As a huge fan of crime dramas and psychological thrillers, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring various shows that delve into the minds of serial killers and profilers. Among those, there are some gems that truly stand out due to their unique takes on the genre.
Today, CBS is recognized for its collection of procedural shows. Notably, the “NCIS” and “FBI” franchises are extensive, accompanied by programs like “Elsbeth,” “Fire Country,” and more. This is just the present lineup; CBS has previously showcased titles such as “Hawaii Five-O,” “Magnum P.I.,” and numerous others. For enthusiasts of procedural dramas, alternative choices include NBC’s “One Chicago” and “Law & Order,” along with ABC’s “The Rookie” and “Will Trent.”
As a long-time enthusiast of procedural shows, I can tell you that my love for this genre was kindled during my formative years when CBS ruled the airwaves with iconic series like “Law & Order” and “CSI.” However, over the past few years, I’ve found myself feeling a pang of nostalgia tinged with frustration as these shows slowly faded away, replaced by reality TV and sitcoms.
NYPD Blue
In 1993, “NYPD Blue” on ABC took viewers by surprise. Unlike any network show preceding it, this series pushed boundaries with its raw language and mature themes, leading to bans in certain regions. Yet, “NYPD Blue” was a critical sensation, skillfully weaving together numerous detective plotlines involving grisly murder cases. While some elements may now appear outdated regarding technology, the drama remained exceptional.
The exceptional cast significantly contributed to its success. Denis Franz earned Emmy awards for his performance, while David Caruso rose to stardom during the first two seasons. Later additions to the star-studded lineup included Kim Delaney, Jimmy Smits, Gordon Clapp, Esai Morales, and James McDaniel, each delivering outstanding performances. Spanning 12 seasons, this crime drama’s legacy remains unparalleled in the genre. Now, streaming services give a new audience the opportunity to discover this groundbreaking police series.
NYPD Blue is streaming on Hulu and Tubi.
The Closer
Kyra Sedgewick’s Emmy-winning performance as Brenda Leigh Johnson in TNT’s initial scripted series remains one of the show’s standouts. Hailing from the South with a witty demeanor, Brenda assumes control of an LAPD unit. Though she appears delightful and carefree during investigations, Brenda transforms into a relentless interrogator once suspects are brought in for questioning. The resulting confessions, obtained through her intense methods, make for thrilling conclusions.
The show’s mood shifts between serious crime dramas and hilarious comedic episodes, primarily featuring the bungling detectives Provenza and Flynn. However, Sedgwick’s captivating portrayal of Brenda keeps viewers engaged, making her one of television’s finest cops. Unsurprisingly, the show gave birth to a successful spin-off, further cementing its enduring legacy.
The Closer is streaming on Peacock.
Major Crimes
After completing “The Closer,” you can give its succeeding series a try. This show features many of the same actors rejoining the team, with Mary McDonnell once again portraying Sharon Raydor, who now heads the unit. The twist is that instead of solely apprehending murderers, the squad must coax confessions from them for plea bargains, thereby saving the L.A. court system resources. At times, achieving justice doesn’t seem as satisfying as it could be.
As a devoted gamer, I can tell you that the new series shares the same captivating atmosphere and tone as its prequel, with unexpected bursts of humor and bolder storylines that keep things interesting. In one particular plotline, McDonnell takes on the role of a foster parent, dealing with the challenges of raising a sick child in later seasons. The twists and turns in this storyline are sure to leave fans of “The Closer” and CBS procedurals exhilarated and engaged.
Major Crimes is streaming on Philo.
Rizzoli & Isles
As a longtime fan of crime dramas, I can’t help but be thoroughly impressed by TNT’s adaptation of “Rizzoli & Isles.” Having spent years poring over grisly case files and interviewing suspects, I find myself drawn to the unique dynamic between Jane Rizzoli (Angie Harmon) and Maura Isles (Sasha Alexander).
The actresses in this show are incredibly captivating, drawing you in with one of the most compelling female friendships on television. Rizzoli’s relaxed demeanor and Maura’s intellectual persona create an engaging dynamic that goes beyond just solving murders. Additionally, the supporting cast, such as Lorraine Bracco as Jane’s mother, adds even more enjoyment for fans of CBS crime shows.
Rizzoli & Isles is streaming on Philo and Sling TV.
