The wait for the next Benoit Blanc adventure is almost over! With Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery arriving on Netflix on December 12, 2025, the streaming landscape is buzzing with anticipation for Rian Johnson's third installment in the beloved franchise. 🕵️‍♂️✨ But what's a detective—or a fan—to do in the meantime? Fear not, because the mystery genre is thriving on Netflix and beyond, offering a treasure trove of films that blend suspense, humor, and sheer brilliance. From lighthearted whodunits to chilling psychological thrillers, here’s a curated list of must-watch mysteries to keep you guessing until the master sleuth returns.

The Thursday Murder Club kicked off 2025 with a delightful bang on Netflix. Based on the bestselling 2020 novel, this film is a charming blend of mystery and comedy, proving that sleuthing isn't just for the young. The premise is simple yet irresistible: a trio of retirement-home residents, played by the legendary Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Ben Kingsley, turn amateur detectives to solve a local murder. 🏡🔍

With a sharp script and impeccable chemistry among its stellar cast, the movie delivers fun laughs and clever twists. It garnered a solid 77% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics particularly praising the lead performances. While it may not reach the intricate heights of Knives Out, it's a perfect, lighthearted watch to set the mood. Think of it as a cozy mystery with A-list flair—ideal for a relaxed evening in.

Mystery's beauty lies in its versatility. It seamlessly blends with other genres, creating unique cinematic experiences. Take Identity, for instance—a film that masterfully merges mystery with horror. Inspired by Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None, this early-2000s gem has, unfortunately, faded from many memories. Yet, it remains a gripping tale of strangers trapped in an isolated hotel, being picked off one by one. 🏨🔪

The nonlinear storytelling adds layers of intrigue, keeping viewers on edge as they piece together the puzzle. Led by a powerhouse cast including John Cusack, Ray Liotta, and Amanda Peet, Identity offers a unique mix of slasher thrills and classic whodunit suspense. It's a reminder that some mysteries are best served with a side of sheer terror.

For those craving something truly original, They Cloned Tyrone is an absolute must-watch. This 2023 Netflix film, the directorial debut of Juel Taylor, brilliantly fuses mystery with sci-fi and social commentary. It follows an unlikely trio—a hustler, a sex worker, and a pimp—as they uncover a shadowy government cloning conspiracy. 🧬👥

While not a traditional whodunit, it's incredibly gripping from start to finish, boasting the best trademarks of a great mystery: suspense, twists, and a compelling narrative. The film shares Knives Out's strength in its talented ensemble, led by John Boyega, with standout performances from Teyonah Parris and Jamie Foxx. Critics adored it, resulting in a stellar 95% Rotten Tomatoes score. It's a genre-bending masterpiece that proves mysteries can be both thought-provoking and wildly entertaining.

Comedy and mystery are a match made in cinematic heaven. If you love the witty banter and humorous undertones of Knives Out, then Murder Mystery is your go-to. Starring the dynamic duo of Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston, this film follows a married couple whose European vacation turns deadly when they're embroiled in a murder investigation on a billionaire's yacht. 🛳️😂

Sandler's character, Nick, is no Benoit Blanc, but as an NYPD officer with a knack for solving crimes, he brings his own charm to the table. Though it didn't wow critics, the film was a massive hit on Netflix and even snagged a People's Choice Award. Fans can also enjoy the 2023 sequel, which features an expanded cast including Luke Evans and Mark Strong. It's pure, escapist fun with plenty of laughs and lighthearted suspense.

Sometimes, the best mysteries mess with your mind. Enter It's What's Inside, a sci-fi mystery that takes body-swapping to thrilling new heights. The premise alone is captivating: a group of college friends reunite for a weekend, only to play a game that allows them to swap bodies. This creates an intriguing layer of uncertainty—you're never quite sure who is in whose body, demanding extra attention from the viewer. 🎭🤯

While not a classic whodunit for most of its runtime, the film delivers a fantastic reveal near the end that elevates the entire experience. Though it flew somewhat under the radar on Netflix, those who discovered it were captivated by its stunning mystery and clever execution. With a 79% Rotten Tomatoes score and a talented young cast, it's a hidden gem for fans of psychological puzzles.

Sherlock Holmes has inspired countless detectives, but his sister brings a fresh twist. Enola Holmes offers a delightful departure from the usual Sherlock narratives, focusing on the brilliant younger sister of the famous detective. Based on the popular book series, the film follows Enola as she searches for her missing mother and unravels a conspiracy that threatens England. 🧩🇬🇧

With Millie Bobby Brown shining in the lead role, supported by Henry Cavill as Sherlock and Sam Claflin as Mycroft, the film was a massive critical and commercial success for Netflix. Like Knives Out, it spawned a well-received sequel, and a third installment is currently in production. It's a perfect blend of period charm, clever mystery, and empowering storytelling.

For those who prefer their mysteries steeped in chilling reality, Zodiac is unparalleled. Directed by the masterful David Fincher, this film delves into the real-life case of the Zodiac Killer—a murderer who was never caught, leaving one of history's most notorious mysteries unsolved. Unlike the lighter fare on this list, Zodiac is a tense, atmospheric journey into obsession and fear. 🗓️🔐

Fincher's meticulous direction creates an immersive, unsettling experience that grips you from the first frame. The film received widespread critical acclaim, appearing on numerous top 10 lists and winning several awards. However, it stands apart from other mysteries because it offers no neat resolution—mirroring the frustrating, open-ended nature of the real case. It's a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling that lingers long after the credits roll.

So, as the countdown to Wake Up Dead Man begins, why not embark on your own mystery marathon? Whether you're in the mood for comedy, horror, sci-fi, or a classic detective tale, there's something here for every sleuth. Each of these films showcases the genre's incredible range and proves that a good mystery is timeless. Happy streaming, and may your deductions be sharp! 🎬🔦

Details are provided by Eurogamer, a leading source for European gaming news and reviews. Eurogamer's coverage of mystery and detective games often explores how narrative-driven experiences like those found in the Knives Out franchise and its contemporaries are influencing the broader entertainment landscape, with particular attention to the genre's evolution on streaming platforms and its crossover appeal to both gamers and film enthusiasts.