15 Movies Like Poirot – Get Your Detective Mode On!

If you can't get enough of Hercule Poirot's brilliant detective skills and keen eye for detail, then get ready to embark on a thrilling cinematic journey. We've curated a list of 15 movies that will satisfy your craving for crime, drama, mystery, and thrilling twists. These captivating films will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like Poirot himself.

1) Murder on the Orient Express

Murder on the Orient Express is reminiscent of Poirot, the series that aired in 1989. Both stories feature the famous Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, who has an impeccable knack for getting embroiled in a mystery and solving crimes. While Poirot is accompanied by Captain Hastings and Scotland Yard Chief Inspector James Japp in the series, Murder on the Orient Express sees Poirot recruited to solve a murder that occurs on a train. The similarities lie in the shared elements of a private detective, the 1930s setting, and the captivating mysteries. However, Murder on the Orient Express stands out with its star-studded cast, including Kenneth Branagh as Poirot, Penélope Cruz, and Willem Dafoe. The film is a visual treat, featuring a rich and exotic color palette reminiscent of early color films, and is complemented by a lush score.

Release date: November, 2017
IMDB Rating: 6.5

2) The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes

The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is reminiscent of Poirot because it also revolves around a brilliant detective solving mysteries. While Poirot is a Belgian detective, Sherlock Holmes is an iconic British character. Both shows have a charming and charismatic lead, with David Suchet playing Poirot and Jeremy Brett portraying Holmes. Poirot is known for his impeccable knack for getting embroiled in a mystery, while Holmes is famous for his keen observation and deduction skills. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes showcases Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. Watson solving various intriguing cases, such as the copper beeches and the red-headed league. Just like Poirot, Holmes encounters a range of interesting characters and encounters unexpected twists and turns. While both shows are set in different time periods, they capture the essence of the detective genre and provide entertaining and captivating mysteries. If you enjoyed Poirot, The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes is a must-watch for fans of intriguing and clever detective stories.

Release date: April, 1984
IMDB Rating: 8.7
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3) Masterpiece Mystery

Masterpiece Mystery, also known as Mystery!, is an anthology series that features various predominantly British mystery stories. While it may not have the iconic Hercule Poirot character like the main_movie, it still captures the essence of thrilling crime-solving and keeps you on the edge of your seat. With an impressive people vote average of 8.9, this series has received critical acclaim and has been nominated for several awards. The show's ability to showcase different mystery stories each episode adds an element of surprise and variety that keeps viewers engaged. So if you're a fan of crime, drama, and mystery, and want to explore a range of captivating stories, Masterpiece Mystery is definitely worth checking out.

Release date: February, 1980
IMDB Rating: 8.9

4) Evil Under the Sun

Evil Under the Sun is reminiscent of Poirot, the beloved series featuring the impeccable Hercule Poirot. Both films are set in 1930s England and revolve around a murder mystery that Poirot must solve. However, Evil Under the Sun stands out with its exclusive island resort setting, frequented by the rich and famous. The movie brings together an all-star cast, including the brilliant Sir Peter Ustinov as Poirot, James Mason, and Maggie Smith. Ustinov's portrayal of Poirot is definitive, showcasing his talent as an underrated actor. The film draws you in with its superb acting and story, taking you on a joyous journey through the murder investigation. And don't worry, despite being an 80s movie, you won't find any of the trappings of that decade.

Release date: March, 1982
IMDB Rating: 7

5) Remington Steele

Remington Steele, the 1982 series, is reminiscent of Poirot for a number of reasons. Both shows revolve around a detective solving mysteries, with Remington Steele featuring a female private detective partnered with a former thief who assumes the role of a fictitious detective. While Poirot is set in 1930s London, Remington Steele takes place in a more contemporary setting. The chemistry between the main characters is one of the highlights of both shows, with David Suchet and Hugh Fraser in Poirot, and Stephanie Zimbalist and Pierce Brosnan in Remington Steele delivering exceptional performances. Both series are well-written and well-acted, with tight scripts and intriguing storylines. However, Remington Steele brings a different flavor to the detective genre with its blend of action, adventure, comedy, crime, drama, mystery, romance, and thriller elements.

