20 Must-Watch Movies Like Sherlock Holmes You Can't Miss

1. “Elementary” – A modern-day adaptation set in New York City, where a sober Holmes reinvents himself following a stint in rehab, and Watson is a female recovering addict who assists him.
2. “Sherlock” – A British series that presents a contemporary version of the classic detective, with Benedict Cumberbatch portraying the brilliant but eccentric Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson.
3. “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries” – Set in 1920s Melbourne, Australia, this series follows the adventures of the fabulous and fearless Phryne Fisher, a wealthy and independent woman who solves crimes with her sharp intellect and quick wit.
4. “Columbo” – A classic crime drama series about a detective with an unassuming demeanor but a keen mind, Lieutenant Columbo, who outsmarts his suspects by using his intuition and meticulous attention to detail.
5. “Murder, She Wrote” – Follow the adventures of mystery writer and amateur sleuth Jessica Fletcher as she solves crimes in her small coastal town of Cabot Cove, Maine.
6. “Poirot” – A British series based on the works of Agatha Christie, featuring David Suchet’s portrayal of the legendary Belgian detective Hercule Poirot and his uncanny ability to solve even the most baffling crimes.

This collection includes a variety of renowned and lesser-known fictional detectives like Hercule Poirot, notable detective films both famous and obscure, which may catch you off guard once viewed due to their high quality and intriguing mysteries.

Se7en (1995)

A string of extremely violent murders has left the community in turmoil, with detectives Sommerset (Morgan Freeman) and Mills (Brad Pitt) grappling with an enigma that appears unsolvable. The method used by a mysterious murderer to select and eliminate his victims is derived from biblical lore; each victim is someone who can be accused of committing one of the seven deadly sins, in gruesome ways that leave no room for doubt about the intentions of the deranged killer.

In this investigation, the seasoned and knowledgeable Sommerset delves into the tale of the seven deadly sins to decipher the murderer’s intentions and methods. Meanwhile, Mills, his junior partner, expresses apprehension about comprehending a troubled psyche. The intricacies of the case grow even more convoluted for detectives when the killer draws them deeper into the execution of his astonishing scheme. Screenwriter Andrew Kevin Walker could not have asked for a better pair to bring his epic story of sin, atonement, retribution, and fate – starring some of the most prominent figures in modern Hollywood – to life.

Following the release of this movie, David Fincher solidified his status as one of the globe’s most intriguing filmmakers. The cast is top-notch, with Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman creating an exceptionally convincing and harmonious pair. Meanwhile, Kevin Spacey delivers a chilling performance as a ruthless killer.

L.A. Confidential (1997)

1950s Los Angeles finds three distinct policemen, each pursuing truth in their unique fashion. Ed Exley (Guy Pearce), a promising officer, is determined to advance, refusing to compromise his integrity. Bud White (Russell Crowe) often bends the rules for justice but struggles with his volatile temperament. Jack Vincennes (Kevin Spacey) craves celebrity and financial gain, yet his moral compass eventually compels him to partner with Exley and White, uncovering LA’s hidden underbelly.

The Maltese Falcon (1941)

1539 saw the Maltese Knights planning to bestow a golden falcon statuette, adorned with precious jewels, upon King Charles V of Spain. However, this treasure was seized by pirates, and it appears that the famed Maltese Falcon has vanished without a trace. Fast forward four centuries, in San Francisco, Miss Wonderly from New York visits the detective agency shared by Sam Spade and Miles Archer, seeking their assistance in locating her missing sister.

Initially, both individuals harbor doubts about her tale, but they take on the task, feeling assured that their new patron will remunerate in cold hard cash. Later, when Archer meets his untimely end, Spade comes to understand that he’s involved in a perilous line of work and discovers that Miss Wonderly’s true identity is Brigid O’Shaughnessey. As the investigation progresses, it becomes clear that Joel Cairo (P. Lorre) and Casper Gutman (S. Greenstreet), like Brigid, are all in pursuit of the Maltese Falcon statuette.

