Murder mystery movies have been a popular flick genre since the inception of Cinema. The thrilling quality of these films has engrossed audiences with their sharp plots, unexpected twists and turns, and intense suspense. From classic whodunit stories to modern thrillers based on social issues, some Best Murder Mystery Movies have something to offer for everyone. In this list, we have compiled the 8 Murder Mystery movies of all time, including classics like Rear Window and Murder on the Orient Express, as well as modern masterpieces like Wind River and Knives Out.
Check Out the 8 Best Murder Mystery Movies
1. Rear Window (1954)
Rear Window, a timeless classic in the murder mystery genre, is a masterful creation by the legendary director Alfred Hitchcock. James Stewart plays a wheelchair-bound photographer who begins to suspect his neighbour of murder, with Grace Kelly as his accomplice in the investigation. Hitchcock’s signature suspenseful style is on full display as the tension builds, leading to unforgettable scenes and moments that leave the audience on the edge of their seats.
You can stream the film on Apple TV Plus.
2. Murder on the Orient Express (1974)
Murder on the Orient Express, a cinematic adaptation of the Agatha Christie novel, is an iconic murder mystery film that takes place on board the Orient Express train. Starring Albert Finney as the detective Hercule Poirot, the movie explores the murder of a passenger and delves into the dark secrets and motives of each individual on board. The intricately woven plot keeps the audience guessing until the very end, with a conclusion that leaves a lasting impact.
You can stream the film on Amazon Prime Video.
3. Wind River (2017)
This murder mystery film follows a wildlife officer (Jeremy Renner) and an FBI agent (Elizabeth Olsen) as they investigate the murder of a young Native American woman in a remote Wyoming town. The film tackles issues of race, grief, and justice, while also delivering intense and suspenseful moments. Moreover, Wind River is one of the Best Mystery Movies because of its gripping plot, outstanding performances, and the way it sheds light on important social issues.
You can stream the film on Amazon Prime Video.
4. Knives Out (2019)
In this witty and comedic murder mystery Knives Out, a detective (Daniel Craig) investigates the death of a wealthy author, with the suspects being the author’s eccentric family members. The film stands out as a great murder mystery movie because of its clever plot, memorable characters, and unique take on the classic whodunit genre. The movie’s ensemble cast delivers standout performances, including Chris Evans as the spoiled and entitled heir and Ana de Armas as the compassionate nurse.
You can stream the film on Netflix.
5. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
The Swedish-American thriller The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a gripping murder mystery that follows the investigation of journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) and computer hacker Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara) into the dark secrets of a wealthy family. The movie is notorious for its graphic and intense scenes, as well as the exceptional performances delivered by the cast.
You can stream the film on Amazon Prime Video.
6. Memento (2000)
This mind-bending murder mystery film follows Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce), a man with momentary amnesia, as he tries to find and avenge his wife’s killer. The film is told in reverse order, with each scene leading up to the next and slowly revealing the truth. Memento is a great murder mystery film because of its unique structure, outstanding performances, and the way it explores the themes of memory, perception, and identity.
You can stream it on Amazon Prime Video.
7. Zodiac (2007)
This haunting murder mystery film is based on the true story of the notorious Zodiac Killer, who spread fear and terror throughout San Francisco in the 1960s and 1970s. The movie follows the investigation into the brutal murders and the relentless pursuit of the killer, who was never caught.
You can stream it on Amazon Prime Video.
8. The Third Man (1949)
Set after the events of World War II, this noir murder mystery follows American writer Holly Martins (Joseph Cotten) as he investigates the mysterious death of a friend. You can stream it on Criterion.
Let us know your favourite flick from the list in the comment section below.
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