Detectives have long been a staple of the crime genre but in recent years, there has been a notable shift towards female protagonists taking on the role of the intrepid investigator, challenging gender stereotypes and offering a fresh perspective. With Vidya Balan taking charge as a detective in the recently released film Neeyat, we pick our five favourite women sleuths whom you can catch in action on OTT.
Marianne Sheehan in Mare of Easttown
Kate Winslet slips into the shoes of Marianne ‘Mare’ Sheehan, a small-town detective in Pennsylvania, in the gripping 2021 HBO miniseries Mare of Easttown. Mare is a complex and flawed character, known for her determination and unwavering dedication to solving crimes. She navigates personal and professional challenges while investigating a murder case that has deeply affected her community. Winslet’s portrayal of Mare showcases her ability to delve into the depths of a character, showcasing vulnerability, strength and resilience.
Watch it on: JioCinema
Veronica in Veronica Mars
Kristen Bell brings the iconic character of Veronica Mars to life in this 2019 TV series. Veronica, a high school student and amateur detective, possesses a razor-sharp intellect and a relentless drive to uncover the truth. Facing the challenges of her personal life and a corrupt small town, Veronica displays a refreshing blend of wit, resourcefulness and determination. Bell’s portrayal captured the hearts of viewers and solidified Veronica Mars as a beloved character in detective fiction.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
Nancy in Nancy Drew
The timeless Nancy Drew series got a modern and thrilling adaptation with Kennedy McMann playing the titular character. In this 2019 series, 18-year-old Nancy gets involved in the investigation of the murder of a socialite in her hometown. She uses her sharp mind and investigative skills to unravel secrets that have plagued her community for years. McMann’s portrayal showcases Nancy's intelligence and tenacity while giving the character a contemporary edge.
Watch it on: JioCinema
Vartika Chaturvedi in Delhi Crime
Shefali Shah plays the role of DCP Vartika Chaturvedi in the Netflix series Delhi Crime (2019) that has her navigating through complicated cases while trying to make a place for herself in a man’s world. Shah's portrayal captures the complexities of the character as she leads a team of investigators in their relentless pursuit of justice. Through her nuanced performance, Shah highlights the emotional toll and challenges faced by women in law enforcement.
Watch it on: Netflix
Enola in Enola Holmes
Enola Holmes (2020) gives a refreshing spin to the Sherlock Holmes universe by introducing his younger sister as a budding detective. Millie Bobby Brown shines as Enola, a spirited and intelligent teenager who sets out to solve the mystery surrounding her mother’s disappearance. Brown’s portrayal perfectly captures Enola’s wit, bravery, and determination, making her an inspiring and relatable role model for young audiences.
Watch it on: Netflix
