There's something uniquely captivating about watching a group of school friends band together to solve mysteries. These films not only offer a thrilling plot but also delve into the dynamics of friendship, trust, and the innocence of youth. Here's a selection of ten detective films where school friends take on the role of amateur sleuths, providing both entertainment and a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

The Secret of NIMH (1982)
Description: Mrs. Brisby, with the help of her children and friends, uncovers the secrets of NIMH, blending elements of mystery and adventure in a way that appeals to young detectives.
Fact: The film was Don Bluth's first feature after leaving Disney, and it was critically acclaimed for its animation and storytelling.


The Goonies (1985)
Description: Although not strictly a detective film, "The Goonies" features a group of kids who embark on a treasure hunt, solving puzzles and evading villains, which fits the theme of friends solving mysteries together.
Fact: The film was shot in Astoria, Oregon, and the house used as the Goonies' home is now a popular tourist attraction.


The Secret Garden (1993)
Description: While primarily known for its magical elements, the film also involves a mystery surrounding a locked garden and the secrets of the manor, solved by a group of children.
Fact: The film was shot in Yorkshire, England, and the garden was created specifically for the movie.


The Secret of Moonacre (2008)
Description: Maria Merryweather inherits an estate and, with the help of her school friends, uncovers secrets and solves mysteries related to a magical moon princess. The film's enchanting setting and plot make it a delightful addition to this list.
Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Little White Horse" by Elizabeth Goudge, which also inspired J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series.


The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)
Description: The Grace children, with the help of their school friends, uncover a magical world and solve mysteries related to their great-great-uncle's field guide to fantastical creatures.
Fact: The film was shot in Montreal, Canada, and the special effects were done by the same team that worked on "The Lord of the Rings."


The Hardy Boys (1995)
Description: Frank and Joe Hardy, along with their friends, solve mysteries in this film adaptation of the famous book series, showcasing teamwork and detective skills among school friends.
Fact: The film was part of a series of TV movies, but this particular one stands out for its plot involving a school setting.


The Mystery of the Clockwork Sparrow (2018)
Description: This film follows a group of school friends in Edwardian London who stumble upon a mystery involving a missing jewel and a mechanical sparrow. Their detective work leads them through hidden passages and secret societies, making it a perfect fit for our list.
Fact: The film is based on the book by Katherine Woodfine, and the set design was meticulously crafted to reflect the era accurately.


The Case of the Missing Marquess (2006)
Description: Enola Holmes, the younger sister of Sherlock, teams up with her school friends to solve the disappearance of her mother, showcasing the detective prowess of young minds.
Fact: This film was part of a planned series, but only one movie was produced due to legal issues with the Conan Doyle estate.


The Famous Five (1978)
Description: This classic series features a group of school friends who solve various mysteries during their school holidays, embodying the spirit of adventure and detective work.
Fact: The series was based on Enid Blyton's books, and it has been adapted multiple times for television and film.


The Secret of the Old Clock (2014)
Description: Nancy Drew and her school friends unravel the mystery of an old clock, leading to a treasure hunt and the solving of a family secret, making it a fitting addition to our list.
Fact: This film was part of a series of Nancy Drew movies, but this one particularly highlights her school friendships.
