10 Best Mystery Movies in World 2024
The allure of mystery films lies in their power to challenge our minds, tug at our emotions, and keep us on the edge of our seats. They appeal to our innate curiosity and our love for solving puzzles, creating an experience that’s both maddeningly frustrating and utterly rewarding. Whether it’s piecing together a psychological thriller, unraveling a vintage whodunit, or uncovering a crime conspiracy, the best mystery movies never fail to intrigue.
From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, these films craft compelling narratives that blur the lines between right and wrong, truth and deceit. So, what makes a mystery movie truly unforgettable? The twists, the suspense, and the characters whose secrets unravel with every scene.
If you’re a fan of guessing games, complex plots, and jaw-dropping revelations, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll dive deep into the 10 Best Mystery Movies in India 2024 that have stood the test of time and continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Whether you love thrilling detective stories or eerie psychological dramas, these selections promise to leave you hooked till the very last frame.
Best Mystery Movies in World 2024
| Movie Title | Release Year | Director | Notable Stars | Platform |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knives Out | 2019 | Rian Johnson | Daniel Craig, Ana de Armas | Prime Video |
| Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery | 2022 | Rian Johnson | Edward Norton, Janelle Monáe | Netflix |
| Murder on the Orient Express | 2017 | Kenneth Branagh | Penélope Cruz, Michelle Pfeiffer | Disney+ |
| See How They Run | 2022 | Tom George | Saoirse Ronan, Sam Rockwell | Hulu |
| Missing | 2023 | Nicholas D. Johnson, Will Merrick | Storm Reid | Netflix |
| The Wonder | 2022 | Sebastián Lelio | Florence Pugh | Netflix |
| The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo | 2011 | David Fincher | Rooney Mara, Daniel Craig | Prime Video |
| Before I Go to Sleep | 2014 | Rowan Joffé | Nicole Kidman, Colin Firth | Hulu |
| Kiss the Girls | 1997 | Gary Fleder | Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd | Prime Video |
| The Girl on the Train | 2016 | Tate Taylor | Emily Blunt, Rebecca Ferguson | Prime Video |
10 Best Mystery Movies in World 2024
1. Knives Out (2019): A Modern Whodunit Classic
Imagine this: A wealthy patriarch, a mysterious death, and a dysfunctional family vying for his fortune. Knives Out, directed by Rian Johnson, redefines the traditional whodunit with its razor-sharp wit and intricate storytelling.
Plot at a Glance
Harlan Thrombey, a successful crime novelist, is found dead in his mansion under suspicious circumstances. Enter Detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig), a sharp-witted investigator hired to uncover the truth. As he questions the eccentric family, secrets unravel, alliances shift, and suspects emerge.
Why It Stands Out?
- Star-Studded Cast: With performances from Ana de Armas, Chris Evans, and Jamie Lee Curtis, each character shines with their quirks.
- Critical Acclaim: Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay.
- Director’s Vision: Rian Johnson brings a fresh perspective to the mystery genre, blending humor with tension.
Where to Watch?
Available to stream on Prime Video.
2. Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
This sequel to Knives Out raises the stakes with a new mystery and an entirely fresh ensemble cast. Detective Benoit Blanc returns to untangle a web of lies, betrayal, and deception.
The Storyline
A billionaire tech mogul (Edward Norton) invites his closest friends to a lavish getaway on his private island. When a murder disrupts the retreat, Blanc must piece together the clues.
Why It’s a Must-Watch?
- Complex Characters: Each guest has a motive, making it impossible to trust anyone.
- Lavish Setting: The island’s opulence serves as a stark contrast to the dark secrets it hides.
- Social Commentary: Tackles themes of privilege and power dynamics.
3. Murder on the Orient Express (2017): Agatha Christie’s Timeless Tale
Based on the legendary novel by Agatha Christie, this adaptation transports you to a snowbound train where every passenger is a suspect.
What’s the Mystery?
Detective Hercule Poirot (Kenneth Branagh) investigates the murder of a wealthy businessman aboard the luxurious Orient Express. With a stellar cast that includes Penélope Cruz and Michelle Pfeiffer, every twist keeps you guessing.
Director’s Touch
Kenneth Branagh not only directs but also stars as Poirot, bringing a dramatic flair to the iconic detective.
4. See How They Run (2022): A Meta Mystery
Set in 1950s London, this lighthearted homage to Agatha Christie’s works is as clever as it is entertaining.
Synopsis
When the director of a film adaptation of The Mousetrap is killed, a mismatched detective duo (Sam Rockwell and Saoirse Ronan) race against time to find the killer.
Why Watch?
- A perfect blend of comedy and suspense.
- Nostalgic setting with a modern twist.
5. Missing (2023): A Digital Age Thriller
If you loved Searching (2018), its spiritual sequel, Missing, delivers the same nail-biting tension with a fresh, tech-savvy twist. Directed by Nicholas D. Johnson and Will Merrick, this mystery showcases how technology can be both a tool and a threat when solving crimes.
