Netflix has become a go-to platform for high-quality original series, and its selection of murder mysteries is no exception. For those who crave suspense, twists, and the thrill of a good whodunit, Netflix offers a variety of gripping murder mystery series. Here’s a list of the top seven original murder mysteries on Netflix that are perfect for adventurous viewers looking to embark on a thrilling journey of intrigue and suspense.
1. Mindhunter (2017-2019)
“Mindhunter” takes viewers into the early days of criminal psychology and criminal profiling at the FBI. Set in the late 1970s, the series follows two FBI agents, Holden Ford and Bill Tench, along with psychologist Wendy Carr, as they interview imprisoned serial killers to understand how they think. Their groundbreaking work leads to the development of modern serial-killer profiling. The meticulous detail and chilling real-life inspirations make this series a standout in the genre.
2. The Stranger (2020)
Based on the novel by Harlan Coben, “The Stranger” is a British thriller that centers around the impact of a mysterious stranger who reveals a devastating secret to a man named Adam Price. This revelation sets off a chain of events that unravels a web of lies, deceit, and murder. With every episode, the tension rises, making it a binge-worthy watch for mystery enthusiasts.
3. Broadchurch (2013-2017)
While not originally a Netflix production, “Broadchurch” is a must-watch British series available on Netflix. The series stars David Tennant and Olivia Colman as detectives investigating the murder of an 11-year-old boy in a small coastal town. The show is renowned for its powerful performances, intricate plot, and the way it deals with the impact of the crime on the community. Its gripping narrative keeps viewers guessing until the very end.
4. The Sinner (2017-2021)
“The Sinner” is an anthology series where each season delves into a new crime and its surrounding mystery. The first season, starring Jessica Biel, explores the case of a woman who inexplicably commits a shocking act of violence. Detective Harry Ambrose, played by Bill Pullman, investigates to uncover her hidden motives. Each season offers a unique and compelling story that unravels layer by layer, providing a deep psychological dive into human behavior.
5. Safe (2018)
Another thrilling series based on a Harlan Coben novel, “Safe” follows widowed surgeon Tom Delaney, played by Michael C. Hall, as he searches for his missing teenage daughter. Set within a gated community, the show reveals dark secrets and lies that lead to a gripping narrative filled with twists and turns. The suspenseful plot and complex characters make “Safe” a must-watch for fans of the genre.
6. The Woods (2020)
“The Woods” is a Polish drama also based on a Harlan Coben novel. The series follows prosecutor Paweł Kopiński, who is haunted by the disappearance of his sister 25 years earlier. When new evidence emerges, Paweł is drawn back to the past, uncovering secrets that lead him closer to the truth. The series masterfully blends past and present, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as the mystery unfolds.
7. Ratched (2020)
“Ratched” is a psychological thriller that serves as a prequel to the classic film “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” Starring Sarah Paulson as the infamous Nurse Mildred Ratched, the series explores her early years working at a psychiatric hospital. The show combines a dark, twisted plot with stunning visuals and strong performances. It delves into the origins of one of cinema’s most notorious characters, offering a thrilling and disturbing narrative.
