What are the best whodunnit movies to watch?
Unraveling the mystery of who did it is a thrill like no other. These films offer the best in puzzling plots, unexpected twists, and satisfying reveals that will keep you guessing until the very end.



The "whodunnit" genre, a cornerstone of mystery fiction, thrives on suspense, intricate plotting, and the grand reveal. From classic Agatha Christie adaptations like "Murder on the Orient Express" to modern masterpieces like "Knives Out," these films excel at crafting a compelling puzzle for the audience to solve alongside the detective. It's not just about finding the culprit; it's about the journey of deduction, the red herrings, and the clever misdirections that make the final revelation so impactful.
What makes a great whodunnit? Often, it's the ensemble cast, where every character is a potential suspect, each with their own secrets and motives. Think of the star-studded cast in films like "Gosford Park," where director Robert Altman masterfully weaves together multiple storylines and perspectives to create a rich tapestry of intrigue. Or consider the unique approach of "Clue," which famously offered multiple endings, inviting viewers to revisit the mystery and explore different outcomes.
Then there are the films that subvert expectations, turning the genre on its head. "The Usual Suspects" is a prime example, delivering one of cinema's most iconic twists that redefined the very concept of the unreliable narrator. Similarly, "Memento" plays with narrative structure, forcing the audience to piece together the mystery in a fragmented, non-linear fashion, mirroring the protagonist's own struggle with memory.
Beyond the twists, these films often delve into deeper themes, exploring human nature, morality, and the consequences of hidden truths. Whether it's the chilling pursuit of a serial killer in "Se7en" or the intricate character studies within Quentin Tarantino's "The Hateful Eight," the best whodunnits offer more than just a solution; they offer a reflection on the complexities of the human condition. Get ready to put on your detective hat and dive into these captivating cinematic enigmas.
14. Kiss the Girls (1997)
Kiss the Girls is a gripping psychological thriller starring Morgan Freeman as Dr. Alex Cross, a forensic psychologist and detective, who finds himself entangled in a terrifying case involving the abduction of young, talented women. Ashley Judd delivers a strong performance as a doctor who escapes the killer and becomes Cross's unlikely ally. The film builds intense suspense as Cross races against time to uncover the identity of the elusive abductor, known as Casanova. It’s a dark and disturbing whodunnit that delves into the minds of both the hunter and the hunted, keeping you on edge with its twists and turns.

13. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
David Fincher's adaptation of The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a dark, brutal, and utterly compelling mystery thriller. Rooney Mara delivers a powerhouse, Oscar-nominated performance as Lisbeth Salander, the enigmatic hacker who teams up with disgraced journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) to solve the disappearance of a wealthy girl decades earlier. The film is visually striking, with a cold, stark aesthetic that perfectly matches the grim nature of the story. It's a complex, multi-layered investigation that delves into themes of abuse, corruption, and societal darkness. While parts of the mystery are solved, the journey is a harrowing and unforgettable one.

12. Brick (2006)
Rian Johnson's directorial debut, Brick, is a unique and stylized neo-noir mystery set in a high school. Joseph Gordon-Levitt stars as Brendan Frye, a detached and intelligent teenager who dives into the seedy underworld of his school to investigate the disappearance of his ex-girlfriend. The film brilliantly reinterprets classic noir tropes – the femme fatale, the hard-boiled detective, the shadowy figures – within a teenage landscape, complete with its own slang and social hierarchies. It’s a remarkably original and atmospheric whodunnit that showcases Johnson's talent for crafting intricate plots and compelling characters. If you're looking for something off the beaten path, Brick is a must-watch.

11. Identity (2003)
Identity is a clever and twisty psychological thriller that traps ten strangers in a remote motel during a violent storm, only for them to be picked off one by one. This film masterfully builds suspense and paranoia, with each character harboring secrets that could make them either victim or killer. The ensemble cast, including John Cusack, Ray Liotta, and Amanda Peet, delivers intense performances as they navigate the escalating terror. What sets Identity apart is its audacious narrative structure and a truly unexpected twist that recontextualizes everything you thought you knew. It's a lean, mean mystery machine that keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very last frame.

10. The Prestige (2006)
Another Christopher Nolan masterpiece, The Prestige is a complex and dazzling mystery about two rival magicians in Victorian London. While not a traditional whodunnit in the sense of a murder investigation, the film is a constant puzzle, challenging the audience to uncover the secrets behind each illusion and the true nature of the protagonists' rivalry. Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman deliver powerful performances as the obsessed magicians, pushing each other to dangerous extremes. Nolan's signature non-linear storytelling keeps you guessing, twisting and turning until the final, shocking revelation. It's a film about deception, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go for ultimate glory.

9. Se7en (1995)
David Fincher's Se7en is a dark, gritty, and relentlessly suspenseful neo-noir thriller that pushes the boundaries of the whodunnit genre into truly disturbing territory. Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman deliver compelling performances as two detectives hunting a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his gruesome motif. The film's oppressive atmosphere, rain-soaked cityscapes, and haunting score create an unforgettable sense of dread. It's not just about solving the crime; it's about the psychological toll it takes on those who pursue evil. Se7en is a visceral and thought-provoking experience that leaves a lasting impression, cementing its place as a modern classic.

