In a world filled with endless entertainment options, there’s something uniquely satisfying about immersing yourself in well-crafted crime thrillers that don’t demand a marathon viewing session. Short crime thrillers provide the perfect balance of intensity and brevity, offering a complete narrative arc within a single day. So, if you’re ready to experience the thrill of solving crimes without committing to a long-term adherence, these short crime dramas promise to keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
1. Under the Banner of Heaven – Disney+ Hotstar
Episodes – 7
This true crime miniseries is based on the eponymous non-fiction book by Jon Krakauer. Set in the backdrop of Utah, the series explores the dark and complex world of religious extremism within the Mormon fundamentalist community. Centred around a chilling murder case, the series delves into the investigation led by Detective Jeb Pyre (Andrew Garfield), who must navigate the challenges posed by faith, power, and family ties within a secretive sect. As the investigation unfolds, you are taken on a journey that exposes the underbelly of a seemingly idyllic community, where devotion to religious doctrine blurs the lines between right and wrong. Detective Pyre, too, grapples with his own biases and preconceptions while uncovering the truth behind the murder.
2. Kohrra – SonyLIV
Episodes – 6
Starring Barun Sobti in the lead role, the crime thriller introduces us to an interesting whodunit revolving around the murder of the groom two days before his wedding. Investigating the case are two police officers – Amarpal Jasjit Garundi (Sobti) and Balbir Singh (Suvinder Vicky). As the investigation proceeds, personal problems in Amarpal and Balbir’s lives jeopardise the case, leading it to an interesting climax.
3. Khakee: The Bihar Chapter – Netflix
Episodes – 7
It revolves around the gritty and often dangerous world of law enforcement in the Indian state of Bihar. Set against the backdrop of Bihar’s notorious reputation for crime and corruption, the plot revolves around a righteous police officer, Amar Lodha (Karan Tacker), who gets thrust into the gritty and often dangerous world of law enforcement in Bihar. The series follows his journey as a police officer and the various challenges like corruption, political interference, and personal dilemmas he faces while striving to maintain law and order. With its intense storyline, realistic portrayal of police work, and power-packed performance, the series offers a gripping viewing experience.
4. We Own This City – JioCinema
Episodes – 6
Set against the backdrop of Baltimore’s gritty streets, this crime series follows the rise and fall of a group of rogue police officers who exploit their badges for personal gain. Led by Sergeant Wayne Jenkins, the task force engages in brazen acts of corruption, including robbery, drug dealing, and extortion, while operating with impunity under the guise of law enforcement. As the scandal unfolds, Detective Ed Burns and his team of investigators are tasked with bringing the corrupt officers to justice. But they soon find themselves up against a powerful and entrenched system that is determined to protect its own. Based on the acclaimed book by Justin Fenton, the series offers a gripping portrayal of the events surrounding the Gun Trace Task Force scandal that rocked the city to its core.
5. Seven Seconds – Netflix
Episodes – 10
This is a gripping crime drama series that delves into the aftermath of a tragic hit-and-run accident involving an American Narcotics Detective and a BIPOC teenager in Jersey City. The plot follows the investigation led by Assistant Prosecutor KJ Harper and Detective Joe ‘Fish’ Rinaldi. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover a web of corruption, cover-ups, and betrayal that threatens to tear the city apart. At the heart of the series is the emotional journey of the victim’s family, who grapple with their grief while seeking justice for their son. As tensions escalate the truth begins to emerge, revealing heart-breaking truths about privilege, prejudice, and the pursuit of truth. With its gripping storytelling, the series is a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking crime dramas.
6. CAT – Netflix
Episodes – 8
This Punjabi crime thriller series is headlined by Randeep Hooda who plays Gurnam Singh, aka Gary, a police informant. The series unfolds against the backdrop of the insurgency during the 1990s in Punjab. He is hired as a spy by Inspector Sehtab Singh (Suvinder Vicky) to infiltrate the local drug cartel and provide information about peddlers. But, while working for the organisation, Gurnam learns about his father’s killer and Sehtab being connected. He then embarks on a bloody mission to avenge his parents’ death. The action-packed plot and Randeep’s performances keep you hooked till the end.
7. Griselda – Netflix
Episodes – 6
This biographical crime drama chronicles the rise of the formidable Griselda Blanco (Sofia Vergara) as she navigates the turbulent Miami drug cartel in her pursuit of power, dominance, and money. However, drug abuse, paranoia, and treachery lead to a harrowing downfall marked by the death of innocent people. Fearing retribution from the cartel, Griselda makes a fateful decision to surrender to authorities, only to face unforeseen challenges.
