They Made My Heart Pound: My Review of Hulu’s Top 25 Mystery & Thriller Series

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Written By Lori C.

Lori C. writes about movies, TV shows, and the latest updates from the world of entertainment. She studied Film and Television many years ago at university and uses her knowledge to dissect the newest releases. When not in front of a laptop, she wanders around various European cities with a backpack and a little dog.

There’s no better way to get your heart racing without stepping outside your living room than by streaming a good mystery thriller. When the suspenseful narrative happens over several episodes (or seasons), you get hours of plot twists and heart-pounding chases. 

While streaming platforms are plentiful, few have a content library as comprehensive as Hulu. The streamer is home to an array of edge-of-your-seat shows ranging from network cult classics to original productions. These are the best mystery thriller TV shows you can stream right now, ranked according to their IMDb scores. 

Fargo (2014 – 2015) – 8.9/10

Hamish Linklater and Carrie Coon in Fargo (2014)
Image credit: © Copyright 2017, FX Networks.
  • Creator: Noah Hawley
  • Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Martin Freeman, Allison Tolman

Official synopsis: Fargo’s new chapter goes back to 1979 in Sioux Falls and Luverne, where State Police Officer Lou Solverson teams up with Sheriff Hank Larsson to investigate a local crime gang and a Mob syndicate. Their journey reveals several characters, including a charismatic town lawyer, a corporate crime frontman, and a smiling yet menacing enforcer.

The Shield (2002 – 2008) – 8.7/10

The Shield (2002)
Image credit: © The Shield Legacy bumper by Cameron Leahy.
  • Creator: Shawn Ryan
  • Starring: Michael Chiklis, Catherine Dent, Walton Goggins

Official synopsis: The Shield centers on the world of a corrupt LAPD unit led by dirty cop Vic Mackey. The team operates outside the boundaries of the law to achieve its goals, often resorting to brutality, deception, and illegal methods.

Line of Duty (2012 – 2021) – 8.7/10

Kelly Macdonald and Vicky McClure in Line of Duty (2012)
Image credit: BBC Pictures’ Digital Picture Service (BBC Pictures).
  • Creator: Jed Mercurio
  • Starring: Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, Adrian Dunbar

Official synopsis: After a botched anti-terrorism operation, Police Sergeant Steve Arnott joins an anti-corruption unit dedicated to exposing and apprehending corrupt officers. Led by Superintendent Ted Hastings, they are on a mission to unveil police misconduct, despite facing resistance from within their ranks.

House (2004 – 2012) – 8.7/10

Hugh Laurie and Karolina Wydra in House M.D. (2004)
Image credit: Ray Mickshaw/FOX
  • Creator: David Shore
  • Starring: Hugh Laurie, Omar Epps, Robert Sean Leonard

Official synopsis: Watch as the caustic yet captivating Dr. House leads his team through medical mazes to save lives, armed with razor-sharp wit and a questionable bedside manner. As they solve each case, they also unravel the complexities of House’s own tumultuous inner life.

The X-Files (1993 – 2018) – 8.6/10

Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny in The X Files (1993)
Image credit: Fox via IMDB.
  • Creator: Chris Carter
  • Starring: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Mitch Pileggi

Official synopsis: FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully delve into the mysterious and unexplained as they investigate paranormal phenomena in the unassigned detail known as the X-Files. With Mulder embracing the supernatural and Scully grounded in skepticism, they navigate the realms of science and the unexplained to find the truth behind inexplicable cases.

Moving (2023 – ) – 8.5/10

Moving (2023)
Image credit: Disney+ via IMDB.
  • Starring: Kim Seong-gyoon, Han Hyo-joo, Anzu Lawson

Official synopsis: The lives of three high school students with superhuman powers shatter as an evil organization begins a relentless pursuit against them. Their ordinary lives turn into a high-stakes battle against unknown forces.

