Binge 20 Justice System TV Shows on Netflix: Crime & Courtroom Dramas

Why You Should Watch All Day and a Night All Day and a Night, directed by Joe Robert Cole, offers a gripping and raw exploration of the struggles faced by those growing up in environments riddled with crime and violence. The compelling narrative centers on Jahkor, portrayed by Ashton Sanders, whose powerful performance delves into the internal conflict of breaking free from a destructive legacy while contending with familial and societal pressures. The film stands out for its authentic portrayal of urban life, enriched by Cole's insightful direction and personal inspiration. The supporting cast, including Jeffrey Wright and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, add depth and complexity, fleshing out the interconnected lives and choices that shape Jahkor’s journey. Critically, the music selection, featuring hip-hop and soul tracks, further immerses viewers in the story’s emotional landscape. Though it did not receive major awards, All Day and a Night resonates with universal themes of family, legacy, and resilience, making it a must-watch for its heartfelt storytelling and evocative performances.

More about All Day and a Night

---

White Boy is a gripping documentary TV show that chronicles the electrifying story of Richard Wershe Jr., a teenage informant who evolved into a notorious drug kingpin in 1980s Detroit. Directed by Shawn Rech, the series goes beyond a mere biography by unraveling systemic issues related to race and drug enforcement in America. Featuring powerful performances from Matthew McConaughey as Richard Wershe Jr. and Bruce Dern as his father, this show offers a dramatic and nuanced portrayal of a complex real-life figure. The documentary employs archival footage and candid interviews, including insights from Wershe Jr. himself, offering an authentic narrative that's both educational and thrilling. If you're keen on exploring the intertwining of personal stories with broader social issues, White Boy promises a deeply engaging experience. Its rich soundtrack featuring '80s icons like Prince and Madonna further immerses you in the era, making it a must-watch for fans of true crime and historical dramas alike.

More about White Boy

---

The Trial of the Chicago 7, directed and written by Aaron Sorkin, is an engaging drama that revisits the infamous trial of seven activists charged with inciting riots at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. This film serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural and political upheaval during the Vietnam War era, highlighting the clash between youthful countercultural movements and governmental authorities. Featuring standout performances from a stellar cast, including Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, the movie combines riveting courtroom drama with significant historical context. Viewers are drawn into the emotionally charged proceedings, where sharp dialogues, societal tensions, and powerful narratives intersect. With its critical acclaim and gripping portrayal of resilience and justice, The Trial of the Chicago 7 is essential viewing for anyone interested in history, politics, or the enduring quest for civil rights.

More about The Trial of the Chicago 7

---

Out of Thin Air is a must-watch documentary series unraveling the chilling true story of a notorious 1970s Icelandic murder case. Directed by Dylan Howitt, it meticulously delves into the mysterious disappearances and alleged murders of Gudmundur and Geirfinnur Einarsson. With gripping interviews, captivating archival footage, and firsthand accounts from suspects and investigators, the series exposes the controversial confessions and lingering enigma that still haunt the case. Viewers are drawn into a narrative where reality and imagination blur, highlighting the complexities and flaws of the investigative process. The engrossing soundtrack by Ben Salisbury and Geoff Barrow, paired with iconic tracks like The Sound of Silence, adds an atmospheric depth to the storytelling. Winning the Best Documentary at the Edda Awards, Out of Thin Air is essential for true crime enthusiasts and anyone intrigued by unresolved mysteries and the labyrinths of justice.

More about Out of Thin Air

---

13TH, a 2016 documentary directed by Ava DuVernay, is a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the deep-seated racial inequalities within the U.S. criminal justice system. Named after the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery but permitted legal incarceration, the film presents a compelling narrative that links historical oppression to modern-day mass incarceration of Black people. Through interviews with scholars, activists, and politicians, along with powerful archival footage, 13TH exposes the systemic racism that persists today. Praised for its insightful exploration and emotional depth, this documentary not only earned critical acclaim and several award nominations but also elevated DuVernay as the first Black woman nominated for a Best Documentary Feature Academy Award. The stirring original score by Jason Moran amplifies the documentarys impact, making 13TH a crucial viewing experience for its informative and eye-opening portrayal of justice and inequality in America.

More about 13TH

---

Why You Should Watch Strong Island Strong Island is a compelling and emotionally charged documentary that delves deep into the systemic racial injustices in America's legal system. Directed by Yance Ford, this 2017 crime documentary centers on the tragic murder of Ford's brother, William Ford Jr., and the subsequent failure of the justice system to hold his white killer accountable. What sets Strong Island apart is its deeply personal narrative, told through intimate interviews and archival footage. Yance Ford's raw and heartfelt exploration of his family's history and the profound impact of William's death is both moving and thought-provoking. This film challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about race and justice in America, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking to understand the societal issues that continue to plague marginalized communities. The powerful storytelling, combined with a haunting soundtrack by H. Scott Salinas, creates an unforgettable viewing experience. Strong Island was not only nominated for the Best Documentary Feature at the 90th Academy Awards but also made history as the first openly transgender film to receive such a nomination. It stands as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for justice and equality, making it a crucial documentary for our times.

More about Strong Island

---