Shows Like Magpie (2019)

Amos Tamam, Or Ben-Melech, and Nir Saadon in Magpie (2019)

8.8 / 10 (based on 66 reviews)

After 17 years in prison for murder, Assa Katz is released from prison. He has spent the last years as one of the best magpies for the police, and was release provided that he continues to work with the police. During these years his older brother has become a real-estate giant and no longer cares for his younger brother. Assa goes on a revenge spree to take over his brother’s organization.

Genre: Crime, Drama

Main Cast: Or Ben-Melech, Amos Tamam, Ania Bukstein, Idit Teperson
Creators: Adam Bizanski, Dana Eden, Omri Shenhar
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1 season, 11 episodes

Shows Most Like Magpie (2019)

Juda (2017)

Juda (2017)

7 / 10 (based on 305 reviews)

Juda Ben Haim is a showy little thug, on his way to the biggest gambling in Romania with the money of a dangerous French mobster. A mysterious and beautiful woman shows up and changes all the picture.

Genre: Action, Crime, Drama, Fantasy, Horror, Sci-Fi

Main Cast: Tzion Baruch, Amos Tamam, Moris Cohen, Mike Burstyn
Creators: Tzion Baruch
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2 seasons, 15 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime

Shtisel (2013)

Doval'e Glickman, Ayelet Zurer, and Michael Aloni in Shtisel (2013)

8.6 / 10 (based on 7692 reviews)

The life of the Shtisel family, a Haredi family in Jerusalem.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Doval’e Glickman, Michael Aloni, Neta Riskin, Shira Haas
Creators: Ori Elon, Yehonatan Indursky
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3 seasons, 33 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime

Manayek (2020)

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8.2 / 10 (based on 877 reviews)

Izzy Bachar, a police internal affairs investigator, discovers just before retirement that his long time friend Barak, a senior police officer, is accused of being corrupt. Life as he knows it breaks into pieces.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Shalom Assayag, Amos Tamam, Maya Dagan, Liraz Chamami
Creators: Roy Iddan
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1 season, 10 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime

The Grave (2019)

The Grave (2019)

6.8 / 10 (based on 403 reviews)

An earthquake in northern Israel reveals a pit in the ground, and in it are three skeletons. The police investigation encounters a mystery with no reasonable explanation.

Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller

Main Cast: Liana Ayoun, Nadav Netz, Shalom Michaelshwilli, Tsahi Halevi
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1 season, 8 episodes, 50.0-minute runtime

PMTA (2018)

PMTA (2018)

8.7 / 10 (based on 100 reviews)

Marcel Ben David is a former police officer that joins PMTA and found herself in the middle of an entangled corruption story.

Genre: Crime, Drama

Main Cast: Chen Amsalem, Zohar Strauss, Sara von Schwarze, Ori Pfeffer
Creators: Noa Ben-Artzi, Ester Namdar, Oded Lotan
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2 seasons, 18 episodes, 40.0-minute runtime

Fauda (2015)

Hisham Suliman and Lior Raz in Fauda (2015)

8.3 / 10 (based on 32287 reviews)

The human stories on both sides of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller

Main Cast: Lior Raz, Itzik Cohen, Neta Garty, Rona-Lee Shim’on
Creators: Avi Issacharoff, Lior Raz
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4 seasons, 46 episodes, 60.0-minute runtime


In the landscape of television, where shows come and go with the changing seasons, there’s a hidden gem that has flown under the radar for many. That gem is “Magpie”, a series that debuted in 2019 and has since carved out a niche for itself among enthusiasts of well-crafted drama. Unlike its more flamboyant counterparts, “Magpie” doesn’t rely on extravagant production or sensational plot twists. Instead, it offers a compelling narrative, rich character development, and a reflection on themes that resonate on a deeply human level.

What Sets “Magpie” Apart?

At first glance, “Magpie” might seem like another entry in the crowded field of drama series. However, it distinguishes itself through a combination of storytelling, character complexity, and thematic depth.

Storytelling

The narrative structure of “Magpie” is both straightforward and intricate. It follows the life of its titular character, a seemingly ordinary person with an extraordinary secret. This secret not only shapes the course of the protagonist’s life but also serves as a catalyst for the events that unfold throughout the series. The storytelling is deliberate, paced in a way that allows viewers to immerse themselves in the world of the show without feeling overwhelmed by unnecessary plot complications.

Character Complexity

“Magpie” shines in its portrayal of characters. Each character is meticulously crafted, with their motivations, strengths, and flaws laid bare for the audience. This level of detail makes the characters relatable and their journeys compelling. The protagonist, in particular, is a study in contradictions, embodying the struggle between personal desire and moral obligation.

Thematic Depth

The themes explored in “Magpie” are both timeless and timely. The show delves into issues such as identity, redemption, and the consequences of our choices. These themes are woven into the narrative in a way that prompts viewers to reflect on their own lives and the society around them.

Why “Magpie” Deserves More Attention

Despite its qualities, “Magpie” hasn’t received the level of attention one might expect. This could be due to a variety of factors, from its understated marketing campaign to the sheer volume of content available to viewers today. However, there are several reasons why “Magpie” is worth your time.

A Refreshing Change of Pace

In an era dominated by high-octane action and complex science fiction, “Magpie” offers a refreshing change of pace. Its focus on human stories and emotional depth provides a welcome respite from the sensory overload of more mainstream offerings.

Exceptional Writing and Acting

The writing in “Magpie” is sharp, insightful, and, above all, authentic. The dialogue feels natural, and the plot developments are earned rather than contrived. The acting is equally impressive, with the cast delivering nuanced performances that bring the script to life.

A Visually Stunning Production

While “Magpie” may not have the budget of larger productions, it more than makes up for it in visual storytelling. The cinematography is beautiful, using visual motifs and color palettes to enhance the narrative and emotional impact of the story.

Memorable Moments from “Magpie”

Throughout its run, “Magpie” has delivered several memorable moments that have left an indelible mark on its viewers. Here are a few examples:

  • The Revelation: The moment when the protagonist’s secret is finally revealed is handled with such finesse that it’s both shocking and utterly believable.
  • The Choice: A pivotal scene in which the protagonist must make a difficult decision, showcasing the complexity of human emotion and the agony of choice.
  • The Final Scene: Without giving away spoilers, the final scene of the series is a masterclass in storytelling, leaving viewers with a sense of closure while still pondering the themes of the show.

In Conclusion

“Magpie” is a series that defies easy categorization. It’s a drama that combines compelling storytelling, rich character development, and thought-provoking themes. While it may not have the widespread recognition of some of its contemporaries, it stands as a testament to the power of understated storytelling.

For those who appreciate television that prioritizes substance over spectacle, “Magpie” is a must-watch. It’s a reminder that, in the right hands, the most ordinary stories can be transformed into something truly extraordinary.

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