The 2010s were a golden era for television, and mystery shows were among the most compelling offerings. With A-list actors, cinematic production values, and intricate plots, these series proved that the small screen could rival any blockbuster. Whether you're into time-travel paradoxes, legal thrillers, or supernatural dramas, there's a mystery show from that decade that will keep you on the edge of your seat from the very first episode to the finale.
Here are ten mystery series from the 2010s that were flawless from start to finish, each one a masterclass in storytelling.
Dark (2017–2020)
Netflix's German-language sensation Dark is a sci-fi mystery that transcends language barriers. Set in the small town of Winden, the series begins with the disappearance of a young boy, which unravels a web of secrets spanning four families and multiple generations. The show's intricate use of time travel and the bootstrap paradox creates a mind-bending narrative that rewards careful viewing. With stunning visuals, a haunting score, and philosophical depth, Dark is widely regarded as one of the best time-travel shows ever made, and it's a must-watch for any mystery fan.
Big Little Lies (2017–Present)
Based on Liane Moriarty's novel, Big Little Lies is a soapy, darkly comedic drama that kicks off with a mysterious newcomer in a wealthy coastal town. The series boasts an ensemble cast including Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, and Laura Dern, with Meryl Streep joining in season two. Beneath its glossy surface, the show tackles domestic violence, motherhood, and the pressures of wealth, all while keeping viewers guessing about the central mystery: who ends up dead? The show's second season wrapped up in a way that reinforced its themes of female solidarity, and a third season is reportedly in the works.
How to Get Away with Murder (2014–2020)
Viola Davis delivers a powerhouse performance as Annalise Keating, a brilliant criminal defense attorney and law professor, in this addictive legal thriller. The series follows a group of law students who get entangled in a murder plot, leading to a cascade of secrets and lies. Davis's portrayal is raw and emotionally charged, elevating the show beyond typical network fare. With its rapid-fire plot twists and a satisfying, moving finale, How to Get Away with Murder remains a standout of the decade.
Lucifer (2016–2021)
Tom Ellis shines as the Devil himself in Lucifer, a witty urban fantasy that blends procedural crime-solving with supernatural intrigue. After abandoning his throne in Hell, Lucifer Morningstar opens a nightclub in Los Angeles and becomes a consultant for the LAPD, using his ability to draw out people's deepest desires to solve crimes. The show's charm lies in Ellis's charismatic performance and the ongoing mystery of why detective Chloe Decker seems immune to his powers. After a fan-led campaign saved it from cancellation, the series concluded on Netflix with a satisfying ending.
The Leftovers (2014–2017)
Based on Tom Perrotta's novel, The Leftovers explores the aftermath of a global event where 2% of the world's population vanishes without a trace. Justin Theroux stars as Kevin Garvey, a police chief trying to hold his family and community together in the face of inexplicable loss. The show is a profound meditation on grief, faith, and human nature, with no weak episodes across its three-season run. It's often compared to Lost for its emotional depth and mystery, and it's a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking drama.
Manifest (2018–2023)
This supernatural mystery follows the passengers of Flight 828, which lands after being missing for five years, only to discover that no time has passed for them. As they try to reintegrate into society, they begin experiencing visions and voices that seem to guide them toward a larger purpose. Manifest blends procedural elements with an overarching conspiracy, keeping viewers hooked with its blend of family drama and high-stakes mystery. The show's dedicated fanbase helped it get a final season on Netflix, bringing the story to a close.
Sharp Objects (2018)
Based on Gillian Flynn's novel, Sharp Objects is a chilling limited series starring Amy Adams as a journalist who returns to her hometown to cover the murders of two young girls. As she digs deeper, she confronts her own troubled past and the dark secrets of her family. The show is a slow-burn psychological thriller with a haunting atmosphere and a devastating twist. Adams's performance is mesmerizing, and the series is a perfect example of how to adapt a novel for the screen.
The Sinner (2017–2021)
Each season of The Sinner presents a new mystery, starting with a seemingly inexplicable crime committed by an ordinary person. The show's first season, starring Jessica Biel as a young mother who stabs a man on a beach, is a gripping exploration of trauma and memory. Subsequent seasons continue to delve into the psychology of crime, with Bill Pullman's detective character at the center. The show's anthology format keeps it fresh, and each installment is a tightly woven puzzle.
True Detective (2014–Present)
While later seasons have been uneven, the first season of True Detective is a masterpiece of Southern Gothic noir. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star as two detectives investigating a series of ritualistic murders over a 17-year period. The show's nonlinear narrative, philosophical dialogue, and haunting atmosphere make it a standout. Even if you only watch season one, it's a perfect mystery from start to finish.
Broadchurch (2013–2017)
This British crime drama follows detectives Alec Hardy and Ellie Miller as they investigate the murder of a young boy in a small coastal town. The show is a masterclass in character-driven mystery, with each episode peeling back layers of secrets and lies. David Tennant and Olivia Colman deliver outstanding performances, and the show's emotional depth sets it apart from typical procedurals. Broadchurch is a gripping, heartbreaking, and ultimately satisfying series.
These ten shows prove that the 2010s were a golden age for mystery television. Whether you're in the mood for a mind-bending sci-fi puzzle or a character-driven crime drama, these series are perfect from start to finish. And if you're looking for more great TV, check out our list of the most flawless Netflix originals or dive into the best mystery novels of the century.
