The Ultimate Guide to the Best Crime Shows on Netflix in 2023

Looking for the best crime shows to binge-watch on Netflix in 2023? Check out our ultimate guide featuring the best crime shows currently streaming, as well as upcoming releases you won't want to miss. Discover what makes these shows so compelling and find your next favorite series to watch.

1. Introduction

Crime shows on Netflix have become increasingly popular in recent years, captivating audiences worldwide. These shows are popular for a number of reasons, including their gripping storylines, compelling characters, and the thrill of trying to solve the crime alongside the detectives.

Netflix has produced a variety of crime shows that cater to different audiences, from true crime documentaries like Making a Murderer and The Confession Tapes, to fictional dramas like Narcos and Ozark. These shows offer viewers a chance to delve into the criminal underworld and explore the complexities of human behavior.

Furthermore, the rise of binge-watching has contributed to the popularity of crime shows on Netflix. With entire seasons available at once, viewers can easily get hooked on a show and watch for hours on end, becoming fully immersed in the story.

Overall, the popularity of crime shows on Netflix reflects a fascination with crime and its many facets, as well as a desire to be entertained and challenged by compelling storytelling.

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2. Criteria for selecting the best crime shows on Netflix

To select the best crime shows on Netflix, we consider a variety of factors that contribute to the overall quality of the series. These include:

Writing: A well-written crime show should have a gripping storyline with strong character development and realistic dialogue.

Acting: The performances of the actors should be convincing, bringing the characters to life and adding depth to the story.

Direction: Effective direction helps to create a sense of tension and suspense, building up to key moments in the story and keeping the audience engaged.

Critical acclaim: We take into account the opinions of critics and industry professionals, looking for shows that have received high praise and recognition.

By using these criteria, we can identify the best crime shows on Netflix that are not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and well-crafted.

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3. Best crime shows on Netflix

3.1. Peaky Blinders

Peaky Blinders is a popular British crime drama series set in Birmingham, England, in the aftermath of World War I. The show premiered on BBC Two in 2013 and became available on Netflix shortly after.

The series follows the exploits of the Shelby family, who are known for their ruthless tactics and cunning schemes. Led by the charismatic and enigmatic Tommy Shelby (played by Cillian Murphy), the family runs a criminal empire that includes gambling, bootlegging, and protection rackets.

The show has received critical acclaim for its stylish direction, excellent performances, and complex characters. The series also features a talented ensemble cast, including Helen McCrory as the fierce and manipulative Aunt Polly, Paul Anderson as the volatile and unpredictable Arthur Shelby, and Tom Hardy as the cunning and enigmatic Alfie Solomons.

Peaky Blinders is known for its dark and gritty portrayal of crime and violence in post-war Britain. The show explores themes of family loyalty, betrayal, and power, as well as the impact of war and trauma on individuals and society.

The series has been praised for its attention to detail in recreating the historical setting, including the fashion, music, and political climate of the time. The show's distinctive visual style, which includes slow-motion shots and a moody soundtrack, has also been noted as a standout feature.

Overall, Peaky Blinders is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas and period pieces. Its gripping storylines, compelling characters, and stunning visuals make it one of the best crime shows on Netflix.

3.2. Narcos

Narcos is a thrilling crime drama series that chronicles the rise and fall of the notorious Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The show premiered on Netflix in 2015 and quickly gained a massive following.

The series, which is based on real events, is set in the late 1970s and follows the DEA agents who are tasked with taking down Escobar's drug empire. The show is known for its intense action scenes, fast-paced storytelling, and its unflinching portrayal of the brutal violence and corruption that surrounded the drug trade.

Narcos features a talented ensemble cast, including Wagner Moura as the charismatic and ruthless Escobar, Boyd Holbrook as the determined DEA agent Steve Murphy, and Pedro Pascal as the impulsive and ambitious DEA agent Javier Peña.

The show's first two seasons focused on the rise and peak of Escobar's power, while the third season explores the aftermath of his downfall and the emergence of the Cali Cartel as the new dominant force in the drug trade. The fourth season, titled Narcos: Mexico, shifts the focus to the origins of the Mexican drug trade in the 1980s and the rise of the Guadalajara Cartel.

Narcos has been praised for its accurate portrayal of the real-life events and characters involved in the drug trade, as well as its exploration of the political and social issues surrounding the conflict. The show's immersive storytelling and high production value have also earned it critical acclaim.

