The best crime investigation series available on HBO Max 

Today we are going to talk about the best crime investigation series available on HBO Max. HBO is known for its incredible range of high-quality TV series and has unmissable titles for you to watch.

With an extensive library of original content, HBO always surprises us with its first-rate productions. If you're a fan of crime shows and looking for some of the best HBO picks, you've come to the right place. 

In this article, we'll highlight some of the most exciting and engaging series HBO has brought to its streaming platform. Let's name the cast, year of release and its evaluation in the media, as well as a summary of the script without spoilers.

Discover now the best criminal investigation series available on HBO Max

Sea of Easttown

“Mare of Easttown” is a drama series that has won over critics and audiences alike with its gripping storytelling and exceptional performances. Set in the fictional town of Easttown, Pennsylvania, the series introduces us to the life of Mare Sheehan, a local detective brilliantly played by Kate Winslet. With an intricate plot and full of twists, “Mare of Easttown” takes us on a deep dive into human complexity, exploring themes such as secrets, loss and redemption.

The series follows Mare Sheehan as she investigates a murder that shakes the Easttown community. While searching for the truth behind this crime, Mare must deal with her own personal conflicts and face the consequences of past events. Winslet's character is masterfully portrayed, conveying the pain, determination and strength of a woman who carries the weight of the world on her shoulders.

One of the outstanding characteristics of “Mare of Easttown” is the careful construction of its characters. Each of them is presented with its own layers of complexity, revealing secrets, motivations and weaknesses throughout the plot. The series explores interpersonal relationships in a realistic way, portraying family challenges, lasting friendships and even social tensions present in a small community.

Cast: Kate Winslet, Evan Peters, Jean Smart, Guy Pearce, Julianne Nicholson, Angourie Rice and more.

Release year: 2021

Number of seasons: 1 season

The Wire

“The Wire” is an acclaimed television series that stands out for its realistic and raw approach to the world of crime and society. Set in the city of Baltimore, in the United States, the series goes deep behind the scenes of the city's institutions, such as the police, drug trafficking, politics and the press. With a complex narrative and multifaceted characters, "The Wire" offers a realistic and compelling portrayal of the intersection between these institutions and their consequences on people's lives.

One of the hallmarks of “The Wire” is its meticulous and detailed approach. The series explores the social and structural problems faced by the city of Baltimore, delving into topics such as drug trafficking, police corruption, poverty and social marginalization. Throughout its five seasons, “The Wire” presents a critical and uncompromising view of the challenges facing society, shedding light on issues that are often overlooked.

In addition, “The Wire” stands out for its brilliant writing and sharp dialogues. The series' scripts are rich in detail, exploring the complexity of interpersonal relationships and the characters' motivations. The characters of “The Wire” are portrayed realistically, with their virtues, flaws and contradictions. The series does not limit itself to presenting simplified stereotypes, but rather to creating multifaceted and captivating characters that evolve throughout the plot.

Cast: Dominic West, Idris Elba, Michael K. Williams, Wendell Pierce and more.

Year of Launch: 2002

Number of seasons: 5 seasons

True Detective

“True Detective” is an anthology series that features a different story each season. Each delves into a complex murder case, exploring not only the investigation itself, but also the lives and personal struggles of the detectives involved. With powerful performances, striking dialogue and a dark atmosphere, “True Detective” is a series that immerses viewers in an intense narrative full of mystery. So let's approach this series a little differently and talk about each season separately.

First season: the season follows detectives Rust Cohle, played by Matthew McConaughey, and Martin Hart, played by Woody Harrelson, as they investigate a grisly murder case in Louisiana. The plot unfolds in two different timelines: the present, when the detectives are questioned about the case, and the past, when they worked together on the investigation.

The story unfolds slowly, revealing layers and twists that keep the viewer hungry for more information. The deep, philosophical dialogues between Rust and Martin add an intellectual dimension to the narrative, exploring existential and moral questions.

Main cast: Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Michelle Monaghan.

Release year: 2014

Second season: features a distinct take on the first season. Though it was met with divided opinions, the season continues to explore deep themes and presents a complex and mystery-filled narrative.

