9 Essential Movies Like Knives Out (Ranked & Where to Stream)

Woody Allen's Manhattan Murder Mystery perfectly captures the spirit of Knives Out with its blend of sharp wit, amateur sleuthing, and an ensemble cast caught in a web of suburban intrigue. When a couple suspects their neighbor of murder, they embark on a delightfully comedic and genuinely puzzling investigation. The film excels in its rapid-fire, naturalistic dialogue and the charming chemistry between its leads, mirroring the character-driven dynamics that make Knives Out so engaging. It's a masterclass in how an ordinary setting can host an extraordinary mystery, driven by human curiosity and suspicion.

A foundational film for anyone appreciating Knives Out's clever deconstruction of the whodunit genre, Murder by Death is a brilliant parody that invited the world's greatest detectives to a literal 'dinner and murder.' Starring an incredible ensemble cast playing thinly veiled versions of iconic literary sleuths, it hilariously satirizes every trope imaginable. The film's self-awareness, intricate setup, and comedic timing resonate deeply with Knives Out's playful yet respectful approach to its mystery. It's a delightful, star-studded romp that’s both a tribute to and a send-up of classic murder mysteries.

The direct sequel to Knives Out, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, is an undeniable must-watch. Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) finds himself peeling back the layers of a fresh mystery on a Greek island, surrounded by a new cast of suspicious, eccentric characters. It brilliantly expands on the formula, offering a unique setting, even more intricate plotting, and continued incisive social commentary. This film further cements Rian Johnson's vision for a modern whodunit series, showcasing his signature twists, stylish execution, and commitment to delivering a truly engaging and unpredictable cinematic experience.

For those charmed by the witty banter and sophisticated allure of Knives Out, Shadow of the Thin Man offers a classic, glamorous alternative. Part of the iconic 'Thin Man' series, this film stars William Powell and Myrna Loy as Nick and Nora Charles, a husband-and-wife detective duo who solve mysteries with cocktails in hand and their loyal dog Asta by their side. Their effortless chemistry, sharp dialogue, and the film's elegant 1940s setting create a delightful atmosphere, proving that a compelling whodunit can be as much about engaging characters as it is about the puzzle itself.

The Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: An Inheritance to Die For brings a contemporary cozy mystery vibe that aligns with Knives Out's familial intrigue. When a matriarch is poisoned during a wedding, amateur sleuth Aurora Teagarden delves into family secrets to uncover the truth. While lighter in tone than Johnson's film, it captures the essence of a 'closed-circle' murder within a family unit, featuring a determined protagonist unraveling complex motives. It’s a compelling watch for those who enjoy mysteries where personal connections and hidden pasts are central to the crime.

Without a Clue offers a brilliantly comedic and surprisingly clever take on the detective genre, reminiscent of Knives Out's inventive narrative. The premise itself is a twist: Dr. Watson (Ben Kingsley) is the true genius behind Sherlock Holmes, who is merely a theatrical actor (Michael Caine) hired to play the part. The film masterfully juggles witty dialogue, a genuine mystery, and delightful character dynamics, making it a compelling watch for those who appreciate smart, funny, and intricately plotted whodunits that subvert expectations with a knowing wink.

Set in 1950s London, See How They Run is a meta-mystery that evokes the playful homage to classic whodunits found in Knives Out. When a pivotal crew member is murdered during the production of a film adaptation of a hit play, a cynical inspector (Sam Rockwell) and an eager constable (Saoirse Ronan) are on the case. Its ensemble cast, theatrical setting, and self-aware narrative style create a charming and intricate mystery that feels both fresh and reverential to the genre's roots, delivering unexpected laughs and genuine suspense.

Zero Effect stands out with its unique, eccentric private investigator, Daryl Zero (Bill Pullman), whose reclusive nature and brilliant deductive skills echo the singular charm of Benoit Blanc. Accompanied by his long-suffering assistant, Zero takes on seemingly impossible cases, unraveling mysteries with psychological depth and clever solutions. This film offers a more subdued, character-focused take on the detective genre, blending elements of neo-noir with quirky humor. It’s an intelligent, offbeat mystery that prioritizes character study and clever plotting, much like Knives Out does with its colorful cast.

For an authentic taste of the literary tradition that largely inspired Knives Out, Thirteen at Dinner offers a classic Agatha Christie adaptation featuring the iconic Hercule Poirot (Peter Ustinov). The film meticulously follows Poirot as he unravels a complex murder case, showcasing the intricate plotting, red herrings, and dramatic reveals characteristic of Christie's work. While a made-for-TV movie, its faithful rendition of the whodunit formula and Poirot's distinct investigative style provides a direct link to the foundational elements that Rian Johnson so masterfully updated for the modern screen.