Top-Rated Cop Show with 100% on Rotten Tomatoes Now Streaming on Netflix
The acclaimed crime series *Southland* is now streaming on Netflix, captivating fans and newcomers alike. The show stands out in the genre for its gritty portrayal of life within the Los Angeles Police Department. With its final two seasons achieving a remarkable 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s considered one of the finest cop shows of all time.
Overview of Southland
Originally aired from 2009 to 2013, *Southland* offers an authentic look at the realities faced by police officers. The show was created by Emmy Award-winning writer Ann Biderman, known for her work on *NYPD Blue*. It was executive produced by Christopher Chulack and John Wells, who both brought their expertise from the acclaimed series *ER*.
Main Cast and Characters
The series stars several notable actors:
- Michael Cudlitz as Officer John Cooper
- Ben McKenzie as Officer Ben Sherman
- Regina King as Detective Lydia Adams
- Shawn Hatosy as Officer Sammy Bryant
- Others: Detective Daniel “Sal” Salinger, Russell Clarke, and patrol officer Chickie Brown
The storyline centers around the seasoned cop John Cooper training rookie Ben Sherman. Throughout the series, Sherman grapples with the challenges of police work, particularly in light of Cooper’s tough methods.
Critical Reception
*Southland* has garnered praise from critics and audiences alike for its realistic depiction of police life. The show’s quality improved notably over time, with the first season holding a 77% rating, while the last two seasons achieved a perfect score.
What Critics Are Saying
- The San Francisco Chronicle highlighted its unmatched quality among cop shows.
- The Wall Street Journal stated it deserves its own category of greatness.
- AV Club praised the emotional depth and realism present in the writing.
- Slant Magazine commended the show’s ability to switch from lighthearted moments to intense violence seamlessly.
Fans have expressed their admiration, suggesting that *Southland* remains one of the most realistic and compelling cop dramas ever produced. Many are dismayed that the series only ran for five seasons, wishing for more episodes to explore its characters and their stories.
Availability
All five seasons of *Southland* are currently available for streaming on Netflix. If you’re a fan of authentic crime dramas, this series is definitely not to be missed.
