Best Criminal Series To Watch On Netflix

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Best Criminal Series to Watch on Netflix

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the thrilling world of criminal series on Netflix? If you're anything like me, you love a good suspenseful show that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Netflix has a fantastic selection of criminal series that are perfect for binge-watching. So, grab your popcorn, get cozy, and let's explore some of the best criminal series Netflix has to offer.

Why Criminal Series Are So Addictive

Criminal series have this unique ability to captivate us, drawing us into worlds filled with mystery, suspense, and intrigue. What makes these shows so addictive? Let’s break it down:

  • Intriguing Plots: At the heart of every great criminal series is a well-crafted plot. These plots often involve complex mysteries, unexpected twists, and high stakes. The writers skillfully weave narratives that keep you guessing, making it nearly impossible to look away. You become invested in solving the crime, piecing together clues alongside the characters. The more intricate the plot, the more hooked you become.

  • Complex Characters: Criminal series are not just about the crimes; they’re about the people involved. Whether it's the brilliant but flawed detective, the cunning criminal mastermind, or the conflicted witness, these characters add depth and emotional resonance to the story. Their backstories, motivations, and relationships create a rich tapestry that draws you in. You find yourself empathizing with characters, even the ones on the wrong side of the law, making the viewing experience all the more compelling.

  • Psychological Depth: Many criminal series delve into the psychological aspects of crime, exploring the motivations and mental states of both the perpetrators and the investigators. This psychological exploration adds another layer of complexity, making the series more thought-provoking and engaging. Understanding why a character behaves a certain way can be just as fascinating as uncovering what they did.

  • Suspense and Tension: A good criminal series excels at building suspense. From the subtle clues to the heart-pounding chase scenes, these shows know how to keep you on the edge of your seat. The constant tension and uncertainty create an adrenaline rush, making you eager to see what happens next. This element of suspense is crucial in maintaining your attention and investment in the story.

  • Moral Ambiguity: Often, criminal series present morally ambiguous situations where the line between right and wrong becomes blurred. This ambiguity forces you to question your own beliefs and values, adding a layer of intellectual engagement to the viewing experience. Are the ends always justifying the means? What would you do in a similar situation? These are the kinds of questions that linger long after the credits roll.

  • Escapism: Let's face it, sometimes we just need to escape from our everyday lives. Criminal series offer a thrilling escape into a world of danger and excitement, where we can vicariously experience the adrenaline rush without any real-life consequences. It's a form of entertainment that allows us to explore the darker aspects of human nature in a safe and controlled environment.

  • Social Commentary: Many criminal series use their narratives to comment on broader social issues, such as corruption, inequality, and justice. By embedding these issues within the storyline, the series can raise awareness and spark conversations about important topics. This social commentary adds depth and relevance to the series, making it more than just a form of entertainment.

  • The Thrill of the Chase: There’s something undeniably thrilling about watching detectives and investigators chase down criminals. The cat-and-mouse dynamic, the strategic planning, and the high-stakes confrontations all contribute to the excitement. This thrill of the chase is a key element in the addictive nature of criminal series.

  • Satisfying Resolutions: Ultimately, a good criminal series provides a satisfying resolution. Whether it’s the capture of the criminal, the solving of the mystery, or the redemption of a character, the ending offers a sense of closure and satisfaction. This resolution is crucial in leaving a lasting impression and making the series memorable.

Top Criminal Series on Netflix

Alright, let's get to the good stuff. Here are some of the best criminal series you can stream on Netflix right now:

1. Mindhunter

Mindhunter is a captivating series that delves into the early days of criminal profiling at the FBI. Set in the late 1970s, the show follows FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench as they interview notorious serial killers to understand their psychology and motivations. What makes Mindhunter stand out is its meticulous attention to detail and its focus on the psychological aspects of criminal behavior. The series is based on the non-fiction book Mind Hunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker.

The show's creators, including Joe Penhall, have masterfully recreated the atmosphere of the 1970s, complete with period-accurate costumes, sets, and music. The performances are top-notch, with Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany delivering compelling portrayals of the lead characters. The series also features chilling portrayals of real-life serial killers, such as Edmund Kemper, played by Cameron Britton, whose performance is both unsettling and mesmerizing.

Mindhunter is not just a crime drama; it's a psychological thriller that explores the dark corners of the human mind. The interviews with the serial killers are intense and thought-provoking, offering insights into the minds of these disturbed individuals. The series also examines the personal toll that this work takes on the FBI agents, as they grapple with the disturbing realities of their cases. The show is brilliantly written, directed, and acted, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Although the series was unfortunately canceled after two seasons, both seasons are masterclasses in suspense and storytelling. The depth of the characters, the complexity of the cases, and the overall atmosphere of dread make Mindhunter a standout in the world of criminal series. If you're fascinated by criminal psychology and enjoy a series that challenges your perceptions, Mindhunter is the perfect choice.