New York Undercover
Dick Wolf is widely recognized for creating the hit television shows “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Chicago Fire,” and “Chicago P.D.,” as well as the newest addition, “FBI.” However, it’s essential not to overlook the lesser-known Fox series from 1994 to 1999, titled “New York Undercover.” In this gritty drama, Malik Yoba and Michael DeLorenzo portray NYPD officers who specialize in undercover investigations within the diverse facets of New York City. Each episode opens with a dialogue-free sequence, accompanied by cool music, depicting the crime that initiates the investigation. Additionally, personal stories add depth to their characters – Yoba’s struggles with being a single father, and DeLorenzo dealing with his problematic relationship with an addict father.
In the later seasons, actors such as Lauren Velez and Anthony LaPagila joined the cast, along with budding talents like Allison Janney, JK Simmons, Ice-T, and Jesse L. Martin. Despite some rough patches in the fourth season revival, the first three years continue to be among Wolf’s finest television creations and are worth revisiting.
New York Undercover is streaming on Peacock.
Rookie Blue
Missy Peregrym gained recognition for her role as Maggie in CBS’s FBI series. Prior to this, she garnered attention through a Canadian drama that was subsequently broadcast on ABC. In this production, she portrays Andy McNally, one of five new police officers embarking on their careers in Toronto. The show focused on their experiences, encompassing the challenges of urban crime as well as the complex interpersonal relationships among them.
This series offered an entertaining mix of street cop confrontations with detectives, intriguing crimes in Toronto, and steamy police relationships. The exceptional cast carried it through six seasons, culminating in a satisfying finale. Peregrym’s devoted fans cannot deny her ability to convincingly portray law enforcement characters for an extended period.
Rookie Blue is streaming on Vix.
Bosch
An engrossing television series based on the hugely successful novels, “Bosch,” brings to life the character of Harry Bosch, brilliantly portrayed by Titus Welliver. This long-running show, spanning seven seasons, offers a captivating portrayal of Bosch’s career as a tenured detective with the LAPD. While many cases are resolved within an hour, some intricate storylines unfold over multiple seasons. The series explores Bosch’s frequent clashes with his superiors and politicians, shedding light on the challenges and moral dilemmas faced by law enforcement officers.
The ensemble cast shines, particularly the late and talented Lance Reddick in his role as Bosch’s superior. Following the conclusion of this series, fans are treated to the “Bosch: Legacy” spin-off. In this continuation, Bosch becomes a private investigator while his daughter embarks on her police career, each facing unique obstacles. Both shows are must-watches for police procedural enthusiasts and remain true to their literary foundations.
Bosch is streaming on Prime Video.
Clarice
In 2021, CBS aired a new series titled “Clarice,” which explores what transpired next for Clarice Starling, played by Rebecca Breeds, following the events of “The Silence of the Lambs.” Though now an accomplished FBI agent, Clarice encounters resistance when attempting to apprehend serial killers, as she’s frequently disregarded. The intrigue lies in the fact that this story is set in 1993, a time without the Internet or widespread cell phone usage, and when advanced DNA analysis was still in its infancy.
In essence, this series boasts an engaging “retro” charm while tackling the raw attitudes towards gender and racial matters prevalent during that era. Its atmosphere is both brooding and ominous, with the pursuit of the killers presenting unexpected twists and turns. Regrettably, it was only granted one season, leaving many disappointed as it showcased a remarkable female character deserving of further exploration.
Clarice is streaming on cwtv.com and the CW App.
The FBI
This isn’t the CBS version you’re thinking of. Instead, it’s the groundbreaking ABC series from 1965-74 that paved the way for many procedural dramas. Each episode starts with a federal crime being committed, followed by the FBI being called in to investigate, headed by Lewis Erskine (Efrem Zimbalist Jr.). It’s intriguing to observe how investigations were conducted prior to computers, and this show often explored themes of war, race, and the evolving societal landscape of the 1960s.
During this time, the primary attraction lay in the impressive roster of guest stars. Nearly every character actor from the era delivered standout performances. Notably, some actors who went on to become household names graced our screens for the first time, including Robert Duvall, Gene Hackman, James Caan, Jeff Bridges, and a young Harrison Ford. These talented guest stars contributed significantly to a groundbreaking show that paved the way for many beloved CBS series in years to come.
The FBI is streaming on Tubi.
Wild Cards
As a passionate gamer and an avid follower of Canadian dramas, I was thoroughly entertained by the latest addition to The CW’s lineup. This captivating show has all the makings of another successful season. In this intriguing tale, we meet our protagonist Max (played by Vanessa Morgan), a skilled con artist and thief who finds herself in hot water and ends up in the custody of Cole Ellis (Giacomo Gianniotti). A detective once hailed for his stellar work, but now relegated to river patrol. In an attempt to lighten her sentence, Max strikes a deal with Cole, offering him her unique perspective into the criminal mind. With each episode, I find myself rooting for these two unlikely allies as they navigate through a web of deceit and intrigue.
