NEW DELHI: Murder mystery movies have become a staple in the world of entertainment, offering viewers a captivating blend of mystery, suspense, and intrigue. These shows delve into the darker facets of human nature, presenting complex characters, intricate plotlines, and suspenseful narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. From solving puzzling mysteries to navigating the twists and turns of criminal investigations, crime shows offer a diverse range of storytelling that appeals to a wide audience.
1. Knives Out (2019)
Renowned for its abundance of cable-knit sweaters, this star-studded film centers on the enigmatic demise of a crime novelist. Enter Detective Benoit Blanc, portrayed by Daniel Craig, who steps into the frame to unravel the intricacies of this perplexing case. The film takes the classic whodunit genre and adds a modern twist, combining humor, suspense, and sharp wit. As Blanc untangles the web of lies and deceit, “Knives Out” keeps audiences guessing until the very end, making it a gripping and entertaining cinematic experience.
Streaming on Apple TV
2. Gone Girl (2014)
Based on the bestselling book by Gillian Flynn, “Gone Girl” unfolds as a gripping psychological thriller, intricately weaving a tale of suspense and deception. Ben Affleck takes on the role of a husband thrust into the spotlight when his wife, portrayed by Rosamund Pike, mysteriously vanishes. As the investigation unfolds, the narrative skillfully manipulates perceptions, challenging the audience to question the authenticity of the characters and their motives. With unexpected twists and turns, the film delves into the complexities of relationships, the media frenzy surrounding crime, and the intricate layers of human psychology, making “Gone Girl” a compelling exploration of mystery and deceit.
![Gone Girl | Official Trailer [HD] | 20th Century FOX](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/2-_-1nJf8Vg/hqdefault.jpg)
3. Drishyam
“Drishyam” is a riveting Indian thriller that revolves around Vijay Salgaonkar, played by Ajay Devgn, a common man living a quiet life with his family in a small village. When an unexpected tragedy strikes, Vijay’s ingenuity and resourcefulness come to the fore as he crafts an elaborate cover-up to protect his family. As Inspector General Meera Deshmukh, portrayed by Tabu, leads the investigation, a tense cat-and-mouse game unfolds. The film skillfully weaves suspense and family drama, exploring themes of morality and justice. With a gripping plot and stellar performances, “Drishyam” stands as a masterful and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
4. The Pink Panther (2006)
In this modern adaptation of a timeless classic, Steve Martin assumes the role of the clumsy French Inspector Clouseau. Tasked with unravelling the murder of a renowned soccer coach and recovering the priceless Pink Panther diamond ring, Martin’s comedic brilliance takes centre stage. Beyoncé adds a touch of glamour to the ensemble, making it an entertaining and lighthearted murder mystery suitable for the entire family. Filled with goofy antics and amusing moments, the film offers a fresh perspective on the iconic character while delivering laughs and charm for audiences of all ages.
5. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
In David Fincher’s compelling thriller, the narrative unfolds around Mikael Blomkvist, a disgraced journalist portrayed by Daniel Craig, and Lisbeth Salander, a tattooed computer hacker brought to life by Rooney Mara. Together, they embark on a quest to unravel the mysteries of a 40-year-old murder case. Fincher’s masterful storytelling and gripping visuals immerse the audience in a complex web of secrets and suspense. As the duo delves into the intricacies of the past, the film explores themes of corruption, power, and justice. With outstanding performances and a meticulous plot, this adaptation captivates viewers with its dark, atmospheric narrative and compelling characters.
6. A Simple Favor (2018)
From the creative mind of writer-director Paul Feig, the recent crime comedy “A Simple Favor” proves to be a delightful cinematic experience. Anna Kendrick takes on the role of a mommy blogger who finds herself captivated by the stylish and mysterious Emily, portrayed by Blake Lively. The plot takes an intriguing turn when Emily suddenly disappears, intensifying the protagonist’s intrigue. Filled with unexpected twists and witty humor, the film explores the complexities of female friendship, secrets, and the enigma that shrouds Emily’s vanishing act. With Feig’s signature touch and standout performances, “A Simple Favor” provides a fresh and entertaining take on the crime comedy genre.
Streaming on Netflix
7. Monica, My darling
Monica, played by Revathi, is a woman who seemingly leads a double life in the classic Tamil thriller that tells the tale of “Monica, My Darling” As her husband, portrayed by Karthik, becomes suspicious, the story takes unexpected twists and turns, delving into themes of trust, betrayal, and identity. Directed by Balu Mahendra, the film weaves a suspenseful narrative, keeping the audience guessing until the final revelation. Revathi’s nuanced performance and the film’s evocative storytelling contribute to its enduring appeal. “Monica My Darling” remains a timeless cinematic experience in the realm of Tamil cinema, showcasing the brilliance of Balu Mahendra’s directorial prowess.
8. Murder Mystery (2019)
An amusing addition to the lineup features the comedic duo of Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston portraying a New York couple who unexpectedly find themselves framed for the murder of a billionaire. This lighthearted comedy, filled with Sandler’s signature humor and Aniston’s charm, takes viewers on a rollicking ride as the couple navigates the intricacies of the murder mystery. While not taking itself too seriously, the film delivers laughs and entertainment with its clever plot twists and the endearing chemistry between the lead actors. It’s a delightful escape into the world of comedy and crime, providing a perfect blend of laughter and mystery.
9. Kahanni
“Kahaani” is a captivating Indian thriller that follows Vidya Bagchi, portrayed by Vidya Balan, as she arrives in Kolkata in search of her missing husband. As she delves into the labyrinthine alleys of the city, Vidya encounters layers of deceit and intrigue. The narrative takes unexpected turns, blending suspense, drama, and mystery. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh, the film skillfully unfolds against the backdrop of Durga Puja festivities, adding a cultural dimension to the plot. Vidya Balan’s compelling performance and the gripping storyline make “Kahaani” a standout film, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats with its twists and revelations.
10. Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!
The Indian crime thriller “Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!” directed by Dibakar Banerjee is set in 1943 Kolkata. The film follows Sushant Singh Rajput as Byomkesh Bakshy, a young detective hired to solve the mysterious disappearance of a chemist. As he unravels the complex web of conspiracies and deceit, Bakshy navigates through the city’s underbelly during World War II. The film is a visual delight, capturing the essence of the era, and offers a fresh take on the iconic fictional detective. With a gripping plot and atmospheric cinematography, “Detective Byomkesh Bakshy!” stands out as a compelling and stylish crime thriller.
