Fancy a bit of a twist with your detective films? This curated list dives into the fascinating world of gender swap mysteries, where identity and deception intertwine to create a unique viewing experience. These films not only challenge the norms of detective storytelling but also offer a fresh perspective on gender roles, making them a must-watch for fans of both genres. From classic whodunits to modern thrillers, each film brings something special to the table, ensuring you're in for a treat.

Tootsie (1982)
Description: While not a traditional detective film, Tootsie features a gender swap that leads to a series of comedic and dramatic events, making it a fitting entry for its exploration of identity and deception.
Fact: Dustin Hoffman's performance in drag was so convincing that he was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor.


All of Me (1984)
Description: A lawyer's body is shared with the soul of a recently deceased heiress, leading to a comedic exploration of identity and gender roles.
Fact: The film was directed by Carl Reiner, who also directed "The Jerk" with Steve Martin.


Mrs. Doubtfire (1993)
Description: Robin Williams plays a father who disguises himself as a female housekeeper to spend time with his children, leading to a series of hilarious and touching moments, with elements of mystery and deception.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book "Alias Madame Doubtfire" by Anne Fine, and Williams improvised much of his dialogue.


The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (1994)
Description: While not a traditional detective film, this road movie features drag queens on a journey, with elements of mystery and identity exploration.
Fact: The film won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.


The Associate (1996)
Description: Whoopi Goldberg stars as a woman who creates a fictional male business partner to navigate the corporate world, leading to a series of comedic and mysterious events.
Fact: The film is based on the French film "L'Associé" from


Big Momma's House (2000)
Description: An FBI agent goes undercover as an elderly woman to catch a criminal, blending comedy with detective work in a unique gender swap scenario.
Fact: Martin Lawrence spent three hours in makeup every day to transform into Big Momma.


Juwanna Mann (2002)
Description: A disgraced basketball player disguises himself as a woman to play in the women's league, leading to a mix of comedy, sports, and detective-like intrigue.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life story of a man who played in a women's basketball league.


The Hot Chick (2002)
Description: A popular high school girl and a small-time criminal swap bodies, leading to a series of comedic and detective-like situations as they try to reverse the swap.
Fact: Rob Schneider, who plays the criminal, also co-wrote the screenplay.


Switch (1991)
Description: A misogynist is given a second chance at life, but as a woman, in this dark comedy with elements of mystery and a twist on gender roles.
Fact: The film was originally titled "The Last Chance" during production.


The World's Greatest Lover (1977)
Description: Gene Wilder stars as a man who becomes a silent film star by pretending to be a woman, adding a layer of mystery to his rise to fame.
Fact: Wilder also co-wrote and directed the film.
