family dynamics and local corruption. The series features strong performances from Jason Clarke and Jason Isaacs.

‘Southland’ (2009–2013)

This police drama takes a raw and authentic look at the lives of officers in the Los Angeles Police Department. The show uses a handheld camera style to create a documentary feel that puts viewers in the middle of the action. It focuses on the toll the job takes on the personal lives of the cops. The series moved from network TV to cable where it found a dedicated audience. It is often cited as one of the most realistic cop shows ever made.

‘Banshee’ (2013–2016)

An ex-con assumes the identity of the murdered sheriff in the small Amish town of Banshee, Pennsylvania. He dispenses his own brand of justice while hiding from the mob boss he betrayed years ago. The show is known for its hyper-stylized violence and expertly choreographed fight scenes. It embraces its pulp fiction roots and delivers adrenaline-fueled entertainment. Antony Starr shines in the lead role before his fame in ‘The Boys’.

‘The Shadow Line’ (2011)

A murder investigation into a drug baron threatens to expose a conspiracy involving the police and the criminal underworld. The series features a complex plot where no character is entirely innocent or safe. It is stylized with a noir aesthetic and features a menacing performance by Rafe Spall. The show explores the blurry line between morality and duty. It is a dense and intelligent thriller that requires full attention.

‘Red Riding’ (2009)

This trilogy of feature-length episodes is set in Yorkshire during the 1970s and 80s. It covers the Yorkshire Ripper murders and police corruption through a dark and oppressive lens. The series features a stellar cast including Andrew Garfield and Sean Bean. It paints a bleak picture of a society rotting from the inside out. The production captures the grime and despair of the era perfectly.

‘State of Play’ (2003)

A journalist investigates the suspicious death of a political researcher who was having an affair with a Member of Parliament. The investigation uncovers a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels of the British government. This six-part series is a masterclass in political thriller writing. It stars John Simm and Bill Nighy in career-highlight roles. The show was later adapted into a Hollywood film but the original remains superior.

‘Life on Mars’ (2006–2007)

A modern-day police detective has a car accident and wakes up in 1973. He must solve crimes using the rough methods of the era while trying to figure out if he is dead, in a coma, or a time traveler. The clash between modern policing and the “old school” style of DCI Gene Hunt is the heart of the show. It perfectly blends police procedural with sci-fi mystery and nostalgia. The series became a massive cultural hit in the UK.

‘Ashes to Ashes’ (2008–2010)

This sequel to ‘Life on Mars’ sees a female police psychologist shot in 2008 and waking up in 1981. She joins Gene Hunt’s team in London and tries to uncover the truth about her situation. The series expands the mythology of the original show while embracing the neon aesthetic of the 80s. It provides a satisfying conclusion to the overarching mystery of both series. The chemistry between the leads remains the driving force of the drama.

‘Spooks’ (2002–2011)

Known as ‘MI-5’ in some countries, this series follows the work of British intelligence officers. The show is famous for its high stakes and its willingness to kill off major characters unexpectedly. It tackles topical threats such as terrorism and cyber warfare with a fast-paced style. The series ran for ten seasons and constantly reinvented its cast. It offers a tense and gritty alternative to the glamorous world of James Bond.

‘Kin’ (2021–Present)

The Kinsella family is a small but tight-knit crime syndicate in Dublin that gets into a war with a major cartel. The series focuses on the internal dynamics of the family as they face impossible odds. It features a star-studded Irish cast including Charlie Cox and Aidan Gillen. The show is visually stylish and emphasizes the emotional toll of the violence. It is a brooding drama about grief and loyalty.

‘Gangs of London’ (2020–Present)

The assassination of the head of London’s most powerful crime family creates a power vacuum that threatens to tear the city apart. The series is renowned for its visceral and cinematic action sequences designed by Gareth Evans. International gangs battle for control in a story that is operatic in scale. The violence is brutal and the plot is filled with betrayals. It is a modern crime saga that pushes the boundaries of action on television.

‘Snabba Cash’ (2021–2022)

A single mother and aspiring tech entrepreneur gets entangled in the criminal underworld of Stockholm to fund her startup. The series updates the story from the original film trilogy and focuses on the intersection of the startup world and street gangs. It is a fast-paced thriller that examines the desperation for status and money. The show feels modern and urgent in its depiction of greed. It offers a fresh take on the Nordic Noir genre.

Share your favorite hidden gem from this list or mention a show we missed in the comments.