Top 10 Lebanese Detective Films

Description: While not exclusively set in Lebanon, "Beirut" captures the essence of the country's tumultuous history through the lens of a hostage crisis, featuring a former U.S. diplomat turned negotiator. Its inclusion in this list highlights the international intrigue often associated with Lebanese settings.

Fact: The film was shot in Tangier, Morocco, standing in for Beirut due to security concerns. It also features a cameo by the real-life former U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon, Jeffrey Feltman.

Description: This film follows an Arab-Israeli surgeon whose life unravels after his wife is implicated in a suicide bombing. The investigation into her motives and actions provides a detective-like narrative, exploring themes of identity and betrayal.

Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Yasmina Khadra and was shot in both Israel and France.

Description: This film delves into a personal dispute that escalates into a national issue, reflecting the complexities of Lebanese society. While not a traditional detective story, it involves legal proceedings and the uncovering of truths, making it a compelling addition to this list.

Fact: "The Insult" was Lebanon's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 90th Academy Awards, where it was nominated.

Description: Although primarily a drama, "Caramel" includes elements of mystery and personal investigation as characters navigate their lives in Beirut. Its inclusion reflects the broader interpretation of detective work in personal and societal contexts.

Fact: This was the first Lebanese film to be selected for the Cannes Film Festival's Un Certain Regard section.

Description: Set in the Bekaa Valley, this film explores the life of a young man who becomes embroiled in a local conflict, leading to a series of events that require detective-like problem-solving to resolve.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in the Bekaa Valley, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.

Description: This thriller involves a journalist investigating the disappearance of his brother, uncovering layers of political intrigue and corruption in Lebanon.

Fact: The film was inspired by real events and features actual locations in Beirut.

Description: While primarily a war drama, the film includes a search for a missing child, which adds a detective-like element to the narrative, set against the backdrop of the 2006 Lebanon War.

Fact: The film was shot during the actual conflict, providing a raw and immediate portrayal of the events.

Description: This film follows a young boy's journey to find his missing father, incorporating elements of mystery and investigation, set in the backdrop of Lebanon's civil war.

Fact: It was one of the first films to address the impact of the Lebanese Civil War on children.

Description: A story of a man who wakes up to find his wife missing, leading him on a quest through Beirut to find her, blending elements of romance, mystery, and detective work.

Fact: The film was shot in Beirut, showcasing the city's beauty and complexity.

Description: This film involves a French journalist investigating a series of mysterious events in Lebanon, uncovering political and personal secrets.

Fact: It was one of the first films to explore the theme of foreign journalists in Lebanon post-war.