British Crime Series Worthy of Cult Status
Here are five British crime series that justify their cult status and the title of top-tier production. British television, known for its humor, historical stories, unexpected twists, and great romances, has created characters and stories recognized worldwide over the years.
British crime series hold a special place in the hearts of critics and audiences alike, offering not only tension and excitement but also delighting with their complex characters and intriguing plots. These titles have an incredible impact on viewers, focusing on the stories and the role of detectives they watch. Discover the series remembered for their well-developed themes, excellent production, beautiful filming locations, and talented film crews both behind and in front of the camera.
From the acclaimed writer of the hit series Broadchurch comes a two-part story depicting the true events of the Great Train Robbery of 1963 – first from the perspective of the robbers and then from the police handling the case. On August 8, a gang of 15 professional criminals led by Bruce Reynolds stopped a British Royal Mail train in the early morning hours and stole £2.61 million (equivalent to about £69 million today).
The entire robbery, due to its precise execution, perfect planning, spectacular nature, and the amount of money stolen, became a sensation not only in Britain but worldwide. This heist is often referred to as the crime of the century. The series will undoubtedly be loved by all true crime enthusiasts, as well as those interested in history and human ingenuity.
2. The Inheritance
After the unexpected death of their father, three siblings embark on a dangerous journey to discover whether the death was truly a tragic accident or if there is something more behind it. Secrets explode, relationships are shattered, and lives are lost as the siblings desperately try to reclaim their inheritance. Is blood thicker than water?
This is a story where the grief of losing a parent is quickly overshadowed by anger, confusion, and suspicion following a sudden change in the will. Complex family relationships have always provided a great foundation for creating mysterious and intricate stories, and this is undoubtedly one of them.
3. The Vanishing Triangle
After journalist Lisa Wallace publishes an article about her mother’s murder, the killer reappears, hinting at an abduction. Lisa and detective David Burkely begin an investigation, linking the killer to the disappearance of a woman named Amy Reynolds.
This is a dramatization of the true stories of Ireland's Vanishing Triangle, events dating back to the 1990s when six women disappeared in Ireland, never to be found. Although the cases remain unsolved, they share some common characteristics, leading to the belief that they were the work of a serial killer or killers active in the triangle area. It will prompt you to further explore these mystical and eerie cases that have yet to be resolved.
4. Shetland
Eight seasons of one of the better British detective series inspired by the novels of Ann Cleeves. The crime drama follows the legendary Jimmy Perez, as well as other intriguing inspectors ready to step into his shoes, in solving sinister mysteries on Shetland, an island full of complicated interpersonal relationships and even more challenging crimes.
It reflects realistic life as it is, with authentic Scottish landscapes, dialects, unexpected plot twists, and, as many emphasize, excellent acting.
5. Vigil
When a crew member is found dead on the nuclear submarine Trident, HMS Vigil, the Scottish police are called to investigate. Chief Inspector Amy Silva must board the submarine to investigate, and although the death is described as an accidental overdose, Amy remains suspicious.
This is a spy thriller where most of the action takes place on the submarine, featuring an excellent dose of suspense, a good cast, and their performance, along with an ideal storyline based on personal and global relationships.
