10 Best Crime Thrillers on Hulu Right Now

Christopher Nolan's 'Memento' remains a tour de force of narrative innovation and psychological depth. This neo-noir crime thriller ingeniously tells its story in reverse chronological order, plunging the audience into the fragmented mind of Leonard Shelby, a man suffering from short-term memory loss as he hunts his wife's killer. The film masterfully manipulates time and perception, forcing viewers to piece together the truth alongside its unreliable protagonist. Its raw intensity and the existential dread woven into every scene make 'Memento' not just a thrilling ride, but a profound meditation on identity, memory, and the subjective nature of truth.

Mary Harron's 'American Psycho' is a searing and darkly comedic psychological crime thriller that dissects the superficiality of 1980s corporate greed through the eyes of Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker harboring a gruesome secret. Christian Bale's iconic portrayal of Bateman is chilling, capturing both his meticulous vanity and his sadistic urges with unsettling precision. The film cleverly blurs the lines between reality and delusion, offering a biting social satire wrapped in a disturbing narrative of murder and identity. It's a cult classic that continues to provoke thought and shivers with its bold thematic exploration.

Quentin Tarantino's 'Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood' isn't just a nostalgic love letter to 1969 Los Angeles; it's a meticulously crafted crime drama simmering with an undercurrent of historical dread. While primarily a character study of a fading TV star and his loyal stuntman, the looming shadow of the Manson Family murders provides a unique, thrilling tension. Tarantino masterfully builds suspense, culminating in a violent, revisionist climax that delivers both shock and catharsis. Its blend of historical detail, character depth, and unexpected bursts of signature Tarantino action make it a compelling, if unconventional, crime entry.

'Bullet Train' is an adrenaline-fueled, darkly comedic action-crime thriller that rarely lets up. Directed by David Leitch, this film throws an unlucky assassin, Ladybug (Brad Pitt), onto a high-speed train in Japan, only to find himself entangled with a host of other deadly killers, each with their own interconnected agendas. The film's strength lies in its intricate plotting, stylish fight choreography, and a vibrant ensemble cast that injects personality into every violent encounter. It's a non-stop, neon-soaked ride that prioritizes chaotic fun while maintaining a surprisingly coherent and thrilling narrative throughline.

Denzel Washington returns as Robert McCall in 'The Equalizer 3,' delivering a potent blend of vigilante justice and visceral action. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Southern Italy, the film sees McCall drawn into a brutal conflict with local Mafia bosses who threaten his newfound friends. This installment leans heavily into the grim realities of organized crime, showcasing McCall's signature blend of calculated brutality and unwavering moral code. Washington’s gravitas anchors the film, making every precise takedown feel earned and every confrontation resonate with a palpable sense of stakes, cementing its place as a robust crime thriller.

'Bad Boys for Life' successfully reignites the beloved buddy-cop franchise with a fresh perspective, injecting mature themes of legacy and aging while retaining its signature explosive action and comedic banter. Detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett (Will Smith and Martin Lawrence) face a new, personal threat tied to their past, forcing them to confront difficult choices. The film's directorial flair from Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah elevates the set pieces, blending high-octane thrills with surprisingly effective emotional beats. It's a prime example of how an established franchise can evolve without losing its thrilling criminal core.

As 'The Accountant²' gears up for its release, the anticipation is palpable for Christian Wolff's return to the world of calculated violence and intricate financial crime. Following the complex character introduced in the first film, this sequel promises a deep dive into a new murder investigation that forces Wolff to recruit unexpected allies. The narrative is expected to weave together his unique autistic savant abilities with high-stakes action and intellectual puzzles, elevating the 'crime thriller' genre with a protagonist unlike any other. It’s poised to be a smart, action-packed exploration of justice on the fringes.

'Road House' revitalizes a cult classic with Jake Gyllenhaal stepping into the role of Dalton, a former UFC fighter who takes on a bouncer gig in the Florida Keys. What starts as a simple job quickly spirals into a high-octane crime thriller as Dalton uncovers a shadowy network of corruption and violence plaguing the seemingly idyllic paradise. Gyllenhaal delivers a compelling, intense performance, bringing a modern edge to the character's formidable skills. The film promises visceral fight sequences and a compelling narrative of uncovering a local criminal enterprise, solidifying its place as a compelling entry.

'The King's Man' serves as a compelling origin story for the clandestine intelligence agency, set against the backdrop of World War I. While primarily an espionage action film, its plot is deeply rooted in preventing a global catastrophe orchestrated by a cabal of history's most nefarious criminal masterminds. The film blends historical intrigue with the Kingsman's distinctive blend of stylish action and dark humor, showcasing how its founders fought to thwart a massive criminal conspiracy. It's a grand, sweeping spectacle that offers a unique take on the 'crime thriller' through the lens of early 20th-century espionage.

Kenneth Branagh's 'Death on the Nile' is a sumptuous and engaging adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic whodunit, offering a timeless example of a mystery thriller. Hercule Poirot finds his luxurious Egyptian vacation aboard a glamorous river steamer tragically interrupted by a murder, forcing him to navigate a ship full of glamorous, deceitful suspects. The film excels in its intricate plotting, lush cinematography, and a palpable sense of suspense as Poirot meticulously uncovers the tangled web of motives and secrets. It’s a beautifully crafted crime drama that captivates with every twist and turn.