The Best Shows That Are Darker Than Night
Vote up the best recent scripted television shows that keep the tone dark, whether they're drama, horror or another heavy genre.
- 1Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
Mindhunter, the thrilling crime drama series, delves into the labyrinthine minds of serial killers, drawing inspiration from twisting tales of true crime. Showcased against the backdrop of the late 1970s, this gripping show revolves around FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench, played by the talented duo, Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany. In this captivating saga, the duo employs pioneering tactics, exploring criminal psychology and profiling as they investigate the darkest of minds, giving viewers a chilling look at the underbelly of human nature. This unforgettable series, with its attention to detail and in-depth exploration of complex human behavior, has resonated deeply with its audience making it a bone-chilling experience hard to shake.
- 2Daniel Kaluuya, Toby Kebbell, Rory Kinnear
The critically-acclaimed anthology series, Black Mirror, takes its viewers on a riveting journey into the murky depths of humanity's techno-dystopian present and future. Each episode acts as a stand-alone tale, etching thought-provoking cautionary stories set amidst a society where technological advancements far outpace our understanding of their consequences. Created by the witty and insightful Charlie Brooker, the show boasts a remarkable roster of talented actors like Bryce Dallas Howard and Jon Hamm, breathing life into the twisted tales that explore topics such as social media addiction, corporate espionage, and the unnerving repercussions of artificial intelligence. Black Mirror's dark themes and biting satirical commentary will remain relevant and poignant as our technocratic world continues to unfold.
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- 3Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Timothy Hutton
A spine-chilling tour of trauma, loss, and guilt, The Haunting of Hill House serves as a harrowing yet touching exploration of a family's haunted past. The interwoven narratives between the Crain siblings and their parents, masterfully unfolded by creator Mike Flanagan, provide an emotional depth seldom seen in the horror genre. This impeccable ensemble cast, including Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, and Elizabeth Reaser, transports viewers to the edge of their seats as they battle ghosts both literal and figurative. With its palpable atmosphere and heart-wrenching scenes, The Haunting of Hill House stands as a horrific masterpiece that will continue to haunt audiences for years to come.
- 4Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff, Carmen Ejogo
HBO's critically-acclaimed neo-noir crime anthology series, True Detective, thrusts its audience into the intricate understanding of time, culture, and the depths of human depravity. Boasting a powerhouse cast in each season – from Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson to Mahershala Ali and Stephen Dorff – the series masterfully portrays raw characters and morally grey situations. Creator Nic Pizzolatto's knack for unraveling complex narratives and excavating the darker dimensions of the human soul truly sets this series apart. Flitting between different timelines and interweaving characters' inner struggles with external conflict, True Detective keeps viewers riveted, leaving indelible imprints that resonate long after the credits roll.
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- 5Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson
Plunging into the seedy underbelly of post-World War I Birmingham, Peaky Blinders showcases the ruthless exploits of the Shelby crime family, led by the cunning and charismatic Tommy Shelby, portrayed by the magnetizing Cillian Murphy. Expounding on the vicissitudes of family loyalty and power dynamics, creator Steven Knight deftly weaves together elements of historical fiction, crime drama, and gripping storytelling with pitch-perfect performances from the ensemble, including the likes of Helen McCrory and Tom Hardy. This gritty yet visually stunning series captivates viewers with its complex characters, nuanced dialogue, and brutal depictions of violence, making it a prominent presence on the global television stage.
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- 6Juno Temple, Jon Hamm, Jennifer Jason Leigh
Nestled within the snow-covered landscapes of Minnesota, Fargo unleashes a dark narrative filled with crime, corruption, and ominous humor. This anthology series, inspired by the Coen Brothers' film of the same name, skillfully integrates enigmatic plotlines with a remarkable cast, encompassing the talents of actors such as Billy Bob Thornton, Kirsten Dunst, and Ewan McGregor. Series creator Noah Hawley meticulously adds a dash of the absurd to the grim reality of Midwest life, seamlessly bringing together the topsy-turvy world of Fargo. Both endearing and thrilling, Fargo’s macabre wit and labyrinthine storytelling cements its reputation as a small-screen juggernaut.
