While some viewers may be in search of cozy,feel-good shows to watchduring the winter, others relish the chilling allure ofcrimeshows that perfectly mirror the frosty scenes outside their window. The stark beauty of the season becomes a character in its own way, setting a stage where mysteries can play out. Crime shows likeFargo,Valhalla Murders, andFortitudeexemplify the charm found in shows set in winter. They offer more than just visual spectacle, blending the literal coldness of the atmosphere with the thematic complexity of crime solving in an isolated, and often unforgiving, environment.
The shows on this list resonate with viewers in colder weather conditions, especiallyFargo, a brilliant crime anthology set in winter. Surely, the snowy setting adds visual appeal and symbolism to the whole series. Its fifth season premiered in November 2023 and concluded in January 2024, witha beautiful endingthat marked a significant improvement from the last season. Below are more shows that capture the chilling combination of crime and wintry conditions.
20Cardinal (2017-2020)
Set in the wintry setting of Algonquin, the exceptional Canadian crime series,Cardinal, follows Detectives John Cardinal and Lise Delorme as they investigate a series of gruesome murders in their town. Inspired by Giles Blunt’s award-winning mystery novels, this gritty crime drama is intriguing from start to finish.
What Makes It Great
Cardinalweaves a compelling narrative driven by the characters and their struggles with handling their different circumstances. The titular lone detective’s hunt for missing children in a wintry and desolate landscape, amplified by an ominous score, makes this crime show wholly captivating. It’s a perfectly bleak show that spotlights human resilience in the face of adversity.Stream on Hulu
19Fargo (2014-2024)
WithFargo, Noah Hawley has crafted an exceptional anthology crime series inspired by the Coen Brothers' award-winning 1996 film of the same name. Each season functions like a miniseries, featuring different stories and characters that occasionally share connections. This leads to varying appeal from season to season.Fargois known for its intricate plot, quirky characters, and the exploration of crime and morality in the American Midwest.
Fargohas everything one desires in a crime show: murder, violence, drugs, eccentric characters, hostile FBI takeovers, and complex detectives. The entire production is excellent, with superb writing, crisp dialogues, top-notch performances, cinematography and plot, showcasing excellence in almost every aspect. The show’s blend of dark comedy and suspenseful elements heightens its appeal. While not every season emphasize wintry landscapes, winter plays an important role in some storylines.Stream on Hulu
18Trapped (2015-Present)
This Icelandic crime show, with its atmospheric storytelling, unique setting, and interesting premise, makes for a perfect snowy crime drama.Set in a small towncut off from the rest of the world by a blizzard, the narrative becomes intense when a murder occurs. As the local police delve into the investigation, they discover deep-seated secrets and hidden connections among the townspeople.
WhileTrappedincludes typical murder mystery tropes, it occasionally surprises viewers by taking unexpected paths. The small-town setting, with its bleak and claustrophobic vibe, gives off more of a horror feeling than a typical mystery show. The ice-cold location, coupled with the idea of being snowed in, makes this a captivating mix of adventure, drama, and mystery.Not Currently Available to Stream or Purchase
17True Detective (2014-Present)
True Detective
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One of HBO’s finest series,True Detectiveis known for its seamless blend of crime, mystery, and psychological drama within a thematically rich framework. Garnering many accolades for its writing, performances, and overall production quality, the first season is highly celebrated, and the current fourth season is poised to match, even surpass, it.
True Detective: Night Country, the latest installment in this crime anthology series, kicked off its six-episode run on January 14. With its nods to cosmic horror and the occult, it echoes the brilliance of Season 1. Set in an Alaskan setting without sunlight, it follows police officers and detectives investigating the disappearance of eight men from a research station, establishing a mysterious and intriguing premise. Jodie Foster fits right in as Detective Liz Danvers, reminiscent of her iconic performance inSilence of the Lambs.Stream on Max
16Deadwind (2018-2021)
Often praised for itsNordic Noir aestheticand its ability to deliver a gripping and emotionally resonant crime narrative,DeadWindfollows the story of a recently widowed detective, Karppi, and her partner, as they investigate a series of complex and interconnected crimes in Helsinki. Despite dealing with her personal tragedy, Karppi remains dedicated to solving the case.
