10 Must-Watch Detective Dramas

Description: This film follows two NYPD detectives as they track down a heroin smuggling ring. Its gritty realism, iconic car chase, and the portrayal of detective work make it a landmark in the genre.

Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for William Friedkin. The famous car chase was filmed without permits, adding to its authenticity.

Description: A surveillance expert, played by Gene Hackman, becomes increasingly paranoid as he uncovers a potential murder plot through his recordings. Its focus on surveillance and privacy issues makes it timeless.

Fact: Francis Ford Coppola wrote, directed, and produced the film, which was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: A dark, gritty tale of two detectives hunting a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. Its bleak atmosphere and moral ambiguity make it a must-watch for detective drama enthusiasts.

Fact: The film was originally titled "Seven" but was changed to "Se7en" for marketing purposes. It was also one of the first films to use the internet as a plot device.

Description: Known for its twist ending, this film follows a group of criminals as they recount their involvement with the mysterious Keyser Söze. Its narrative structure and the iconic line-up scene are why it's revered in detective film history.

Fact: Kevin Spacey won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role. The film's ending is often cited as one of the greatest plot twists in cinema.

Description: While often categorized as a comedy, this Coen Brothers' film features a complex mystery at its core, involving a slacker named Jeff Lebowski, mistaken identity, and a kidnapping. Its unique blend of humor and detective elements makes it a cult classic.

Fact: The film has inspired a religion, "Dudeism," based on the philosophy of "The Dude." It also has an annual festival in Louisville, Kentucky.

Description: Set in 1950s Los Angeles, this film explores corruption, scandal, and the underbelly of the city through the eyes of three very different cops. Its intricate plot and character development make it a classic detective drama.

Fact: The film won two Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Kim Basinger. It was also nominated for Best Picture.

Description: This film explores the aftermath of a childhood trauma and a present-day murder, weaving a tale of guilt, friendship, and revenge. Its deep character studies and emotional intensity justify its place in this list.

Fact: Clint Eastwood directed and scored the film, earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Director. Sean Penn won Best Actor for his role.

Description: Based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer, this film meticulously recreates the investigation into the elusive murderer. Its slow-burn narrative and focus on the psychological toll of the case make it a standout in detective cinema.

Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Robert Downey Jr., Jake Gyllenhaal, and Mark Ruffalo. It was also one of the first films to use digital intermediate technology extensively for color grading.

Description: Ben Affleck's directorial debut, this film follows two private investigators as they search for a missing child in Boston, uncovering layers of corruption and moral dilemmas along the way.

Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Dennis Lehane, who also wrote "Mystic River." Casey Affleck received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: This film adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they delve into a decades-old disappearance. Its inclusion in this list is due to its dark, brooding atmosphere and the compelling interplay between its protagonists.

Fact: The film was directed by David Fincher, known for his meticulous attention to detail. The Swedish version of the film was released in 2009 with the same title.