Written by contributor Graceley Knox
If you’re like me, you like your TV suspense shows with a good deal of witty banter, those clutch your pillow to your chest because, sweet jesus, did you see that guy coming?!?!” moments, and a whole lot of episode endings that leave you slack jawed, staring at your pup next to you on the couch, asking them aloud, ‘Did you just see that?’
If the past year has done anything, it’s allowed a lot of us to catch up with all the shows on our watch lists, and while some of these aren’t as recent as others, they’re still just as binge-worthy, and absolute must watch shows for those who are just as intrigued by the inner workings of criminal behaviour and those that bring them to justice.
Prodigal Son
Honestly, Tuesday has become my favourite day of the week thanks to this show and Tom Payne’s (The Walking Dead) role as Malcolm Bright. More than a talented profiler working with the NYPD, Bright has an edge that can’t be learned in a classroom at Quantico. The reason for that? He spent most of his life up close and personal with one of the most renowned serial killers, The Surgeon. Who just so happens to be his father. Basically, it’s a giant tangled ball of bind bending secrets that leaves you begging for more so you can untangle them. Need I say more? New episodes of Prodigal Son air on Tuesdays at 9PM EST on FOX, and you absolutely must watch season 1 prior to viewing the new episodes.
Helstrom
If you like a paranormal twist to your mystery, which, let’s be honest, we’re all trying to fill the void Supernatural has left in our hearts, the Hulu original, Helstrom has the makings of a close substitute. Two estranged siblings, Satana and Daimon, who both use their unwanted demonic abilities, for both good and semi-evil. Add in the fact that their mother has been possessed for years, the church wants some answers as to what exactly the siblings can do, and you’ve got one hell of an action packed, blow your mind, because you won’t see what’s coming, twisty supernatural drama! The first and only season is available now on Hulu and despite the critic’s lacklustre reviews, it’s quickly become a viewer favourite, so if you’re hungry for more… let them know so we can get more… this is the era of show revivals via social media response after all, because the gif below perfectly shows my face after the final episode.
Evil
Speaking of the church… if you’ve always wondered how they decide who’s possessed and who’s just bat shit crazy, this show is one to watch. Not only will you be left second guessing any beliefs you previously had on the subject, the forbidden and downright sinfully delicious, attraction between forensic psychologist, Dr. Kristen Bouchard portrayed by Katja Herbes (Westworld) and David Acosta played by Mike Colter (Luke Cage), who’s a former journalist, now studying to be a priest. The first season is available on Netflix in the US currently, and season 2 is expected to air sometime this year.
The Following
The oldest TV show in this list, it’s also a must watch for sheer WTF did I even just watch, and how quickly can I click next on my remote, value. A notorious serial killer Joe Carroll played by James Purefoy (Rome), becomes obsessed with the FBI agent who put him away, Ryan Hardy, played by Kevin Bacon (Footloose), and hatches an elaborate but still completely believable plot to systematically ruin Hardy’s life as he believes Hardy ruined Carroll’s life. The Following is complete at 3 seasons, and it should be noted that large chunks of time should be set aside ahead of time when watching this show.
Elementary
Since we’re talking twisty mysteries, the inclusion of the retelling of Sherlock Holmes, played brilliantly by Jonny Lee Miller (Dexter), is one that can’t be missed. Twist one, Dr. John Watson, is now Joan Watson, played by Lucy Liu (Charlie’s Angels), and she’s not only in charge of keeping a brash Sherlock from offending every cop he works with while consulting at the NYPD, but keeping him sober. Without giving away the completely mind blowing season 1 finale, be prepared to have more questions than answers as a plot that goes deeper than anyone could have imagined is slowly revealed. This show is now complete with 5 seasons, just waiting for you to binge watch them. Disclaimer: This author is not responsible for an obsession with the show but does say you’re welcome in advance for all the laughs at the witty banter.
All in all, each of these shows brings an exciting and fresh take on mystery dramas that will not only make you forget your own troubles, but feel like you’re right next to the main characters, living theirs with them. So say bye-bye to reality, and jump in to these!
PS: If you’ve ended up watching any of these, drop a line in the comments so we can discuss! I’m always down to fangirl about my favourite TV shows!
