This curated collection of 10 detective films delves into the dark and thrilling world where characters strike bargains with the devil, often leading to unexpected consequences. These films blend elements of mystery, suspense, and the supernatural, providing a unique cinematic experience that explores themes of morality, temptation, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Whether you're a fan of classic noir or modern twists on the genre, this list offers something for every detective movie enthusiast.

Angel Heart (1987)
Description: A private detective is hired to find a missing singer, uncovering a sinister plot involving voodoo and a deal with the devil.
Fact: The film was originally rated X due to its graphic content but was later edited to receive an R rating. Robert De Niro's character, Louis Cyphre, is an anagram for Lucifer.


The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
Description: Three women unwittingly summon the devil, who seduces them into a pact that leads to chaos and self-discovery.
Fact: Jack Nicholson's character, Daryl Van Horne, was inspired by the devil in the novel by John Updike.


The Devil's Advocate (1997)
Description: A young lawyer is lured to New York by a mysterious law firm, only to discover his boss is the devil himself, offering him a Faustian bargain.
Fact: Al Pacino's portrayal of the devil was inspired by his own father's personality. The film's ending was changed from the original script to be more ambiguous.


The Ninth Gate (1999)
Description: A rare book dealer is hired to authenticate a book that supposedly contains the secret to summoning the devil, leading him into a dangerous game of power and betrayal.
Fact: The film was directed by Roman Polanski, who also co-wrote the screenplay. The book in the film is based on a real book called "The Club Dumas."


Bedazzled (2000)
Description: A hapless man makes a deal with the devil for seven wishes, each one leading to comedic and often disastrous results, highlighting the pitfalls of temptation.
Fact: The film is a remake of the 1967 British comedy of the same name. Elizabeth Hurley's character, the devil, was originally played by Peter Cook.


Constantine (2005)
Description: A cynical exorcist with the ability to see demons makes a deal with the devil to save his soul, leading to a battle against supernatural forces.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the DC Comics character John Constantine, but the movie's plot diverges significantly from the source material.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: A hospice nurse discovers a dark secret involving hoodoo and a pact with the devil in a Louisiana plantation house.
Fact: The film was shot on location in New Orleans, and the house used in the movie is known as the Felicity Plantation.


The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
Description: A traveling theater troupe's leader, Doctor Parnassus, has made a deal with the devil, leading to a fantastical journey through imagination to save his daughter.
Fact: Heath Ledger died during filming, and his role was completed by Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell, each playing different versions of his character.


The Devil's Double (2011)
Description: A man is forced to become the body double for Saddam Hussein's sadistic son, Uday, leading to a life of luxury and terror, akin to a deal with the devil.
Fact: Dominic Cooper plays both the protagonist and Uday Hussein, showcasing his versatility as an actor.


The Devil and Daniel Webster (1941)
Description: A farmer makes a deal with the devil for seven years of prosperity, but when the time comes to pay, he turns to the legendary orator Daniel Webster for help.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Music, Scoring of a Dramatic Picture. It's based on a short story by Stephen Vincent Benét.
