There’s Been a Murder.

This slow paced piece of work from David Fincher leaves you wanting more. Based on a true story and a true case, Zodiac is intelligent and interesting throughout. What I like most about this piece of work is how script based the whole film is. Despite the drama of the murders and the fear for the victims, the film is at its best when dialogue is being thrown back and forth between a perfect cast, including Jake Gyllenhaal and Mark Ruffalo.

4. The Usual Suspects (1995)

Here we have Spacey in one of his most iconic roles within a film that revolves entirely around the question “Who done it?”. A smooth and complex thrill ride that keeps you guessing all the way through. One of the most famous endings in film history that brings this undeniably cool ride to a perfect end. It’s long, it’s confusing but it is unbelievably slick.

3. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

I know I have only just written an entry about this film but one of the reasons I am so fond of this film is its murder mystery plot. Hunting down a killer that the audience has seen, Starling uses the genius mind of Lecter to help create the profile of this local serial killer. It is gripping and frustrating to watch and all the action comes to an intense climax as the film draws to a close. A masterpiece in the form of a modern-day murder mystery.

2. Psycho (1960)

Hitchcock’s iconic horror is still as chilling today as it was in the sixties. With some sensational performances and a beautifully sculpted narrative, Psycho remains a landmark for the horror/slasher genre. Not only is the horror crafted perfectly, but the narrative keeps you intrigued throughout. Hitchcock lets you see just enough but still leaves you guessing until the final moments.

1. Se7en (1995)

Fincher makes a second appearance in this chart and takes the top spot with his modern-day ‘film-noir-like’ horror, Se7en. A film that puts the audience in the position of the detectives and involves you in every moment of the inquiry. The lack of hope that swarms the film, from start to finish, is deliciously potent. With three stand-out performances, Se7en is without a doubt my favourite murder mystery movie. It is dark and gloomy, rather like the city it’s set in. This film puts you, the audience, in the shoes of these characters and ties up the laces so you can’t climb out.