If you are in search for a bleak and well-crafted crime series to enjoy this winter,Deadwindis an excellent choice. The series has received positive reviews for its solid plot, strong performances, and for the seamless integration of a traditional crime procedural with a character-driven narrative. The atmospheric setting of Hesinki and its surrounding landscapes contribute to the show’s moody and suspenseful tone.Stream on Netflix
15Wisting (2019-Present)
Based on the novelsThe CavemanandThe Hunting Dogsby Jon Lier Horst,Wistingfollows Detective William Wisting, played by Sven Nordin, as he investigates a series of gruesome crimes in Larvik, Norway. Like other great crime shows, it goes beyond just being a crime procedural by delving into the characters’ backgrounds and relationships, effectively enriching the storyline.
For those who appreciate well-crafted crime dramas, this series is a compelling choice. Renowned for its exceptional quality, it has garnered positive reviews for its writing, performances, and gripping plot that focuses on psychological aspects of crime amidst a clever family dynamic. Overall,Wistingoffers a captivating blend of crime, suspense and atmospheric winter settings, making it worthwhile for those who enjoy crime shows set in cold and snowy environments.Stream on AMC+
14Mare of Easttown (2021)
Mare of Easttown
Mare of Easttowntransports viewers to a small town shaken by a murder, which a veteran detective, Mare (played by Kate Winslet), must investigate. This investigation brings to light half-truths, family dynamics, and long-buried secrets. Mare not only grapples with the pressure of solving the case, but also with her personal demons and struggles.
The HBO miniseries truly stands out for its well-written characters, finely crafted dialogues, attention to detail, and a plot rich with dark twists and even darker emotions. Winslet, in fact, won an Emmy for her performance as Mare; her commitment to the role makes it easy for viewers to relate to her bruised and troubled character, even when she appears cold. The gloomy winter setting adds to the dour and somber mood of the show, which is its greatest hold on viewers.Stream on Max
13Lilyhammer (2012-2014)
Lilyhammer
Before there was Avicii, there was just Tim. For the first time through his own words, witness the journey of a shy but prodigious musical talent who would soon become one of the defining artists of his generation.
This Norwegian-American series follows a New York mobster, Frank, who relocates to Lilyhammer under witness protection after testifying against his boss. The series blends comedy, crime, and drama, depicting Frank’s attempt to adapt to Norwegian life while he also deals with other criminal elements that find their way in his life.
Lilyhammerstarts off with a vibe akin toThe Sopranos, but evolves into a comedic gem rather than a traditional mafia series. The crime show is truly amusing and entertaining as it features beautiful landscapes, exceptional musical scores, funny and quirky characters, and a generous dose of black comedy. Steven Vans Zardt shines as the lovable wise guy, complemented by a cast that fits their roles perfectly.Lilyhammerwill be a delightful and unique choice for anyone who enjoys mafia-themed crime shows.Stream on Netflix
Related:10 Realistic Crime Shows Worth Checking Out
12Fortitude (2015-2018)
This British psychological thriller is set in the Arctic Circle in the fictional town of Fortitude, where a British scientist is brutally murdered. This shocking murder is only the beginning of a series of bizarre and disturbing events that test the limits of the town’s residents.
Fortitudeis a slow-burn crime show that requires time and patience to understand its intricate storyline and numerous characters. The plot artfully combines elements of crime-solving, murder mystery plot twists, and science fiction, creating a truly compelling narrative.Fortitudeis also known for its striking visual effects of the Arctic, which are sometimes in contrast with the characters’ brutal actions and the gory details that surface in many scenes.Buy on Apple TV
11Detective Forst (2024-Present)
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Tarta Mountains,Detective Frostrevolves around the charismatic yet unconventional police officer, Wiktor Forst, played by Borys Szyc. As a string of murders rocks this picturesque region, Frost teams up with a journalist to crack the case.
This crime series premiered on Netflix on January 11 and has left many captivated by its twists and turns. While some believe the show fails to maintain its brilliance throughout, others find it just as compelling as the Polish novels it is based on. A standout feature is the series’ amazing cinematography that captures the beauty of the snow-clad mountainous landscape. It may be filled with some plot holes, but the series is undeniably visually stimulating and eerily entertaining.Stream on Netflix
