Are you a fan of both art and mystery? Then this curated list of detective films about artists is just for you. These movies blend the intrigue of detective work with the rich, often enigmatic world of art, offering a unique cinematic experience. From painters to sculptors, each film explores the darker side of the creative process, making for compelling viewing. Whether you're an art lover, a mystery enthusiast, or simply looking for something different, these films will captivate and entertain.

The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945)
Description: A young man sells his soul to keep his youth, while his portrait ages and reflects his moral decay, leading to a detective-like investigation into his life.
Fact: This adaptation of Oscar Wilde's novel was nominated for several Academy Awards.


The Horse's Mouth (1958)
Description: An eccentric painter, Gulley Jimson, goes to extreme lengths to secure a wall to paint his masterpiece, leading to a series of comedic and criminal misadventures.
Fact: Alec Guinness, who played Jimson, also wrote the screenplay based on Joyce Cary's novel.


Framed (1975)
Description: An innocent man is framed for art theft, leading to a thrilling journey to clear his name and expose the real culprits.
Fact: This film was one of the first to explore the theme of art forgery in a mainstream setting.


The Spanish Prisoner (1997)
Description: A businessman invents a lucrative process but becomes embroiled in a complex con involving art, money, and deception.
Fact: The film features a twisty plot that keeps viewers guessing until the end.


The Red Violin (1998)
Description: The journey of a legendary violin, crafted by a master luthier, spans centuries and continents, touching lives and inspiring art, with a detective story at its core.
Fact: The film was shot in five different languages, reflecting the violin's global travels.


The Thomas Crown Affair (1999)
Description: A sophisticated art thief, Thomas Crown, engages in a game of cat and mouse with an insurance investigator, showcasing his love for art through his elaborate heists.
Fact: The film features a famous chess game scene where the board is set up as a chess puzzle known as the "Immortal Game."


The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Description: This film follows journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they delve into the disappearance of a wealthy businessman's niece, uncovering a web of secrets involving art and family history.
Fact: The film's title refers to a tattoo on Lisbeth Salander's back, which is a symbol of her rebellious spirit.


The Best Offer (2013)
Description: An eccentric art auctioneer becomes entangled in a web of mystery when he's hired to appraise the collection of a reclusive heiress.
Fact: The film was shot in Italy, providing a beautiful backdrop for its art-themed plot.


The Art of the Steal (2013)
Description: A master thief assembles a team to steal a priceless painting, but the heist turns into a complex game of deception and betrayal.
Fact: The film's plot is loosely inspired by real-life art thefts.


The Forger (2014)
Description: A young artist is released from prison to paint a forgery of a masterpiece, leading him into a world of art crime and personal redemption.
Fact: The film was shot in Boston, which adds to its gritty, urban feel.
