Victorian Whodunits: 10 Detective Films Set in the 19th Century

Description: Basil Rathbone stars as Sherlock Holmes in this film where he investigates a series of murders linked to a hypnotic scheme. It captures the essence of Holmes' deductive prowess in a classic whodunit setting.

Fact: This was one of the last films in the series where Rathbone played Holmes, and it's noted for its eerie atmosphere.

Description: This adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's famous novel brings to life the eerie tale of the Baskerville curse, with Sherlock Holmes on the case. It's a quintessential example of Victorian detective work, blending gothic horror with mystery.

Fact: This film was Hammer Film Productions' first foray into the world of Sherlock Holmes, setting a high bar for future adaptations.

Description: Billy Wilder's take on Holmes offers a more personal look at the detective, exploring his private life and a case involving the Loch Ness Monster. It's a blend of humor, mystery, and a touch of melancholy, making it a unique entry in the Holmes canon.

Fact: The film was originally intended to be much longer, with several subplots that were cut for time, including one involving a secret society of women.

Description: Based on the graphic novel, this film delves into the Jack the Ripper murders, with Inspector Frederick Abberline leading the investigation. It's a dark, atmospheric journey through Victorian London's underbelly.

Fact: Johnny Depp, who plays Abberline, was so disturbed by the script that he had trouble sleeping during filming.

Description: Set in the late 19th century, this film follows a detective investigating a series of gruesome murders in London's East End, with a twist involving a music hall performer. It's a blend of historical fiction and psychological thriller.

Fact: The film features a fictionalized account of Karl Marx as one of the suspects, adding an intriguing historical layer to the story.

Description: Rupert Everett takes on the role of Holmes in this TV movie, where he investigates a series of murders involving silk stockings. It's a modern take on Victorian crime-solving with a touch of psychological depth.

Fact: This film was part of a series of one-off specials featuring Everett as Holmes, offering a fresh interpretation of the character.

Description: While not directly a detective film, this Hitchcock classic involves a mysterious lodger suspected of being Jack the Ripper, creating a tense atmosphere of suspicion and fear in Victorian London.

Fact: This was one of Hitchcock's early films, remade from his own silent film of the same name.

Description: Another adaptation of a Conan Doyle story, this film follows Holmes as he unravels a complex case involving a treasure, a one-legged man, and a mysterious woman. It's a classic example of Victorian intrigue.

Fact: This film was part of a series of adaptations by Granada Television, known for their fidelity to the original stories.

Description: Based on Charles Dickens' unfinished novel, this film explores the disappearance of Edwin Drood and the subsequent investigation, offering a Victorian mystery with a twist of romance and opium dens.

Fact: The film's ending was left ambiguous, mirroring Dickens' own unfinished work, leaving viewers to speculate on the true fate of Edwin Drood.

Description: Gene Wilder stars as Sherlock Holmes' less-celebrated brother, Sigerson, in this comedic take on the detective genre. It's a playful homage to the Holmes stories, set in the Victorian era.

Fact: Wilder wrote, directed, and starred in this film, showcasing his versatility in the industry.