Helen ZhangOne of the ultimate genres on TV is the cop show. It is such a treat to get engrossed in a puzzling mystery and complex characters. With so many to choose from, it’s difficult to sort out the good from the bad. Fear not! This list features some popular shows, but some hidden gems as well. Each is unique in its own way and certainly should not be missed.
5. Crossing Lines
Exotic European locations, international intrigue and non-stop suspense are abundant in this incredible TV show. Crossing Lines is about a task force that investigates cross-border cases for the International Criminal Court. Among the fantastic cast are William Fichtner, Thomas Wlaschiha, and Donald Sutherland. As the team works together, dark secrets are revealed, and they realize they will have to confront them as a unit. Despite only lasting three seasons, Crossing Lines has some of the best moment-to-moment action you can find on TV.
4. Bosch
For fans of mystery, thrilling suspense and gritty realism, Bosch is a must-watch. This show puts you in the shoes of a Los Angeles detective. Viewers get to see realistic depictions of solving cases and what goes on behind the scenes of the LAPD’s Hollywood Division. Titus Welliver as the protagonist, Harry Bosch, delivers on every level. He masterfully embodies the intensity of Bosch and the obsession to discovering the truth. You can’t resist being floored as Bosch’s blunt moral code clashes with fierce criminals. Bosch is based on characters by renowned mystery author Michael Connelly, who serves as executive producer. Each season depicts a case taken from Connelly’s books. The seasons are only 10 episodes so it’s a quick binge. When it comes to Bosch, everyone counts or no one counts.
3. Justified
There is no other show like Justified. The characters and tone were inspired by Elmore Leonard’s Western short story Fire in the Hole. US Marshal Raylan Givens returns to his hometown of Harlan County, Kentucky and goes head to head with ruthless crime families. Givens must choose between his own brand of justice and obeying his superiors. Timothy Olyphant’s performance as Givens is fantastic. Throughout the show, Givens takes part in the duties of a US Marshal such as witness protection, manhunts and prison transports. Saddle up because this series is a satisfying mix of drama, comedy, and Western-style standoffs!
2. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
The fictional ninety-ninth precinct of the New York Police Department has been the source of many laughs since Brooklyn Nine-Nine began. Andy Samberg as Detective Jake Peralta along with the rest of the stellar cast display excellent chemistry. It is certainly a departure from the typical cop show, placing tough as nails police officers in comedic situations. Every progressive season raises the hijinx tenfold. The show also tackles difficult topics in special episodes such as when one of the Nine-Nine faces an active shooter. Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a mainstay on this list for its originality and heart.
1. Flashpoint
The crown jewel of this list, Flashpoint breathes new life into the genre. This Canadian made show explores the lives and the mental health of the Strategic Response Unit, which is inspired by the Emergency Task Force in Toronto. As the team solves hostage situations, defuse bombs, and disrupt gangs, their decisions will have life-changing consequences. The show’s name comes from its unique twist. Each episode begins at the climax then rewinds a few hours back in time to see how the situation originally unfolded. Flashpoint never disappoints and executes complex emotional characters to near perfection.
