The 40+ Best Mystery Movies On Prime Video
Vote up the best mystery movies and whodunits currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
- 12019
A masterfully crafted whodunit, Knives Out is a delightful homage to the classic murder mysteries of Agatha Christie, complete with a labyrinthine plot, an ensemble of colorful characters, and an undercurrent of razor-sharp wit. With its intricate web of secrets and deceit, the film expertly weaves together elements of suspense and tension, keeping audiences guessing until the very end. The exceptional cast, led by Daniel Craig's enthralling performance as detective Benoit Blanc, elevates the movie to new heights, constantly challenging our perceptions and preconceptions of each character. Director Rian Johnson's deft handling of this stylish and cerebral thriller solidifies Knives Out as a true masterpiece in the mystery genre.
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- 22000
Joel Edgerton's directorial debut, The Gift, is a tense and intricately crafted psychological thriller that exposes the dark underbelly of suburban life. The plot revolves around a seemingly perfect couple whose lives are upended by the arrival of a mysterious figure from the husband's past, played by Edgerton himself. The film employs an unsettling atmosphere and slow-burning narrative to build tension, leading to a series of shocking twists and revelations. The Gift is an impressive and suspenseful examination of the consequences of past transgressions and the depths of human deception.
- 32006
A mesmerizing cinematic experience, Christopher Nolan's The Prestige is a mind-bending exploration of obsession, rivalry, and the blurred line between reality and illusion. The film follows two competing magicians whose bitter feud leads them down a dark and dangerous path, resulting in a gripping tale of intrigue, betrayal, and sacrifice. Nolan masterfully manipulates time and perception to create a sense of mounting tension, keeping viewers on edge as they grapple with the ever-shifting dynamics between the characters. Anchored by stellar performances from Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale, The Prestige is a richly layered and thought-provoking thriller that pulls you deeper into its world with each twist and turn.
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- 4
The Suspicions of Mr Whicher
2011Based on the bestselling novel by Kate Summerscale, The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher is a haunting and atmospheric period drama that compellingly delves into one of the most notorious cases in Victorian England. As the enigmatic titular detective, Paddy Considine brings depth and nuance to the role, drawing viewers into his quest for truth amidst the fog of secrets and suspicion that shroud the case. The film successfully maintains a steady undercurrent of tension, complemented by the evocative cinematography and immersive historical setting. A gripping portrayal of obsession and the pursuit of justice, The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher is an engrossing addition to the world of literary-inspired mystery thrillers.
- 5In the wake of a career-ending scandal, disgraced lawyer Lawson Russell (Cuba Gooding Jr.) moves to Key West, Fla., where he befriends aging novelist Christopher Marlowe (Mark Pellegrino). After letting Russell borrow his latest manuscript, "A Murder of Crows," Marlowe dies of a heart attack. When Russell publishes the dead man's manuscript under his own name, he makes the best-seller list -- and unwittingly becomes the prime suspect in the investigation of a grisly multiple homicide.
- 62006
Reinvigorating the iconic James Bond franchise, Casino Royale is a gritty and stylish thriller that expertly combines breathtaking action sequences with a deeply personal character study. Daniel Craig's portrayal of Bond as a vulnerable and dangerous man brings a fresh dimension to the character, while the intense high-stakes gambling scenes provide palpable tension and suspense. The film weaves an intricate plot filled with international espionage, double-crosses, and chilling villains, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats throughout. Casino Royale's seamless blend of thrilling action and emotional depth firmly establishes it as one of the finest entries in the Bond series.
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- 7
An intense and claustrophobic thriller, 10 Cloverfield Lane keeps viewers on edge as it explores themes of survival, paranoia, and trust. The film follows a woman who wakes up in an underground bunker after a car accident, with her enigmatic captor insisting that an apocalyptic event has occurred. Director Dan Trachtenberg deftly builds suspense through a sense of confinement and escalating tension between the characters, amplifying the stakes with each revelation. With captivating performances from Mary Elizabeth Winstead and John Goodman, 10 Cloverfield Lane is a gripping and suspenseful masterclass in psychological tension.
