Top 10 Crime Movies of the 2020s: Our Picks So Far

As we approach the end of the 2020s, crime cinema has already showcased a remarkable array of films that blend various elements including comedy, poignant period dramas, and gripping murder mysteries. This decade has proven to be a transformative time for the genre, ushering in innovative storytelling techniques and diverse narratives. Enthusiasts of crime films are undoubtedly excited for what the remainder of the decade holds, and it seems poised to continue its trend of evolution.

Notable filmmakers who have long been associated with the crime genre, such as Martin Scorsese, Steven Soderbergh, and David Fincher, have revisited their roots. Meanwhile, fresh voices have emerged, like Emerald Fennell, who made waves with her debut film, Promising Young Woman. A significant wave of female directors is also beginning to reshape the landscape of crime cinema, highlighting diverse perspectives and experiences.

10 Last Night In Soho (2021)

Edgar Wright’s Unique Blend of Genres Envelops an Intriguing Mystery

Last Night in Soho is an intriguing cocktail of supernatural horror, psychological thriller, and murder mystery. Although its initial popularity did not reach the same heights as some of Edgar Wright’s prior films, its intricate narrative is likely to captivate audiences upon repeat viewings. The mystery revolves around time travel, leaving room for interpretation regarding Ellie’s enigmatic connection to Sandie across different eras.

The film uniquely propels itself through its suspenseful murder mystery, where the true identities of both the victim and the assailant remain shrouded in uncertainty. Visually, Wright crafts a stunning and immersive representation of 1960s London, effectively juxtaposing the era’s vibrant aesthetics with the unsettling horror that permeates this compelling crime narrative.

9 No Sudden Move (2021)

Steven Soderbergh’s Understated Gem Exudes Style

No Sudden Move may not have achieved the recognition it deserves since its debut on HBO Max, raising questions about its potential success in a theatrical setting. This crime thriller carries familiar elements reminiscent of Soderbergh’s previous works, like Logan Lucky and the Ocean’s trilogy.

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Featuring a stylish aesthetic, No Sudden Move unravels a tale of a blackmail scheme gone awry, as the characters discover they have been double-crossed. Soderbergh’s direction shines through, drawing stellar performances from an ensemble cast including Benicio del Toro, Don Cheadle, and Kieran Culkin, blending dark comedy with palpable tension.

8 The Killer (2023)

David Fincher’s Gripping Thriller Deserves Greater Appreciation

Renowned for classics like Se7en and Fight Club, David Fincher’s The Killer continues to explore the themes of violence and psychology intertwined with crime. Michael Fassbender stars as an unnamed hitman in this slow-burn thriller that immerses the viewer in an atmospheric journey rather than sheer action.

Fincher’s distinct storytelling approach is not for everyone; it requires patience to grasp its enchanting nuances. However, those who resonate with the film will find themselves drawn into a world of tension punctuated by shocking moments of action, largely driven by Fassbender’s nuanced performance.

7 Love Lies Bleeding (2024)

Love Lies Bleeding Emerges as One of 2024’s Must-Watch Crime Films

Though 2024 may have yielded fewer prominent crime films, works like Drive-Away Dolls, Monkey Man, and Juror #2 have shown promise. Among these, Love Lies Bleeding, with its hard-hitting action intertwined with a queer love story, stands out.

Starring Kristen Stewart and Katy O’Brian, the film radiates chemistry that propels its narrative through Rose Glass’s inventive storytelling, consistently surprising the audience while tackling complex themes surrounding reckless romance and crime.

6 Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)

Rian Johnson’s Sequel Engages the Audience in a Playful Mystery

Following the success of Knives Out, Rian Johnson crafted Glass Onion to elevate the mystery genre, even if it is a notch below its predecessor. With his next installment hinted to be titled Wake Up Dead Man, Johnson continues to play a game of wits with viewers.

Though released recently, Glass Onion captures the zeitgeist of a turbulent period, as it addresses the realities of the pandemic directly, giving it an immediate sense of relevance. Its unique take on the villain’s identity will undoubtedly remain a talking point long after its release.

5 Nightmare Alley (2021)

Guillermo Del Toro’s Haunting Period Thriller Delivers Depth

Nightmare Alley, adapted from William Lindsey Gresham’s 1946 novel, showcases Guillermo Del Toro’s mastery of blending horror with emotional depth. Keeping the storyline in post-war America allows for rich thematic exploration. Bradley Cooper captivates as a drifter turned high-profile magician, embodying the essence of desperation and ambition.

While the film is steeped in classic Hollywood aesthetics, it retains the raw energy of B-movies. Del Toro skillfully layers dread throughout, even as Cooper’s character aspires for a better life, maintaining an unsettling tension that lingers throughout the film.

4 Promising Young Woman (2020)

Emerald Fennell’s Provocative Thriller Ignites Necessary Discussions

Promising Young Woman does more than entertain; it boldly challenges societal norms surrounding sexual assault. Carey Mulligan shines as a woman on a mission for revenge after her friend’s traumatic experience. Fennell’s directorial debut adeptly navigates the complexities of gender, criminality, and societal complicity.

This film not only critiques predatory behavior but also exposes the systemic failures that perpetuate injustice against women. Fennell’s meticulously crafted narrative provokes a profound dialogue, making Mulligan’s character a compelling anti-hero that shakes viewers to their core.

3 The Batman (2022)

The Batman: A Gritty Crime Narrative with a Superhero Edge

The Batman series has evolved into a darker portrayal of the iconic hero, and the 2022 entry takes this transformation to new depths. Robert Pattinson impresses as a brooding self-doubt-ridden Batman, challenging the longstanding perceptions of the hero’s lineage.

This crime thriller leans more towards film noir than typical superhero narratives, placing Batman against a chaotic serial killer reminiscent of the Zodiac Killer. The Batman does not skimp on action, yet it also offers a rich story that merits deeper contemplation.

2 Killers Of The Flower Moon (2023)

Martin Scorsese Maintains His Dominance in Crime Storytelling

With an illustrious history of crime films like Mean Streets and The Wolf of Wall Street, Martin Scorsese continues to captivate audiences with Killers of the Flower Moon. Set against the backdrop of 1920s Oklahoma, this film artfully tackles the disturbing issue of serial murders, aiming to reflect on a broader narrative of American history.

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While its runtime may deter some viewers, Scorsese’s film proves to be an intelligent and ambitious epic, highlighted by stellar performances from Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Lily Gladstone. The film authentically recreates the era, adding to its rich narrative tapestry.

1 Anatomy Of A Fall (2023)

A Courtroom Conversation Elevated Through Deep Storytelling

Anatomy of a Fall exemplifies cinematic excellence in storytelling. Eschewing gimmicky plots or superficial themes, this film focuses on delivering a compelling narrative, boasting high-quality writing and performances. It presents a complex courtroom drama that navigates subtle details and emotional undercurrents to create tension.

The film deserves a place among the finest courtroom dramas ever made, precisely due to its meticulous construction of narrative and character psychology. Its impactful conclusion will linger in viewers’ minds, solidifying its status as the defining crime narrative of the 2020s.

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