This May, Netflix is thriving on a surge of crime dramas, which is just the kind of content the streaming giant prefers. With a wider selection of intriguing mysteries than competitors like HBO Max and Hulu, Netflix has recently introduced two new series that might make viewers consider dropping other subscriptions.
The crime series Nemesis is already a hit on Netflix, unsurprisingly, given its creation by the showrunner of Power. Another series capturing attention this month is The Chestnut Man, which is back with a second season featuring a captivating mystery and a stunning conclusion.
‘The Chestnut Man’ (2021-2026)
Denmark seems to be a hotspot for murder mysteries, and the most twisted among them is The Chestnut Man. Premiering in 2021, the show captivated audiences with its unusual storyline about a politician’s missing daughter, whose abductor might be tied to a family murder in the 1980s.
In Season 2, titled Hide and Seek, the same detective duo, Mark Hess (Mikkel Boe Følsgaard) and Naia Thulin (Danica Ćurčić), return to solve the case of a 41-year-old woman’s kidnapping and murder, which is also connected to a historical murder. The series maintains its complex mystery formula across different timelines, convincing viewers of Denmark’s hidden dangers.
‘Nemesis’ (2026)
For fans of Heat featuring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino, the Netflix series Nemesis offers a similar cops-and-robbers narrative set in crime-laden Los Angeles. LAPD veteran Isaiah Stiles (Matthew Law) is dedicated to his work, perhaps too dedicated for his wife, Candace (Gabrielle Dennis), who is frustrated by his obsession with crime boss Coltrane Wilder (Y’lan Noel). Driven by past traumas, Isaiah is determined to bring down Coltrane, even at personal costs.
Co-created by Power mastermind Courtney A. Kemp, Nemesis showcases the same intricacy in world-building and character development that defined the Starz series. The show features an engaging crime storyline, but its highlight is the portrayal of its lead characters. Isaiah and Coltrane share more similarities than they would care to admit, making their rivalry intriguing through the show’s eight episodes.
‘Big Mistakes’ (2026)
When Nicky’s (Levy) sister, Morgan (Taylor Ortega), steals a necklace from a shop, she unknowingly crosses a Turkish gangster, Yusuf (Boron Kazum). Their seemingly minor crime soon spirals into a series of major ones as the suburban siblings are pulled into organized crime under duress.
Big Mistakes marks Levy’s return to scripted television after Schitt’s Creek and presents a different fish-out-of-water scenario. The series, with its engaging eight-episode arc, combines humor, affecting family drama, and a compelling crime story. Laurie Metcalf also stars as Nicky and Morgan’s mother.
‘Killing Eve’ (2018-2022)
This captivating spy thriller, initially crafted by Phoebe Waller-Bridge and later by Emerald Fennell, features Sandra Oh as MI5 agent Eve Polastri. Dissatisfied with her job, Eve’s interest in female assassins leads her to an MI6 division tracking Villanelle (Jodie Comer), a cunning international assassin. Their eventual encounter turns into a suspenseful game of cat-and-mouse.
Killing Eve excels in subverting spy thriller conventions, emphasized by the chemistry between Comer and Oh. Oh portrays the unconventional Eve with flair, while Comer provides a magnetic presence as a femme fatale villain. The dynamic between the two, enhanced by sharp writing and humor, makes for an unforgettable series.
‘Veronica Mars’ (2004-2007)
High school student Veronica Mars (Kristen Bell) seemingly has it all until her best friend Lilly Kane (Amanda Seyfried) is murdered, her sheriff father is disgraced, and her mother leaves. She and her father (Enrico Colantoni) then open a private investigation agency where Veronica solves local crimes.
Despite its short three-season run, Veronica Mars has become a cult classic with a devoted fanbase. The series skillfully blends teen drama and crime noir, with Bell delivering a standout performance. While the revival lacked some of the original magic, the initial seasons remain television highlights.
