The Mentalist (2008)

The Mentalist (2008) is a stylish crime-drama-mystery that follows Patrick Jane, a former fake psychic who trades his con for cold observation as a criminal consultant with the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Driven by the brutal murder of his wife and daughter at the hands of the elusive serial killer Red John, Jane uses his extraordinary powers of deduction, keen eye for human behavior, and theatrical tricks to crack cases — and to inch closer to the man who destroyed his life. Watching the show you’ll get a mix of episodic police work and a long-running, emotionally charged hunt. Each episode delivers clever mysteries, surprising twists, and Jane’s showman tactics — often bending rules and irritating his CBI colleagues, especially team leader Teresa Lisbon. The series balances light, witty banter and mind games with darker, more personal stakes as the Red John storyline slowly unfolds, producing tense cat-and-mouse moments and real emotional payoffs. Expect sharp character chemistry, smart observational drama, inventive investigative setups, and a slow-burning revenge arc that gives the procedural cases added weight. The Mentalist is equal parts puzzle-of-the-week and psychological thriller, offering both satisfying mystery-solving and an intense personal quest.

Actors: Simon Baker, Robin Tunney, Tim Kang

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

8.2 /10 8.2 /10