Madrid, with its rich history and vibrant culture, provides the perfect backdrop for tales of mystery and intrigue. This curated list of detective films set in Madrid not only showcases the city's allure but also delves into its shadowy corners, offering viewers a thrilling cinematic experience. Whether you're a fan of classic whodunits or modern noir, these films will transport you to the heart of Spain's capital, where every street corner holds a secret waiting to be uncovered.
The Day of the Beast (1995)
Description: This cult classic involves a priest, a heavy metal fan, and a TV host trying to stop the Antichrist in Madrid. While not a detective film per se, the search for clues and the city's backdrop make it fit the theme.
Fact: The film was a critical and commercial success in Spain.
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The Body (2012)
Description: When a woman's body disappears from a morgue in Madrid, a detective must unravel the mystery behind her death. The film's twisty plot and the city's atmospheric backdrop make it a standout in the detective genre.
Fact: The film was remade in Hindi as "Khamoshiyan" in
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The Perfect Crime (2004)
Description: A dark comedy set in Madrid, where a department store manager commits a murder to advance his career, only to find himself in a web of deceit. The film's setting in Madrid's commercial heart adds a unique flavor.
Fact: The film was directed by Álex de la Iglesia, known for his dark humor.
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The Oxford Murders (2008)
Description: While not set entirely in Madrid, the film's climax takes place there, involving a detective-like pursuit of a serial killer. The city's backdrop adds to the film's international feel.
Fact: The film was adapted from the novel by Argentine author Guillermo Martínez.
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The Blind Sunflowers (2008)
Description: This film, set in post-Civil War Madrid, follows a family hiding a fugitive priest. The detective-like tension of uncovering secrets and the city's historical backdrop make it a compelling watch.
Fact: It was adapted from the novel by Alberto Méndez, which won the Spanish National Narrative Prize.
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The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)
Description: Although primarily set in Buenos Aires, the film's investigation leads to Madrid, where the protagonist searches for a suspect. Its intricate plot and the city's role in the story make it a notable inclusion.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
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The Last Circus (2010)
Description: Although not a traditional detective film, this dark comedy-drama set during Franco's Spain features a clown seeking revenge, with scenes shot in Madrid. Its surreal and grotesque elements add to the city's mysterious allure.
Fact: The film won the Silver Lion at the Venice Film Festival.
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The Sleeping Voice (2011)
Description: Set in Madrid during the Francoist regime, this film tells the story of a woman trying to save her sister from execution. While not strictly a detective story, the search for truth and justice is central to the plot.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Dulce Chacón, which was inspired by real events.
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The Invisible Guest (2016)
Description: This Spanish thriller revolves around a successful businessman accused of murder, who hires a prestigious lawyer to help him prove his innocence. The film's setting in Madrid adds an extra layer of sophistication and intrigue to the plot.
Fact: The film was a massive hit in Spain, becoming one of the highest-grossing Spanish films of all time.
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The Shanghai Spell (2002)
Description: Set in 1940s Madrid, this film follows a young man's journey to find his father, uncovering family secrets along the way. Its noir-like atmosphere and the city's historical setting make it a fitting addition.
Fact: The film was directed by Fernando Trueba, who won an Oscar for "Belle Époque."
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