Crime Reviews
Browse our collection of crime reviews and ratings
American Gothic
Have you ever been in a small town where it feels like everyone is hiding secrets? American Gothic is exactly that—a small town crime drama packed with spooky undertones. It masterfully blends crime investigation with supernatural elements in a way that hooks you from start to finish. The story revolves around the seemingly perfect and well-respected Sheriff, Lucas Buck, whose dark and sinister motives guide the unfolding narrative. Gary Cole's utterly bewitching performance as Sheriff Buck is a standout of the series. He combines charm and menace perfectly in his portrayal of this complex character. Through his characterization, the show brings forth an age-old question of nature versus nurture, and the effect environment plays in shaping up a person. However, American Gothic may not appeal to everyone. Those looking for a typical procedural crime drama might get thrown off by the strong undercurrent of supernatural elements. On the other hand, if you're willing to accept the surfaced hidden horrors, you will find a deeply layered, captivating drama that sets itself apart with its bold storytelling.
Mindhunter
Mindhunter is a psychological crime thriller that immerses the viewer in an exploration of criminal psychology and its implementation in solving cases. Set in the late 70s, it revolves around the early stages of the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit and their attempts to understand the minds of serial killers. The interviews with the real-life-inspired characters are chilling, usually leaving you equal parts intrigued and disturbed. The superb performances of Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany are undeniable standouts in the series. Groff's ambitious, witty, and passionate Holden Ford is a fascinating character to watch. The show also highlights the exchange of dialogue rather than bursts of actions, which gives it a unique and appealing perspective compared to other crime thrillers. However, the slow pacing can be a turn-off for some viewers who prefer fast-paced thrillers. But if you're a fan of in-depth character studies, true crime, or psychology, Mindhunter is a series that deserves to be on your watchlist.
The Shield
The Shield defined the golden era of TV dramas. Set in the seamy underbelly of Los Angeles, it presents an unhinged but excellent group of cops known as the Strike Team, who bend and break the law to dispense their own brand of justice. The show embodies the early 2000s moral ambiguity, painting each character with shades of grey rather than black or white — good or bad. Its lead character, Vic Mackey, played by Michael Chiklis, is a compelling antihero — fierce, self-centred, and deeply flawed. Chiklis' standout performance won him an Emmy, and he leads a strong ensemble cast that consistently delivers compelling performances. The series is filled with tension, suspense, sharp dialogues, and moments of shocking violence that makes it an intense viewing. The Shield is a must-watch for lovers of crime dramas. Its gritty realism, moral complexity, and fantastic performances make it a standout in a genre filled with great shows. One could argue that without The Shield, there'd be no Breaking Bad or Sons of Anarchy. So, if you enjoy deep, gripping, and morally ambiguous storytelling, this is an excellent choice for you.
MobLand
MobLand is an outstanding TV series that creatively integrates elements of crime, drama, suspense, and dark comedy. It is a commentary on the grim realities of crime-infested regions, ingeniously humanizing mobsters while unveiling the unseen underbelly of organized crime. The impressive cinematography and intricate plot-lines only enhance the overall appeal of the series. The character development in MobLand is second to none. The show excels at unveiling the psyche of each character, blurring the line between villains and heroes and leaving the audience grappling with their own moral compass. The stellar cast delivers a captivating performance that consistently keeps viewers on their toes. MobLand is a must-watch for anyone interested in perceptive storytelling that pushes boundaries and prompts reflection. It's a thrilling ride through the morally ambiguous world of mobsters, painted with breathtaking visuals and helmed by remarkable performances. This show encapsulates the necessity of nuanced perspectives in understanding the complexities of humanity and society. If you are craving a binge-worthy series that is thought-provoking and dare we say, addictive, then MobLand should definitely be on your watchlist!
Dexter
"Dexter" is a crime drama series with a unique twist - the main character, Dexter Morgan, is not just a forensics expert working for the Miami Metro Police Department, but also a serial killer who targets offenders who manage to slip through the hands of justice. This intriguing premise alone sets it apart from traditional crime dramas. The internal struggle of Dexter, a killer driven by his "Dark Passenger" yet bound by a strict moral code instilled by his father, anchors the plot and offers an emotionally charged narrative. The performance of Michael C. Hall as Dexter is compelling and nuanced. Through his monologues, viewers are drawn into his world, understanding his motivations and empathizing with his struggles. Supporting characters, from his sister Debra to fellow detective Angel Batista, are well-crafted and add depth to the storyline. "Dexter" is a must-watch because of its unlikely protagonist, gripping plot, and excellent character development. It’s a prime example of a show that is capable of blending gore, suspense, and psychological drama while also providing moments of dark humor and sentimentality.