The Top Ten Courtroom TV Shows and Movies You Must Watch

Written by Serena Baker & Likewise Pix | May 23, 2024

There's something incredibly captivating about courtroom dramas and legal thrillers. The tension, intricate plot twists, and stunning performances all contribute to an absorbing viewing experience. Here’s a comprehensive look at ten must-watch TV shows and movies that bring the courtroom, legal battles, and complex human emotions right to your screen.

"Love & Death" (2023)

This shocking miniseries delves into the lives of Candy and Pat Montgomery and their friends Betty and Allan Gore in small-town Texas. What starts as an exploration of suburban life takes a dark turn when an extramarital affair leads to a gruesome act of violence. The portrayal of real-life events involving an infamous axe murder keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

"Better Call Saul" (2015-2022)

Before he was Saul Goodman, he was Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer with big dreams. "Better Call Saul" follows Jimmy's journey, revealing his transformation into the morally gray attorney known and loved from "Breaking Bad." This prequel gives audiences a profound understanding of Jimmy's complex character while serving dramatic courtroom and legal shenanigans.

"Oppenheimer" (2023)

This intense biographical drama brings to life the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the brilliant scientist behind the atomic bomb. While not a traditional courtroom drama, "Oppenheimer" explores the moral and ethical debates surrounding the creation and use of nuclear weapons during World War II. It's a compelling tale of power, invention, and the complexities of human decisions.

"12 Angry Men" (1957)

A cinematic classic, "12 Angry Men" takes viewers inside the deliberations of a jury tasked with deciding the fate of a young defendant. As the jurors clash and debate, the film masterfully reveals their biases and personalities. It's a gripping exploration of justice, prejudice, and human nature, all confined within the claustrophobic walls of a jury room.

"To Kill a Mockingbird" (1962)

Based on Harper Lee's timeless novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird" tells the story of lawyer Atticus Finch as he defends Tom Robinson, a black man accused of raping a white woman in the deep South. Amidst the backdrop of racial tension and injustice, the narrative unfolds through the eyes of Finch’s young daughter, Scout. The film remains an important reflection on morality and human decency.

"The Good Fight" (2017-2022)

A spin-off from "The Good Wife," "The Good Fight" picks up a year after the finale of its predecessor. This series sees Diane Lockhart and her goddaughter Maia Rindell navigating the aftermath of a financial scam that dismantles their careers and reputations. Joining a prominent law firm, they tackle high-stakes cases while grappling with personal and professional challenges.

"How to Get Away with Murder" (2014-2020)

Featuring a gripping and provocative storyline, "How to Get Away with Murder" revolves around Annalise Keating, a brilliant defense attorney and law professor. She mentors a group of ambitious students who soon become embroiled in a murder mystery that shakes their lives to the core. The series expertly blends suspense, legal procedures, and scandal in a way that keeps audiences hooked.

"The Good Wife" (2009-2016)

Alicia Florrick's world is turned upside down when her husband’s public scandal forces her back into the workforce. "The Good Wife" chronicles her legal battles and personal struggles as she strives to rebuild her life and career. Blending legal drama with political intrigue, this series offers a compelling portrait of resilience and determination.

"Suits" (2011-2019)

This slick and stylish series begins when Mike Ross, a brilliant college dropout, accidentally lands a job at one of New York’s top law firms. Under the guidance of the charismatic Harvey Specter, Mike navigates the intense and competitive world of corporate law — all while keeping his lack of a formal law degree a secret. "Suits" combines legal maneuvering with sharp wit and complex character dynamics.

"Philadelphia" (1993)

In "Philadelphia," lawyers Andrew Beckett and Joe Miller come together to fight a landmark case of AIDS discrimination against a prestigious law firm. The film, notable for its powerful performances by Tom Hanks and Denzel Washington, explores themes of prejudice, justice, and human rights. It remains a poignant and important narrative in the fight against discrimination and for equality.

With these ten captivating courtroom dramas and legal thrillers, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate world of law and human emotion. Whether it’s real-life events, moral dilemmas, or high-stakes legal battles, these stories offer something compelling for every viewer.