If you’re a fan of the crime noir genre, Dick Tracy is likely one of your favorites. This classic film, with its stylized visuals and engaging storyline, has left many viewers craving more. We’ve compiled a list of 17 movies that capture the same essence. Check out the trailers for these films and find your next noir obsession!
1. The Maltese Falcon
This 1941 classic stars Humphrey Bogart as private detective Sam Spade. The plot revolves around a hunt for a priceless statuette, filled with twists and betrayals. Mary Astor and Peter Lorre provide memorable supporting roles.
2. L.A. Confidential
L.A. Confidential is a modern take on the noir genre, set in 1950s Los Angeles. Starring Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, and Kim Basinger, it delves into corruption and scandal within the LAPD.
3. Sin City
Sin City brings Frank Miller’s graphic novel to life with a visually striking, black-and-white aesthetic. The ensemble cast includes Bruce Willis, Jessica Alba, and Mickey Rourke, portraying various intertwining stories of crime and vengeance.
4. Who Framed Roger Rabbit
Combining live-action and animation, Who Framed Roger Rabbit stars Bob Hoskins as a detective investigating a murder in a world where cartoons coexist with humans. It’s a unique blend of comedy, mystery, and noir elements.
5. Chinatown
Directed by Roman Polanski, Chinatown stars Jack Nicholson as a private investigator uncovering a web of deceit in 1930s Los Angeles. Faye Dunaway and John Huston deliver compelling performances in this critically acclaimed film.
6. The Big Sleep
The Big Sleep features Humphrey Bogart as the iconic detective Philip Marlowe. Lauren Bacall co-stars in this complex tale of blackmail, murder, and romance, based on the novel by Raymond Chandler.
7. Blade Runner
Set in a dystopian future, Blade Runner stars Harrison Ford as a “blade runner” tasked with hunting down rogue androids. Its dark, atmospheric visuals and philosophical undertones make it a standout in the genre.
8. Touch of Evil
Orson Welles directs and stars in Touch of Evil, a gripping tale of crime and corruption on the U.S.-Mexico border. Charlton Heston and Janet Leigh also star in this film, known for its iconic opening tracking shot.
9. The Untouchables
The Untouchables chronicles the efforts of Eliot Ness, played by Kevin Costner, to bring down Al Capone, portrayed by Robert De Niro. The film also features Sean Connery in an Oscar-winning role.
10. Gotham
Gotham is a TV series that explores the origins of Batman’s infamous villains. While not a movie, its noir-inspired storytelling and dark, atmospheric setting make it a worthy addition to this list.
11. Road to Perdition
Tom Hanks stars in Road to Perdition, a story of a mob enforcer seeking revenge after his family is targeted. Paul Newman and Jude Law deliver strong supporting performances in this visually stunning film.
12. The Shadow
The Shadow stars Alec Baldwin as a crime-fighting vigilante with the power to cloud men’s minds. This film, set in 1930s New York, blends supernatural elements with classic noir tropes.
13. Dark City
Dark City is a sci-fi noir film that follows Rufus Sewell’s character as he uncovers a sinister conspiracy in a city where the sun never rises. Jennifer Connelly and Kiefer Sutherland co-star in this visually unique film.
14. The Third Man
Set in post-war Vienna, The Third Man stars Joseph Cotten as a writer investigating the mysterious death of his friend. Orson Welles delivers a memorable performance in this atmospheric, suspenseful film.
15. Miller’s Crossing
The Coen Brothers’ Miller’s Crossing stars Gabriel Byrne as a mob advisor caught in a web of betrayal and deceit. Albert Finney and John Turturro provide strong supporting roles in this stylish, complex film.
16. The Long Goodbye
Elliott Gould stars as Philip Marlowe in The Long Goodbye, a modern take on the classic detective story. Directed by Robert Altman, the film offers a unique, laid-back approach to the genre.
17. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang stars Robert Downey Jr. as a petty thief who gets caught up in a murder mystery. Val Kilmer and Michelle Monaghan co-star in this witty, self-aware take on the noir genre.