Dive into the intriguing world where logic and numbers meet crime-solving. This curated list of detective movies showcases mathematicians using their analytical prowess to unravel complex mysteries. These films not only entertain but also offer a unique perspective on how mathematical thinking can be applied to real-world problems, making them a must-watch for fans of both detective stories and intellectual challenges.

Good Will Hunting (1997)
Description: While primarily a drama, the film includes elements of mystery as Will Hunting, a genius janitor, solves complex mathematical problems, leading to his discovery by MIT professors.
Fact: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for this film.


Pi (1998)
Description: A paranoid mathematician searches for a key number that will unlock the universal patterns found in nature, leading him into a dangerous spiral of conspiracy and intrigue.
Fact: Darren Aronofsky's debut film, shot in black and white, explores themes of obsession and the quest for knowledge.


The Number 23 (2007)
Description: A man becomes obsessed with the number 23, leading him to uncover a mystery that blurs the lines between fiction and reality, involving mathematical patterns.
Fact: Jim Carrey plays a dual role in this psychological thriller directed by Joel Schumacher.


The Oxford Murders (2008)
Description: A series of murders at Oxford University involves complex mathematical puzzles, with a young student and a renowned logic professor working together to solve the crimes.
Fact: The film was adapted from the novel by Guillermo Martínez, and features John Hurt and Elijah Wood in lead roles.


The Man Who Knew Infinity (2015)
Description: While not a traditional detective story, this biopic of Srinivasa Ramanujan involves the mystery of his mathematical genius and his contributions to number theory.
Fact: Dev Patel and Jeremy Irons star in this film, which was adapted from the book by Robert Kanigel.


The Code (2009)
Description: A mathematician is recruited by the NSA to help decode a mysterious code that could prevent a terrorist attack, blending cryptography with detective work.
Fact: The film stars Morgan Freeman and Antonio Banderas, focusing on the tension between security and privacy.


The Imitation Game (2014)
Description: This film tells the story of Alan Turing, a brilliant mathematician who played a pivotal role in cracking the German Enigma code during WWII, blending his mathematical genius with detective work.
Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of Alan Turing. The film also won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.


Enigma (2001)
Description: Set during WWII, this film follows a codebreaker at Bletchley Park who must solve a new enigma code to prevent a Nazi attack, showcasing the detective-like work of cryptographers.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Robert Harris and features Kate Winslet and Dougray Scott.


Proof (2005)
Description: A story about a daughter of a famous mathematician who must prove that she is the author of a groundbreaking proof, amidst family secrets and personal doubts.
Fact: Gwyneth Paltrow won a Golden Globe for her role in this film, which was adapted from David Auburn's Pulitzer Prize-winning play.


Fermat's Room (2007)
Description: Four mathematicians are invited to solve a mathematical puzzle, only to find themselves trapped in a shrinking room, forcing them to use their intellect to survive.
Fact: The film is a Spanish thriller that uses the concept of Fermat's Last Theorem as a central plot device.
