If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and dark dramas, then you have likely already binge-watched Bates Motel on Netflix. This hit series, which aired from 2013 to 2017, follows the troubled relationship between Norman Bates and his mother, Norma, as they run the infamous Bates Motel. The show is a modern prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film, Psycho, and delves into the twisted minds of its characters.
If you’re looking for more shows like Bates Motel to satisfy your craving for suspense and intrigue, Netflix has plenty of options to choose from. From family secrets to murder mysteries, these shows will keep you on the edge of your seat just like Bates Motel did. To enhance your viewing experience, we’ve also compiled a list of 13 songs that perfectly capture the eerie and suspenseful vibes of these shows.
1. Mindhunter
Mindhunter is a Netflix original series that follows two FBI agents as they interview serial killers in order to understand their psychology. The show is dark and intense, much like Bates Motel, and will leave you questioning the depths of human depravity. The song “Psycho Killer” by Talking Heads is the perfect accompaniment to this chilling series.
2. The Haunting of Hill House
The Haunting of Hill House is a supernatural horror series that follows a family haunted by their past. The show is filled with jump scares and eerie moments that will send shivers down your spine. “The House of the Rising Sun” by The Animals captures the haunting atmosphere of the show perfectly.
3. Dexter
Dexter follows a blood splatter analyst by day and a vigilante serial killer by night. The show is known for its dark humor and moral ambiguity, much like Bates Motel. “Bad Moon Rising” by Creedence Clearwater Revival is the perfect song to capture Dexter’s twisted sense of justice.
4. Broadchurch
Broadchurch is a British crime drama that follows two detectives as they investigate a young boy’s murder in a small coastal town. The show is filled with secrets and lies, much like Bates Motel, and will keep you guessing until the very end. “Hide and Seek” by Imogen Heap perfectly captures the tension and mystery of this gripping series.
5. True Detective
True Detective is an anthology crime drama that follows different detectives as they investigate heinous crimes. The show is known for its complex characters and dark themes, much like Bates Motel. “Far From Any Road” by The Handsome Family is the perfect song to set the tone for this haunting series.
6. Hannibal
Hannibal follows FBI profiler Will Graham as he teams up with the infamous cannibalistic psychiatrist, Hannibal Lecter, to solve gruesome murders. The show is visually stunning and psychologically twisted, much like Bates Motel. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Marilyn Manson perfectly captures the creepy and surreal atmosphere of this series.
7. Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks follows FBI agent Dale Cooper as he investigates the murder of a high school student in the small town of Twin Peaks. The show is known for its quirky characters and surreal storytelling, much like Bates Motel. “Laura Palmer’s Theme” by Angelo Badalamenti is the perfect song to capture the mysterious and haunting vibes of this cult classic.
8. American Horror Story
American Horror Story is an anthology horror series that follows different characters and settings each season. The show is known for its twisted plots and grotesque imagery, much like Bates Motel. “Believer” by Imagine Dragons perfectly captures the dark and intense atmosphere of this chilling series.
9. Sharp Objects
Sharp Objects follows journalist Camille Preaker as she investigates a series of murders in her hometown while battling her own demons. The show is dark and atmospheric, much like Bates Motel, and will leave you on the edge of your seat. “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish captures the eerie and haunting tone of this gripping series.
10. The Sinner
The Sinner follows detective Harry Ambrose as he investigates seemingly random acts of violence that are not as they seem. The show is filled with twists and turns, much like Bates Motel, and will keep you guessing until the very end. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes perfectly captures the tension and mystery of this suspenseful series.
11. Dark
Dark is a German sci-fi thriller that follows four families as they uncover a time-travel conspiracy in their small town. The show is complex and atmospheric, much like Bates Motel, and will leave you questioning the nature of reality. “Time” by Pink Floyd captures the mind-bending and suspenseful vibes of this gripping series.
12. Black Mirror
Black Mirror is an anthology sci-fi series that explores the dark side of technology and society. The show is known for its thought-provoking themes and twisted plots, much like Bates Motel. “Welcome to the Machine” by Pink Floyd perfectly captures the eerie and dystopian atmosphere of this chilling series.
