The moon has long been a symbol of mystery and intrigue, often casting a silvery light on the darkest of secrets. This curated collection of 10 detective films set under the moon's enigmatic glow offers viewers a unique blend of suspense, mystery, and the allure of the night. From classic whodunits to modern thrillers, each film uses the moon as a backdrop to enhance the atmosphere of mystery, making this selection not only a treat for detective story enthusiasts but also for those who appreciate the cinematic beauty of lunar landscapes.

Moonrise (1948)
Description: This noir film involves a man accused of murder, with the moonlit setting enhancing the tension and mystery of his plight.
Fact: The film was directed by Frank Borzage, known for his romantic and atmospheric storytelling.


The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
Description: While more of a sci-fi drama, the film includes elements of mystery as an alien, played by David Bowie, navigates Earth under the moon's watchful eye, with a detective-like quest to find his way back home.
Fact: David Bowie's performance was inspired by his own sense of alienation, making his portrayal deeply personal.


Moon (2009)
Description: This film features a lone astronaut on the moon who uncovers a corporate conspiracy, turning his isolation into a detective story of survival and identity.
Fact: The film was shot in Shepperton Studios, England, with the moon's surface recreated in a studio.


Moonrise Kingdom (2012)
Description: While not a traditional detective story, this film features a young scout who goes missing, prompting a search under the moonlit sky. The detective work is done by a local sheriff and a social services worker, making it a unique addition to this list.
Fact: The film was shot in Rhode Island, and the moonlit scenes were meticulously planned to capture the natural beauty of the night.


The Moon-Spinners (1964)
Description: A Disney film where a young woman and her aunt become embroiled in a mystery involving stolen jewels and a moonlit chase, making it a light-hearted entry into the detective genre.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Crete, Greece, adding to its exotic, moonlit atmosphere.


The Moon-Spinners (1964)
Description: A Disney film where a young woman and her aunt become embroiled in a mystery involving stolen jewels and a moonlit chase, making it a light-hearted entry into the detective genre.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Crete, Greece, adding to its exotic, moonlit atmosphere.


The Woman in the Moon (1929)
Description: This silent German film involves a detective-like investigation into a moon expedition, where the moon's surface becomes a stage for intrigue and betrayal.
Fact: It was one of the first films to use a countdown before a rocket launch, influencing future space movies.


The Moon and Sixpence (1942)
Description: While not a detective film per se, it involves a man's mysterious journey to the South Seas, with the moon playing a symbolic role in his quest for artistic expression.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the life of Paul Gauguin.


The Moonstone (1996)
Description: A TV movie based on Wilkie Collins' novel, where a detective investigates the theft of a valuable diamond, with many scenes set under the moon's light.
Fact: The original novel is often considered the first English detective novel.


The Moonstone (1996)
Description: A TV movie based on Wilkie Collins' novel, where a detective investigates the theft of a valuable diamond, with many scenes set under the moon's light.
Fact: The original novel is often considered the first English detective novel.
