8 Murder Mystery TV Shows That Will Take You Back Several Decades
Solving crimes with no technology is twice as impressive.
One of the things that makes mystery and crime TV series so popular is the way the viewer usually solves the same mysteries that the main character does. Those who have watched through all the possible shows within this realm set in the modern day may want to take on yet another challenge and try to solve the crimes without having access to all the technology.
With no databases of DNA samples, no cell phone tracking and no Internet available for quick research, the detectives of the past centuries had to rely only on their deductive and interrogation skills to catch the criminals. Here are 8 shows with the best depictions of such work.
Miss Scarlet and the Duke ( 2020-...)
After the death of her father, Miss Scarlet finds herself in a bad financial situation. However, driven by the idea of helping others through her father's detective agency, she steps into the male-dominated industry and starts her own business. Struggling to make ends meet, she must prove her worth again and again.
The Alienist (2018-2020)
Starring the likes of Daniel Bruhl, Luke Evans, and Dakota Fanning, The Alienist is a short two-season show that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Set in the late 1800s, the show begins with a series of gruesome murders of sex workers that newly appointed police commissioner Teddy Roosevelt must solve.
Ripper Street (2012-2016)
If you're a fan of true crime classics like the Jack the Ripper murders, you'll enjoy this take on the events that took place half a year after the tragedy. Suspecting the return of a notorious killer who has yet to be found, the police and the people of a neighborhood do everything in their power to prevent another murderous strike.
Frankie Drake Mysteries (2017-2021)
Set in 1920s Canada, this show follows the title character, Canada's first female private detective, Frankie Drake, and her sidekick partner, Trudy Clarke, as they work on mysteries that even the police can't solve. Unable to work officially, Frankie has to be sneaky, but thanks to some police connections, she manages to get the job done.
Magpie Murders (2022-...)
The bestselling novel by Anthony Horowitz has been adapted in the 6 episodes of season 1 of the PBS show. However, the story of a very mysterious murder is about to be expanded into a second season, which has already been ordered and will be released in 2024. So it's the perfect time to catch up with the show.
Grantchester (2014-...)
One of the longest-running shows on this list, Grantchester has yet to release its 9th and final season. However, you have plenty of time to catch up with the previous eight and join former officer Sidney Chambers, his successor Will Davenport, and Detective Inspector Geordie Keating as they solve the toughest crimes.
Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries (2012-2015)
Similar to Frankie Drake Mysteries, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries is set in the 1920s, but on the other side of the world, in Australia. Glamorous private detective Phryne Fisher can afford the most lavish lifestyle and can easily fool anyone with her looks. But deep down, she's fiercely driven and dedicated to serving justice.
Partners in Crime (2015)
A short but very memorable film, Partners in Crime gives the viewer a picture of the Cold War against Stalin in the 1950s. Adapted from two Agatha Christie novels from the Tommy and Tuppence series, the show adds a whole other level of intrigue by diving deep into the espionage, double agents and propaganda that flourished back then.