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- 7Tom Hardy, Leo Bill, Oona Chaplin
Set against the gritty backdrop of early 19th-century London, Taboo follows the enigmatic adventurer James Keziah Delaney, portrayed by the enthralling Tom Hardy, as he navigates treachery and murder on his quest to avenge his father's death. With its brooding atmosphere, the show treads dangerously on the topics of mysticism, political instability, and the harshness of raw humanity. Created by Steven Knight, Tom Hardy, and the latter's own father, Chips Hardy, Taboo reveals layers of deception and intrigue that keeps audiences hooked. Laden with twists and turns, this dark, unyielding drama is nothing short of addictive.
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- 8Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Henry Thomas
A gothic horror tale that ensnares its audience in a web of love, loss, and sorrow, The Haunting of Bly Manor, is creator Mike Flanagan's follow-up to The Haunting of Hill House. Based on Henry James' novella The Turn of the Screw, the center of the show's darkness lies in the titular English mansion's sinister secrets. With its talented ensemble cast, including Victoria Pedretti, Rahul Kohli, and T'Nia Miller, The Haunting of Bly Manor stands as a tragic love story shrouded in mystery. A chilling blend of eerie atmosphere and emotional depth, the show is a testament to the horror genre's capacity for nuanced storytelling.
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- 9Dylan McDermott, Connie Britton, Taissa Farmiga
Stretching the boundaries of the horror genre, American Horror Story pulls viewers into a sea of terror, assaulting the senses with its panoply of spine-chilling narratives in each unique season. The anthology series, created by the dynamic duo of Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, ensnares its audience with fervent storytelling and showcases powerhouse casts that include the likes of Jessica Lange, Sarah Paulson, and Evan Peters. From sinister haunted houses to a malevolent circus freak show, each installment breathes fresh life into the show, exploring uncharted frontiers of horror. AHS weaves compelling, twisted tales that continue to keep viewers on edge, driving a constant craving for nerve-racking adventures.
- 10Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes, Yvonne Strahovski
Margaret Atwood's chilling dystopian novel comes to life in The Handmaid's Tale, a compelling story of power dynamics and the struggle for survival in a repressive society. Elisabeth Moss delivers a searing performance as Offred, a Handmaid subjected to sexual servitude and oppression under the totalitarian regime of Gilead. This poignant adaptation, brought to vibrant life by creator Bruce Miller, explores themes of misogyny, resistance, and human resilience in cinematic detail. The Handmaid’s Tale, adorned with a gifted cast and superb storytelling, is as harrowing as it is spellbinding––a show that lingers in the corners of the viewer’s mind.
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- 11Penn Badgley, Tati Gabrielle, Charlotte Ritchie
A psychological thriller unlike any other, You follows Penn Badgley's chilling performance as the dangerously charming Joe Goldberg, a bookstore employee with a penchant for stalking and an unwavering belief in love-at-first-sight. Show creators Sera Gamble and Greg Berlanti create an unnerving environment where stalking becomes a twisted form of true romance for our oblivious protagonist. The show exposes the true horrors lying beneath the surface of social media, relationships, and the modern dating world, leaving viewers tense and questioning their own online footprint. With dark humor, compelling performances, and a story that keeps you guessing, You is a series that entraps the viewer in the twisted maze of 21st-century love.
- 12Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
A nostalgic nod to the 80s with a taste for the macabre, Stranger Things has become a pop-culture phenomenon since its debut. Creators Matt and Ross Duffer weave a tale combining supernatural elements, teenage camaraderie, and government conspiracies, resulting in a perfect blend of horror, sci-fi, and heartwarming friendships. Standout performances by the ensemble cast, including Millie Bobby Brown, Winona Ryder, and David Harbour, gracefully portray the darkness lurking beneath the surface of a seemingly idyllic small town. With an expert balance of heart-pounding terror and charming humor, Stranger Things stands as an engrossing series that continues to captivate audiences.
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- 13Henry Cavill, Anya Chalotra, Freya Allan
Based on the bestselling works of Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher amalgamates dark fantasy and treacherous action into a mesmerizing tale of monsters, destiny, and the morally-gray world inhabited by the brooding protagonist Geralt of Rivia, played masterfully by Henry Cavill. The series intricately traverses parallel storylines, guiding the audience through a war-ravaged landscape, riddled with political intrigue, seductive sorceresses, and blood-thirsty creatures. Created by Lauren Schmidt Hissrich, The Witcher's rich narrative, enthralling performances, and stunning visuals have cast a spell on viewers, driving anticipation for each coming battle or sword-swinging encounter.