Gone Baby Gone (2007)

Investigative duo Patrick Kenzie (portrayed by Casey Affleck) and Angie Gennaro (Michelle Monaghan) are enlisted to unravel the enigma of a child’s vanishing act. Leveraging their expertise in the criminal underworld, they gradually uncover an intricate maze of deceit and falsehoods where appearances can be misleading. In the end, they must put everything on the line – their bond, their mental stability, and even their lives – to locate the missing child.

Knives Out (2019)

As a passionate cinephile, I find myself immersed in the intriguing tale of Harlan Thrombey, a successful novelist nearing the twilight of his remarkable life. In an attempt to mend fences and rekindle familial bonds, he invites his estranged kin to celebrate his 85th birthday. However, the following morning, the family awakens to the shocking discovery that their host has met an untimely end. Enter Blanca, a seasoned detective, who joins the police in probing this enigmatic case where every suspect seems equally capable and motivated. The question remains: Who among them holds the key to Harlan’s demise?

Searching (2018)

16-year-old daughter of David Kim (John Cho) vanishes, prompting a local investigation spearheaded by Detective Rosemary Vick. However, after 37 hours without any leads, David takes it upon himself to explore an area untouched thus far – his daughter’s computer – where he uncovers hidden truths and secrets.

As David tracks down his daughter’s online trails, he finds himself uncovering more and more about her, only to realize that he barely knew her at all. Before vanishing herself, it appears that she had delved deep into a complex web of mysteries and unexplained circumstances.

Primal Fear (1996)

The protagonist, Martin Vaile (played by Richard Gere), is a renowned attorney specializing in defending criminals such as mobsters and murderers. Beyond monetary gain, popularity also serves as a driving force in his line of work, making it logical that he would accept the case involving Aaron Stampler (Edward Norton). The victim here is Rusherman, the Archbishop of Chicago, who was discovered brutally murdered in his cathedral. He was not only a generous philanthropist but also one of the city’s most influential and powerful figures.

1. The police apprehended Minister Stampler, who was covered in the archbishop’s blood near the crime scene, not too far away. Defense Attorney Vail, recognizing that his client is an epileptic young man with a seemingly innocent demeanor, launched a vigorous defense to clear him of accusations and even threatened capital punishment.

2. The police nabbed Stampler, the minister, coated in the archbishop’s blood, just steps from the murder site. Attorney Vail, perceiving his client as an epileptic young man with an innocent-looking exterior, embarked on a fierce battle to exonerate him and even hinted at imposing death sentences.

3. Police found Minister Stampler drenched in the archbishop’s blood near the crime scene. Attorney Vail, noticing his client was an epileptic young man with a clean-cut appearance, waged a fierce struggle to dismiss the charges and even threatened severe penalties like death sentences.

4. In the vicinity of the murder scene, Police arrested Minister Stampler who had the archbishop’s blood on him. Defense Attorney Vail, realizing his client was an epileptic young man with an unblemished image, took up a fierce crusade to absolve him and even hinted at imposing death penalties.

5. Minister Stampler, found covered in the archbishop’s blood near the murder scene, was apprehended by Police. Attorney Vail, understanding that his client was an epileptic young man with a spotless image, launched a relentless defense to clear him of charges and even threatened capital punishment.

District Attorney Shaughnessy, who had been involved with a group of influential city figures who lost a million dollars due to the late archbishop’s mismanagement of investments, also has a personal stake in the case. In rivalry with Vail, he assigns prosecutor Janet Venable – a former colleague and romantic partner of Vail’s – to handle the case.

Zodiac (2007)

During the ’60s and ’70s, a string of murders in Northern California was connected through a series of letters sent to San Francisco newspapers. These letters threatened that another murder would occur unless they were published. The letters also contained numbers and coded messages, which the author claimed revealed clues about their identity.

