Whether it’s on the big screen or on television, crime stories continue to be a favorite among audiences, drawing them in with their compelling plots and real-life mysteries.
When mixed with the suspenseful elements of thrillers, this genre becomes even more
enthralling, keeping viewers hooked to their screens.
The history of crime thrillers dates back to the classic film noirs of the Golden Age,
offering a wide array of captivating movies worth revisiting and evaluating for their
direction and standout performances. From the intense ‘Prisoners’ to the iconic ‘The
Silence of the Lambs,’ according to Collider, these films stand out as some of the best
crime thrillers ever made.
10.‘Prisoners’ (2013)
‘Prisoners’ features outstanding performances by Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano, and
Hugh Jackman. The narrative focuses on a father’s desperate search for his missing
daughter, taking matters into his own hands as the police follow various leads. Director
Denis Villeneuve’s exceptional filmmaking skills shine in this gripping neo-noir, making
‘Prisoners’ a must-watch for its exploration of parenthood and ethics.
9.‘Le Samouraï’ (1967)
Jean-Pierre Melville’s ‘Le Samouraï’ revolves around a professional assassin (Alain
Delon) seeking to unveil who hired him and tried to eliminate him, while a Parisian
police commissioner (François Périer) pursues him. This French noir captivates with its
minimalist yet captivating storyline and characters, influencing many future films.
8.‘M’ (1931)
Following the success of ‘Metropolis,’ Fritz Lang directed ‘M,’ a remarkable crime
mystery thriller about the search for a child killer. Touching on themes of child
abduction and a flawed justice system, ‘M’ remains significant today. Peter Lorre’s
remarkable performance and the film’s engaging plot make it a timeless masterpiece in
the genre.
7.‘No Country for Old Men’ (2007)
Set in 1980 West Texas, ‘No Country for Old Men’ features Javier Bardem in a chilling
role. The plot follows a Vietnam War veteran (Josh Brolin) who stumbles upon the
aftermath of a botched drug deal. The Coen Brothers’ film, delving into themes of
morality, justice, and guilt, received four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
6.‘Se7en’ (1995)
David Fincher’s ‘Se7en’ stars Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman as detectives tracking a
serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his motives. The film’s dark atmosphere,
stellar performances, and twisted plot make it a standout psychological thriller.
5.‘Double Indemnity’ (1944)
Helmed by Billy Wilder, ‘Double Indemnity’ narrates the tale of an insurance agent
(Fred MacMurray) entangled in a scheme of fraud and murder by a captivating
housewife (Barbara Stanwyck). Nominated for seven Academy Awards, this classic noir
remains one of the most influential films in the crime thriller genre.
4.‘The Dark Knight’ (2008)
In ‘The Dark Knight’ directed by Christopher Nolan, Christian Bale and Heath Ledger
deliver iconic performances. The plot delves into Batman’s internal struggles as he
battles against the anarchy unleashed by the Joker. Ledger’s portrayal and the gripping
script elevate the movie into one of the top superhero films and a standout crime
thriller.
3.‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991)
Featuring Anthony Hopkins and Jodie Foster, ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ is an
adaptation of Thomas Harris’s novel. The storyline follows a young FBI recruit’s efforts
to capture a serial killer with the unlikely assistance of a cannibalistic prisoner. The
movie’s intricate psychological aspects and stellar acting make it a timeless
masterpiece in its genre.
2.‘Memories of Murder’ (2003)
‘Memories of Murder’ directed by Bong Joon-ho is inspired by true events of murders in
a Korean province. The narrative tracks two detectives as they hunt down a serial killer.
The film’s eerie storytelling, sharp dialogue, and direction combine to create an
unforgettable crime thriller.
1.‘Le Trou’ (1960)
‘Le Trou’ by Jacques Becker is hailed as one of the greatest prison escape movies. The
plot follows four inmates as they involve a newcomer in their breakout scheme, leading
to suspicion and tension. With captivating performances and gritty realism, ‘Le Trou’
endures as a timeless and engaging crime thriller.
