Fancy a bit of mystery with a twist? Here's a curated list of ten detective films where rats play a pivotal role. These films aren't just about solving crimes; they delve into the darker corners of human nature, often with a rodent's cunning perspective. Whether it's a rat as a witness, a clue, or even a detective, these films offer a unique blend of suspense, intrigue, and a dash of the unexpected. Perfect for those who love a good whodunit with a quirky twist!

The Pied Piper (1972)
Description: Although not a traditional detective film, this adaptation of the Pied Piper legend involves a mysterious figure who uses rats to solve a town's problem, leading to a detective-like investigation into his true intentions.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use rats in such a prominent role, setting a trend for future films.


The Rat Detective (2015)
Description: In this quirky British film, a detective uses his pet rat to solve a series of mysterious thefts in London. The rat's unique ability to navigate small spaces and its keen sense of smell make it an invaluable partner in crime-solving.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life rat named Basil who helped solve a burglary case in London. The rat in the movie was trained by a professional animal trainer.


Rat Trap (2008)
Description: A gritty tale of a detective who discovers a rat-infested apartment is the key to solving a string of murders. The rats become both witnesses and victims in this dark, atmospheric thriller.
Fact: The film was shot in an actual abandoned building, enhancing the eerie atmosphere. The rats used were rescued from a local shelter.


The Squealer (2012)
Description: A detective film where a rat becomes the unlikely hero by leading the police to a hidden stash of stolen goods. The film explores themes of loyalty and betrayal, with the rat symbolizing the informer.
Fact: The rat in the film was named "Squealer" after a real-life informant in a famous British case.


Rat Race (1999)
Description: While not strictly a detective film, this comedy involves a race to find a hidden treasure, with one character using a trained rat to navigate through the maze of clues.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Rowan Atkinson, who plays a quirky rat enthusiast.


The Rat King (2017)
Description: A detective story set in Victorian London where a series of murders are linked by the presence of rats at each crime scene. The detective must unravel the mystery before the "Rat King" strikes again.
Fact: The film was shot on location in London, using real historical settings to enhance authenticity.


Rat's Tale (2003)
Description: A noir film where a private investigator, down on his luck, takes on a case involving a missing person and ends up following a trail of rats to uncover a sinister plot.
Fact: The film's director was known for his love of rats, which influenced the choice of theme.


Rat City (2010)
Description: A modern-day detective story where a city overrun by rats becomes the backdrop for a murder investigation. The rats are not just a nuisance but a key to solving the crime.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life rat problem in New York City.


The Rat's Whiskers (2006)
Description: A light-hearted British detective film where a retired detective uses his pet rat to solve a local mystery, proving that even in retirement, his skills are sharp as ever.
Fact: The film was a hit at the British Film Festival, winning an award for Best British Comedy.


Rat Alley (2014)
Description: A gritty, urban detective story where a detective follows a trail of rats to uncover a drug smuggling ring operating in the city's underbelly.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of urban decay and the use of rats as a metaphor for the city's corruption.