8. Zodiac (2007)
David Fincher's Zodiac is a chilling and meticulously detailed procedural thriller that delves into the unsolved case of the Zodiac Killer in 1970s San Francisco. This isn't your typical whodunnit with a clear resolution; instead, it's a deep dive into obsession and the relentless pursuit of truth. Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and Robert Downey Jr. lead a strong cast, portraying the real-life individuals who became consumed by the mystery. Fincher's signature atmospheric direction creates a sense of dread and unease, making the audience feel the frustration and mounting desperation of the investigators. It's a gripping, immersive film that highlights the human cost of an unsolvable puzzle.

7. The Hateful Eight (2015)
Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight is a snow-bound, claustrophobic whodunnit that traps a group of suspicious characters in a stagecoach stopover during a blizzard. This film is a masterclass in tension, with sharp dialogue and a slow-burn mystery that explodes into violence. The ensemble cast, including Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, and Jennifer Jason Leigh (who earned an Oscar nomination), delivers intense and captivating performances. Shot in glorious 70mm, the cinematography is stunning, making the isolated, snowy landscape feel both beautiful and menacing. It's a brutal, theatrical, and utterly engrossing mystery from start to finish.

6. Memento (2000)
Christopher Nolan's Memento is a groundbreaking psychological thriller that plays with the very concept of memory and truth. The film's unique reverse chronological structure plunges the audience into the fragmented mind of Leonard Shelby, a man suffering from short-term memory loss who is trying to find his wife's killer. Guy Pearce delivers a powerful performance as Leonard, navigating a world where every new encounter is a blank slate. This movie isn't just a whodunnit; it's a 'how-do-I-know-what-I've-done-it' that challenges viewers to piece together the puzzle alongside the protagonist. It's a mind-bending, intense experience that will leave you questioning everything.

5. Gosford Park (2001)
Robert Altman's Gosford Park is a sophisticated and intricate whodunnit that masterfully blends social commentary with a compelling murder mystery. Set in an English country estate in 1932, the film explores the Upstairs/Downstairs dynamic with remarkable depth, revealing the secrets and prejudices of both the aristocracy and their servants. The sprawling ensemble cast, featuring talents like Maggie Smith, Kristin Scott Thomas, and Clive Owen, delivers exceptional performances, each character contributing to the complex tapestry of the narrative. The genius of Gosford Park lies in its subtle clues and overlapping dialogue, making it a rich, immersive viewing experience that rewards close attention.

4. Murder on the Orient Express (2017)
Kenneth Branagh brings Agatha Christie's timeless classic, Murder on the Orient Express, to life with stunning visuals and a star-studded cast. Branagh himself takes on the iconic role of Hercule Poirot, complete with an impressive mustache, delivering a performance that's both nuanced and compelling. The film's intricate set design and lavish costumes transport you directly into the opulent world of the 1930s. While faithful to the source material, this adaptation adds its own stylistic flair, making it a visually rich experience. It’s a classic locked-room mystery that continues to captivate audiences with its ingenious plot and unexpected revelations.

3. The Usual Suspects (1995)
Prepare to have your mind blown by The Usual Suspects, a film that redefined the whodunnit genre with its intricate plot and legendary twist ending. Bryan Singer's direction is masterful, building suspense layer by layer as the story of the mysterious Keyser Söze unfolds. Kevin Spacey delivers an Oscar-winning performance as Roger 'Verbal' Kint, a seemingly unassuming con artist whose testimony holds the key to the entire puzzle. The film's non-linear narrative keeps you on the edge of your seat, constantly questioning what's real and what's fabrication. It's a complex, brilliantly crafted thriller that demands your full attention and rewards you with one of cinema's most famous reveals. You'll be talking about this one long after the credits roll!

2. Clue (1985)
Step into the chaotic and hilarious world of Clue, a film that perfectly captures the spirit of the classic board game! This movie is an absolute riot, with a cast of comedic geniuses like Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn, and Christopher Lloyd delivering iconic performances. What makes Clue so unique is its multiple endings, adding a playful twist to the mystery genre and encouraging repeat viewings to catch all the clever details. It's a campy, fast-paced, and utterly delightful romp through a mansion filled with eccentric characters and unexpected twists. A true cult classic that proves murder mysteries can be laugh-out-loud funny!

1. Knives Out (2019)
Get ready for a masterclass in modern whodunnit with Knives Out! Rian Johnson, the brilliant mind behind this film, delivers a fresh, witty, and incredibly satisfying mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end. The ensemble cast is absolutely stellar, with Daniel Craig's Southern-fried detective Benoit Blanc stealing every scene he's in. Ana de Armas shines as the compassionate Marta Cabrera, caught in a web of family secrets and lies. What makes this film so special is its clever subversion of classic mystery tropes, blending sharp humor with genuine intrigue. It's a cinematic puzzle box that's as entertaining as it is intelligent, proving that the whodunnit genre is alive and thriving!