Justified (2010 – 2015) – 8.6/10

Timothy Olyphant, Jacob Pitts, and Erica Tazel in Justified (2010)
Image credit: © Copyright 2015, FX Networks.
  • Creator: Graham Yost
  • Starring: Timothy Olyphant, Nick Searcy, Joelle Carter

Official synopsis: Meet Raylan Givens, a U.S. Marshal with a unique approach to justice that leads to clashes with criminals and his superiors. Operating with an old-fashioned ethos in a modern world, Raylan’s reassignment to his hometown triggers a whirlwind of conflicts.

Sons of Anarchy (2008 – 2014) – 8.6/10

Kim Coates, Tommy Flanagan, Charlie Hunnam, and David Labrava in Sons of Anarchy (2008)
Image credit: © Copyright 2014 FX Networks.
  • Creator: Kurt Sutter
  • Starring: Charlie Hunnam, Katey Sagal, Mark Boone Junior

Official synopsis: Sons of Anarchy is a motorcycle club in the town of Charming involved in legal and illegal ventures. Led by Clay and his stepson Jax, the club navigates gun-running, garage work, and adult entertainment. Their clash of ideals impacts the club and personal bonds, with old-school violence pitted against Jax’s desire for change.

The Handmaid’s Tale (2017 – ) – 8.4/10

Elisabeth Moss and Alexis Bledel in The Handmaid's Tale (2017)
Image credit: © 2016 Hulu.
  • Creator: Bruce Miller
  • Starring: Elisabeth Moss, Yvonne Strahovski, Ann Dowd

Official synopsis: In a transformed United States now called Gilead, a religion-driven autocracy rules where women face oppression and punishment for defiance. The harrowing tale follows June, captured while trying to flee with her family, as she becomes a handmaid, destined to bear children for government officials. Renamed Offred, she battles to survive and reclaim her identity in a society marked by cruelty and control.

24 (2001) – 8.4/10

 Kiefer Sutherland in 24 (2001)
Image credit: Fox via IMDB.
  • Creators: Robert Cochran, Joel Surnow
  • Starring: Kiefer Sutherland, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Carlos Bernard

Official synopsis: Set within a single 24-hour period, each season of this concept drama follows Jack Bauer, head of CTU’s elite agents, as they uncover an assassination plot against Presidential nominee David Palmer on Day 1. Amid the high-stakes operation, Jack’s personal life crumbles as he grapples with his troubled daughter’s sudden disappearance.

The Americans (2013 – 2018) – 8.4/10

Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys in The Americans (2013)
Image credit: © Copyright 2017, FX Networks.
  • Creator: Joseph Weisberg
  • Starring: Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Keidrich Sellati

Official synopsis: In this gripping drama, a pair of deep-cover Soviet spies live seemingly ordinary lives as a typical DC couple. Their dual roles as parents and travel agents provide cover for their espionage activities, involving confidantes, lovers, and historical figures from the Reagan-era Cold War. As the story unfolds, the series delves into the real cost of undeclared conflict, the sacrifices made to protect beliefs, and the blurred lines between loyalty and betrayal.

Veronica Mars (2004 – 2019) – 8.4/10

Kristen Bell, Jason Dohring, Ryan Hansen, and Kirby in Veronica Mars (2004)
Image credit: © 2019 Hulu.
  • Creator: Rob Thomas
  • Starring: Kristen Bell, Jason Dohring, Enrico Colantoni

Official synopsis: After the murder of high-schooler Lilly Kane in Neptune, California, Veronica Mars loses her social standing and best friend. Her father’s detective agency becomes her new focus, and she becomes his assistant while navigating school and new friendships,

Terriers (2010) – 8.4/10

Donal Logue and Michael Raymond-James in Terriers (2010)
Image credit: FX via IMDB.
  • Creator: Ted Griffin
  • Starring: Donal Logue, Michael Raymond-James, Laura Allen

Official synopsis: Ex-cop Hank Dolworth and former criminal Britt Pollack team up to open an unlicensed private investigation business. The two utilize their unique skills and backgrounds to solve cases. 

