9 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Dial M for Murder

Inside Job, released in 1946, bears a striking resemblance to Dial M for Murder. Both movies fall under the Crime and Thriller genres and involve blackmail as a key topic. However, that's pretty much where the similarities end. While Dial M for Murder is a masterfully directed film by Alfred Hitchcock, Inside Job, on the other hand, lacks the same level of finesse in its execution. Dial M for Murder captivates the audience with its superb dialogue, a tricksy-yet-capable script, and stellar performances by Ray Milland, Grace Kelly, and Robert Cummings. In contrast, Inside Job fails to live up to its potential, with motivations becoming obscure and characters making life-changing decisions too easily. Despite these shortcomings, Inside Job can still be an enjoyable watch for those who appreciate straightforward crime dramas, as long as they don't expect the same level of depth and mastery as Dial M for Murder.

Murder Without Crime takes you back to 1950s London, where a man finds himself entangled in a web of blackmail and murder. In this film, a chance encounter leads to accidental death, and the protagonist's landlord becomes a constant reminder of his dark secret. While Murder Without Crime lacks the star power and technical finesse of Dial M for Murder, it still manages to capture the suspense and intrigue of a classic crime thriller. Derek Farr delivers a solid performance, but it is Dennis Price who steals the show with his captivating presence. The fast-talking narrator may be off-putting at first, but it adds a unique touch to the film's narrative. Although the score and cinematography may be a bit over the top, they contribute to the film's overall charm. While Murder Without Crime may not have garnered nominations or wins like Dial M for Murder, it is still worth a watch for its gripping storyline and the standout performance by Dennis Price.

Dead on Course, also known as Wings of Danger, is a 1952 British crime thriller that will remind you of Dial M for Murder. Both films belong to the crime and thriller genres, and they explore themes like blackmail and wrongful conviction. While Dial M for Murder focuses on a former tennis star who arranges the murder of his adulterous wife, Dead on Course centers around a pilot named Richard Van Ness who gets caught in a web of blackmail and smuggling after his girlfriend's brother's cargo plane goes missing at sea. Despite their similarities, these movies have their fair share of differences. Dial M for Murder, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, boasts superb dialogue and a cast that delivers exceptional performances, particularly Ray Milland and Grace Kelly. In contrast, Dead on Course features a more routine plot and average acting, with Zachary Scott delivering his lines in an aggressive manner.

In "Rope," Alfred Hitchcock once again showcases his mastery of suspense and technical brilliance. This 1948 film, based on a play, tells the story of two privileged young men who commit a murder for the thrill of it and then host a dinner party with the corpse hidden in plain sight. Hitchcock's innovative use of long takes, achieved through clever editing techniques, gives the film the appearance of being one continuous shot. While his original vision of a completely uninterrupted shot was hindered by technical limitations, the result is still impressive, especially considering the size of the cumbersome color film cameras at the time. The lighting, with the changing natural light as the sun sets, adds to the realism of the confined apartment setting. Despite these technical achievements, "Rope" is not just a technical showcase; it is a gripping suspense story. The tension builds as the murderers slowly unravel during the dinner party, creating a mix of suspense and the macabre.

Rear Window, released just a few months after Dial M for Murder, is reminiscent of its predecessor in more ways than one. While Dial M for Murder revolves around a former tennis star plotting to murder his unfaithful wife, Rear Window captivates its audience with a photographer, played by James Stewart, who, confined to a wheelchair, becomes convinced that one of his neighbors has committed murder. Both films are masterfully directed by Alfred Hitchcock, who cleverly utilizes voyeurism as a central theme. In Rear Window, Hitchcock's love for voyeurism is palpable, as he skillfully captures the illusion of seeing without being seen, pulling us into a world where watching becomes a thrilling experience. The film delves into Hitchcock's fascination with crime, as well as his penchant for adoring blonde actresses from a distance, as exemplified by Grace Kelly's character, Lisa.

Lisbon, a high-stakes battle of wits and morals set in beautiful Portugal, is reminiscent of Dial M for Murder. Both films share the crime and drama genres, but their similarities go beyond that. Ray Milland, who stars in both movies, brings his charm and talent to the screen. In Lisbon, he not only acts but also directs the film, showcasing his versatility. While Dial M for Murder keeps audiences on the edge of their seats with a tense and intricate plot, Lisbon takes a more romantic and film noir approach. The setting of Lisbon adds a touch of exoticism to the story, with its stunning visuals that transport viewers to a different time and place. While Dial M for Murder is a Hitchcock masterpiece, Lisbon holds its own with its captivating direction and solid performances by the cast, including Maureen O'Hara and Claude Rains. If you enjoyed the suspense and intrigue of Dial M for Murder, Lisbon offers a different yet equally captivating experience.

The Safecracker takes us on a thrilling journey through wartime Europe, reminiscent of Dial M for Murder. In both films, we witness the transformation of the main character from an ordinary person into a cunning and resourceful individual. While Dial M for Murder focuses on a former tennis star plotting to murder his wife, The Safecracker follows the story of a British safe-cracker turned army recruit during World War II. Ray Milland delivers yet another remarkable performance in both movies, showcasing his versatility as an actor. Although their plots differ, the two films share a captivating intensity, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. While Dial M for Murder is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling, The Safecracker provides a unique perspective on wartime espionage and showcases the ingenuity of its protagonist. With its action-packed sequences and intriguing plot, The Safecracker is a must-watch for fans of Dial M for Murder, offering an exciting and fresh take on a similar theme.

The Brasher Doubloon takes us back to the late 1940s, a golden era for film noir, where we meet detective Philip Marlowe in a quest to uncover the truth behind the theft of a rare doubloon. While it may not have reached the same heights as other noir classics like Out of the Past or The Big Sleep, this 1947 film still manages to captivate with its atmospheric setting, an old mansion, and the ever-present Santa Ana winds. George Montgomery may not exude the world-weary charm of Humphrey Bogart or Dick Powell, but his winsome portrayal of Marlowe adds a unique touch to the film. Nancy Guild, as the troubled young woman, brings a femme fatale quality that echoes the noir films of that era. And let's not forget the exceptional personality of actress Florence Bates. Although The Brasher Doubloon didn't receive any nominations or awards, it shouldn't be dismissed.

The Lone Wolf in London is reminiscent of Dial M for Murder because both movies involve a case of blackmail. In Dial M for Murder, the ex-tennis player Tony Wendice blackmails his old school friend into murdering his adulterous wife. Similarly, in The Lone Wolf in London, Michael Lanyard, also known as The Lone Wolf, is summoned by a member of the nobility to help raise money to pay a blackmailer. However, while Dial M for Murder is a gripping crime thriller directed by Alfred Hitchcock, The Lone Wolf in London falls short in terms of originality and execution. The plot feels recycled, and the banter between Lanyard and the character Jamison becomes more annoying than funny as the film progresses. Furthermore, the mystery in The Lone Wolf in London takes a backseat, leaving the viewer disengaged. Despite its similarities to Dial M for Murder, The Lone Wolf in London fails to capture the same level of intrigue and entertainment.