The leads’ chemistry in the series is engaging, with Max playing her cons effectively while surprising us with moments of sincerity. Jason Priestly adds depth as her imprisoned father, and Cole’s backstory generates intriguing plotlines. It’s delightful that this show is returning, offering a fresh take on police procedurals and showcasing Canada’s knack for producing captivating crime dramas.
Wild Cards is streaming on cwtv.com and the CW App.
Murderville
Changing direction a little towards a humorous note, this Netflix comedy introduces Will Arnett as Teddy Seattle, a typical sarcastic detective with a quirky sense of humor. The show’s standout features are its two intriguing gimmicks. In each episode, Teddy teams up with a different famous guest star, such as Conan O’Brien, Sharon Stone, or Marshawn Lynch. The reason for their collaboration as cops is never disclosed, allowing the celebrities to enjoy acting in their own elements.
In each episode of this unique series, a surprise guest star is brought in without knowing the script or what to expect. Witnessing their reactions as they navigate through the absurd scenarios, sometimes even losing their composure and laughing, is pure entertainment. Every installment concludes with the celebrity attempting to identify the show’s hidden culprit. And for an extra dose of holiday cheer, tune in for our special Christmas episode – a delightful blend of improv and comedy!
Murderville is streaming on Netflix.
Almost Paradise
In this Prime Video series, Christian Kane, famously recognized for his part in “Leverage,” takes center stage. He portrays Alex Walker, a DEA agent who is compelled to retire due to health issues, namely high blood pressure. Believing he can peacefully spend his retirement on an island, he is taken aback to find it teeming with tourists instead. Unexpectedly, Alex is drawn into assisting the local law enforcement in their investigations and teams up with Kaie Mendoza, portrayed by Samantha Richelle.
Kane excels in his part, managing skirmishes and action sequences with the finesse of Walker, who constantly monitors his heart rate and practices quirky relaxation techniques during investigations. The cases are engaging, blending elements of local criminal networks, a larger plot of a serial killer, and more, all set against the stunning backdrop of an island. Kane’s performance keeps us hooked as we witness an unusual crime-solver focused on preserving his wellbeing over cracking a case.
Almost Paradise is streaming on Prime Video.
L.A’s Finest
The “Bad Boys” film series has been massive successes, making it no surprise that someone would attempt a television adaptation. In this spinoff, Gabrielle Union reappears as Syd Burnette from “Bad Boys II,” who has shifted from the DEA to working with the LAPD. Her new partner is Nancy McKenna (Jessica Alba), a former criminal turned police officer, whose focus is divided between her job and the challenges of raising a stepdaughter. The duo engage in witty banter as they tackle cases involving drug cartels, murderers, and other criminals.
Union and Alba’s on-screen chemistry is captivating and a must-see. The plot is filled with exhilarating action, slightly exaggerated yet entertaining, and surprise developments in the lives of both characters. Sadly, this gripping series only lasted two seasons, but the compelling performances of these talented actors are more than enough to engage anyone who relishes blockbuster action films.
LA’s Finest is streaming on Tubi.
Pretty Hard Cases
As a longtime fan of police procedurals and character-driven comedies, I’m thrilled to discover this new show that combines both elements in a unique way. From what I’ve gathered, it shares similarities with “L.A.’s Finest” in its dynamic duo of unconventional female cops. However, what sets it apart is its comedic take on the genre.
In simpler terms, the show offers a delightful blend of humor as the duo excels in their professional roles despite their chaotic personal lives. Each season features a major plotline, along with amusing standalone episodes that will captivate you. If you’re looking for a female cop show with a touch of comedy, this is an excellent option.
Pretty Hard Cases is streaming on Prime Video.
My Life Is Murder
A show starring Lucy Lawless is definitely worth checking out. In this role, she portrays Alexa Crowne, a former police officer turned private investigator in Auckland, New Zealand, assisting the local authorities with murder cases. Simultaneously, she manages her bakery and keeps a watchful eye on her brother. Lawless’ captivating charm is evident as Alexa maintains composure most of the time but reveals her determination during investigations.
Alexa engages in witty banter with her hacker friend Madison (Ebony Vagulans) as well as the police officers. The episode features notable guest appearances, including Renee O’Connor, who previously acted with Lawless on Xena. The New Zealand backdrop is utilized effectively, making for an exciting blend of cop and private investigator genres. Regardless of the direction the story takes, Lawless delivers a captivating performance.
