10 Best Shows Like ‘Lupin’ You Need to Watch
If the thrilling escapades of Assane Diop in “Lupin” captivated your attention, you’re in for a treat. The masterful blend of mystery, deception, and revenge is a genre cherished by many. To keep the adrenaline flowing, we’ve curated a list of shows that echo the essence of “Lupin.” Dive into these captivating tales that promise intrigue, clever heists, and complex characters.
Sherlock
The genius of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic detective, Sherlock Holmes, is masterfully reborn in the 21st century through BBC’s “Sherlock”. This modern-day rendition, starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular character, revitalizes the old tales with contemporary twists and exhilarating plots. Set against the backdrop of present-day London, Sherlock uses cutting-edge technology along with his unparalleled intellect to solve the most enigmatic of cases. Dr. John Watson, played by Martin Freeman, is an Afghan war veteran who joins Holmes in his adventures, and the chemistry between the duo is as riveting as the cases they solve.
Contrary to traditional portrayals, this Sherlock Holmes is not just a brilliant detective but also a man with evident flaws, battling his own demons. The show delves deep into his tumultuous relationship with his arch-nemesis, Jim Moriarty, and showcases a vulnerable side of Holmes rarely seen before. Each episode is a movie-length spectacle, packed with suspense, wit, and intricate plots that will keep viewers at the edge of their seats.
Money Heist (La Casa de Papel)
Money Heist, or La Casa de Papel in its original Spanish, is a riveting tale of heists led by a man known as “The Professor”. Orchestrating a meticulously planned robbery on the Royal Mint of Spain, The Professor and his crew aim to print and escape with billions of euros. Donning city-named monikers and crimson jumpsuits with Salvador Dalí masks, the crew not only attempts the heist but also battles personal dilemmas, love, and the Spanish police force.
The series, created by Álex Pina, dives deep into the psychological dynamics of its characters, blurring the lines between heroes and villains. As hostages and heist crew members interact, relationships are formed and tested, leading to unexpected alliances and betrayals. The intricate plot, combined with captivating character development, has made “Money Heist” a global sensation, resonating with audiences far beyond its Spanish origins.
Peaky Blinders
Set in the grimy streets of post-World War I Birmingham, Peaky Blinders follows the ascent of the Shelby crime family led by the cunning and ambitious Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy). The name ‘Peaky Blinders’ stems from the razor blades sewn into the peaks of their caps, a signature mark of the gang. Throughout the series, the Shelbys navigate the treacherous waters of organized crime, politics, and power, all while dealing with personal struggles and rival gangs.
The show masterfully captures the essence of 1920s England, replete with its socio-political challenges, accompanied by a gripping soundtrack. As Tommy Shelby’s thirst for power intensifies, he confronts formidable foes and faces morally complex choices. “Peaky Blinders” is a raw portrayal of ambition, loyalty, and the pursuit of power, making it a must-watch for fans of gritty historical dramas.
The Queen’s Gambit
The Queen’s Gambit is a compelling coming-of-age tale centered around Elizabeth “Beth” Harmon, an orphan with an extraordinary talent for chess. Portrayed by Anya Taylor-Joy, Beth’s journey from a quiet Kentucky orphanage to the world stage of chess is as tumultuous as it is captivating. The series masterfully portrays her battles with substance abuse, societal norms, and her own inner demons, juxtaposed with her meteoric rise in the male-dominated world of chess.
Scott Frank and Allan Scott’s adaptation of Walter Tevis’s novel of the same name paints a riveting picture of obsession, resilience, and the price of genius. Each episode is intricately designed, showcasing the elegance of chess alongside the chaotic world surrounding it. Beyond just a game, chess in “The Queen’s Gambit” symbolizes control, strategy, and the numerous challenges Beth faces in her life.
Fargo
Inspired by the 1996 film by the Coen Brothers, the television adaptation of Fargo offers a darkly comedic take on crime and morality in the frozen American Midwest. Each season presents a fresh story with new characters, although they are interconnected in the vast tapestry of moral dilemmas, chance encounters, and the pervasive undercurrent of violence. With its unique blend of humor and brutality, “Fargo” provides a vivid depiction of ordinary people entangled in extraordinary circumstances, influenced by greed, desperation, and misguided choices.