Release date: October, 1982
IMDB Rating: 7.2

6) El crack

El crack is reminiscent of Poirot because both movies revolve around a private detective solving mysteries. In El crack, Germán Areta is hired to find a long-lost daughter, but as he delves into the case, he discovers a dark underbelly in Madrid. Similarly, Hercule Poirot, with the help of Captain Hastings and Inspector Japp, solves crimes that he stumbles upon. Both movies belong to the Crime, Drama, Mystery, and Thriller genres, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. However, El crack offers a more neo-noir atmosphere with a touch of Christmas, while Poirot is set in 1930s London. Despite the differences in time and location, both movies captivate audiences with their intriguing plots and sharp-witted detectives. So, if you enjoyed the brilliance of Poirot, you should definitely watch El crack for a thrilling Spanish take on the detective genre.

Release date: April, 1981
IMDB Rating: 7.3

7) Devil in a Blue Dress

Release date: September, 1995
IMDB Rating: 6.8

8) Midsomer Murders

Midsomer Murders, released in 1997, is a delightful series that will remind you of Poirot. Both shows take us on an exciting journey of solving mysteries, but with their own distinct charm. While Poirot follows the adventures of the famous Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, Midsomer Murders introduces us to a veteran Detective Chief Inspector and his young Sergeant, who investigate murders in the regional community of Midsomer County. The similarities lie in their captivating storytelling and the beautifully crafted murder mysteries. However, Midsomer Murders offers a unique twist with its tongue-in-cheek humor and a fictional village setting, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate witty and wickedly good crime shows. So grab some popcorn, lock your doors (just in case), and get ready for the death toll to rise in this delightful series.

Release date: March, 1997
IMDB Rating: 7.9

9) My Partner the Ghost

My Partner the Ghost (also known as Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased)) is a delightful British series from 1971 that is reminiscent of Poirot. While Poirot focuses on the brilliant Belgian detective Hercule Poirot solving crimes in 1930s London, My Partner the Ghost takes a different approach by combining private detective work with a supernatural twist. The show follows Jeff Randall and Marty Hopkirk, who specialize in divorce cases until Marty is killed in a hit-and-run incident. However, Marty returns as a ghost to help solve his own murder, creating a unique and hilarious dynamic between the partners. Like Poirot, My Partner the Ghost captures the charm of 1930s London, but adds a touch of heavenly fantasy and comedy to the mix. While Poirot relies on Poirot's sharp intellect, My Partner the Ghost combines action, comedy, crime, drama, fantasy, and mystery genres to keep viewers entertained.

Release date: June, 1971
IMDB Rating: 7.6

10) Peter Gunn

Peter Gunn is a series that will remind you of Poirot, but with a twist. While Poirot takes place in 1930s London and follows the adventures of the famous Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, Peter Gunn is set in a gritty American city and revolves around the shenanigans of private detective Peter Gunn. Both shows have a knack for getting their protagonists embroiled in mysteries, but Gunn's cases often involve running into the shadiest characters, vicious thugs, and powerful crime bosses. The cool and resourceful Gunn always manages to get to the bottom of things and catch the guilty party. What sets Peter Gunn apart is its jazzy score, which adds a unique flavor to the series. The old jazz lady Mother and her jazz bar, which attracts the best West Coast jazz artists, provide a backdrop that adds to the show's charm. The eccentric characters and the cynical humor of the hero can all be traced back to Peter Gunn.

Release date: June, 1997
IMDB Rating: 8.1

11) Hetty Wainthropp Investigates

Hetty Wainthropp Investigates is reminiscent of Poirot, but with a delightful twist. While Poirot relies on his impeccable knack for solving crimes, Hetty, a 60-year-old woman, wakes up on her birthday and decides to become a private investigator. With the help of a teenager named Geoffrey and her husband Robert, Hetty's common sense and determination are the driving forces behind her crime-solving endeavors. Both series take us on thrilling detective journeys, but Hetty's comforting and fierce demeanor adds a unique charm. The humdrum British world it presents gives us a taste of simpler times. Despite the differences in their characters and settings, both shows capture our attention with their intriguing mysteries. So, if you enjoyed Poirot's adventures, Hetty Wainthropp Investigates is a must-watch for its refreshing take on the detective genre.