Plot Overview
June Allen (Storm Reid) is a tech-savvy teenager whose mother disappears during a romantic trip to Colombia. Determined to uncover the truth, June dives into an online investigation, hacking emails, tracking locations, and piecing together clues. The film unfolds entirely through computer screens, providing a unique, immersive experience.
Why It’s Remarkable?
- Innovative Format: Similar to its predecessor, Missing tells its story through screens—FaceTime calls, emails, and GPS tracking—making the narrative feel raw and real.
- Storm Reid’s Performance: Reid portrays June with resilience and emotion, capturing the desperation of a teenager thrust into an adult predicament.
- Timely Themes: Tackles online privacy, cyber sleuthing, and the dangers of digital dependency.
Watch It Here
Available to stream on Netflix.
6. The Wonder (2022): A Psychological Period Mystery
Set in the 19th century, The Wonder combines the haunting beauty of a period drama with the gripping tension of a psychological thriller. Based on Emma Donoghue’s novel, this film explores faith, science, and the mysteries of the human spirit.
Plot Highlights
Florence Pugh stars as Lib Wright, a nurse tasked with observing Anna O’Donnell, a young girl in Ireland who claims she hasn’t eaten in months yet remains miraculously healthy. Is it divine intervention or an elaborate hoax? Lib must uncover the truth, confronting her own beliefs along the way.
Why It’s a Must-Watch?
- Stunning Cinematography: The Irish landscapes serve as a breathtaking yet eerie backdrop.
- Thought-Provoking Themes: Questions about faith, science, and human resilience create a deeply layered story.
- Florence Pugh’s Mastery: Pugh delivers a compelling performance that anchors the film’s emotional weight.
Available on
Stream it now on Netflix.
7. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011): A Dark and Gritty Masterpiece
Adapted from Stieg Larsson’s bestselling novel, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is a chilling exploration of corruption, violence, and redemption. Directed by David Fincher, this film boasts a sharp script, stunning visuals, and an unforgettable lead performance.
The Plot in Brief
Journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) is hired by an aging industrialist to investigate the 40-year-old disappearance of his niece. He teams up with Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara), a brilliant yet troubled hacker, to unearth a sinister family secret.
Why It’s Exceptional?
- Rooney Mara’s Transformation: Mara’s portrayal of Lisbeth earned her an Academy Award nomination.
- Fincher’s Direction: Known for his dark and atmospheric style, Fincher elevates the story’s suspense and complexity.
- Twists and Turns: The narrative is packed with shocking revelations, keeping viewers on edge.
Where to Watch?
Available for rent on Prime Video.
8. Before I Go to Sleep (2014): A Twisted Psychological Thriller
Nicole Kidman delivers a gripping performance in this mystery about memory, deception, and trust. Directed by Rowan Joffé, Before I Go to Sleep is based on S.J. Watson’s bestselling novel.
What’s It About?
Christine Lucas (Kidman) suffers from amnesia due to a violent assault, waking up every morning with no recollection of her life. With the help of her husband (Colin Firth) and a doctor (Mark Strong), Christine begins piecing together her past—only to discover that not everyone can be trusted.
Why It Stands Out?
- Tense Atmosphere: The film’s pacing and Kidman’s performance create an air of constant unease.
- Unreliable Narrator: The amnesia adds layers of mystery, as viewers question what’s real and what’s fabricated.
- Unexpected Twists: Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the story takes another sharp turn.
Streaming Platform
Catch it on Hulu.
9. Kiss the Girls (1997): A Chilling Neo-Noir Thriller
Based on James Patterson’s bestselling novel, Kiss the Girls combines the thrill of a crime drama with the terror of a psychological thriller. Directed by Gary Fleder, the film stars Morgan Freeman and Ashley Judd in a gripping tale of survival and justice.
The Premise
Forensic psychologist Alex Cross (Freeman) investigates the disappearance of several young women, including his niece Naomi. As he follows the trail of a sadistic serial kidnapper, he teams up with Kate (Judd), a survivor who escaped the villain’s clutches. Together, they hunt a predator known only as “Casanova.”
Why You Should Watch?
- Morgan Freeman’s Gravitas: Freeman’s portrayal of Cross is both empathetic and commanding.
- Ashley Judd’s Resilience: Judd’s performance as a survivor determined to fight back adds emotional depth.
- Intense Plot: The film’s blend of crime-solving and psychological tension keeps viewers riveted.
Available on
Stream or rent it on Prime Video.
10. The Girl on the Train (2016): A Haunting Psychological Mystery
Emily Blunt shines in this adaptation of Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel. Directed by Tate Taylor, The Girl on the Train delves into the complexities of memory, obsession, and truth.