The Usual Suspects (1995)

In the city of San Pedro, California, an extraordinary act of violence occurred at the port, resulting in approximately thirty fatalities due to complex financial dealings. The two individuals who miraculously survived – a Hungarian and the notorious figure Roger Kint (portrayed by K. Spacey), who was uncovered as a covert arms dealer – are the sole eyewitnesses to this tragic event.

In an investigation spearheaded by seasoned detective Kujan (played by C. Palminteri), suspect Kint starts detailing the sequence of events leading up to the criminal activity, including its precursors and underlying motives. The narrative unfolds, tracing back to another crime that occurred two months prior in New York, specifically a significant gun heist.

Detective Kujan suspects that the mastermind behind the San Pedro tragedy and the robbery could be the elusive Kayser Söze, a highly intelligent criminal who has managed to stay under the radar. This theory is particularly strong when considering the main suspect, ex-officer Keaton (Mr. Byrne), in light of Kint’s testimony and the information provided by the Hungarian hospital patient.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at the extraordinary filmmaking achievement that is “The Usual Suspects,” a 1990s masterpiece that still stands tall among American cinema. This cinematic gem was expertly directed by Bryan Singer, a renowned director who has also brought us critically-acclaimed films such as Superman Returns, X-Men, and Valkyrie.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)

In this gripping spy story, the action unfolds during the Cold War era. At the heart of the tale is an experienced secret agent, compelled to leave his profession, who must uncover a Soviet operative hidden within the British intelligence agency MI6, posing as a mole.

The movie is an on-screen rendition of John le Carré’s renowned novel, boasting an exceptional ensemble: Gary Oldman, Academy Award recipient Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, the late John Hurt, Ciarán Hinds, Mark Strong, and Toby Jones.

Murder On The Orient Express (2017)

On the Orient Express, Hercule Poirot enjoys a tranquil journey, but this peace is shattered when the train encounters a snow blockade in the Balkans three days after leaving Istanbul. To add to the trouble, a passenger is discovered stabbed in his cabin. At first sight, the 13 passengers traveling with Poirot seem unrelated, yet this doesn’t deter the renowned detective from unveiling the genuine facts of the case.

The Da Vinci Code (2006)

During his business trip to Paris, symbolism scholar Robert Langdon (played by Tom Hanks), received an urgent late-night phone call: The curator at the Louvre, Jacques Saunière, had been murdered. A mysterious symbol was found next to his body, and the police were seeking expert assistance. As they worked to solve this enigma, Langdon began uncovering a trail of clues embedded within Leonardo Da Vinci’s artworks.

Together, Langdon joins forces with skilled code-breaker Sophie Neveu (Audrey Tautou), uncovering that the deceased curator was part of a clandestine group which counted Newton, Botticelli, Victor Hugo, and Da Vinci among its members. In a thrilling chase through Paris and London, Sophie and Robert engage in mental chess with an enigmatic third party who appears to predict their actions at every turn. If they can’t crack the complex riddle before time runs out, the ancient secret and potentially world-altering historical revelation will be consigned to oblivion forever.

Angels and Demons (2009)

On this occasion, Harvard’s symbol expert Robert Langdon received an invitation to a Swiss research facility for the examination of a perplexing symbol etched onto the deceased physicist’s torso. With the aid of an attractive Italian physicist, who also happened to be the daughter of the victim, he uncovers hints suggesting the reemergence of a centuries-old secret society – the Illuminati – a formidable group that once held immense power across the globe.

Inferno (2016)

After regaining consciousness in a hospital bed in Florence with no recollection of recent events, Robert Langdon unexpectedly becomes the focus of a deadly pursuit. With the assistance of Dr. Sienne Brooks and his expertise in symbolism, Langdon will concurrently strive to elude danger while unraveling the most captivating enigma he has ever come across…

National Treasure (2004)

The character Benjamin Franklin Gates, portrayed by Nicolas Cage, represents the sixth generation of his family, whose tale revolves around a hidden map that reveals the precise location of a buried treasure. As per the storyline, Ben’s grandfather John Adams Gates (Christopher Plummer) claims that this treasure is an incredibly valuable hoard amassed by their travels across the Middle East and Europe between the 11th and 14th centuries, during which time they followed in the footsteps of the ancient Knights Templar. However, Ben’s father Patrick (Jon Voight) strongly doubts his rationality.