- 82015
A tense and unnerving psychological thriller, The Invitation follows a man who attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife, only to become increasingly suspicious that his hosts have sinister intentions. Director Karyn Kusama skillfully ratchets up the tension throughout the film, creating an atmosphere of suspicion and dread that permeates every scene. With strong performances from the ensemble cast, including Logan Marshall-Green as the paranoid protagonist, The Invitation keeps viewers on edge, questioning the true nature of the gathering until its shocking and brutal climax.
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- 91993
Based on the best-selling novel by John Grisham, The Firm is a thrilling and intricately plotted legal drama that follows a young attorney as he uncovers the dark secrets hidden within his prestigious law firm. Tom Cruise's engaging performance as the naive but resourceful protagonist keeps viewers invested in the outcome, while the supporting cast, including Gene Hackman and Wilford Brimley, add depth to the film's complex web of intrigue. Director Sydney Pollack expertly maintains a sense of tension and suspense throughout, navigating the twists and turns of the plot with ease. The Firm remains a compelling and well-crafted entry in the annals of mystery thrillers.
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- 102003
John McTiernan's twisty thriller Basic stars John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson in a tale of military intrigue, deception, and the search for answers after a mysterious and deadly training exercise goes awry. The labyrinthine plot keeps viewers guessing while providing ample opportunities for suspense and tension, as the various characters reveal hidden agendas and loyalties. Travolta's commanding performance is well matched by the ever-reliable Jackson, as their adversarial dynamic forms the backbone of the film. Armed with enough twists to keep the most jaded thriller fan engaged, Basic is a pulse-pounding ride through the dangerous world of military covert operations.
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- 11
Bone Tomahawk
2015A tense and brutal genre hybrid, Bone Tomahawk blends elements of classic westerns and visceral horror to create a singularly unnerving experience. The film follows a group of men as they embark on a rescue mission to save settlers kidnapped by a savage tribe, steadily building a sense of dread and foreboding that culminates in moments of shocking violence. Director S. Craig Zahler's deliberate pacing and commitment to character development deepens the emotional impact of the story, while the performances of Kurt Russell and Patrick Wilson add weight to the unfolding nightmare. Bone Tomahawk's unique fusion of genres and unflinching look at the darker sides of humanity make it an unforgettable and thrilling ride.
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- 122009
Adapted from the groundbreaking graphic novel by Alan Moore, Watchmen presents an alternate reality where superheroes are an integral part of the political and social landscape, serving as a thought-provoking exploration of power, corruption, and the nature of heroism. This ambitious thriller is infused with a sense of impending doom, employing a nonlinear narrative structure that gradually unravels a complex conspiracy involving the fate of the entire world. Distinctive visuals and a moody atmosphere contribute to the film's palpable sense of unease, as director Zack Snyder skillfully balances questions of morality and ethics with thrilling action sequences. Aided by strong performances and intriguing characters, Watchmen challenges the conventions of the genre to become a unique and unforgettable experience.
More Watchmen - 132002
Steven Spielberg's Minority Report is a thrilling exploration of a dystopian future where law enforcement relies on "pre-crime" technology to prevent criminal acts before they occur. Tom Cruise stars as a police officer accused of a crime he has yet to commit, setting off a desperate race against time and a system rigged against him. The film expertly combines suspenseful action sequences with thought-provoking themes of free will, destiny, and the consequences of a surveillance state. Minority Report is a compelling and visionary thriller that remains relevant and engrossing nearly two decades after its release.
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- 142013
An atmospheric neo-noir set against the backdrop of the Australian Outback, Mystery Road is a slow-burning thriller with a palpable sense of place and a thoughtful examination of racial tensions. The film follows an indigenous detective who returns to his hometown to investigate the murder of a young girl, uncovering a web of corruption and deceit that runs deeper than he imagined. Director Ivan Sen's assured filmmaking creates a simmering tension that builds beneath the surface, punctuated by moments of sudden violence. Bolstered by a strong performance from Aaron Pedersen, Mystery Road is a potent and evocative exploration of personal identity, crime, and the struggle for justice.
- 152005
Wes Craven's Red Eye is a gripping and intense thriller that unfolds within the confined space of an airplane cabin, raising the stakes and tension with the altitude. Rachel McAdams stars as a hotel manager who becomes embroiled in a dangerous assassination plot orchestrated by a menacing stranger, played by Cillian Murphy. The film's claustrophobic atmosphere and relentless pace keep viewers on the edge of their seats, as the power struggle between the characters escalates. With its cat-and-mouse dynamic and two standout lead performances, Red Eye is an unforgettable high-altitude thriller.
