For U.S.-based Murder & Mayhem, international mystery movies & TV can come from anywhere as close as Mexico or as far as New Zealand. From big screen whodunnits to serial crime dramas, you get to pick how deep you want to wade into the intrigue. But why choose international hits? Every country has their own unique spin on the genre, including nuanced social issues, political tensions, legal intricacies, and what their heroes—and anti-heroes—embody.
While British mystery movies and shows tend to be the most popular international option, we make a point of celebrating the works of less-recognized countries in the television and film industry. We pop over right next door to England to get our fill of Scottish and Irish mysteries, trek up to explore the rising popularity of Nordic mysteries, and far beyond.
If you’re looking to expand your horizons, here are some great places to start:
And once you’re finished with those, browse the stories below for more great international movies and shows.
A world of undercover moles, murder, and callous mobsters.
By Jena Brown
One we're dying to solve.
Fill your map with mystery.
A wholesome crime comedy about being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
This list is a real beaut.
Amidst breathtaking cherry blossoms and cutting-edge technology, Japan has its buried secrets...
Pay a visit to the country known for food, wine, art... and murder?
Enter these worlds of intrigue and charm.
The land of telenovelas knows how to bring the drama to crime series.
Deutschland is shrouded in mystery.
These shows will leave you feeling ice-cold.
These Tartan thrills will get your heart-pounding.
For a small country, they have some big mysteries...
Shows that expose the dark side of the Emerald Isle.
These films will satisfy your craving for quaint mysteries.
By Jena Brown
Mysteries from a far off land that hit close to home.
Spend your autumn nights with these cozy British mysteries.
By Grace Felder
Spend some time with Agatha Raisin, Father Brown, Hercule Poirot, and other delightful sleuths.