Reelixa Logo

Reelixa

Your source of reviews and news about movies

Gripping european thriller shows based on true stories & directed by women

Delve into the chilling world of European crime with these thriller shows. Each series is not only rooted in reality but also helmed by talented female directors, bringing a unique perspective to these suspenseful narratives.

The Team
Marcella
The Fall

European crime dramas have carved out a niche for their gritty realism and complex characters, often drawing inspiration from actual events that have shaken communities. What sets these shows apart is their ability to weave intricate plots with deep psychological insights, exploring the darker sides of human nature. The creative vision of female directors adds a layer of nuance, challenging traditional portrayals of crime and justice.

From the Nordic noir landscapes to the shadowy streets of France and the UK, these series capture the essence of their settings, enhancing the atmosphere of suspense and mystery. Shows like The Killing, with its intense focus on the emotional toll of crime, and The Bridge, which explores cross-border cooperation and cultural differences, exemplify the genre's strengths.

These series are not just about solving crimes; they are about the human stories behind them, the impact on families and communities, and the moral ambiguities that often blur the lines between right and wrong. For fans of true crime and suspense, these European thrillers offer a captivating and thought-provoking viewing experience, offering a distinct departure from mainstream crime dramas.

6. The Forest (2017)

'The Forest' is a French thriller that weaves together mystery, suspense, and psychological drama. When a young woman disappears in the Ardennes forest, a local police captain and a troubled teacher, both with connections to the forest, must unravel a web of secrets to find her. What sets 'The Forest' apart is its atmospheric setting, as the dense and foreboding forest becomes a character in itself, reflecting the hidden darkness within the community. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and themes of lost innocence and buried trauma, this series delivers a captivating viewing experience. One detail to appreciate is how the cinematography captures the beauty and eeriness of the forest, enhancing the overall sense of mystery.

The Forest

5. The Fall (2013)

While not directly based on real events, 'The Fall', starring Gillian Anderson and Jamie Dornan, presents a chillingly realistic portrayal of a serial killer investigation. Set in Northern Ireland, the series follows Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson (Anderson) as she hunts down a meticulous and elusive murderer, Paul Spector (Dornan). What sets 'The Fall' apart is its unflinching gaze into the minds of both the hunter and the hunted, offering a disturbing and suspenseful cat-and-mouse game. The series is lauded for its atmospheric cinematography, nuanced performances, and its ability to create a sense of unease and dread. While the series is a fictional work, the depth of psychological insight makes it a compelling watch for fans of crime thrillers.

The Fall

4. Marcella (2016)

'Marcella', a British noir crime drama, plunges viewers into the tumultuous life of Marcella Backland, a detective haunted by personal demons and struggling with memory blackouts. Created by Hans Rosenfeldt, the mastermind behind 'The Bridge', this series captivates with its complex characters and suspenseful storylines. Anna Friel delivers a powerful performance as Marcella, portraying her vulnerability and determination with equal measure. The show's exploration of psychological trauma and its impact on law enforcement sets it apart, offering a raw and unsettling look into the mind of a detective on the brink. If you enjoy dark, character-driven crime dramas with plenty of twists and turns, 'Marcella' is definitely worth watching.

Marcella

3. The Team (2015)

'The Team' unites detectives from various European countries in a collaborative effort to tackle cross-border crime. This show distinguishes itself by showcasing the complexities and challenges inherent in international law enforcement, as each detective brings their own unique perspectives, methods, and cultural nuances to the table. With a focus on compelling characters and interwoven storylines, 'The Team' delivers a captivating viewing experience. A curious fact is that the production itself was a collaborative effort, involving cast and crew from multiple European nations, mirroring the show's theme of unity. Its fast-paced narratives and high-stakes investigations create a thriller that is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Team

2. The Tunnel (2013)

'The Tunnel' is a gripping crime thriller that offers a chilling exploration of cross-border cooperation and cultural differences, based on the Swedish/Danish series 'The Bridge'. When a prominent French politician is found dead at the midpoint of the Channel Tunnel, detectives Karl Roebuck (British) and Elise Wassermann (French) are thrust into a joint investigation. What begins as a seemingly straightforward case quickly unravels into a complex web of political intrigue, social commentary, and personal demons. Clémence Poésy's portrayal of Elise Wassermann is a standout, bringing a unique blend of brilliance and social awkwardness to the character. This series captivates with its intricate plotting, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, making it a must-watch for fans of intelligent crime dramas.

The Tunnel

1. The Crimson Rivers (2018)

Adapted from the best-selling novel by Jean-Christophe Grangé, this series plunges detectives Pierre Niémans and Camille Delaunay into macabre and complex murder investigations across remote regions of Europe. Each case is steeped in local mythology and dark secrets, pushing the investigators to their psychological limits. What sets 'The Crimson Rivers' apart is its atmospheric cinematography, capturing the eerie beauty of the European landscapes, and its commitment to exploring the darker aspects of human nature. The series masterfully blends crime procedural elements with psychological thriller aspects, creating a show that is as intellectually stimulating as it is visually stunning. Prepare to be captivated by its haunting narratives and outstanding performances, that will keep you guessing until the very end!

The Crimson Rivers

More related articles about recommended movies and TV shows