Disney+ Dark Crime Series Redefines Serial Killers

Through its 15-year run, this police procedural has captivated audiences with its complex storylines and unforgettable characters. Criminal Minds revolves around the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) of the FBI. In each episode, the team would be assigned a different “Unsub,” the term for “unknown suspect,” which you will hear a lot, and take off in their jet for another case-of-the-week.

The BAU team, composed of a dynamic and diverse cast, profiles criminals to solve complex cases. Names like Mandy Patinkin, Thomas Gibson, Paget Brewster, Shemar Moore, Matthew Gray Gubler, Joe Mantegna, Jennifer Love-Hewitt, Aisha Tyler, and many more brought these characters to life. That’s to say nothing of the guest stars, which include Amber Heard, Aubrey Plaza, Gavin Rossdale, and a memorable villain played by James Van Der Beek.

The reception of Criminal Minds was largely positive, with viewers praising its writing, acting, and suspenseful storytelling. Notwithstanding some criticism for certain plot elements, such as the use of stereotypical overworked and world-weary detectives, the series remained a ratings juggernaut for CBS and garnered a large and dedicated fanbase, a testament to its well-crafted narrative and engaging performances.

The show’s success prompted the creation of several spin-offs. The first, Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior, featured Forrest Whitaker leading a different BAU team. Sadly, this spin-off was short-lived due to lukewarm reception. The second, Criminal Minds: Beyond Borders, focused on FBI agents solving crimes involving Americans abroad. This international perspective, however, was not enough to keep it afloat, and it was also canceled after two seasons.

An international adaptation, Criminal Minds Korea, took the show’s premise overseas with a South Korean cast and setting. This version features episodes based on ones from the original Criminal Minds.

The series’ influence extended beyond television with video games based on the show’s premise. Engaging the audience in a new interactive way, these games allowed fans to step into the shoes of the BAU and solve crimes themselves. The first game was a puzzle game released by Legacy Interactive in 2012. A second game was released in 2018 for iOS and Android by Tilting Point.

A sequel series, Criminal Minds: Evolution, is streaming on Paramount+. It serves as a direct continuation of the original series, with most of the original cast returning to reprise their characters as they untangle a network of serial killers.

From its original series to its spin-offs and adaptations, Criminal Minds has left its mark on the hearts and minds of viewers and critics alike. A beacon of the crime drama genre, it remains an emblem of suspenseful storytelling and engaging character development.

You can stream the original Criminal Minds on Disney+ right now if you also have an active Hulu subscription.