‘How to Get to Heaven from Belfast’ (2026)
After their estranged group member’s death, three childhood friends reunite in County Donegal, Ireland. Saoirse (Roisin Gallagher), Robyn (Sinéad Keenan), and Dara (Caoilfhionn Dunne) encounter a startling discovery at the wake, leading them to investigate the mysterious death.
How to Get to Heaven from Belfast, from the creators of Netflix’s Derry Girls, offers a darker yet humorous take compared to the popular sitcom. Lisa McGee’s mystery series is enriched by strong performances, emotional themes, and an engaging storyline.
‘Unfamiliar’ (2026)
Former German spies Meret (Susanne Wolff) and Simon Schäfer (Felix Kramer) live in Berlin, raising their teenage daughter Nina (Maja Bons) while managing a restaurant and safe house. On Nina’s sixteenth birthday, an injured man seeks refuge, revealing secrets of a past covert operation.
The German espionage thriller Unfamiliar has quickly gained popularity on Netflix. The show captivates with its smart narrative, high-stakes drama, and intricate characters, standing out from typical spy stories. Its fast-paced six-episode arc provides a thrilling viewing experience.
‘His and Hers’ (2025)
Isolated former news anchor Anna (Tessa Thompson) finds renewed purpose when a murder occurs in her hometown of Dahlonega, Georgia. Her investigation brings her face-to-face with her estranged husband, Jack Harper (Jon Bernthal), who is involved in the case.
His & Hers is a gripping murder mystery enriched by the performances of Bernthal and Thompson. While some plot points may stretch believability, the show’s engaging narrative and character depth keep viewers intrigued.
‘The Following’ (2013 – 2015)
Kevin Bacon stars in The Following as Ryan Hardy, a former FBI agent who captured serial killer Joe Carroll (James Purefoy). Ryan’s life changes when Joe escapes, leading to a dangerous game involving Joe’s devoted followers.
Joe Carroll commands a cult-like following willing to kill or die at his behest, making everyone in Ryan or Claire Matthews’ (Natalie Zea) life a potential threat. The series explores this tense dynamic with suspenseful storytelling.
‘Good Cop/Bad Cop’ (2025)
Set in Eden Vale, Good Cop/Bad Cop blends comedy with crime and mystery. Chief of Police Hank Hickman (Clancy Brown) has managed a crime-free town, but his daughter, Detective Lou Hickman (Leighton Meester), needs assistance.
Lou’s brother, Detective Henry Hickman (Luke Cook), returns to join her force, initially causing tension. However, their partnership proves effective, potentially reshaping Eden Vale’s reputation.
‘City of Shadows’ (2025)
Suspended cop Milo Malart (Isak Férriz) is assigned by Judge Susana Cabrera (Ana Wagener) to investigate a CEO’s mysterious death. Paired with Deputy Inspector Rebeca Garrido (Verónica Echegui), they uncover a series of ritualistic murders in Barcelona.
City of Shadows focuses on strong storytelling and the chemistry between leads, offering less gore and more character-driven drama. It’s an ideal choice for crime drama enthusiasts looking for depth over shock value.
‘Love and Death’ (2023)
Set in late-1970s Texas, Love & Death follows Candy Montgomery (Elizabeth Olsen), a housewife embroiled in a deadly affair with neighbor Allan Gore (Jesse Plemons). Allan’s wife, Betty (Lily Rabe), is brutally murdered, placing Candy as the prime suspect.
The series, written by David E. Kelley, delves into the psychological facets of Candy’s life, presenting a twisted true-crime story. Olsen’s performance earned her a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress.
‘The Beast in Me’ (2025)
In The Beast in Me, novelist Aggie Wiggs (Claire Danes) finds herself intrigued by neighbor Nile Jarvis (Matthew Rhys), the main suspect in his wife’s disappearance. As their interaction deepens, Aggie questions her own safety.
In August 2025, Netflix has been light on new true crime series, allowing the Watch With Us team to revisit standout shows from recent years. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Enter your email Please enter […]
This crime-thriller, from the minds behind The X-Files and Danes’ Homeland, captivates with performances by Rhys and Danes. The show’s addictive episodes and strong lead chemistry have earned critical acclaim.
