13 Must-Watch Crime and Drama Movies Similar to Bosch

Bosch sets the stage for a gripping crime and drama experience, and if you're craving for more edge-of-your-seat thrills, we've got you covered. Dive into our handpicked selection of 13 must-watch movies that share the same intensity, suspense, and captivating storytelling as this L.A.P.D. homicide detective series. Get ready to embark on a thrilling cinematic journey that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

1) Bosch: Legacy

Bosch: Legacy takes us on a new journey with our beloved detective Bosch, as he enters the next chapter of his career. This time, he finds himself working alongside his one-time enemy, Honey Chandler. While the original Bosch was centered around solving the murder of a 13-year-old boy, Bosch: Legacy explores Bosch's transition into a new role as a private investigator. With his 27 years of experience as a cop, Bosch draws on his expertise to navigate this new world. The series also introduces us to Bosch's daughter, Maddie, who follows in her father's footsteps as a rookie at the LAPD. The main storyline of the first season revolves around finding the long-lost love and potential heir of an ultra-rich man, despite objections from others. Additionally, Bosch forms an unlikely partnership with Honey Chandler as they work together to close out on Carl Rogers.

Release date: May, 2022
IMDB Rating: 8.5

2) The Mad Bomber

The Mad Bomber takes us back to 1973, where Los Angeles detectives Minelli and Blake are on the hunt for a serial rapist who might hold the key to a mentally disturbed bomber. While Bosch is set in present-day Los Angeles, both movies share a common theme of police detectives trying to solve a crime. However, the similarities end there. Bosch, a gripping crime drama series, focuses on a homicide detective unraveling the murder of a 13-year-old boy while standing trial for another crime. On the other hand, The Mad Bomber, also known as The Police Connection, is a thrilling cinema movie that showcases the efforts of a cop trying to catch a mad bomber by capturing a rapist. The Mad Bomber, directed by Bert I. Gordon, surprises viewers with its uncut version, featuring graphic violence, full frontal nudity, and a sleazy subplot.

Release date: April, 1973
IMDB Rating: 5.7

3) Caliphate

Caliphate is reminiscent of Bosch because both are gripping crime dramas that delve into the world of law enforcement. While Bosch is set in Los Angeles and follows an LAPD homicide detective, Caliphate takes place in Sweden and revolves around an agent named Fatima who uncovers a terrorist plot. Both series explore key topics such as father-daughter relationships and the complexities of police work. However, Caliphate adds an additional layer of tension by delving into the themes of Islam and radicalization. With its intense storyline and thought-provoking narrative, Caliphate is a must-watch for fans of Bosch who are looking for a fresh perspective on crime dramas.

Release date: March, 2020
IMDB Rating: 8.2

4) Lights Out

Lights Out is reminiscent of Bosch in its exploration of personal drama and the complexities of relationships. While Bosch follows an LAPD homicide detective solving a murder case while facing trial, Lights Out delves into the struggles of a retired heavyweight boxing champion as he searches for his identity. Both series capture the emotional depth of their characters and the impact of their circumstances on their lives. However, Lights Out offers a unique perspective by incorporating the world of boxing, adding an additional layer of physical and mental challenges. With fantastic acting and writing, Lights Out is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. If you enjoyed Bosch's gripping crime narrative and intricate character development, Lights Out provides a compelling story that will captivate you from start to finish.

Release date: January, 2011
IMDB Rating: 8

5) Prime Suspect

Prime Suspect is reminiscent of Bosch because both are crime drama series that revolve around police detectives. However, while Bosch focuses on a homicide detective in Los Angeles solving a murder case, Prime Suspect follows an iconoclastic female detective trying to prove herself in a male-dominated New York precinct. The two shows share common genres and key topics such as police procedural and police detective, but their settings and characters offer unique perspectives. Bosch, with its gripping plot and solid reviews, captivates viewers with its intense crime-solving narrative. On the other hand, Prime Suspect stands out for its exceptional casting, particularly Maria Bello's outstanding portrayal of the flawed yet gifted detective Jane Timoney. The show's attention to realism and avoidance of clichés in its storytelling make it a refreshing addition to the police drama genre. Although Prime Suspect's fate on NBC might be uncertain, it deserves a chance to be appreciated for its quality and talent, unlike the unfortunate fate of other shows on the network.

Release date: September, 2011
IMDB Rating: 7.3

6) Blue Bloods

Blue Bloods revolves around a family of New York cops, which immediately brings to mind the main_movie, Bosch. Both series explore the dynamics of family relationships, particularly the father-daughter bond. In Bosch, the protagonist works as an LAPD homicide detective while standing trial for the murder of a serial killer. Similarly, Blue Bloods centers around a family of cops in the New York Police Department. While Bosch focuses on the grittiness of crime-solving, Blue Bloods emphasizes the importance of family and faith. The Wahlberg family's weekly dinners provide a heartwarming contrast to Bosch's darker tone. Despite their differences, both series offer riveting crime dramas that keep you engaged from start to finish. So if you enjoyed Bosch, give Blue Bloods a watch for a different take on police procedural with a strong emphasis on family values.

Release date: September, 2010
IMDB Rating: 7.7

7) DCI Banks

DCI Banks, a British crime drama series, is reminiscent of Bosch, an American crime drama series. Both shows revolve around the lives of dedicated detectives working to solve murder cases. While Bosch is set in Los Angeles and follows an LAPD homicide detective, DCI Banks is set in Yorkshire, England, and focuses on the tenacious DCI Banks. Both shows offer a gripping blend of crime, drama, and mystery, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. However, DCI Banks brings a distinct British flavor to the genre, with subtle humor and despair woven into the narrative. The cast of DCI Banks, led by Stephen Tompkinson, provides the necessary gravitas, making the show an excellent English crime drama. With its compelling plots and compelling performances, DCI Banks is a must-watch for fans of Bosch who crave a British twist on police procedural storytelling.

