5 Best Detective Movies Ever Made

The detective genre was invented in 1841 with Edgar Allan Poe’s short story “The Murders in the Rue Morgue.” C. Auguste Dupin, the sleuth assigned to solve the case, would also appear in the Poe story “The Mystery of Marie Roget.” Both of these stories were later–like, a hundred years later–made into movies.

From those beginnings, we give you the best ever detective movies Hollywood has ever outputted.

5. Knives Out (2019)

A modern twist on the classic whodunit, Knives Out follows Detective Benoit Blanc as he investigates the mysterious death of a wealthy novelist. With its sharp humor and a cleverly crafted plot, this film brought back the detective genre for Gen Z and Millennials.

4. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

This psychological thriller sees FBI trainee Clarice Starling seeking the help of the terrifyingly brilliant Hannibal Lecter to catch the serial killer Buffalo Bill. The chilling performances and intricate mind games elevate this movie, but there is nothing really that needs to be said about why this iconic film makes this list. It’s also just one of the best films ever made.

3. Chinatown (1974)

Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of private investigator Jake Gittes in Chinatown is iconic. The movie’s exploration of corruption and tragedy in 1930s Los Angeles, coupled with its intricate plot and unforgettable climax, earns it a solid third place. Its influence on neo-noir cinema is undeniable.

2. Se7en (1995)

David Fincher’s dark and gripping crime thriller follows detectives Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman as they track a serial killer using the seven deadly sins as his pattern. Its unsettling atmosphere, gruesome details, and shocking conclusion make it a standout film that defined a whole generation of cinema-making.

1. Vertigo (1958)

Topping the list is Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece Vertigo. This psychological thriller about obsession and identity showcases Hitchcock’s genius in storytelling and direction. With its layered plot and haunting cinematography, Vertigo remains a timeless classic and is often considered the greatest film of all time.