Synopsis
Rachel Watson (Blunt) is an alcoholic struggling with the fallout from her failed marriage. Obsessed with her ex-husband and his new wife, Rachel spends her days riding the train and fantasizing about the seemingly perfect lives of others. When a woman goes missing, Rachel becomes embroiled in the investigation—but her unreliable memory complicates matters.
What Makes It Special?
- Emily Blunt’s Performance: Blunt masterfully portrays Rachel’s vulnerability and determination.
- Unpredictable Plot: The story keeps viewers guessing as it unfolds through multiple perspectives.
- Themes of Trauma: Explores the impact of abuse, addiction, and emotional manipulation.
Where to Watch?
Available to rent on Prime Video.
11. Prisoners (2013): A Gritty Tale of Morality and Mystery
Prisoners, directed by Denis Villeneuve, is a haunting exploration of the lengths people will go to for their loved ones. This intense crime thriller combines a morally complex narrative with breathtaking performances from its cast, making it a modern classic in the mystery genre.
The Storyline
When Keller Dover’s (Hugh Jackman) young daughter and her friend go missing, panic turns into obsession. The prime suspect, Alex Jones (Paul Dano), is released due to lack of evidence, leaving Keller to take matters into his own hands. Meanwhile, Detective Loki (Jake Gyllenhaal) works tirelessly to find the missing girls as the case spirals into darker territory.
Why It’s Unmissable?
- Powerful Performances: Hugh Jackman delivers a raw and emotional performance as a desperate father, while Jake Gyllenhaal captivates as the meticulous, driven detective.
- Moral Ambiguity: The film doesn’t shy away from asking difficult questions—how far is too far when it comes to protecting your family?
- Atmospheric Direction: Villeneuve masterfully creates an oppressive, tension-filled atmosphere that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
- Layered Storytelling: Twists and turns reveal hidden truths, keeping the audience guessing until the shocking conclusion.
Unique Features
- Critical Acclaim: Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Cinematography, thanks to Roger Deakins’ stunning visuals.
- Themes of Faith and Redemption: Subtle religious undertones add depth to the characters’ decisions and dilemmas.
- Realism: The portrayal of grief, fear, and desperation feels heartbreakingly authentic.
Streaming Information
Watch this gripping mystery on Hulu or rent it on Prime Video.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Mystery Movies
1. What makes a movie a “mystery” movie?
A mystery movie centers around solving a puzzle, usually involving a crime, disappearance, or unexplained event. It keeps viewers guessing by presenting clues, twists, and red herrings.
2. Which mystery movie has the most shocking twist?
While this is subjective, films like Prisoners (2013) and The Sixth Sense (1999) are often praised for their jaw-dropping twists that completely reframe the narrative.
3. Are mystery movies always about crime?
Not necessarily. While many mystery movies revolve around crimes, others explore psychological enigmas, supernatural occurrences, or human relationships, as seen in The Wonder (2022).
4. What is a good mystery movie for beginners?
For newcomers, Knives Out (2019) is a great start. It’s fun, accessible, and offers a fresh spin on the classic whodunit format.
5. Are all mystery movies serious?
No, mystery movies can vary in tone. Some, like Knives Out, blend humor with intrigue, while others, like Se7en (1995), are darker and more intense.
6. Are mystery movies based on books better than original scripts?
Both have their merits. Adaptations like The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011) bring beloved stories to life, while original scripts like Prisoners offer fresh and unpredictable narratives.
7. Can mystery movies have happy endings?
Yes, although not all mysteries resolve neatly. Films like See How They Run (2022) and Knives Out manage to wrap up their stories with satisfying conclusions.
8. Why do people enjoy mystery movies?
Mystery movies tap into our natural curiosity and problem-solving instincts. They provide a sense of thrill and satisfaction when the pieces of the puzzle come together.
9. Are there any family-friendly mystery movies?
Yes, movies like Enola Holmes (2020) and Nancy Drew (2007) are great for younger audiences while still delivering compelling mysteries.
10. Which streaming platforms have the best selection of mystery movies?
Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Video are known for their diverse libraries of mystery movies, ranging from classics to modern thrillers.
Conclusion: The Timeless Allure of Mystery Movies
Mystery movies captivate audiences with their ability to blend suspense, emotion, and intellectual challenge. From gripping whodunits like Knives Out to dark psychological thrillers like Prisoners, these films engage our curiosity and keep us hooked until the final frame. Whether you’re drawn to classic adaptations like Murder on the Orient Express or innovative formats like Missing, there’s a mystery movie for everyone.
The enduring appeal of this genre lies in its unpredictability. Every twist, turn, and revelation invites us to question what we think we know and delve deeper into the narrative. As you explore these 10 best mystery movies, you’ll experience the excitement of solving puzzles, uncovering secrets, and stepping into the minds of intriguing characters.
So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for a movie marathon that will keep you on the edge of your seat! For more movie recommendations, be sure to check out our guides on other genres to diversify your watchlist