If You Like ‘Task’, You Need to Watch These 10 Shows Next

If you enjoyed the intense action, complex characters, and realistic portrayal of police work in ‘Task,’ you’ll find similar thrills in these crime series. They all feature dedicated teams of investigators, criminals who seem like everyday people, and cases that connect families and communities to the work of law enforcement. Expect to see task forces, undercover operations, and investigations that build suspensefully to dramatic showdowns.

Below, you’ll find details about each show to help you choose what to watch. We’ve included information about where the story takes place, how the mystery develops, and the total number of episodes. You’ll also learn which types of law enforcement teams are featured, like homicide detectives, anti-corruption units, or federal task forces.

‘Mare of Easttown’ (2021)

This series takes place in a close-knit Pennsylvania town and centers around a detective juggling a difficult case with the challenges of working in a place where personal connections are everywhere. As the detective investigates, the search expands from homes and schools to local spots, uncovering links between several missing persons through evidence like lab results, phone records, and interviews.

The show was filmed throughout the state to ensure authenticity. The entire story unfolds over one season, with a distinct start and finish. Viewers will follow a dedicated team of detectives, a clear hierarchy, and a detailed investigative process – from the initial crime scene to the final arrest.

‘True Detective’ (2014– )

Each season of this show focuses on a different group of investigators – from state detectives to federal agents – as they tackle complex cases. The investigations unfold through interviews, evidence analysis, and searches of official records, and the storytelling frequently jumps between the initial stages of the case and later court proceedings.

Each season of the show tells a complete story with a set number of episodes and resolves a single case. It realistically portrays police work by showing how different agencies operate within their legal limits and with the resources they have, impacting everything from surveillance to gathering evidence and obtaining warrants.

‘The Wire’ (2002–2008)

As a fan, I’ve been completely hooked by this show set in Baltimore. It really dives into both the police and the drug dealers, showing how detectives use everything – wiretaps, stakeouts, and informants – to build solid cases. What’s amazing is how it doesn’t just focus on the police; it follows the story through schools, city government, and even the port, but always comes back to the evidence they need to win in court. It’s a really comprehensive look at the whole system.

The series details the process of building a case, showing how investigators use tools like phone records and subpoenas. It also reveals how practical concerns – like officer time, team size, and funding – can determine whether a case continues for the long haul or is brought to a close.

‘Line of Duty’ (2012–2021)

As a huge fan of police dramas, let me tell you about this show. It really focuses on AC-12, a team dedicated to investigating other police officers. Each episode is driven by these incredibly detailed interviews – they really dig into timelines, phone records, and any holes in the video evidence. And it’s not just one-off cases; each season builds this complex web of corruption, hinting at something much bigger going on behind the scenes. It’s seriously gripping stuff!

Investigations use detailed notes, supporting documents, and established guidelines, and officers are evaluated based on how well they follow procedure. Each case generally culminates in a thorough review of the evidence and a decision on whether to file charges, clearly outlining what evidence can be used in court and what still needs to be investigated.

‘Tokyo Vice’ (2022– )

This series, set in Tokyo, follows a journalist who covers crime and a seasoned detective as they investigate financial crimes and organized crime groups. Each episode explores topics like nightclub security, illegal loan sharking, and shell corporations, while also showing the process of building and safeguarding confidential sources during complex investigations.

I just finished watching this show, and the settings are fantastic – everything from gritty police stations to bustling newsrooms and the bright lights of entertainment districts. What really grabbed me was how it delves into the complex relationship between the media and the police. It shows you exactly how they gather information – think surveillance, digging through records, and backroom deals – but also highlights the very different rules they play by when it comes to publishing a story versus making an arrest. It’s a fascinating look at how information flows – and gets controlled – in a city.

‘The Night Of’ (2016)

This short series follows a criminal case from the moment of arrest all the way through the initial legal proceedings. It shows what happens when someone is first brought into the police station, their first court appearance, and how both the defense and prosecution gather and share evidence. Each episode unfolds like a real-life legal timeline, with court hearings leading to new investigations.

The series shows us what happens behind the scenes in places like crime labs, jail cells, and lawyers’ offices, revealing how plea bargains are negotiated and how evidence is carefully tracked. Because the season focuses on a single case, every interview and piece of forensic evidence directly contributes to reaching a final decision.

‘Mindhunter’ (2017–2019)

This series follows FBI agents as they pioneer a new approach to solving crimes by studying the behavior of convicted criminals. Each episode shows them gathering insights through interviews with incarcerated offenders, then using those patterns to help solve current cases. We see them at work both in the field, visiting local police departments, and back at the office, analyzing transcripts and building criminal profiles.

This document explains how interview guidelines are created and updated, and how different categories of information are used when preparing reports for our state and local partners. It also details the unit’s travel plans, who reports to whom, and the approval process for expenses and budgets.

‘ZeroZeroZero’ (2020)

This gripping true crime story follows a single shipment of cocaine on its journey from the source to the end user. It reveals the complex network of brokers who handle the risks, transportation, and potential interference from law enforcement. The narrative jumps between the cartels, the brokers themselves, and a military unit, highlighting the detailed planning, contracts, and financial arrangements that keep the drug trade flowing.

The show offers a look at how ports work, how ships are hired, and how customs checks happen. It also reveals the strategies used when shipping routes are disrupted. Because the season is short, it follows a single transaction from start to finish, showing everything from the initial order to how things are resolved if a deal falls through.

‘Top Boy’ (2011–2023)

This series is set in London and focuses on the people who manage the drug trade in different neighborhoods. It shows how they maintain control of their areas, launder money, and deal with the challenges of both family loyalty and police crackdowns, including raids and undercover operations.

The show follows several seasons of real-life operations, illustrating how things change when leaders or suppliers are replaced. It provides a detailed look at police work, including obtaining warrants, coordinating entry teams, and using undercover tactics, ensuring each operation has a defined goal and a clear result.

‘The Shield’ (2002–2008)

This show follows a highly skilled Los Angeles police unit that solves crimes fast, but often operates outside the rules. Each episode jumps between the police station – including leadership meetings, fieldwork, and the evidence room – and reveals the growing pressure from internal affairs as inconsistencies in records and evidence come to light.

As investigations progress, they create records that are crucial for later review. This series shows how working with informants, managing seized money, and competition between teams can change how investigations are conducted and ultimately affect the team’s direction.

Let us know your favorite dark and intense crime shows in the comments! Also, tell us which one you plan to start watching after you finish ‘Task’.

2025-10-07 05:58