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- 162013
A mind-bending exercise in suspense and cerebral storytelling, Coherence follows a group of friends as they gather for a dinner party on the night of an astronomical anomaly, only to find themselves entangled in an increasingly bizarre and terrifying series of events. With its complex narrative and a mounting sense of unease, the film expertly keeps viewers on their toes, forcing them to question the very nature of reality and the limits of their own understanding. By relying heavily on the strength of its ensemble cast and maintaining a claustrophobic atmosphere throughout, Coherence manages to create moments of genuine tension and terror. This low-budget gem proves that a thrilling, thought-provoking experience can be achieved with a compelling story and well-executed execution.
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Kenneth Branagh's take on the classic Agatha Christie whodunit, Murder on the Orient Express, is a visually stunning and faithful homage to its source material. The film follows detective Hercule Poirot as he investigates a murder aboard the eponymous train, with an ensemble of eccentric characters emerging as potential suspects. The film maintains a palpable tension as the plot unfolds, keeping viewers guessing and invested in the outcome. Branagh both directs and stars as Poirot, successfully bringing the beloved detective to life and cementing the film's place among the best mystery thrillers.
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- 181946
Brian De Palma's stylish and provocative thriller, Dressed to Kill, blurs the lines between reality and fantasy, creating a world where danger lurks around every corner. With a taut plot revolving around a murder investigation and the intersecting lives of its central characters, the film maintains a palpable sense of suspense throughout, inviting the audience to unravel its mysteries alongside the protagonists. De Palma's deft directing and well-crafted narrative twists serve to heighten the tension even further, while the memorable performances from Michael Caine and Angie Dickinson solidify the film's place in the pantheon of great thrillers. Dressed to Kill is a seductive and suspenseful journey into the depths of obsession and the dark side of human nature.
- 192017
Dark River is a haunting and evocative psychological thriller that delves into the past trauma of its protagonist, Alice, as she returns to her family's farm after the death of her father. Set against the backdrop of the stark and desolate Yorkshire countryside, the film masterfully taps into an atmosphere of dread and foreboding, amplified by the simmering tensions between Alice and her estranged brother. Director Clio Barnard expertly utilizes subtle visual cues and compelling performances by actors Ruth Wilson and Mark Stanley to create a slow-burning, unnerving experience that will linger long after the credits roll. Dark River is a powerful meditation on the lasting effects of trauma and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect themselves from their own haunted memories.
- 201985
A delightfully wicked homage to classic whodunits, Clue is a comedic thriller that brings the beloved board game to life with a wry sense of humor and a superb ensemble cast. The film's labyrinthine plot, featuring a dinner party turned deadly and a house full of potential murderers, keeps viewers engaged and guessing until the very end. The witty dialog and expert comic timing enhance the suspenseful atmosphere while never detracting from the genuine tension that underlies each twist and turn. Clue is a clever and entertaining entry in the mystery thriller genre, proving that laughter and suspense can go hand-in-hand.
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- 212019
The Report is a riveting and thought-provoking political thriller based on the true story of an investigator who uncovers the CIA's shocking use of torture in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. The film's nuanced and intelligent storytelling, anchored by a committed and powerful performance from Adam Driver, keeps viewers invested in the unfolding scandal. Director Scott Z. Burns masterfully builds tension through his meticulous attention to detail and evocative cinematography, creating a gripping story that feels all too real. The Report is a timely and important expose of the dark side of power that is both compelling and deeply unsettling.
- 222011
A tense and engrossing financial thriller, Margin Call delves into the inner workings of a Wall Street investment bank on the brink of collapse during the 2008 financial crisis. The film's gripping narrative, which unfolds over a 24-hour period, chronicles the desperate attempts of the bank's employees to prevent their own downfall and avoid a catastrophic chain reaction in the global economy. Kevin Spacey, Paul Bettany, and Jeremy Irons deliver compelling performances as the key players involved, ratcheting up the tension and urgency of the situation with every scene. Director J.C. Chandor expertly balances high-stakes drama and moral dilemmas, resulting in a riveting and thought-provoking exploration of greed and the human cost of unchecked ambition.
