Southland Police Drama Soars on Netflix, Hailed as a Modern Classic
A gripping police drama that fans have likened to acclaimed series such as Breaking Bad and The Sopranos has skyrocketed up the Netflix charts. Southland, which originally aired from 2009 to 2013, has made a triumphant return to screens this month, over a decade after its last broadcast, with viewers praising it as one of the finest cop shows ever produced.
Plot and Cast of the Acclaimed Series
The series delves into the intense lives of officers within the Los Angeles Police Department. Crafted by Emmy Award-winning writer Ann Biderman, it features standout performances from Michael Cudlitz as the veteran cop John Cooper, Ben McKenzie as the rookie Ben Sherman, and Regina King as Lydia Adams. An official synopsis highlights the dynamic between Cooper and Sherman, as the rookie grapples with his suitability for police work after witnessing Cooper's uncompromising methods.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Reactions
Southland garnered a devoted following during its initial run, with its final season achieving a flawless 100 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Fans were deeply disappointed by its cancellation more than ten years ago, but its addition to Netflix has sparked a resurgence in popularity. Viewers are binge-watching all five available seasons, propelling it into the top ten charts.
On platforms like IMDb, enthusiasts have lauded the series as ridiculously underrated and one of the best cop dramas ever made. Comments emphasize the excellent cast and believable storytelling, with some placing it alongside television greats like The Wire. One viewer noted, Once you start, you need to clear your schedule, underscoring its addictive quality.
Context of Other Netflix Hits
This surge in viewership coincides with the success of other Netflix series, such as the South Korean thriller The Art of Sarah and the crime comedy How To Get To Heaven From Belfast. The Art of Sarah, starring Shin Hye Sun, has climbed to number four on the global charts, praised for its intricate plot and strong performances. Meanwhile, How To Get To Heaven From Belfast, created by Derry Girls' Lisa McGee, has also risen in the rankings, celebrated for its sharp, dark humor.
Southland's revival on Netflix highlights the enduring appeal of well-crafted police narratives and the platform's ability to reintroduce classic shows to new audiences. It is currently available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to experience its raw and compelling portrayal of law enforcement.