‘Absentia’ (2017-Present)
Recently added to Netflix, the Amazon Prime series Absentia was canceled after three seasons, yet remains a gripping thriller. It follows FBI Agent Emily Byrne (Stana Katic), who is declared dead after vanishing during a serial killer investigation. Six years later, she reappears with no memory and becomes entangled in a series of murders.
Katic shines in this dark, intense series, blending crime investigation, psychological thriller, and character drama. Its pacing and high stakes keep audiences engaged.
‘Untamed’ (2025-Present)
In California’s Yosemite National Park, special agent Kyle Turner (Eric Bana) investigates the death of a woman who fell from a cliff, with suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. The case leads Turner into the wilderness, confronting his past.
Untamed is a captivating crime thriller with a compelling mystery, supported by Bana’s powerful performance. The scenic Yosemite backdrop is visually stunning, complemented by a strong supporting cast including Rosemarie DeWitt and Sam Neill.
‘Black Rabbit’ (2025-Present)
In Black Rabbit, brothers Jake (Jude Law) and Vince (Jason Bateman) reunite in New York City, with Vince’s tumultuous life landing him a job at Jake’s successful restaurant. However, their reunion is short-lived as they navigate the criminal underworld to evade loan sharks.
Despite initial doubts about Bateman and Law as siblings, their chemistry enhances this gritty crime story, drawing comparisons to the Safdie brothers’ Uncut Gems. Black Rabbit is a thrilling ride that captivates audiences.
‘Beauty and the Bester’ (2025)
In 2022, convicted rapist and scammer Thabo Bester seemingly committed suicide in his cell, where he was serving a life sentence. However, he reappeared a year later in Johannesburg, living under an alias with alleged escape accomplice and lover, influencer doctor Nandipha Magudumana. They are now awaiting trial.
Beauty and the Bester examines this bizarre, real-life South African Bonnie and Clyde tale. The series explores Bester’s initial conviction, his escape, and the psychology of his ill-fated relationship with Magudumana, using various testimonies to paint a vivid portrait.
‘Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story’ (2024)
The second season of Ryan Murphy’s Monster anthology series revisits the infamous Menendez brothers case from 1989. The brothers (Cooper Koch and Nicholas Alexander Chavez) killed both parents after allegedly enduring years of abuse, with the show depicting their complex family life.
With lead performances by Javier Bardem and Chlöe Sevigny as the parents, Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story employs a Rashomon-style narrative, offering multiple perspectives and unreliable narrators to leave the interpretation open to viewers.
‘Mindhunter’ (2017-2019)
Set in the late 1970s, Mindhunter follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they delve into the minds of psychopathic killers. They aim to understand serial killers’ psychology by examining their backgrounds and psyches, while pioneering modern profiling techniques.
Executive produced by David Fincher, who often directed episodes, Mindhunter received acclaim for its visual flair and detailed character development. Groff and McCallany’s chemistry adds depth to the compelling narrative.
‘Dark’ (2017-2020)
In the small German town of Winden, a child disappears while walking home with friends, prompting revelations about the town’s secrets and interconnected history. The cosmic connections between past and present expose a dark, hidden secret threatening Winden and the world.
Best-selling author Harlan Coben has provided ample material for Netflix’s original series library. The crime and thriller novelist has written 35 novels, with 12 having been adapted for film and television. Currently, Coben has a deal with Netflix to pump out these heaters for years to come. With his latest adaptation, Harlan Coben’s Lazarus, already […]
Starring Louis Hoffman and a talented cast of mostly unfamiliar German actors, Dark creatively blends science fiction, crime drama, and mystery. Filled with complex twists and existential themes, the show features a multi-generational plot encompassing a time-travel conspiracy. As the first German-language series on Netflix, Dark defies genre norms, offering an atmospheric, philosophical slow-burn experience.
Led by Senior Editor and experienced critic Jason Struss, the Watch With Us team of writers and editors reviews countless movies and TV shows from the past and present to determine what’s worth watching. Our extensive multimedia experience in the entertainment industry helps us identify the best content to stream.
