Top 10 Detective Films Set in Detroit

Description: Although not set in Detroit, this classic film noir features a detective story with themes that resonate with Detroit's crime-ridden image, making it an honorary mention in this list.

Fact: The film was directed by Fritz Lang, known for his work in German Expressionism, which influenced the film's stark visual style. It was one of the first films to explore police corruption in depth.

Description: This blaxploitation film follows a black detective in Detroit as he investigates a robbery at a political fundraiser. It's a raw, gritty portrayal of the city's racial tensions and crime scene.

Fact: The film was one of the first to feature a black lead in a detective role, reflecting the social changes of the era. It was also one of the few films shot on location in Detroit during that time.

Description: While not entirely set in Detroit, the film starts with Axel Foley, a Detroit cop, investigating a crime that leads him to Beverly Hills. It's a classic fish-out-of-water detective story with Detroit as its gritty backdrop.

Fact: The film was originally written as a straight action film, but Eddie Murphy's comedic improvisation turned it into a comedy-action hybrid. The famous "Neutron Dance" scene was filmed in Detroit.

Description: This iconic film blends sci-fi with a detective story, set in a dystopian Detroit where a part-man, part-machine cop fights crime. It's a perfect blend of action and detective work, showcasing the city's industrial decay.

Fact: The film was shot in Dallas, Texas, but was set in Detroit due to the city's association with crime and urban decay at the time. The ED-209 robot was designed by Craig Hayes, who also worked on the Star Wars films.

Description: Set in a stylized, gothic version of Detroit, this film follows a murdered musician who returns from the dead to avenge his and his fiancée's deaths, blending supernatural elements with detective work.

Fact: The film was tragically marked by the death of its star, Brandon Lee, during filming. The movie's dark, atmospheric setting reflects Detroit's often bleak portrayal in cinema.

Description: While the film spans multiple locations, it begins with a bank heist in Detroit, leading to a cat-and-mouse game between a bank robber and a U.S. Marshal. It's a stylish, modern take on the detective genre.

Fact: The film was adapted from an Elmore Leonard novel, known for his gritty, realistic crime stories often set in Detroit. George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez's chemistry was a highlight of the film.

Description: Although more of a drama, this film features Eminem as a young rapper in Detroit, with elements of detective work as he navigates his way through life's challenges and the city's underground rap scene.

Fact: The film's title refers to 8 Mile Road, the dividing line between Detroit and its suburbs. Eminem wrote his own lyrics for the rap battles, showcasing his real-life skills.

Description: Although primarily set in Michigan, this film captures the essence of Detroit's cultural diversity and the challenges faced by its residents, with elements of detective work as the protagonist investigates local crimes.

Fact: Clint Eastwood, who directed and starred in the film, chose to use a 1972 Gran Torino as a symbol of the era's American identity. The film was shot in Detroit's suburbs, showcasing the city's changing demographics.

Description: A psychological thriller set in Detroit, where a priest becomes involved in a series of murders linked to the Catholic Church. It's a unique take on the detective genre, blending faith with crime-solving.

Fact: The film was based on a novel by William X. Kienzle, a former priest, giving it an authentic touch. Donald Sutherland stars as the troubled priest-detective.

Description: This film, while not strictly a detective story, features a subplot involving a police officer in Schenectady, NY, which has parallels to Detroit's urban landscape and crime issues.

Fact: The film was shot in Schenectady, but its themes of crime, legacy, and justice echo Detroit's narrative. Ryan Gosling learned to ride a motorcycle for his role.