10 Predictable Crime Series That Still Managed to Entertain
Sometimes, you really don't need shocking twists or elaborate plotlines to keep an audience hooked.
1. "The Killing" (2011-2014)
Despite its predictable plot, "The Killing" is the kind of crime drama that pulls you in like a fish caught on a line, reeling you closer and closer to the screen.
This Seattle-based series focuses on the murder investigation of Rosie Larsen, a teenage girl whose shocking demise sends ripples through the community. Detectives Sarah Linden and Stephen Holder take center stage, revealing their own troubled pasts while weaving through a web of political and personal intrigue. "The Killing" was actually based on the Danish television series "Forbrydelsen."
Despite some critics arguing that it lost its charm in the American remake, the series kept a devoted fan base and consistently high ratings, speaking volumes about its irresistible allure.
2. "Broadchurch" (2013-2017)
"Broadchurch" is like a rollercoaster ride – you see the highs and lows coming, but you're still thrilled by the journey.
This British crime drama, set in the fictional, tight-knit coastal town of Broadchurch, revolves around the murder of an 11-year-old boy and the impact it has on the community. Detectives Alec Hardy and Ellie Miller lead the investigation, their vastly differing personalities providing a captivating dynamic.
A Rotten Tomatoes rating of 92% attests to its quality storytelling and gripping performances, particularly from the leads David Tennant and Olivia Colman.
3. "Midsomer Murders" (1997-present)
As a crime series that's been around for over two decades, "Midsomer Murders" has seen it all, done it all, and solved it all. Set in the picturesque yet surprisingly deadly rural county of Midsomer, the series follows Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby, who seems to stumble upon a murder mystery at every corner.
And yet, the charm of "Midsomer Murders" lies not in the plot twists (which, after a while, become rather predictable) but in the absurdly high murder rate of the seemingly peaceful English countryside and the quirky characters that inhabit it.
4. "Rizzoli & Isles" (2010-2016)
"Buddy cop" shows are a dime a dozen, but "Rizzoli & Isles" manages to put a fresh spin on this classic formula, primarily due to the engaging chemistry between its two leads – Detective Jane Rizzoli and Medical Examiner Dr. Maura Isles.
The series may not have reinvented the wheel when it comes to crime drama plots, but its focus on the friendship between two strong, independent women set it apart from its peers. "Rizzoli & Isles" was successful enough to run for seven seasons.
5. "Vera" (2011-present)
"Vera" may not be a household name outside of the UK, but this long-running crime series has a distinct charm that keeps viewers coming back for more.
Based on Ann Cleeves's novels, the series follows Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope, a caustic, witty, but deeply dedicated detective who solves crimes in Northumberland. The cases are fairly predictable, but it's Vera's character, brought to life by the formidable Brenda Blethyn, that steals the show.
6. "Foyle's War" (2002-2015)
A crime drama set against the backdrop of World War II, "Foyle's War" teeters on the edge of predictability, but its period setting and the character of Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle keeps the series fascinating. Foyle, the ever stoic, dogged, and principled detective, fights a two-fronted war – one against the Germans, the other against local crime.
The series does not shy away from highlighting the moral complexities of war-time society, adding a layer of depth that you wouldn't expect from a run-of-the-mill crime drama. The creator of the series, Anthony Horowitz, meticulously researched each episode to ensure historical accuracy, making "Foyle's War" a veritable treat for history buffs.
7. "Death in Paradise" (2011-present)
Imagine this: a stiff, quintessentially British detective, DI Richard Poole, is sent to solve a murder case on the beautiful, sun-soaked (and thankfully fictional) Caribbean island of Saint Marie. You'd think he'd be thrilled, right? Wrong.
His hatred for the sun, sea, and sand brings an element of comedic irony to the series, which, coupled with the light-hearted but predictably structured crime plots, makes for a thoroughly entertaining watch. Despite a rotating roster of main detectives throughout its seasons, "Death in Paradise" manages to retain its charm.
8. "Hinterland" (2013-2016)
"Hinterland," known as "Y Gwyll" in Welsh, is the equivalent of a grey, misty morning – slightly depressing but oddly captivating. The series follows DCI Tom Mathias, a man as brooding and complex as the crimes he investigates, as he delves into a series of chilling murder cases in the small town of Aberystwyth.
It's as predictable as a rainy day in Wales, yet it's this predictability that keeps you rooted to the screen. And if you're one for scenic shots, you'd be hard-pressed to find a series that captures the rugged beauty of the Welsh landscape as "Hinterland" does.
9. "Inspector Morse" (1987-2000)
"Inspector Morse" may be a golden oldie in the realm of crime series, but its age does not detract from its ability to captivate audiences. Based on Colin Dexter's novels, the series revolves around the titular character, Inspector Morse, a curmudgeonly Oxford detective with a love for opera, beer, and crosswords.
The series sets up a good cop-bad cop dynamic between Morse and his cheerful sidekick, Sergeant Lewis. Even with predictable plot lines, the interplay between the characters, coupled with Morse's grumpy yet endearing personality, makes this a memorable series.
10. "Grantchester" (2014-present)
Who says a man of the cloth can't solve a good murder mystery? "Grantchester" introduces us to Sidney Chambers, a charismatic vicar with a knack for unraveling crime plots.
Set in the 1950s in the eponymous village, the series might seem like your run-of-the-mill "whodunit" fare, but it manages to keep things interesting through its unique combination of crime-solving and church-going. Sidney's partnership with the world-weary, sarcastic Detective Inspector Geordie Keating adds a delicious layer of banter and camaraderie.