The Worst of Evil (2023 – ) – 8.4/10

Im She-mi and Wi Ha-joon in The Worst Evil (2023)
Image credit: Disney+ via IMDb
  • Starring: Ji Chang-wook, Wi Ha-joon, Im She-mi

Official synopsis: Get ready for a high-stakes journey with The Worst Evil, where a fearless undercover cop delves deep into a sprawling drug empire in East Asia, with a twist – his wife, a fellow narc, is in on the action.

Ash vs Evil Dead (2015 – 2018) – 8.4/10

Bruce Campbell in Ash vs Evil Dead (2015)
Image credit: Matt Klitscher/© 2016 Starz Entertainment, LLC – © 2016 Starz Entertainment, LLC
  • Creators: Ivan Raimi, Sam Raimi, Tom Spezialy
  • Starring: Bruce Campbell, Ray Santiago, Dana DeLorenzo

Official synopsis:Ash vs Evil Dead brings our favorite reluctant hero out of retirement with his trusty boomstick in hand. Thirty years later, Ash is forced out of his quiet life to battle a new Deadite invasion, all while dealing with the fallout from that nightmarish weekend at the cabin.

Prison Break (2005) – 8.3/10

William Fichtner, Wentworth Miller, Dominic Purcell, Leon Russom, and Amaury Nolasco in Prison Break (2005)
Image credit: Fox via IMDB.
  • Creator: Paul T. Scheuring
  • Starring: Dominic Purcell, Wentworth Miller, Amaury Nolasco

Official synopsis: Lincoln Burrows, wrongly convicted of murder, faces execution in Fox River Prison. Determined to save his brother, Michael Schofield orchestrates a daring plan to break them both out by deliberately landing himself in the same prison, setting the stage for a high-stakes and suspenseful escape from within.

Homeland (2011) – 8.3/10

Claire Danes and Mandy Patinkin in Homeland (2011)
Image credit: Photo by SHOWTIME.
  • Creator: Alex Gansa, Howard Gordon
  • Starring: Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, Damian Lewis

Official synopsis: Marine Sergeant Nicholas Brody, a decorated hero with a dangerous secret, crosses paths with CIA officer Carrie Mathison, who excels despite her bipolar disorder. Their intricate dance of lies, suspicion, and desire unfolds against the backdrop of a high-stakes thriller, where the nation’s fate hangs in the balance.

Lost (2004 – 2010) – 8.3/10

Naveen Andrews, Emilie de Ravin, Jorge Garcia, Josh Holloway, and Terry O'Quinn in Lost (2004)
Image credit: Mario Perez – © 2010 American Broadcasting Companies, Inc.
  • Creator: J.J. Abrams, Jeffrey Lieber, Damon Lindelof
  • Starring: Jorge Garcia, Josh Holloway, Yunjin Kim

Official synopsis: Lost weaves the lives of Oceanic Flight 815 survivors, stranded on a mysterious island. Every discovery on this island brings new secrets to light, driving their desperate search for a way home.

While You Were Sleeping (2017) – 8.3/10

Lee Jong-Suk and Bae Suzy in While You Were Sleeping (2017)
Image credit: SBS TV via IMDb.
  • Starring: Bae Suzy, Lee Jong-Suk, Jung Hae-in

Official synopsis: Step into the unusual world of While You Were Sleeping, where Nam Hong Joo and Jung Jae Chan are bound by shared premonitions. As they navigate their intertwined dreams and their impact on reality, a thrilling quest for answers unfolds.

The Killing (2011 – 2014) – 8.3/10

Mireille Enos and Joel Kinnaman in The Killing (2011)
Image credit: Photos: Carole Segal.
  • Creator: Veena Sud
  • Starring: Mireille Enos, Joel Kinnaman, Billy Campbell

Official synopsis: Det. Sarah Linden’s final day on duty spirals into a complex murder investigation involving a city councilman’s campaign. As she delays her departure plans, she navigates a tangled web of political intrigue and crime.

