Killer Instinct

Watch Killer Instinct

  • TV-14
  • 2011
  • 1 Season
  • 7.1  (634)

Killer Instinct is a thrilling drama series that aired on Cloo in 2005, captivating viewers with its intense storytelling and complex characters. The show blends elements of crime, psychology, and dark humor, creating a unique atmosphere that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

At the heart of Killer Instinct is the charismatic and enigmatic character played by Johnny Messner, who portrays Detective John "J.D." Jansen. J.D. is a dedicated and skilled homicide detective working for the San Francisco Police Department. He is not only known for his sharp instincts and unparalleled ability to read crime scenes but also for his unconventional methods and penchant for bending the rules in pursuit of justice. His relentless drive to solve cases often puts him at odds with his superiors and the established protocols of the police force, reflecting a classic theme of the maverick cop who defies authority to bring criminals to justice.

Partnered with J.D. is Detective Elizabeth "Liz" Duran, played by Kristin Lehman. Liz is a sharp and resourceful investigator who often balances J.D.'s impulsiveness with her own level-headedness. As a seasoned officer, she brings her experience and intellect to the table, complementing J.D.'s raw instincts. Their partnership creates a dynamic that oscillates between tension and camaraderie, showcasing the complexities of working closely with someone whose methodology vastly differs from one’s own. As their investigations unfold, viewers witness the evolving relationship between J.D. and Liz, filled with moments of both conflict and teamwork, as they tackle a variety of challenging cases together.

Chi McBride portrays the formidable Captain Frank McKenzie, the police captain overseeing J.D. and Liz's investigations. He is a no-nonsense leader who demands results and expects his team to adhere to the rules, which often puts him in direct conflict with J.D.'s more unorthodox approach to policing. Captain McKenzie serves as both a mentor and a foil to J.D., grounding the show with his authoritative presence and providing a realistic view of the challenges law enforcement faces in balancing the law with the pursuit of justice.

The series is structured around various murder cases, each presenting its unique set of challenges, moral dilemmas, and psychological intricacies that the detectives must unravel. What sets Killer Instinct apart from other crime dramas is its focus on the psychological profiles of both the perpetrators and the victims, delving into the motives and backgrounds that lead individuals to commit heinous acts. Each episode not only follows the procedural aspects of the investigation but also explores the moral ambiguities that arise, challenging the characters—and the audience—to consider what drives someone to kill.

Killer Instinct skillfully intertwines elements of dark comedy, creating moments of levity that counterbalance the heavy subject matter. The interactions between characters often showcase a sardonic wit and humor, highlighting the camaraderie and personal relationships that develop within the high-stakes environment of homicide investigations. This blend of seriousness and light-heartedness helps to create a well-rounded viewing experience that transcends the typical crime drama formula.

The visual style of the series complements its gripping narrative, with the vibrant backdrop of San Francisco adding a layer of atmospheric tension. The cinematography captures the city's unique landscapes, from its iconic landmarks to its more shadowy corners, serving as a fitting stage for the series' exploration of human nature's darker impulses. The production design and careful attention to detail enhance the storytelling, immersing viewers in a world where nothing is ever quite as it seems.

Moreover, Killer Instinct delves into important themes such as morality, redemption, and the complexities of human behavior. Through the lens of the characters' personal lives and their professional dilemmas, the series prompts viewers to reflect on the nature of justice and the impact of societal factors on both crime and policing. The character-driven narratives provide depth to the storyline, with backstories and personal struggles that lend a human touch to the often chilling subject matter of murder and investigation.

With its engaging characters, thought-provoking themes, and expert storytelling, Killer Instinct stands out as a unique addition to the crime drama genre. The show not only entertains but also challenges viewers to consider the psychological and moral implications of the crimes it portrays, making it a memorable series that resonates long after the credits roll. Whether you're drawn in by the intricate mysteries, the character dynamics, or the sharp writing, Killer Instinct offers a gripping viewing experience that leaves an indelible mark.