In my role as a follower, I’d like to express gratitude for the generous financial aid provided by the affluent Ian Howe (S. Bean). Alongside my clumsy associate, Riley Poole (J. Barth), under the frigid Arctic ice, we unearthed the remnants of the ship Charlotte, a vessel lost during the American Civil War. Upon examination, we found that the map to a hidden treasure was concealed on the reverse side of the renowned American Declaration of Independence. After learning that Howe and his assistant Shaw (D. Dayan Fisher) attempted to eliminate us, my companion Riley and I chose to secretly acquire the Declaration from the National Archives due to our own safety concerns.

Mortdecai (2015)

The narrative unfolds as per the renowned novel penned by Kyril Bonfiglioli, following the global escapades of Charles Mortdecai, an art dealer, who embarks on a quest to retrieve a pilfered artwork concealing a hidden trove of World War II-era Nazi gold within its depths.

The task he undertook may face misconceptions from his spouse, provoke the Russians, irritate British intelligence agencies, and baffle several global terrorist groups as well.

The Raven (2012)

19th-century Baltimore: A mother and daughter suffer a gruesome murder. Detective Emmet Fields (Luke Evans), on the case, uncovers an astonishing truth – the crime mirrors events from author Edgar Allan Poe’s (John Cusack) fictional tales. However, as Poe is arrested, the killer continues his spree, with more victims and real-life adaptations of Poe’s stories. Emmet recognizes that only a writer can aid him in tracking down this twisted murderer.

From Hell (2001)

A group of five companions who work as prostitutes are forced by the Nichols’ gang to collect funds for protection. Among them is Ann Crook (played by J. Page), who has recently found wealth with a wealthy lover and had a child with him. Tragically, Ann vanishes, and a ruthless murderer starts targeting the remaining individuals from their circle in a gruesome manner. The case is handled by Inspector Fred Abberline (J. Depp) and Sergeant Peter Godley (R. Coltrane). Given the killer’s knowledge of human anatomy, they enlist the help of renowned surgeon Sir William Gull (I. Holm) to aid in their investigation.

Inspector Abberline, known for his use of opium, absinthe, and laudanum, experiences visions of the murder victims and their methods but not the perpetrator. As one of the prostitutes, Mary Kelly (portrayed by H. Graham), becomes involved in the investigation, a bond develops between them. Abberline, aware that Mary is likely to be the fifth and final victim, becomes determined to thwart the killer at any cost.

The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)

Benjamin Esposito dedicated his entire career to the court system, but upon retirement, he chose to pen a novel inspired by a true crime – the 1974 rape and homicide of a captivating young woman. This case, in which he personally participated, had profound implications for Esposito’s life during a tumultuous era in Argentine history. The investigation would forever leave its imprint on him.

Memories of Murder (2003)

1986, a small town near Seoul discovered the corpse of a young girl. Local detective Park Doo-man (played by S. Kang-ho) takes charge of the investigation, aiming to solve it swiftly. However, the situation becomes intricate when another murdered woman is uncovered, prompting the police to suspect that the two crimes are related and that the victims who wore red were slain during a rain shower.

Assuming the passerby was the culprit, Park Doo-man attacks him, only to discover it’s his colleague Seu Tae-Yoon from the capital, who had come to aid in the investigation. Despite Park’s infamous rudeness, Sao seeks the perpetrator using various approaches. However, their initial suspect turns out to be innocent.

2025-05-31 00:53

20 Must-Watch Movies Like Sherlock Holmes You Can’t Miss