The story takes place in the city of Vinci, California, and accompanies a set of complex and interconnected characters in a plot involving corruption, organized crime and drug trafficking. The season tackles themes of power, corruption and the consequences of the past as the characters are drawn into a dark and dangerous world.

Main cast: Colin Farrell, Rachel McAdams, Vince Vaughn, Kelly Reilly and Taylor Kitsch.

Release year: 2015

Third season: is considered a remarkable return to the essence of the series, with an engaging narrative, complex characters and a plot full of mystery. After a controversial second season, the third season regains the quality and depth that made the series acclaimed in its inception.

The season follows retired detective Wayne Hays, played by Mahershala Ali, as he investigates a missing child case in a small Arkansas town. The narrative unfolds in three different timelines, showing the initial investigation, a reopening of the case decades later, and the lasting effects of the mystery on Hays' life.

Main cast: Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff, Carmen Ejogo and Scoot McNairy.

Release year: 2019

The Outsider

“The Outsider” is a series based on the novel by Stephen King and brings a unique approach that combines elements of crime and suspense with supernatural touches. With an engaging narrative and chilling atmosphere, the series immerses viewers in a disturbing mystery that defies logic and rationality.

Its plot begins with the brutal murder of a young boy. Detective Ralph Anderson, played by Ben Mendelsohn, takes on the case, and all evidence points to Terry Maitland, played by Jason Bateman, a respected townsman. However, as the investigation progresses, clues emerge that question Maitland's culpability, leading to an increasingly complex and frightening mystery.

One of the main qualities of “The Outsider” is its ability to create a tense and dark atmosphere. The series immerses viewers in an atmosphere of suspense and discomfort, with visually striking images and an engaging soundtrack. The careful direction and cinematography evoke a sense of constant apprehension, adding an additional layer of intensity to the narrative.

Main cast: Ben Mendelsohn, Bill Camp, Jeremy Bobb, Jason Bateman, Cynthia Erivo, Paddy Considine, Marc Menchaca and Julianne Nicholson.

Release year: 2020

Number of seasons: 1 season

The Night Of

“The Night Of” is a miniseries that delves deep into the criminal justice system, exploring the complexities and imperfections that surround a murder case. With an engaging narrative and powerful performances, the series captivates viewers from the very first episode, leading them to question the nature of truth and the pursuit of justice.

The plot revolves around Nasir Khan, played by Riz Ahmed, a young university student who finds himself involved in a shocking crime. As the investigation progresses, Nasir finds himself at the center of a complex legal game, facing charges that could change his life forever. The series examines not only the criminal justice system, but also the personal and emotional consequences that this process entails.

One of the main qualities of the series is its ability to create a tense and engaging atmosphere. The series utilizes a combination of thoughtful direction, dark cinematography and a sweeping soundtrack to convey the angst and suspense present in the story. Each episode is meticulously constructed, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats and eager to uncover the truth behind the crime.

Main cast: John Turturro, Riz Ahmed, Bill Camp, Michael K. Williams, Sofia Black D'Elia and Poorna Jagannathan.

Release year: 2016

Number of seasons: 1 season

Sharp Objects

“Sharp Objects” is a miniseries based on the novel by Gillian Flynn that takes us into a dark and intriguing universe. With an engaging narrative and an intense atmosphere, the series transports us to the town of Wind Gap, where disturbing secrets and past traumas come to light.

The story follows Camille Preaker, played by Amy Adams, a reporter who returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two teenage girls. As Camille investigates the case, she finds herself confronted with her own personal history and the dark secrets of her dysfunctional family. The series delves into the psychological layers of the characters, exploring their emotional wounds and the lasting effects of trauma.

One of the most striking features of “Sharp Objects” is its oppressive and melancholy atmosphere. The careful direction and dark cinematography create a sense of constant unease, highlighting the plot's disturbing elements. The melancholy soundtrack perfectly complements the narrative, intensifying the atmosphere of suspense and tension.

Main cast: Amy Adams, Patricia Clarkson, Chris Messina, Eliza Scanlen and Sophia Lillis.

Release year: 2018

Number of seasons: 1 season