Release date: June, 2016
IMDB Rating: 7.6

8) Flag Day

Flag Day is reminiscent of Bosch in its exploration of the complex dynamics of a father-daughter relationship within the crime genre. While Bosch follows an L.A.P.D. homicide detective solving a murder case while standing trial for another murder, Flag Day revolves around a father living a double life as a counterfeiter, bank robber, and con man to provide for his daughter. Both movies delve into the moral ambiguity and the lengths parents will go to protect their children. However, Flag Day takes a different approach by showcasing the daughter's journey of overcoming adversity and becoming an investigative reporter. Set in different time periods, Flag Day effectively captures the atmosphere of each era, creating a compelling narrative that effortlessly transports the audience through the years. With a standout performance by Sean Penn as the untrustworthy father and Dylan Penn shining in her role as the teenage and adult Jennifer, Flag Day offers an engaging and heartfelt exploration of family, deceit, and redemption.

Release date: July, 2021
IMDB Rating: 5.4

9) American Pastoral

American Pastoral is reminiscent of Bosch because both movies explore the theme of father-daughter relationships. In Bosch, we witness an LAPD homicide detective trying to solve the murder of a 13-year-old boy while facing trial for the murder of a serial killer. Similarly, American Pastoral shows us an All-American college star and his beauty queen wife whose seemingly perfect life falls apart when their daughter gets involved in the turmoil of '60s America. Both movies delve into the complexities and challenges of the bond between fathers and daughters, showcasing the impact it can have on their lives. However, while Bosch is a crime series set in modern-day Los Angeles, American Pastoral takes us back to the 1960s and deals with social criticism and the Vietnam War. With its unique setting and thought-provoking narrative, American Pastoral offers a fresh perspective on the father-daughter relationship, making it a must-watch for those who enjoyed Bosch.

Release date: January, 2017
IMDB Rating: 6.1

10) Broken

Broken is reminiscent of Bosch in that they both explore the theme of a father's determination to seek justice for his daughter. In Bosch, an LAPD homicide detective investigates the murder of a 13-year-old boy while facing his own trial for the murder of a serial killer. Similarly, Broken tells the story of a widowed father who becomes a fugitive after killing one of the men responsible for raping and murdering his daughter. Both films delve into the depths of a father's grief and his relentless pursuit of vengeance. However, while Bosch focuses on the procedural aspects of the investigation, Broken delves into the moral and ethical implications of taking justice into one's own hands. Set in South Korea, Broken also tackles issues such as juvenile delinquency, teenage prostitution, and the flaws in the justice system. With its thought-provoking exploration of revenge and violence, Broken offers a unique perspective on the genre and is definitely worth a watch for fans of Bosch.

Release date: April, 2014
IMDB Rating: 6.7

11) Let's Sin

Let's Sin is reminiscent of Bosch in many ways. Both movies revolve around the theme of a murder investigation, with Let's Sin taking place in Istanbul, Turkey. While Bosch focuses on a homicide detective solving the murder of a 13-year-old boy, Let's Sin follows Selman Bulut, an imam who starts investigating a murder that occurs during prayer. Both movies explore the complexities of their respective settings, showcasing the intricate details of the investigation process. However, Let's Sin adds an interesting layer by delving into the poisonous side of religion, providing a unique perspective on the relationship between faith and crime. With its intriguing plot and moderate yet engaging performances, Let's Sin is a must-watch for fans of Bosch who are looking for a different cultural experience intertwined with a compelling murder mystery.

Release date: April, 2014
IMDB Rating: 7.8

12) Blood Father

Blood Father is reminiscent of Bosch in its portrayal of a strong father-daughter relationship. Both movies explore the theme of a father's protective instinct towards his daughter. While Bosch focuses on a homicide detective solving a murder case while being on trial, Blood Father follows an ex-con who reunites with his estranged teenage daughter to protect her from drug dealers. The similarities lie in the intense bond between the fathers and their daughters and their determination to keep them safe. However, Blood Father takes a more action-packed approach, with thrilling chase sequences and a revenge-driven plot. Mel Gibson's performance in Blood Father is a standout, reminding us of his talent for anti-hero roles. The movie strikes the right balance between heart and action, making it an entertaining watch for fans of father-daughter stories and revenge flicks.

Release date: August, 2016
IMDB Rating: 6.4

13) Klem

Klem, released on January 19, 2017, is a crime drama series from the Netherlands that will remind you of Bosch. While Bosch, set in Los Angeles, follows an LAPD homicide detective trying to solve a murder while standing trial for another, Klem takes us on a different journey. It revolves around a taxman who unexpectedly becomes friends with a dangerous criminal after their daughters become best friends and he accidentally saves the criminal's life. Both shows explore the complex dynamics of father-daughter relationships and the dark underbelly of crime, but Klem brings a unique twist by weaving in themes of fraud and the unexpected friendship between a taxman and a criminal. With its flaws aside, Klem keeps you hooked with its intriguing plot and captivating performances by Barry Atsma, Jacob Derwig, and Georgina Verbaan. So if you're a fan of Bosch and looking for another crime drama with an unconventional premise, Klem is definitely worth a watch.

Release date: January, 2017
IMDB Rating: 7.8

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