The narrative prowess of showrunner Noah Hawley is evident in the series’ ability to juggle humor with profound philosophical queries. It presents viewers with intricate characters, each morally gray, forcing them to question the very nature of right and wrong. Through its ensemble cast and sprawling storylines, “Fargo” remains a testament to the unpredictability of life and the inherent chaos that ensues when crime and conscience intersect.
The Mentalist
The Mentalist is an enthralling crime procedural that revolves around Patrick Jane, played by Simon Baker. A former psychic medium turned consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Jane uses his astute observational skills and keen understanding of human behavior to help solve crimes. However, his true motive remains hunting down “Red John”, the elusive serial killer responsible for his family’s murder. Each episode merges intriguing standalone cases with Jane’s quest for vengeance against the backdrop of his complex relationships with his colleagues.
Throughout the series, viewers witness the evolution of Jane’s character – from a flamboyant showman with a tragic past to a man genuinely seeking redemption and closure. The dynamic between Jane and Senior Agent Teresa Lisbon, portrayed by Robin Tunney, adds depth to the storyline, making “The Mentalist” a harmonious blend of detective work, psychological intrigue, and emotional exploration.
Breaking Bad
In Breaking Bad, the transformation of a mild-mannered high school chemistry teacher into a methamphetamine manufacturing drug dealer is both enthralling and disturbing. Bryan Cranston plays Walter White, who, after a terminal cancer diagnosis, decides to secure his family’s financial future by diving into the world of illicit drugs. Partnering with former student Jesse Pinkman, portrayed by Aaron Paul, they embark on a perilous journey in the drug underworld.
Created by Vince Gilligan, the series delves deep into morality, consequences, and the lengths one might go when pushed to the limit. With each season, Walter White’s descent into the criminal world becomes starker, challenging viewers’ sympathies and allegiances. “Breaking Bad” is a masterclass in storytelling, character development, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Narcos
Narcos offers a gripping account of the rise and fall of the most infamous drug kingpins of the late 20th century, with particular focus on Pablo Escobar and the notorious Medellín Cartel. Set against the backdrop of Colombia in the 1980s and 1990s, the series provides an in-depth look into the global cocaine trade, the brutalities accompanying it, and the concerted efforts by law enforcement to combat it.
The show masterfully juxtaposes the personal ambitions and vulnerabilities of its characters with the vast political and socio-economic landscape of the drug trade. With its captivating narrative, stellar performances, and historical commentary, “Narcos” offers viewers an unfiltered gaze into the complexities and contradictions of a world ruled by narcotics.
Prison Break
Prison Break is a thrilling drama centered on two brothers: Michael Scofield, a structural engineer, and Lincoln Burrows, who’s been wrongfully convicted of a heinous crime and placed on death row. In a desperate bid to save his brother, Michael orchestrates an elaborate plan to break Lincoln out of Fox River State Penitentiary. To do this, he gets himself incarcerated and utilizes a detailed tattoo covering his body as a blueprint for the escape.
The series, created by Paul Scheuring, is a tense exploration of brotherly love, sacrifice, and the extremes one would go for justice. As the storyline unfolds across various seasons, the brothers face mounting challenges, from corrupt institutions to global conspiracies, making “Prison Break” a roller-coaster ride of suspense and emotions.
White Collar
White Collar brings a fresh spin to the crime procedural genre by teaming up an FBI agent with a con artist. Neal Caffrey, portrayed by Matt Bomer, is a charming white-collar criminal who, after being captured by FBI Agent Peter Burke, played by Tim DeKay, strikes a deal to assist the Bureau in apprehending other lawbreakers. This unlikely partnership between the by-the-book agent and the wily con man is the heart of the show, weaving together action-packed investigations with intricate cons and heists.
Set against the glamorous backdrop of New York City, the series delves into the world of art forgery, securities fraud, and high-stakes thefts. As Neal’s loyalty is continually tested, his relationships, especially with Peter, form the emotional core of the show, making “White Collar” a delightful blend of camaraderie, trust, and deception.