3.3. Unsolved Mysteries

Unsolved Mysteries is a true crime documentary series that explores some of the most puzzling and enigmatic cases in history. The show first aired in the late 1980s and has been revived by Netflix in recent years, garnering a new generation of fans.

The series delves into a wide range of mysteries, from unsolved murders and missing persons cases to paranormal events and unexplained phenomena. Each episode features a different case, with interviews from witnesses, law enforcement officials, and family members, as well as archival footage and reenactments.

The show's producers have been praised for their attention to detail and sensitivity in handling the cases, as well as their efforts to bring new information and leads to light. The series has even been credited with helping to solve some of the cases it has featured.

Unsolved Mysteries has become a cultural phenomenon and has spawned numerous spin-off series and specials. The show's unique blend of true crime, paranormal activity, and mystery has captured the imagination of viewers around the world.

Unsolved Mysteries is a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in exploring some of the most baffling and intriguing cases in history. Its captivating storytelling, informative interviews, and attention to detail make it one of the best crime shows on Netflix.

3.4. Border Town

Border Town is a crime drama series that takes place in a small town on the Finnish-Russian border. The show premiered on Netflix in 2016 and has gained a devoted following for its gripping storyline and atmospheric setting.

The series follows detective Inspector Kari Sorjonen (played by Ville Virtanen), a renowned investigator who moves to the border town with his family to escape the stresses of his previous job. However, he soon finds himself embroiled in a series of complex and disturbing cases that challenge his skills and his sanity.

Border Town is known for its dark and moody atmosphere, as well as its exploration of social and political issues in Finland, such as immigration and corruption. The show also features a talented ensemble cast, including Matleena Kuusniemi as Sorjonen's colleague and friend Lena, and Anu Sinisalo as the tough and enigmatic police chief Taina.

The show's cinematography and soundtrack have also been praised for their haunting and immersive qualities, capturing the stark beauty and isolation of the border town setting.

3.5. The Stranger

The Stranger is a British mystery thriller series based on the novel by Harlan Coben. The show premiered on Netflix in 2020 and quickly gained a following for its suspenseful storytelling and talented cast.

The series follows the life of Adam Price (played by Richard Armitage), a family man whose seemingly perfect life is turned upside down when a stranger reveals a devastating secret about his wife. As Adam investigates the truth, he becomes entangled in a web of lies and betrayal that threatens to destroy his family and his sanity.

The show also features a talented ensemble cast, including Siobhan Finneran as the mysterious and manipulative stranger, and Jennifer Saunders as a wealthy and powerful figure who may hold the key to the truth.

The Stranger is known for its intricate plot twists and gripping suspense, as well as its exploration of themes such as family, loyalty, and revenge. The show's cinematic style and atmospheric soundtrack also contribute to its immersive and suspenseful atmosphere.

The Stranger is a must-watch for fans of mystery thrillers and psychological dramas. Its complex characters, shocking plot twists, and intense storytelling make it one of the best crime shows on Netflix.

3.6. Valhalla Murders

Valhalla Murders is an Icelandic crime drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2019. The show is based on real events and follows the investigation of a series of brutal murders in Reykjavik.

The series centers around the character of Arnar (played by Bjorn Thors), a Norwegian detective who is sent to Reykjavik to help solve the case. Arnar is teamed up with local detective Kata (played by Nína Dögg Filippusdóttir), and together they work to uncover the truth behind the murders and the elusive killer who seems to be targeting people with connections to the Icelandic music scene.

Valhalla Murders is known for its dark and atmospheric setting, as well as its complex characters and tense storytelling. The show also explores themes of trauma, guilt, and redemption, as Arnar and Kata confront their own demons while trying to solve the case.

The show's cinematography and soundtrack have also been praised for their haunting and immersive qualities, capturing the stark beauty and isolation of Iceland's winter landscape.

Overall, Valhalla Murders is a must-watch for fans of Nordic Noir and crime dramas. Its gripping storyline, talented cast, and atmospheric setting make it one of the best crime shows on Netflix.

3.7. Mindhunter

Mindhunter is an American crime drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2017. The show is based on the true crime book Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker.

The series follows FBI agents Holden Ford (played by Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (played by Holt McCallany) as they pioneer the field of criminal profiling in the late 1970s. Along with psychologist Wendy Carr (played by Anna Torv), they interview and study some of the most notorious serial killers in history to try and understand their motives and behaviors.

