Top 10 Detective Films Set in the Church

Description: While not a traditional detective film, it follows Father Francis Chisholm's journey to China, where he faces various challenges and mysteries in his mission work, often requiring detective-like problem-solving.

Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Gregory Peck.

Description: Set in a 14th-century Italian monastery, this film follows a Franciscan friar, William of Baskerville, as he investigates a series of mysterious deaths. The church setting adds layers of intrigue with its historical and religious context, making it a perfect fit for this list.

Fact: The film is based on Umberto Eco's novel, and Sean Connery, who plays William, was nominated for a BAFTA for Best Actor.

Description: A rare book dealer, Dean Corso, is hired to authenticate a book that could summon the Devil. The journey takes him through various churches and religious settings, blending detective work with occult mysteries.

Fact: The film was directed by Roman Polanski, and Johnny Depp's character is based on a real-life book dealer.

Description: This film follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he unravels a murder mystery connected to the Priory of Sion, a secret society linked to the church. The investigation leads through various religious sites, making it a compelling addition to this list.

Fact: The film was shot in several real locations, including the Louvre Museum in Paris.

Description: While primarily a horror film, it includes a courtroom drama where a priest is on trial for negligent homicide after performing an exorcism. The church's role in the story provides a backdrop for the detective-like investigation into the supernatural.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, whose exorcism led to her death.

Description: A sequel to "The Da Vinci Code," this film sees Robert Langdon racing against time to prevent an ancient brotherhood from destroying Vatican City. The church setting is central to the plot, with Langdon solving puzzles and uncovering secrets.

Fact: The film was shot in Rome, including scenes filmed inside St. Peter's Basilica.

Description: A skeptical seminary student is sent to Rome to take an exorcism course, where he becomes involved in a real exorcism case. The film delves into the church's practices and the detective-like process of discerning possession.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist" by Matt Baglio.

Description: A young woman becomes possessed, and the Vatican sends a priest to investigate and perform an exorcism. The film explores the church's secretive procedures in dealing with the supernatural.

Fact: The film was originally titled "The Vatican" during production.

Description: A priest and a novitiate nun investigate the suicide of a nun in Romania, uncovering a malevolent force in a cloistered abbey. The church setting is integral to the plot, providing a backdrop for the detective-like investigation into the supernatural.

Fact: The film is part of "The Conjuring" universe, expanding on the character of Valak, the demon nun.

Description: Although a TV series, it's worth mentioning for its detective-like exploration of the Vatican's inner workings. The story revolves around a young American cardinal who becomes Pope and faces various mysteries and political intrigue within the church.

Fact: Jude Law's performance as the Pope was critically acclaimed, and the series was directed by Paolo Sorrentino.