10 Movies & Shows Like The Long Goodbye

Description: A defining film noir with a private detective at its center, navigating a labyrinth of lies and greed. The story's focus on a seemingly insignificant object that drives the plot and the protagonist's unyielding moral code are key elements.

Fact: This was the third film adaptation of Dashiell Hammett's novel. The iconic statuette used in the film was sold at auction for over $4 million in

Description: A classic noir that explores themes of betrayal, lust, and the inevitability of fate. The film's use of flashback narration and its shadowy visual style create a tense, foreboding atmosphere.

Fact: The screenplay was co-written by Raymond Chandler, who famously clashed with director Billy Wilder. The film was based on a true crime story that inspired James M. Cain's novel.

Description: A quintessential film noir featuring a hard-boiled detective entangled in a convoluted plot filled with deception, femme fatales, and a shadowy underworld. The narrative's complexity and the protagonist's sardonic wit are hallmarks of the genre.

Fact: The plot is so intricate that even the director and screenwriters admitted they didn't fully understand who committed one of the murders. The film was adapted from Raymond Chandler's novel of the same name.

Description: A noir that explores themes of fate, betrayal, and the inescapability of one's past. The film's lush cinematography and complex narrative structure are key to its enduring appeal.

Fact: The film's title was changed to 'Build My Gallows High' for its UK release. It is often cited as one of the greatest film noirs ever made.

Description: A post-war noir set in a morally ambiguous Vienna, featuring a protagonist who uncovers a web of deceit. The film's striking cinematography and zither score contribute to its unique, unsettling tone.

Fact: The film's iconic Ferris wheel scene was shot in a single take. Orson Welles' famous 'cuckoo clock' speech was improvised by Welles himself.

Description: A heist noir that examines the lives of criminals and their doomed plans. The film's ensemble cast and its focus on the psychological toll of crime are central to its narrative.

Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its sympathetic portrayal of criminals. It was adapted from W.R. Burnett's novel, which was based on real-life heists.

Description: A noir that delves into police corruption and personal vengeance. The film's brutal violence and its protagonist's relentless pursuit of justice are central to its narrative.

Fact: The infamous coffee-throwing scene was highly controversial at the time. The film was based on a serialized novel by William P. McGivern.

Description: A heist film with a non-linear narrative and a focus on the inevitability of failure. The film's bleak outlook and meticulous plotting are characteristic of noir storytelling.

Fact: This was Stanley Kubrick's first major film. The screenplay was co-written by Jim Thompson, a renowned crime novelist.

Description: A noir that delves into corruption and moral decay, with a labyrinthine plot and a flawed protagonist. The film's innovative long-take opening shot and its gritty, atmospheric setting are standout features.

Fact: The film was initially released in a heavily edited version; the director's cut was restored decades later. Charlton Heston played a Mexican detective despite being famously miscast.

Description: A neo-noir film that delves into themes of corruption, moral ambiguity, and a cynical view of society. The protagonist, a private investigator, navigates a complex web of deceit and betrayal, mirroring the intricate storytelling and dark undertones of classic noir.

Fact: The film's famous line 'Forget it, Jake, it's Chinatown' was improvised by screenwriter Robert Towne. It was originally intended to be the first part of a trilogy, but the sequels were never made.