13. Stranger Things
Stranger Things follows a group of kids as they uncover supernatural mysteries in their small town in the 1980s. The show is filled with nostalgia and suspense, much like Bates Motel, and will keep you hooked from the very first episode. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash captures the retro and mysterious vibes of this thrilling series.
Common Questions:
1. What makes Bates Motel so popular among viewers?
Bates Motel is popular among viewers for its gripping storyline, complex characters, and dark atmosphere. The show delves into the twisted minds of its characters and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its suspenseful and intense moments.
2. Are there any other shows similar to Bates Motel on Netflix?
Yes, there are plenty of shows similar to Bates Motel on Netflix, including Mindhunter, Dexter, The Haunting of Hill House, and True Detective. These shows all feature dark themes, complex characters, and suspenseful storylines that will keep you entertained for hours.
3. What are some key themes in Bates Motel?
Some key themes in Bates Motel include family secrets, mental illness, and the nature of evil. The show explores the dark and twisted relationships between its characters and delves into the depths of human depravity.
4. Is Bates Motel based on a true story?
Bates Motel is not based on a true story, but it is a modern prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film, Psycho. The show follows the troubled relationship between Norman Bates and his mother, Norma, as they run the infamous Bates Motel.
5. Who are the main characters in Bates Motel?
The main characters in Bates Motel include Norman Bates, Norma Bates, Dylan Massett, and Sheriff Alex Romero. These characters are central to the show’s storyline and are all deeply flawed in their own ways.
6. What are some memorable moments from Bates Motel?
Some memorable moments from Bates Motel include Norman’s descent into madness, Norma’s tragic death, and the shocking revelations about the Bates family’s dark past. These moments are key to the show’s overall plot and character development.
7. What is the significance of the Bates Motel in the show?
The Bates Motel is a central location in the show that serves as a symbol of the Bates family’s dark and troubled history. The motel is a place of secrets and violence, and it plays a key role in the show’s overall atmosphere and tone.
8. How does Bates Motel compare to the original Psycho film?
Bates Motel is a modern prequel to the original Psycho film and explores the events leading up to the film’s storyline. The show delves deeper into the characters’ backgrounds and motivations, providing a new perspective on the classic story.
9. What are some key differences between Bates Motel and other psychological thrillers?
Some key differences between Bates Motel and other psychological thrillers include its focus on family dynamics, its exploration of mental illness, and its blend of drama and horror elements. The show’s unique approach to the genre sets it apart from other series in its category.
10. How does the music in Bates Motel contribute to the show’s atmosphere?
The music in Bates Motel plays a key role in setting the show’s eerie and suspenseful tone. The haunting melodies and suspenseful rhythms enhance the overall atmosphere of the series and add to the tension and intrigue of each episode.
11. What are some of the most iconic songs featured in Bates Motel?
Some of the most iconic songs featured in Bates Motel include “In the Pines” by Julee Cruise, “The Man Who Sold the World” by Nirvana, and “Where Is My Mind?” by Pixies. These songs are all key to the show’s overall soundtrack and atmosphere.
12. How does Bates Motel explore the theme of mental illness?
Bates Motel delves into the theme of mental illness through its portrayal of Norman Bates and his struggles with dissociative identity disorder. The show examines the impact of Norman’s illness on himself and those around him, adding depth and complexity to the character.
13. What can viewers expect from Bates Motel in terms of suspense and drama?
Viewers can expect plenty of suspense and drama from Bates Motel, as the show is filled with shocking twists and intense moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The gripping storyline and complex characters make for a thrilling viewing experience.
Final Thoughts:
In conclusion, shows like Bates Motel on Netflix offer a thrilling and suspenseful viewing experience for fans of dark dramas and psychological thrillers. From family secrets to murder mysteries, these series will keep you entertained and on the edge of your seat. The accompanying music adds to the overall atmosphere of these shows, capturing the eerie and suspenseful vibes that make them so captivating.
Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, supernatural horror, or sci-fi thrillers, there is something for everyone to enjoy in these shows. Each series offers a unique take on the genre, exploring complex themes and characters that will leave you questioning the nature of good and evil. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and prepare to be captivated by these dark and twisted tales of suspense and intrigue. Happy binge-watching!
