The third season of the universally acclaimed show True Detective has finally ended. The series finale premiered on 24th February 2019 and to some extent redeemed the critically acclaimed series. Series creator Nic Pizzolatto is optimistic about having another season in the future. But if you’re still reeling from that ending, here are some TV shows to watch after True Detective:
The Americans (2013-2018)
Two Russians agents posing as Americans are sent to spy on the American government during the Cold War era. Their children have no knowledge of their secret identities. The couple has to deceive the FBI as well as track down moles from their own organization. Sound familiar? Yeah, while it might sound like another show in a not-too-dissimilar vein as True Detective, it’s still worth your time.
Why Should You Watch It?
Matthew Rhys has done a fabulous job in portraying a spy who will do whatever it takes to complete his missions. Keri Russell too has given a flawless performance as his wife. The series takes the viewer’s adrenaline on a whole new level. It will never fail to amaze you.
This show finally got the recognition it deserves after winning several accolades including an Emmy for best actor, writing and a Golden Globe for best TV show- Drama.
Hannibal (2013-2015)
A young FBI agent disturbed by his ability to empathize with serial killers starts visiting a prominent psychiatrist who is actually a cannibal. That psychiatrist? Hannibal Lector. Yes, the same Hannibal Lector who was played by Anthony Hopkins in The Silence of The Lambs. And before you ask, yes it has quite the dreary mood that True Detective has going for it.
Why Should You Watch It?W
This horror-thriller series explored a serial killer’s mindset also showing his callous and calculating nature. Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen (The Hunt, Casino Royale) has done a pretty good job in portraying a violent but calm, composed predator.
Unfortunately, the series was cancelled by NBC in 2015, after finishing 3 seasons. Still, it is worth a watch and establishes a psychological uneasiness over the viewer’s thoughts.
The Night Of (2016)
HBOs The Night Of
After waking up next to a dead girl, Nasir is charged with her murder while his lawyer tries to prove his innocence.
Why Should You Watch It?
Though the plot feel old, it h_as_ been presented with a fresh perspective with elements of violence complementing fear. This miniseries is dark and gritty in terms of exploring the harsh realities of prison life. Honestly, I started watching this show only because Riz Ahmed won an Emmy. However, the first episode had me hooked on and I ended up binge-watching it.
Dark (2017-present )
Set in Germany, two young children mysteriously disappear revealing the broken relations between four families.
This Netflix produced show has drawn its elements from another Netflix hit Stranger Things and the critically acclaimed Twin Peaks. Watching the trailer also tells that the show will explore some supernatural components.
Why Should You Watch It?
The story is divided into three timelines, continuously jumping back and forth. I felt this show gave me Donnie Darko vibes and had a much darker premise than Stranger Things. However, introduction to many characters may leave the viewers confused.
Mindhunter (2017- present)
Two agents of the FBI’s Behavioral Crimes Unit undertake an expedition to understand criminals with the intention of catching other lawbreakers. Apart from the fact that David Fincher directed multiple episodes, what other reason do you need to watch it?
Why Should You Watch It?
Fincher serves as an executive producer and has directed three episodes of this gloomy and gritty thriller. Similar to Hannibal, it too explores a criminal’s mental state. This first season consists of ten episodes and the show has been renewed for a second season. Reports suggest that it will release in October 2019.
Black Mirror : Hated in the Nation (2016)
A detective investigates the murder of a hated journalist, only to discover modern technology’s role in a far more sinister vendetta.
Why Should You Watch It?
This is my favorite Black Mirror episode to date. Its’ interesting approach on social media and its effects was a delight to watch. While the majority of the series deals with varying topics providing commentary on society, this one stands out.
The episode blurs the lines between gadgets and weapons, inducing distress in our minds.
Special Mentions:
The Wicker Man (1973): A policeman arrives on a Scottish island to investigate the disappearance of a girl. However, the unusual behaviour of the locals raises his suspicions when they deny her existence. As he gets close to the answer, something horrific is waiting for him. I feel that some viewers may find the film disturbing.
Donnie Darko (2001): Donnie, a troubled teenager commits a series of crimes after being manipulated by a terrifying bunny. (This sounds bizarre but it is the best explanation a reader can get). I watched the movie three times to entirely understand it. Jake Gyllenhaal has done a marvellous job in the movie.
Donnie Darko
Identity (2003): Ten strangers stuck at an isolated motel are murdered one by one. I did not the plot twist coming. Initial impression may suggest that the plot is similar to Agatha Christie’s novel And Then There Were None but it is completely different. The film stars John Cusack and Ray Liotta.
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