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- 232004FBI agent Thomas Mackelway (Aaron Eckhart) is transferred to Albuquerque, N.M., after he mishandles the arrest of a serial killer (Keith Campbell). There he is called to investigate the gruesome murder of a salesman (Kevin Chamberlin), who turns out to be a serial killer himself. After two more killings, Thomas and his partner (Carrie-Anne Moss) conclude that Benjamin O'Ryan (Ben Kingsley), a former FBI agent with psychic abilities, is responsible for the deaths.
- 24
I See You
Expertly blending elements of horror and crime thriller, I See You tells the story of a detective and his family who are haunted by a dark presence while investigating a kidnapping case. The film's intriguing and deeply unsettling narrative, combined with skilled direction from Adam Randall, creates a palpable sense of unease that keeps viewers engaged and on edge throughout. Strong performances from the cast, particularly Helen Hunt as the tortured wife, add a layer of emotional complexity that elevates the film beyond typical genre fare. I See You is an ambitious and haunting thriller that brilliantly weaves together multiple threads to create a chilling and unforgettable experience.
- 252000
The Beach is a thrilling and immersive adventure tale that delves into themes of desire, human nature, and the dark side of paradise. Leonardo DiCaprio stars as a young traveler in search of a legendary, idyllic island off the coast of Thailand, only to find that the seemingly perfect community harbors unsettling secrets. Director Danny Boyle expertly crafts a visually stunning and suspenseful narrative filled with unexpected twists and moments of danger. With its lush cinematography and atmospheric tension, The Beach is a captivating and thought-provoking thriller that lingers long after the final frame.
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- 262010
The Resident is a chilling psychological thriller that explores the depths of obsession and the fragility of trust. The film follows a young woman, played by Hilary Swank, who becomes increasingly paranoid when she suspects her landlord, played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, of secretly invading her privacy. With a tense atmosphere and compelling performances from its leads, The Resident successfully keeps viewers on edge as the sinister motivations of its characters are gradually revealed. Director Antti Jokinen expertly manipulates the tension to create an unsettling and claustrophobic experience that is both thrilling and haunting.
More The Resident - 272007
David Fincher's chilling and meticulously researched account of the infamous Zodiac Killer, Zodiac delves deep into the psyche of both the murderer and the investigators who obsessively pursue him. With a masterful sense of pacing and atmosphere, the film keeps viewers on edge as it uncovers new leads and tantalizing clues to the killer's identity. Anchored by strong performances from Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, and Robert Downey Jr., Zodiac is a haunting and captivating thriller that lingers in the mind long after its conclusion. Its mesmerizing portrayal of obsession and perseverance cements its place among the best mystery thrillers of all time.
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- 281955
Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller To Catch a Thief effortlessly blends romance, suspense, and mystery into an unforgettable cinematic experience. Cary Grant stars as a retired cat burglar who must clear his name when a new wave of jewel thefts occurs in the glamorous French Riviera. Grace Kelly's captivating performance as a wealthy heiress caught up in the intrigue only adds to the film's breathless sense of suspense. Hitchcock's masterful direction, combined with stunning visuals and a sharply written script, ensures that To Catch a Thief remains an enduring and quintessential entry in the mystery thriller genre.
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- 291974
Roman Polanski's noir masterpiece Chinatown presents a thrilling and intricately plotted tale of corruption, deception, and tragedy within the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles. Jack Nicholson stars as a private detective who becomes embroiled in a dangerous web of intrigue involving a femme fatale, a corrupt businessman, and the city's precious water supply. Polanski expertly maintains a palpable sense of unease throughout the film while gradually revealing the depth of its sinister underbelly. With its iconic score, evocative cinematography, and unforgettable performances, Chinatown has solidified its place as one of the greatest mystery thrillers in cinematic history.
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- 301997
Switchback is a gripping and twisty thriller that interweaves multiple storylines to tell the tale of an FBI agent on the hunt for a ruthless serial killer. Director Jeb Stuart expertly balances moments of nail-biting tension with deep character development, keeping the audience invested in the fates of its protagonists. The film's evocative setting and atmospheric cinematography heighten the sense of dread that pervades the story, while strong performances from Dennis Quaid and Danny Glover keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the thrilling climax. Switchback is an underrated gem that deserves a place among the best mystery thrillers of all time.
