From Riverdale, to 13 Reasons Why and Class: Teen shows with murder as the central plot that you can't miss

The past decade has seen a boom in teen shows with murder as the central plot. From the dark and brooding 13 Reasons Why to the thrilling and suspenseful Elite, these shows have managed to capture the attention of audiences across the globe. One of the latest additions to this genre is the show Class, which released recently on Netflix. With its intriguing plot and engaging characters, Class, which is the Indian remake of Elite, has been drawing in fans.

But what is it about these shows that make them so popular? For one, they offer a mix of drama, suspense, and mystery that can be hard to resist. They also deal with issues that are relevant to today's youth, such as bullying, sexual harassment, mental health, and the consequences of poor decision-making. And, of course, the murder mystery element is a huge draw, as viewers become invested in uncovering the identity of the killer.

One commonality that all of these shows share is the fact that they introduce the murder in the very first episode. This sets the stage for the entire season, as the characters and the audience are forced to confront the reality of what has happened and the implications it will have for the rest of the story. This tactic creates an immediate sense of urgency and danger, hooking viewers from the get-go and keeping them on the edge of their seats until the very end. Here’s a look at some such popular shows:

Elite
One of the shows that has mastered this technique is Elite, a Spanish thriller that follows a group of students at a prestigious private school. The show's first episode opens with a flash-forward to the aftermath of a murder, with the audience left wondering who the victim is and who the killer could be. This creates an air of suspense and intrigue that is present throughout the entire series. Elite also delves into issues of class, wealth, and privilege, adding an extra layer of complexity to the story. Class is the Indian remake of the show. 

One of Us is Lying
Another show that has captured the attention of audiences is One of Us is Lying, based on the best-selling novel by Karen M McManus. The show's premise is simple but effective: five high school students are sent to detention, but only four make it out alive. The first episode sets up the mystery, with each of the characters being introduced as potential suspects. As the story unfolds, viewers are forced to confront their assumptions and biases, adding an element of social commentary to the show.

Riverdale
Riverdale is another popular show that follows the investigation of a murder in a small town. Based on the Archie Comics, the show takes a dark and moody turn as it explores the seedy underbelly of Riverdale. The first episode shows the murder of Jason Blossom, a popular student with a mysterious past. As the characters unravel the web of secrets and lies surrounding Jason's death, they also confront their own demons and struggles.

13 Reasons Why
13 Reasons Why, a Netflix original, is a show that deals with the aftermath of a suicide, but also features a murder mystery that unfolds over the course of the series. The first episode sets up the story, with the discovery of a box of cassette tapes left behind by the deceased protagonist, Hannah Baker. The tapes detail the reasons why Hannah decided to take her own life, but they also reveal a darker conspiracy involving one of her classmates.

Pretty Little Liars
Pretty Little Liars, a show that aired from 2010 to 2017, follows a group of high school friends as they navigate a series of murders and mysteries. The show's first episode introduces the disappearance of the group's leader, Alison DiLaurentis, and the mysterious messages they receive from someone calling themselves ‘A’. The show has been praised for its tight plotting and intense suspense, as well as its portrayal of complex female characters.