Legion (2017 – 2019) – 8.2/10

Rachel Keller in Legion (2017)
Image credit: © Copyright 2018, FX Networks.
  • Creator: Noah Hawley
  • Starring: Dan Stevens, Rachel Keller, Aubrey Plaza

Official synopsis: Legion follows the intriguing journey of David Haller, a man diagnosed with schizophrenia who might possess superhuman abilities. His life takes a dramatic turn after meeting Syd, a fellow patient, triggering a realization about his own reality.

The Unit (2006 – 2009) – 8.1/10

Still of Scott Foley and Dennis Haysbert in The Unit
Image credit: © Fox Television.
  • Creator: David Mamet
  • Starring: Dennis Haysbert, Regina Taylor, Audrey Marie Anderson

Official synopsis: Step into the high-octane world of The Unit, where a secret US military team executes covert operations worldwide. Amidst perilous encounters and life-threatening risks, they show bravery and commitment.

Manhunt: Unabomber (2017 – 2020) – 8.1/10

Manhunt: Unabomber (2017)
Image credit: Discovery Communications via IMDb
  • Creators: Andrew Sodroski, Jim Clemente, Tony Gittelson
  • Starring: Gethin Anthony, Arliss Howard, Kelly Jenrette

Official synopsis: Manhunt: Unabomber takes you inside the intense, decades-long pursuit of one of America’s most elusive criminals. Watch as innovative FBI tactics and sheer determination bring the Unabomber’s reign of terror to an end.

11.22.63 (2016) – 8.1/10

James Franco and Anthony Colonello in 11.22.63 (2016)
Image credit: Hulu/Steve Wilkie – © 2015 Hulu, LLC.
  • Creator: Bridget Carpenter
  • Starring: James Franco, Sarah Gadon, George MacKay

Official synopsis: Check out 11.22.63 where Jake Epping’s leap through time to save JFK turns into a tangled affair of the heart. Streaming on Hulu, this series is a perfect blend of edge-of-your-seat suspense and a love story that transcends time.

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999 – ) – 8.1/10

Kelli Giddish in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999)
Image credit: NBC/Will Hart/NBC – © 2017 NBCUniversal Media, LLC
  • Creator: Dick Wolf
  • Starring: Mariska Hargitay, Christopher Meloni, Ice-T

Official synopsis: The stories hit hard in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, where an elite team of NYC detectives navigates the city’s darkest crimes. It’s a gripping, compassionate look at the pursuit of justice against the odds.

25 Best TV Shows To Binge on Hulu This Month Ranked by IMDB

Jason Bateman, Jessica Walter in Arrested Development, Saving for Arraignment Day
Image credit: Netflix.

Ready to binge-watch but not sure which series to sink into? Let us guide you! We’ve curated a list of the top 25 TV Shows on Hulu, as ranked by IMDb score. Take a look at our up-to-date list and get ready to enjoy one of these well-loved series.

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The Lord of the Rings: The Return of Kings
Image credit: © 2003 – New Line Cinema.

Hulu is undoubtedly one of the best streaming services available, so it’s no surprise that it’s packed with incredible films. To help you choose the right one for your movie night, we’ve put together a list of the top 20 movies on Hulu, ranked by IMDb score. Every film on this list is a winner, so what are you waiting for? Grab your popcorn and get watching!

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Sacha Baron Cohen in Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006)
Image credit: © TM and 2006 Twentieth Century Fox.

If you love to laugh (and who doesn’t?), your Hulu subscription is the ticket to barrels of laughs right in your living room! There’s no shortage of comedic films on this platform, but we can guide you to the best ones. Take a look at our list of the best comedy movies streaming right now on Hulu, and get ready for a movie night filled with uproarious laughter!