2. Ozark

Ozark is a gripping crime drama that centers on Marty Byrde, a financial advisor who relocates his family to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong. Marty, played by Jason Bateman, must launder millions of dollars to appease a drug cartel, all while navigating the treacherous waters of local criminals and law enforcement. The series is known for its dark tone, complex characters, and suspenseful plotlines.

The show's creators, Bill Dubuque and Mark Williams, have crafted a world that is both beautiful and dangerous. The stunning landscapes of the Ozarks provide a stark contrast to the criminal activities that take place beneath the surface. The performances are uniformly excellent, with Laura Linney delivering a standout performance as Wendy Byrde, Marty's wife, who becomes increasingly involved in the money-laundering operation.

Ozark is more than just a crime drama; it's a study of family dynamics under extreme pressure. The Byrde family's relationships are tested as they become entangled in the criminal underworld. The series explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the lengths to which people will go to protect their loved ones. The show is brilliantly written, directed, and acted, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The tension builds steadily throughout each season, culminating in explosive finales that leave you on the edge of your seat. If you enjoy series that combine crime, family drama, and psychological suspense, Ozark is an excellent choice. The evolution of the characters and the ever-increasing stakes make it a truly compelling viewing experience. It's a series that stays with you long after you've finished watching.

3. Narcos

Narcos is a thrilling series that chronicles the rise and fall of the infamous drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the MedellĂ­n Cartel. The show combines historical footage with dramatic recreations to tell the story of the drug trade in Colombia during the 1980s and 1990s. Narcos is known for its fast-paced storytelling, intense action sequences, and compelling characters.

The series, created by Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard, and Doug Miro, offers a raw and unflinching look at the world of drug trafficking. The performances are outstanding, with Wagner Moura delivering a mesmerizing portrayal of Pablo Escobar. The series also features compelling performances from Boyd Holbrook and Pedro Pascal as DEA agents Steve Murphy and Javier Peña, respectively. Moura's portrayal of Escobar is magnetic, capturing the charisma and brutality of the drug lord. The series does an excellent job of portraying the scale of Escobar's empire and the impact it had on Colombia and the world. The story is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping you constantly engaged.

Narcos is not just a crime drama; it's a historical drama that explores the complexities of the drug trade and its impact on society. The series examines the political, social, and economic factors that contributed to the rise of the MedellĂ­n Cartel. The show is brilliantly written, directed, and acted, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The series is incredibly immersive, transporting you to the streets of MedellĂ­n and the jungles of Colombia. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable, making Narcos a truly unforgettable viewing experience. If you enjoy series that combine history, action, and drama, Narcos is an excellent choice.

4. Sherlock

Okay, Sherlock technically isn't exclusively on Netflix (it depends on your region), but it's worth mentioning because it's a fantastic criminal series. This British series, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the eccentric detective Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson, offers a modern take on the classic stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The show is known for its clever writing, brilliant performances, and intricate mysteries.

The series was created by Steven Moffat and Mark Gatiss, who have successfully updated the Sherlock Holmes stories for a 21st-century audience. The performances are universally praised, with Cumberbatch's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes being particularly iconic. The series also features strong supporting performances from Una Stubbs as Mrs. Hudson and Andrew Scott as Jim Moriarty.

Sherlock is not just a crime drama; it's a character study that explores the complex relationship between Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson. The series delves into the personal lives of the characters, adding depth and emotional resonance to the stories. The show is brilliantly written, directed, and acted, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The mysteries are intricate and challenging, requiring the viewer to pay close attention to the details. The series is visually stunning, with stylish cinematography and inventive editing. If you enjoy series that combine mystery, character drama, and wit, Sherlock is an excellent choice.

5. The Sinner

The Sinner is an anthology series that explores the psychological underpinnings of crime. Each season focuses on a new case, with Detective Harry Ambrose, played by Bill Pullman, investigating seemingly ordinary people who commit shocking acts of violence. The series is known for its suspenseful atmosphere, complex characters, and twisty plots.

The series, developed by Derek Simonds, is based on the novel of the same name by Petra Hammesfahr. The performances are excellent, with Bill Pullman delivering a standout performance as Detective Harry Ambrose. Each season features a new cast of characters, with Jessica Biel, Carrie Coon, and Matt Bomer delivering memorable performances in their respective seasons.

The Sinner is not just a crime drama; it's a psychological thriller that explores the dark corners of the human mind. The series delves into the backstories of the characters, revealing the traumas and secrets that led them to commit their crimes. The show is brilliantly written, directed, and acted, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre. The mysteries are complex and unsettling, forcing the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths about human nature. If you enjoy series that combine suspense, psychological depth, and character drama, The Sinner is an excellent choice.

More Recommendations

Here are a few more criminal series on Netflix that are worth checking out:

  • Peaky Blinders
  • Bodyguard
  • When They See Us
  • The Confession Killer
  • Unbelievable

Final Thoughts

Netflix is a treasure trove of criminal series, offering something for every fan of the genre. Whether you're into gritty crime dramas, psychological thrillers, or historical mysteries, you're sure to find something to binge-watch. So, grab your remote, settle in, and get ready for some thrilling entertainment. Happy watching, guys!