6.8 / 10 (based on 23033 reviews)
A private detective teams up with an ex-cop to solve a kidnapping case in Montana.
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Katheryn Winnick, Kylie Bunbury, Brian Geraghty, Dedee Pfeiffer
Creators: David E. Kelley
Directors:
Writers:
2 seasons, 24 episodes, 60-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Big Sky (2020)
La Brea (2021)
5.7 / 10 (based on 13285 reviews)
A massive sinkhole mysteriously opens up in Los Angeles, separating part of a family in an unexplainable primeval world, alongside a desperate group of strangers.
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Main Cast: Natalie Zea, Eoin Macken, Chiké Okonkwo, Karina Logue
Creators: David Appelbaum
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 11 episodes
A Million Little Things (2018)
7.9 / 10 (based on 14590 reviews)
A group of friends becomes motivated to living fuller lives after the unexpected death of a close friend.
Genre: Comedy, Drama, Romance
Main Cast: David Giuntoli, Romany Malco, Allison Miller, Christina Moses
Creators: D.J. Nash
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 63 episodes, 43.0-minute runtime
Clarice (2021)
6.6 / 10 (based on 10532 reviews)
A look at the untold personal story of FBI agent Clarice Starling, as she returns to the field about a year after the events of The Silence of the Lambs (1991).
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Rebecca Breeds, Michael Cudlitz, Jayne Atkinson, Lucca De Oliveira
Creators: Alex Kurtzman, Jenny Lumet
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 13 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
9-1-1 (2018)
7.8 / 10 (based on 37235 reviews)
Explores the high-pressure experiences of the first responders who are thrust into the most frightening, shocking and heart-stopping situations.
Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller
Main Cast: Angela Bassett, Peter Krause, Oliver Stark, Aisha Hinds
Creators: Brad Falchuk, Tim Minear, Ryan Murphy
Directors:
Writers:
5 seasons, 71 episodes, 43.0-minute runtime
The Rookie (2018)
8 / 10 (based on 45214 reviews)
Starting over isn’t easy, especially for John Nolan who, after a life-altering incident, is pursuing his dream of joining the LAPD. As their oldest rookie, he’s met with skepticism from those who see him as just a walking midlife crisis.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Nathan Fillion, Alyssa Diaz, Richard T. Jones, Melissa O’Neil
Creators: Alexi Hawley
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 66 episodes, 43.0-minute runtime
FBI: International (2021)
6.4 / 10 (based on 4799 reviews)
Elite agents of the FBI’s International division as they travel the world with the mission of protecting Americans wherever they may be.
Genre: Crime, Drama
Main Cast: Luke Kleintank, Heida Reed, Carter Redwood, Vinessa Vidotto
Creators: Derek Haas, Dick Wolf
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 11 episodes, 43.0-minute runtime
Ghosts (2021)
7.9 / 10 (based on 20907 reviews)
A young couple’s dreams come true when they inherit a beautiful country house, only to find it’s both falling apart and inhabited by many of the deceased previous residents.
Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
Main Cast: Rose McIver, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Brandon Scott Jones, Richie Moriarty
Creators: Joe Port, Joe Wiseman
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 14 episodes
FBI: Most Wanted (2020)
6.9 / 10 (based on 9025 reviews)
It follows the division of the FBI tasked with tracking and capturing the notorious criminals on the FBI’s Most Wanted list.
Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Julian McMahon, Roxy Sternberg, Keisha Castle-Hughes, YaYa Gosselin
Creators: Rene Balcer
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 40 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
The Resident (2018)
7.8 / 10 (based on 28580 reviews)
A group of doctors at Chastain Memorial Hospital face personal and professional challenges on a daily basis.
Genre: Drama
Main Cast: Matt Czuchry, Manish Dayal, Bruce Greenwood, Emily VanCamp
Creators: Amy Holden Jones, Hayley Schore, Roshan Sethi
Directors:
Writers:
5 seasons, 82 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime
Cruel Summer (2021)
7.5 / 10 (based on 15304 reviews)
In a small Texas town, popular teen Kate, is abducted. Seemingly unrelated, a girl named Jeanette goes from being a sweet, awkward outsider to the most popular girl in town, but by 1995 she has become the most-despised person in America.
