Netflix’s 2-Part Crime Thriller Series Is So Good, You Can Rewatch It Multiple Times

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Netflix has a lot of great crime thrillers, including several long-running series that follow a familiar and successful formula. However, the platform hasn’t had as much success with more original or experimental shows, and unfortunately, it often cancels promising series before they can really develop. The cancellation of Mindhunter is probably the most disappointing example of this.

As a huge fan of crime dramas, I was completely hooked by Mindhunter. It wasn’t like anything else on TV, really – it was based on the incredible true story told in John Douglas’s memoir, co-written with Mark Olshaker, and the way they approached understanding criminals was fascinating. It’s such a shame Netflix canceled it, especially since it felt like they were just about to take things to a whole new level. Budget issues, apparently – a real loss for those of us who were invested in the show.

Mindhunter Had The Makings Of A Legendary TV Crime Thriller

Mindhunter stands out as a truly unique detective show, redefining the crime thriller genre on television. Unlike most shows that focus on investigators solving a crime, Mindhunter pioneered a different approach. Set in the 1970s – a time when understanding criminal psychology was in its early stages – the series realistically portrayed its characters making significant, and sometimes devastating, errors.

Many true crime shows on television exaggerate the details of real events, turning them into something like horror movies. While Mindhunter is visually dark and well-directed by David Fincher, it focuses on the psychological aspects of crime rather than graphic violence. The show surprisingly contains very little actual violence, instead using crime scene photos and unsettling conversations to create suspense.

The deliberate subtlety of Mindhunter made its few violent scenes particularly impactful, and the show generally maintained a creepy atmosphere. Because the real-life events depicted had already been the basis for popular movies and shows like The Silence of the Lambs, Mindhunter‘s detailed storytelling and excellent performances had the potential to make it a lasting classic in the true-crime genre.

Mindhunter Is A Perfect Long Weekend Binge If You Have A Strong Stomach

I was immediately grabbed by Mindhunter – the very first scene is shocking! A lot of crime shows start by showing how brilliant their main characters are, but Mindhunter does the opposite. We meet Holden Ford right in the middle of a hostage situation, and things quickly fall apart. It’s intense – there’s nudity and a sudden shooting – and it happens despite his best efforts and training. It really sets the tone for the whole series.

The show is relentlessly intense, featuring disturbing crime scene photos and a haunting monologue by Cameron Britton, who plays serial killer Ed Kemper, as he recounts a horrific act. But the most unsettling part of Mindhunter isn’t the killers themselves; the show also delves into other crimes, like predatory behavior that wasn’t properly addressed at the time.

With only 19 episodes ranging from 45 to 75 minutes, Mindhunter is ideal for a true crime fan looking for a captivating show to watch over a long weekend. Although the series tackles difficult and disturbing topics – it’s not always easy to watch – Mindhunter is highly recommended for those who can handle intense content and appreciate a well-made crime drama.

Why Mindhunter Holds Up On A Rewatch

Most crime shows aren’t very satisfying to rewatch once you know who committed the crime, because the mystery is the main draw. However, Mindhunter is different. It’s not just about solving a crime; it delves into the minds of the investigators and criminals, and paints a detailed picture of how crime investigation worked in the 1970s.

The two seasons of Mindhunter
Season Year Episodes Rotten Tomatoes Critics’ Rating Rotten Tomatoes Audience Rating
1 2017 10 96% 95%
2 2019 9 99% 95%

After your first time watching Mindhunter, it’s really rewarding to learn more about the real serial killers the show depicts, and then watch it again. That’s when you truly appreciate how accurately the actors portrayed those individuals. A second viewing also allows you to fully appreciate David Fincher’s masterful filmmaking and realize just how brilliantly crafted Mindhunter is.

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2026-03-22 04:39