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- 14
Ratched
Sarah Paulson, Sharon Stone, Cynthia NixonDiving into the tormented psyche of Nurse Mildred Ratched, Ratched explores the origin story of the iconic antagonist from Ken Kesey's groundbreaking novel, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. This psychological odyssey, crafted by creator Evan Romansky and executive producer Ryan Murphy, is wrought with psychological torment, twisted mind games, and disturbing imagery. With a tantalizing performance from Sarah Paulson as the titular character and a supporting cast boasting the likes of Cynthia Nixon and Judy Davis, Ratched lures viewers into the bleak world of a mental asylum where shadows and secrets prey on the vulnerable. This diabolical series sends shivers down the spine while revealing sinister elements lurking beneath the surface of humanity.
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- 15David Burns, Loretta Fisher, Brian Hutchinson
Unraveling the fabric of real-life murder cases, The Confession Tapes delves into the murky waters of questionable interrogations and coerced confessions. This gripping true-crime documentary series exposes the unsettling truth behind manipulative tactics employed by law enforcement in securing convictions. Each episode, directed by Kelly Loudenberg, sheds light on various miscarriages of justice, blurring the lines between guilt and innocence. The Confession Tapes leaves viewers haunted, questioning the systems and procedures meant to protect the innocent and illuminate the whole truth.
- 16Sarah Lancashire, James Norton, Siobhan Finneran
Hallmarked by its raw, unflinching portrayal of the human experience,Happy Valley delves into the gritty realities that accompany a small-town community beset with drugs, crime, and corruption. This British crime drama follows the determined police sergeant Catherine Cawood, played by the formidable Sarah Lancashire, as she tirelessly battles the demons of her past and navigates the moral dilemmas of her profession. Father-daughter duo Sally Wainwright and Euros Lyn have crafted a harrowing tale brimming with intricate characters, twisted narratives, and grim truths that keep viewers engrossed in the unfurling turmoil.
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- 17Nicole Kang, Jim Parrack, Aleyse Shannon
In a spine-chilling twist on the modern trend of brevity in storytelling, Two Sentence Horror Stories garners inspiration from bite-sized fiction, fusing elements of horror and terror into brief episodes packed with spine-tingling frights. Creator Vera Miao has crafted a terrifying landscape rooted in societal fears, cultural mores, and psychological angst. Each standalone episode tackles pressing social issues and traumas through the lens of horror while leaving audiences plagued with a lingering unease. This inventive anthology series keeps its viewers on the brink, sculpting a haunting world rife with chilling tales.
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- 18Charlotte Best, Dustin Clare, Mattias Inwood
Australia's first Netflix original series, Tidelands, plunges viewers into a mystical tale of sirens, intrigue, and the constant struggle for power. The atmospheric series, created by Stephen M. Irwin and Leigh McGrath, follows the story of Cal McTeer, played by the captivating Charlotte Best, who returns to her small fishing village only to unearth dark secrets and supernatural beings lurking beneath the surface. Tidelands weaves a web of seductive mermaid-like creatures, criminal underworlds, and the unrelenting tension between the two, providing a thrilling, suspense-filled experience that keeps viewers compelled through each twist and turn.
- 19Fred Armisen, Alison Brie, John Early
From the imaginations of Jeff Baena and the Duplass brothers springs forth the experimental comedy anthology series, Cinema Toast. Crafting new narratives using repurposed footage from vintage films, this innovative series explores a world of dark humor, lighthearted musings, and unexpected stories, all the while breathing new life into otherwise forgotten creations. Cinema Toast offers a unique storytelling format, an uncanny blend of absurdity and nostalgia that takes the audience on a wild ride through the reimagined past.
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- 20Emmett Scanlan, Emily Reid, Catherine Walker
Engulfed in the enigmatic suspense of a psychological thriller, The Deceived follows a young Englishwoman entangled in a dangerous affair with her charismatic Irish professor, played by Paul Mescal. As the passionate deceit unfolds, creators Lisa McGee and Tobias Beer lead audiences through a labyrinth of illusion, guilt, and betrayal. Dripping with deception, this series proves that no one is immune to manipulation and that the most cunning masterminds can orchestrate the most gripping of deceptions. The Deceived lures viewers into a world of mistrust, infidelity, and consequences, rewarding them with a thrilling, shadowy tale that ensnares the imagination.
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