5 Lesser-Known TV Series About Maniacs That Will Send Shivers Down Your Spine
These shows delve into the nature of evil and the depths of human madness.
The world of psychological thrillers has long been dominated by high-profile projects with multimillion-dollar budgets and star-studded casts, such as Hannibal, Dexter, and Mindhunter.
However, behind the bright lights of the mainstream are often lost true gems – underrated shows that, while not having garnered record audiences, delivered some of the most terrifying and memorable portrayals of obsessive killers.
1. 'Life on Mars', 2006-2007
IMDb Score: 8.3/10
Chief Inspector Sam Tyler is pursuing a serial killer who has been murdering young women when he is hit by a car. When he awakens, he realizes that he is in 1973. Since returning to his own time isn't possible yet, Sam rejoins the police force.
The BBC has created a fascinating blend of drama, detective fiction, and sci-fi. The soundtrack, especially David Bowie's Life on Mars, which gives the series its title, will truly immerse you in the nostalgic atmosphere.
2. 'The Killing', 2007-2012
IMDb Score: 8.4/10
After a young woman is brutally murdered in Copenhagen, Detective Sarah Lund, who had been planning to leave Denmark, takes on the investigation.
As the investigation progresses, a web of political intrigue emerges, casting suspicion on various individuals, from the victim's family to politicians and businessmen. Meanwhile, the victim's relatives are devastated by grief, and the election campaign of an influential politician is affected.
The plot of The Killing is reminiscent of Twin Peaks in that it depicts not only the investigation into the girl's murder, but also its impact on many people.
3. 'Mr. Mercedes', 2017-2019
IMDb Score: 7.7/10
The psychopath Brady Hartsfield drives a stolen car into a crowd of people, leaving several dead and injured. The police fail to solve the case, but retired detective Bill Hodges remains hopeful that he will find the culprit.
Meanwhile, Hartsfield has hatched a new plan that could claim the lives of thousands.
David E. Kelley, who adapted the HBO drama Big Little Lies, wrote the screenplay for the adaptation of Stephen King's novel. King admitted that he had Brendan Gleeson, who played Detective Hodges in the show, in mind while writing the book.
4. 'Prodigal Son', 2019-2021
IMDb Score: 7.6/10
When Malcolm was a child, the police arrested his father, Martin Whitly, a psychotherapist. It turned out that he was the serial killer known as the Surgeon, who had killed 23 people. Malcolm grew up to become an FBI psychologist, but his colleagues disapproved of his methods.
Malcolm's former police mentor asked him to help catch a copycat Surgeon. To do so, Malcolm must go to his father, who is serving a life sentence.
The series' structure is reminiscent of the Hannibal Lecter stories, in which a police officer consults with a serial killer to catch other criminals. In this case, however, the characters also have a family connection.
5. 'Ripper Street', 2012-2016
IMDb Score: 8.1/10
Police Inspector Reid is investigating the murder of a young woman, a crime that everyone believes was committed by the infamous Jack the Ripper.
However, Reid believes that an impersonator is to blame. The case is further complicated by a local journalist fabricating evidence to profit from this chilling story.
This superbly performed British crime drama, set in the Victorian era, features actors from Pride and Prejudice and Game of Thrones. Furthermore, the creators have achieved the perfect blend of historical mystery and dark, brutal atmosphere.
