5 best shows like Apple TV+'s 'Presumed Innocent' if you love a good crime-drama
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Presumed Innocent' on AppleTV+ which premiered on Wednesday, June 12 is a gripping crime drama reminiscent of classic and modern shows. Jake Gyllenhaal stars as Rusty Sabich, a seasoned prosecutor accused of murder, sparking profound questions about truth and justice.
Adapted from Scott Turow's novel, the series also inspired a 1990 film featuring Harrison Ford. Viewers are constantly on edge, questioning who to trust, a hallmark of compelling crime dramas.
The series balances suspense with believable plot twists, keeping the audience engaged without contrivance. The cast's performances, crucial to its success, bring depth to characters pivotal in driving the story forward.
In crime dramas like 'Presumed Innocent', strong storytelling and credible characters are paramount, ensuring an immersive and suspenseful viewing experience. On that note, here are 5 best shows like Apple TV+'s Presumed Innocent while you can't wait for the next episode to drop.
Better Call Saul (2015–2022)
Bob Odenkirk delivered a standout performance in 'Better Call Saul', the prequel to 'Breaking Bad'. His memorable quotes as Saul Goodman illustrate the series' authentic portrayal of legal work and courtroom scenes.
'Better Call Saul' received widespread acclaim for its realistic depiction of cases and Saul/Jimmy's approach as a genuine lawyer.
While not involved in a high-profile murder like Rusty, Saul's journey parallels in spiraling into the world of criminals, a path he also follows in 'Breaking Bad'.
As Saul gets deeper with shady clients, the lines between right and wrong blur, mirroring Rusty's descent into turmoil amidst his affair and subsequent arrest in 'Presumed Innocent'.
Both series offer insight into the clandestine dealings behind major cases, adding to their gripping narratives.
Sugar (2024–)
The twist in 'Sugar' is truly astonishing, blending sci-fi elements seamlessly despite its initial setup. Similar to 'Presumed Innocent', both shows boast top-tier aesthetics and atmosphere, both being Apple TV+ productions.
While 'Presumed Innocent' leans towards a darker and grittier feel, 'Sugar' embraces the vibrant magic of Hollywood's technicolor, setting them apart from typical crime dramas on TV.
Colin Farrell and Jake Gyllenhaal anchor their respective series, portraying anti-heroes with intriguing secrets. Despite stark genre contrasts, 'Sugar's tone aligns more with 'Presumed Innocent' than other sci-fi shows.
Just as Chicago is integral to 'Presumed Innocent's narrative, Los Angeles plays a crucial role in 'Sugar', intertwined with old Hollywood movies in Farrell's investigation.
The Killing (2011–2014)
Denmark's 'The Killing' garnered critical acclaim, leading to an American adaptation for US viewers with a similar tone and premise.
Set in Seattle, 'The Killing' effectively uses the gloomy, rainy atmosphere to enhance its dramatic tension, exploring the fears and mysteries hidden in the shadows.
Unlike typical crime procedurals, the series focuses on season-long investigations rather than standalone episodes. Although 'The Killing' faced challenges in maintaining viewership across its four seasons, its loyal fanbase contributed to a satisfying conclusion.
Similar to 'Presumed Innocent', the series examines how a community reacts when faced with tragedy, often turning inward out of fear for themselves and their loved ones.
Throughout the show, the characters and investigators become deeply entangled in their cases, blurring professional boundaries.
How To Get Away With Murder (2014–2020)
Viola Davis stars as Annalise Keating, a law professor entangled in a conspiracy in 'How To Get Away With Murder'.
Similar to 'Presumed Innocent' and other effective legal dramas, the series employs flashbacks to reveal crucial information and sow doubt about the killer's identity.
While the show begins with an intense focus on murder and investigations into the characters' involvement in violent acts, it gradually shifts its narrative focus as it nears its conclusion.
By Season 5, 'How To Get Away With Murder' shifts its emphasis to Annalise's legal career, with the central murder taking a lesser role.
Annalise shares similarities with Rusty from 'Presumed Innocent', both face challenges in their marriages and conflicts with colleagues, though Annalise emerges as a more complex character.
Both Viola Davis and Jake Gyllenhaal deliver outstanding performances, but Annalise's character provides Davis with greater depth to explore.
Luther (2010–2019)
British crime dramas are highly popular worldwide, and renowned for their unique storytelling style. While 'Presumed Innocent' focuses on the experience of a person accused of a crime, 'Luther' centers around Detective John Luther's investigations, known for his unconventional methods in apprehending criminals.
Similar to 'Presumed Innocent', 'Luther' explores the psychological dynamics of detective work and the intricate relationships between suspects and those pursuing justice.
Idris Elba delivers a standout performance in 'Luther', anchoring the series throughout its seasons with unwavering intensity. Central to the show is Luther's tumultuous relationship with Alice Morgan (Ruth Wilson), whose influence challenges Luther to confront his darkest instincts.
Like Rusty in 'Presumed Innocent', Luther's personal entanglements and obsessions often complicate his professional life and lead him into perilous situations.
'Presumed Innocent' trailer