What makes a good crime series? Some might argue it’s the intoxicating blend of mystery and character drama. Others want their crime content to keep them on the edge of their seat, dying to see the next twist or big reveal. Finally, there are viewers who look beyond the plot and are eager to really get to know a character, warts and all. Thankfully, there’s something on streaming services for everyone.
From a lighthearted whodunit to a gritty heist show to a highly influential crime drama, the shows below know how to keep viewers invested. They deliver an intricate web of addictive storytelling, occasional tension, and fascinating characters whose motivations aren’t obvious at first sight. All that’s left to decide is which crime series you want to binge first.
Only Murders in the Building (Hulu)
The first thing likely to appeal to audiences when they first stumble upon this quirky series is the cast. Only Murders in the Building stars Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. It is an unexpected trio, but one that works so well you’ll want to send whoever did the casting a fruit basket. They play neighbors in an upscale New York apartment building who are obsessed with true crime. When someone dies in their immediate vicinity, they decide to band together and investigate.
The show is a brilliant mix of comedy and intrigue, with a surprising amount of heart for good measure. The chemistry between the three leads is the stuff of dreams, and the dialogue is incredibly witty. Plus, over the course of its run, Only Murders in the Building attracted an impressive slate of guest stars, including Meryl Streep, Paul Rudd, Tina Fey, Zach Galifianakis, Eugene Levy, and Eva Longoria. You can stream the crime series on Hulu.
La Casa de Papel (Netflix)
Known in English as Money Heist, this Spanish series is an exhilarating combination of thriller and telenovela. The plot follows a group of criminals led by an enigmatic mastermind who embark on a daring heist at the Royal Mint of Spain. As they barricade themselves inside to print millions of euros, hostages go stir-crazy, and tension arises among the crew. While the heist may be meticulously planned, it doesn’t mean things can go horribly wrong at any minute.
That’s exactly what keeps viewers glued to the screen. The crime series offers plenty of exciting twists, action, and high emotional stakes. Additionally, each character brings a unique flavor to the ensemble. They may be thieves, but many are very sympathetic. You’ll likely root for them as they try to pull off the job of a lifetime – one that may end up costing them everything they have. La Casa de Papel is streaming on Netflix.
The Sopranos (Max)
Often credited with revolutionizing the drama genre as we know it, The Sopranos is an iconic crime series that successfully stands the test of time. It follows the life of mob boss Tony Soprano, portrayed by James Gandolfini. As he struggles to balance his family with his crime empire, he experiences mental health issues, so he reaches out to a therapist. Throughout six seasons, fans will be hooked as Tony faces both external threats and inner demons.
The show’s brilliance lies in its appealing premise and psychological depth. Not only that, but The Sopranos delivers a sharp and humorous, at times, examination of the American Dream. The crime series premiered back in 1999 and is still considered highly influential due to its rich characters, complex themes, and excellent production values. It was one of the first television shows to be considered art, in the same vein that cinema is. Now, you can stream it on Max.
Final Thoughts on Crime Series
With so many streaming platforms currently available, the options for your next crime binge seem endless. There’s always another mystery to solve or a new complicated case to untangle. Sample any of the series above, however, and you’ll be instantly drawn into a story that grabs hold of you and doesn’t let go until the final credits roll. Consider this your friendly warning.
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