Genre: Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Chiara Aurelia, Olivia Holt, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith
Creators: Bert V. Royal
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 11 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
The Lost Symbol (2021)
6.4 / 10 (based on 12347 reviews)
Based on the 2009 Dan Brown novel of the same name, The Lost Symbol is the story of a young Robert Langdon (Ashley Zukerman) being tasked by the CIA to solve a number of puzzles when his mentor (Eddie Izzard) is taken.
Genre: Action, Adventure, Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Main Cast: Ashley Zukerman, Eddie Izzard, Valorie Curry, Beau Knapp
Creators: Jay Beattie, Dan Dworkin
Directors:
Writers:
1 season, 10 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime
Big Sky: A Glimpse into the Heart of Darkness
Introduction
In the vast landscape of television dramas, “Big Sky” carves out a unique space. Premiering in 2020, this series quickly grabbed the attention of viewers with its gripping storyline, complex characters, and the picturesque yet eerie setting of Montana. Created by David E. Kelley, known for hits like “Big Little Lies,” the show blends elements of crime, mystery, and thriller genres, offering a fresh take on the procedural format.
The Premise
At its core, “Big Sky” is about the search for two sisters kidnapped by a truck driver on a remote highway in Montana. It sounds straightforward, but the series is anything but. The investigation into their disappearance reveals a complex web of crime that runs deep into the fabric of the local community, involving more than just the expected culprits. The show excels in showing how the lines between good and evil can blur, making it a compelling watch.
Characters That Stick
One of the show’s strengths lies in its character development. The series doesn’t just present characters; it unravels them, layer by layer.
Cassie Dewell and Cody Hoyt, private detectives, and Jenny Hoyt, Cody’s estranged wife and ex-cop, form an unlikely trio. Their dynamics, filled with tension and cooperation, drive the narrative forward. Cassie, in particular, stands out as a resilient and resourceful protagonist, embodying the show’s spirit of determination against odds.
The villain, Ronald Pergman, is chillingly ordinary at first glance, making his dark side all the more disturbing. His character challenges the stereotype of the easily identifiable antagonist, adding depth to the narrative.
The supporting cast, including law enforcement officers, family members of the victims, and various residents of the local community, contribute to the show’s rich tapestry of perspectives, making the story all the more immersive.
The Setting as a Character
Montana, with its vast landscapes and small-town vibes, is more than just a backdrop for the series. It’s a character in its own right. The show captures the beauty and isolation of the region, which plays a crucial role in the narrative. The remote setting amplifies the sense of danger and the challenges the characters face in their search for the truth. It’s a reminder of how environment can shape a story, influencing the actions and motivations of its characters.
Themes and Messages
“Big Sky” doesn’t shy away from exploring complex themes. It delves into the darkness of human nature, the flaws in the justice system, and the struggle for survival. The series also touches on issues of trust, redemption, and the impact of the past on the present. These themes are woven seamlessly into the narrative, prompting viewers to think deeply about the moral ambiguities of the characters’ actions.
Why It Stands Out
In a sea of crime dramas, “Big Sky” distinguishes itself through its storytelling approach. It’s not just about solving a case; it’s about the journey, the psychological depth, and the moral dilemmas. The series:
Avoids cliches: While it could easily fall into familiar patterns, the show consistently surprises with twists and character developments that defy expectations.
Maintains suspense: Each episode builds on the last, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is masterful, balancing slower, character-driven moments with intense action sequences.
Explores the gray areas: The show’s moral complexity is one of its most compelling aspects. It challenges viewers to consider the nuances of right and wrong, making it a thought-provoking experience.
Reception and Impact
Since its debut, “Big Sky” has garnered a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim for its performances, particularly those of the lead actors. While some have criticized the show for its pacing and plot inconsistencies, most agree that its strengths outweigh its weaknesses. It has sparked conversations about the portrayal of violence and the depths of human depravity, highlighting its impact beyond mere entertainment.
Conclusion
“Big Sky” is a testament to the power of storytelling. It’s a series that doesn’t just entertain but also engages, challenges, and moves its audience. With its blend of suspense, character depth, and thematic richness, it offers a unique viewing experience. For those tired of the same old crime dramas, “Big Sky” provides a breath of fresh air, proving that even in the familiar, there can be surprises waiting around every corner.