My Life is Murder is streaming on Acorn TV.
The Brokenwood Mysteries
In New Zealand, one of our most popular series is set in a fictional town near Auckland. The show, which has made a big impact, introduces us to Neill Rea as Mike Shepherd, an officer from the bustling city who decides to retire in this peaceful community. However, Brokenwood’s tranquility proves to be deceiving as it becomes apparent that this seemingly quiet town is hiding some extraordinary crimes. From a bizarre murder at a Lord of the Rings fan convention to another resident living as if she’s still in the Victorian era, Brokenwood is anything but ordinary.
Kristin Sims, played by Fern Sutherland, assists Rea in an unusual dynamic – it’s the older, rumpled male cop who displays a quirky demeanor, while the younger female officer exhibits deep-rooted cynicism. Their contrasting personalities complement each other effectively, and their individual lives intertwine with the cases they work on. The ten-season run of this show is a testament to its international acclaim.
The Brokenwood Mysteries is streaming on Acorn TV.
Mindhunter
As a seasoned crime journalist with over two decades of experience under my belt, I’ve covered countless cases of serial killers and their heinous crimes. So when I heard about this intriguing new show based on the real-life creation of the FBI Behavioral Science Unit in the 1970s, I couldn’t help but be drawn in.
As a true crime enthusiast with a deep fascination for the darkest corners of human behavior, I find “Mindhunter” to be a captivating and thought-provoking show. This series takes us inside the investigative minds of real-life FBI agents who delve into the psyches of infamous serial killers like Edmund Kemper, David Berkowitz, and the Atlanta child murders. The way these investigations are portrayed is both intriguing and meticulously done. However, what truly hooks me is watching the agents and psychologists grapple with the question of what drives these monsters – a question that may never be fully answered.
Mindhunter is streaming on Netflix.
Prodigal Son
The Fox crime series “This Is Where I Leave You” presents an intriguing twist on the conventional “serial killer investigator” theme. Malcolm Bright, portrayed by Tom Payne, is a psychologist who collaborates with New York’s police department in tracking down serial killers. A shocking revelation emerges when it becomes known that Malcolm’s incarcerated father, brilliantly played by Michael Sheen, was himself a murderer. As a result, Malcolm finds himself compelled to seek his dad’s advice on various cases, resulting in an exceptionally strange and compelling father-son relationship on television.
The program boasts a unique blend of dark comedy and intriguing cases, with standout performances from Bellamy Young and Lou Diamond Phillips among other talented actors. In the second season, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Alan Cumming add to the enjoyment with their engaging storylines. Sheen’s entertaining portrayal of the lead role is what sets this series apart, making it a must-watch for its fresh and amusing take on investigating killers.
Prodigal Son is streaming on cwtv.com, the CW App, and Max.
Lethal Weapon
As a gamer, I’ve noticed that TV shows adapted from movies can sometimes fall short of expectations. But Fox managed to knock it out of the park with their version of the popular action films. I get to play the Mel Gibson character, Riggs, a cop teetering on the edge, acting recklessly and putting my life on the line. Damon Wayans takes on the role of Murtaugh, the wise-cracking, family man partner who puts up with my insane behavior.
The program effectively brings the excitement and amusing elements of the films to life through thrilling actions and intriguing storylines. It’s also full of humor, with Leo Getz’s bumbling antics adding to the laughs. Unfortunately, real-life issues caused Crawford to depart after season 2, but Scott stepped in seamlessly, maintaining the show’s enjoyable vibe. Despite being only three seasons long, it deserves recognition for its successful transition from movies to television.
Lethal Weapon is streaming on Hulu.
The Catch
As a gamer, I’ve recently discovered the hidden gem of a 2016-17 ABC show that combines the lighthearted feel of romantic comedy with the thrilling twists of crime capers. In this captivating series, I play the role of Alice Vaughn, an insurance fraud investigator with a knack for uncovering deceit. Little did I know, my own world would be turned upside down when I unearthed a shocking truth: my fiancé, Ben, was none other than the con artist I’d been chasing.
I absolutely adore this show! Each episode presents a new case for our dynamic duo, Alice and Ben, who can’t deny their lingering feelings for each other despite being on opposing sides. In season 2, they even team up with the FBI, adding more depth to their relationship and introducing larger story arcs. Enos and Krause have an incredible chemistry that keeps me engaged whether I’m in for the thrill of the standalone cases or the intriguing cat-and-mouse game they play out. This underrated romantic crime series never fails to leave me wanting more.
The Catch is streaming on Hulu.
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2024-07-20 22:25