Killer Instinct is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (13 episodes). The series first aired on September 17, 2011.

Killer Instinct
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Seasons
A Shot at Justice
13. A Shot at Justice
December 10, 2011
A man in Fresno is discovered in his living room - fatally shot twice in the chest. When the evidence suggests an unlikely suspect, it becomes clear that this case may divide the city.
Getting Away With Murders
12. Getting Away With Murders
December 3, 2011
The three-man detective squad in Port Hueneme, California deal with three violent homicides in the span of two months and must determine if the crimes are connected and if so, who is responsible. When the cases go cold, Mark Safarik helps local investigators find the answer, and solve the crimes.
Sudden Death
11. Sudden Death
November 26, 2011
A beautiful young woman with a bright future is mysteriously shot to death in a California parking lot, and the only witness was 100-yards away and didn't see anything.
Driven to Kill
10. Driven to Kill
November 19, 2011
An entire family is killed while sleeping. The victims' husband/father is out of the state at the time of the slayings. Detectives assume he is lucky. However, Mark Safarik believes he might be a little too lucky.
A Family Affair
9. A Family Affair
November 12, 2011
An elderly couple is brutally murdered -- beaten and stabbed in their own home. Detectives have no idea who the killer could be. Mark uncovers clues at the crime scene that lead them to a shocking answer.
Final Confession
8. Final Confession
November 5, 2011
Mark Safarik is on the hunt for a sadistic serial killer who's preying on young college girls. Two women have already been abducted, and now Safarik will help ID the killer before he strikes again.
Strangehold
7. Strangehold
October 29, 2011
A mother of triplets is strangled to death. Murder investigators suspect an innocent man. They turn to Mark for his analysis of the crime scene -- and nab an offender that no one expected. Now Mark will sit down -- one on one -- with the killer he helped put behind bars.
Fatal Family Reunion
6. Fatal Family Reunion
October 22, 2011
A wealthy California family is found executed in their home. Detectives zero in on a bizarre murder plot involving the surviving son. As Mark discovers, it takes both hard-nosed detective work and cunning to bring the killer to justice.
Love, Undone
5. Love, Undone
October 15, 2011
A teenage girl's dead body is discovered along the banks of the Sacramento River.
Killing Farm
4. Killing Farm
October 8, 2011
Two young men vanish from a New Hampshire farm. The last person to see them alive is an eccentric and beguiling local woman who was dating both men. Little do police suspect that she lured these men and possibly others to her farm, tortured them, and then killed them. When she's finally caught and the defense claims she's insane, Mark tries to prove otherwise. To him this deadly woman is something else entirely, and among the rarest types of offenders, a female serial killer.
Body of Evidence
3. Body of Evidence
October 1, 2011
In a twisted game of cat-and-mouse, Mark matches wits with a smart and confident wife killer. In order to crack the case (with no body, no crime scene and no murder weapon) Mark must help convince a murderous mastermind to confess.
Homicide, With A Twist
2. Homicide, With A Twist
September 24, 2011
Mommy Dearest meets Psycho. In a small town in the Pacific Northwest, a mother and her son are out for deadly revenge. They cover their tracks to fool detectives. But Mark isn't fooled. He works with local investigators to expose their deadly plot in court.
A Killer Among Us
1. A Killer Among Us
September 17, 2011
A mother of triplets is strangled to death. Murder investigators suspect an innocent man. They turn to Mark for his analysis of the crime scene -- and nab an offender that no one expected. Now Mark will sit down -- one on one -- with the killer he helped put behind bars.
Description
Where to Watch Killer Instinct
Killer Instinct is available for streaming on the Cloo website, both individual episodes and full seasons. You can also watch Killer Instinct on demand at Amazon and Apple TV.
  • Premiere Date
    September 17, 2011
  • IMDB Rating
    7.1  (634)