Mindhunter is known for its realistic and in-depth portrayal of criminal profiling, as well as its exploration of the psychology of serial killers. The show's attention to detail and accuracy in depicting real-life cases and interviews have been praised by critics and viewers alike.

The show's talented cast, including standout performances by Groff and McCallany, as well as its dark and moody atmosphere, also contribute to its compelling and intense storytelling. Its realistic portrayal of criminal profiling and exploration of the psychology of serial killers make it one of the best crime shows on Netflix.

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4. Upcoming crime shows on Netflix

4.1. "Mindhunter" season 3

After a long wait, the critically acclaimed crime drama series "Mindhunter" is finally coming back for a third season. The show follows FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench as they interview incarcerated serial killers to understand their psyche and help solve ongoing investigations. The third season is expected to explore the Atlanta Child Murders case in the early 1980s. "Mindhunter" season 3 does not have an official release date yet, but it is expected to premiere in late 2023

4.2. "The Stranger" season 2

Based on the novel by Harlan Coben, "The Stranger" is a gripping crime thriller that follows a family man's life as it unravels when a mysterious stranger reveals dark secrets about his wife. The second season will feature a new mystery and a new cast, but it will still be set in the same world as the first season. "The Stranger" season 2 is set to premiere in early 2023.

4.3. "You" season 4

The psychological thriller "You" has been a hit for Netflix since its debut in 2018. The show follows Joe Goldberg, a bookstore manager who becomes obsessed with the women he meets and will do anything to win them over. Season 4 will take Joe to a new city and introduce new characters, but it will still focus on his twisted relationships. "You" season 4 is expected to premiere in mid-2023.

4.4. "Mare of Easttown" season 2

"Mare of Easttown" was a breakout hit in 2021, starring Kate Winslet as a detective investigating a murder in her small Pennsylvania town. While the first season was intended to be a limited series, its popularity has led to the announcement of a second season. The details of the plot and release date for season 2 are still under wraps.

4.5. "Narcos: Mexico" season 3

The "Narcos" franchise has been a staple on Netflix for years, and "Narcos: Mexico" is no exception. The show explores the drug trade in Mexico in the 1980s and 1990s, with a focus on the rise of the Guadalajara Cartel. The third season will continue to follow the story of DEA agent Walt Breslin and his fight against drug lord Amado Carrillo Fuentes. "Narcos: Mexico" season 3 is set to premiere in late 2023.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions people have about crime shows on Netflix:

Q: What is the most popular crime show on Netflix?
A: It's difficult to determine the most popular crime show on Netflix, as opinions vary widely depending on personal taste. However, some of the most highly rated and widely watched crime shows on the platform include "Breaking Bad," "Mindhunter," "Narcos," and "Ozark."

Q: Are there any true crime shows on Netflix?
A: Yes, Netflix has a number of true crime shows available for streaming. Some popular options include "Making a Murderer," "The Confession Tapes," "The Innocent Man," and "The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez."

Q: What is the best crime documentary on Netflix?
A: The best crime documentary on Netflix will depend on individual preferences. However, some highly regarded options include "The Staircase," "The Keepers," "Evil Genius," and "Wild Wild Country."

Q: What is the difference between a crime show and a thriller?
A: While both crime shows and thrillers often involve suspenseful and dramatic plotlines, the main difference is in their focus. Crime shows tend to center around investigations into specific crimes, with an emphasis on solving the case. Thrillers, on the other hand, are more focused on creating tension and suspense through plot twists and high-stakes action.

Q: Can you recommend any international crime shows on Netflix?
A: Absolutely! Netflix offers a wide selection of international crime shows, including "Money Heist" from Spain, "Dark" from Germany, "Bordertown" from Finland, and "The Sinner" from the US but set in Europe. These shows offer unique perspectives on crime and detective work from around the world.

Q: Are there any new crime shows coming to Netflix in 2023?
A: While Netflix has not yet announced its full slate of new releases for 2023, it's safe to assume that there will be new crime shows added to the platform throughout the year. Keep an eye on the "New Releases" section of Netflix to stay up-to-date on the latest additions.

Final Words

The top 7 best crime shows on Netflix recommended in this article are the best options you can choose if you are looking for such shows to binge-watch. Stream them online, or download them to watch on any of your devices.

And for the latter to happen, a Netflix video downloader from a 3rd-party is a must, because the Netflix app does not allow you to keep the downloaded videos for more than 30 days, but with a 3rd-party downloader, all the limits are removed.