Release date: January, 1996
IMDB Rating: 7.6

12) The Return of Sherlock Holmes

The Return of Sherlock Holmes is a must-see for both Sherlockians and newcomers to the world of the great detective. This series, just like Poirot, is a faithful adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's stories. The writers stick closely to the original material, deviating only when there is a good dramatic reason. Jeremy Brett shines as Sherlock Holmes, despite facing personal difficulties during this time. His portrayal is captivating, and he is complemented perfectly by Edward Hardwicke's intelligent and warm interpretation of Dr. Watson. The lively 221b Baker Street set is a delight, and the excellent music by Patrick Gowers adds to the overall atmosphere of the series. While the last few episodes show some cracks due to Brett's mental health struggles, they also present a more mature and compassionate version of the Great Detective. In conclusion, I highly recommend The Return of Sherlock Holmes for its superb screenplay, music, costumes, set design, and, of course, the excellent performances by the cast.

Release date: July, 1986
IMDB Rating: 8.7
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13) Oh Heavenly Dog

Oh Heavenly Dog is a hilarious and unexpected departure from the typical Benji films. Director Joe Camp took a risk by hiring big stars like Chevy Chase, Jane Seymour, and Omar Sharif, instantly elevating the film's appeal. Unlike its predecessors, Oh Heavenly Dog focuses more on the human characters, with Chase's Benjamin Browning at the center of a complex plot filled with deceit and conspiracy. This shift allows for a better-written and paced script, making the film enjoyable for a wider range of audiences, including tweens, teens, and adults. The humor in Oh Heavenly Dog is Chevy Chase-style, with implicit gay jokes, sexual innuendos, and light profanity, adding a more adult tone to the movie. Additionally, the film takes an unexpected turn into the fantasy genre, turning Benji into a fantasy character. This move works remarkably well, providing entertaining and charming settings and characters.

Release date: July, 1980
IMDB Rating: 5.4

14) Miss Scarlet & the Duke

Miss Scarlet & the Duke is reminiscent of Poirot, the classic detective series set in 1930s London. Both shows capture the charm and allure of the time period, transporting viewers to a world of mystery and intrigue. In Miss Scarlet & the Duke, Eliza Scarlet, a determined female detective, teams up with a Scotland Yard Inspector to solve crimes in 19th-century London. Similarly, Poirot follows the adventures of Hercule Poirot, a famous Belgian detective, as he unravels mysteries alongside Captain Hastings and Scotland Yard Chief Inspector James Japp. Both shows showcase the brilliant deductive skills of their main characters, who navigate complex cases with wit and intelligence. However, while Poirot leans more towards traditional crime-solving, Miss Scarlet & the Duke adds a refreshing twist with its exploration of gender roles and the challenges faced by a female detective in a male-dominated world.

Release date: September, 2020
IMDB Rating: 7.7

15) Murder on the Orient Express

Murder on the Orient Express is a delightful film that takes us back to December 1935, when detective Hercule Poirot finds himself solving a murder on a stranded luxury train. Reminiscent of the Poirot series, this movie captures the essence of Agatha Christie's whodunit style with a multitude of suspects and a confined space. Director Sidney Lumet, known for his skill in framing actors within their characters, creates a riveting experience with a sensational cast. Albert Finney delivers a marvelous performance as Poirot, managing to embody the weight of the character while creating something bold and exquisitely structured. Ingrid Bergman shines as a missionary, earning her third Oscar. The rest of the cast is equally impressive, including Anthony Perkins, Wendy Hiller, Sean Connery, and Vanessa Redgrave, who make a surprisingly hot pair. Each actor brings their own unique flair to the story, making it a joy to watch and hear.

Release date: December, 1974
IMDB Rating: 7.2

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