Chile, with its rich cultural tapestry and dramatic landscapes, provides a perfect backdrop for detective stories. This curated list of films not only showcases the detective genre but also highlights the unique Chilean setting, offering viewers a blend of suspense, mystery, and cultural immersion. Whether you're a fan of classic whodunits or modern thrillers, these films will transport you to the heart of Chile's enigmatic world.

The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
Description: While not a detective film, it features a journey of discovery and self-investigation by Che Guevara, with elements of uncovering the truth about South America.
Fact: The film was shot in several South American countries, including Chile, to authentically capture the journey.


The Maid (2009)
Description: While primarily a drama, the film includes detective-like elements as the maid investigates the new dynamics in her employer's household.
Fact: The film was Chile's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.


Post Mortem (2010)
Description: Set during the 1973 Chilean coup, this film follows a morgue worker who becomes involved in a macabre investigation into the deaths during the coup.
Fact: The film was directed by Pablo Larraín, who also directed "No" and "The Club."


No (2012)
Description: This political drama involves a detective-like campaign to end Pinochet's dictatorship, focusing on the advertising strategies used to sway public opinion.
Fact: The film was shot using the same U-matic video format that was used during the actual 1988 referendum in Chile.


The Dance of Reality (2013)
Description: A surrealistic film where the protagonist's journey involves detective-like exploration of his own identity and his father's past.
Fact: The film marks Alejandro Jodorowsky's return to directing after 23 years.


The Club (2015)
Description: A dark, psychological thriller about a group of disgraced priests living in a secluded house in Chile, with a detective investigating their past sins.
Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the 72nd Venice International Film Festival.


The 33 (2015)
Description: While not a traditional detective film, "The 33" involves a gripping investigation into the survival of 33 miners trapped underground, showcasing the detective-like efforts to rescue them.
Fact: The film was based on the real-life event of the 2010 Copiapó mining accident in Chile. It features an international cast including Antonio Banderas and Juliette Binoche.


Machuca (2004)
Description: This film, set during the Allende era, features a young boy's friendship that turns into a detective-like quest to understand the political turmoil around him.
Fact: The film was inspired by the director's own experiences during the time of Allende's government.


Tony Manero (2008)
Description: Set during the dark days of Pinochet's regime, this film explores the life of a man obsessed with John Travolta's character, with a subplot involving a detective investigating crimes.
Fact: The film was banned in Chile for a time due to its portrayal of the dictatorship era.


The Last Supper (1976)
Description: A historical drama with elements of detective work, where a plantation owner stages a Last Supper with his slaves, leading to unexpected consequences.
Fact: The film was banned in Cuba for its portrayal of slavery.
