Keigo Higashino’s gripping novel, The Devotion of Suspect X, has transcended literary boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide. This murder mystery gem has inspired numerous adaptations in various languages and formats, many of which are available for streaming on Netflix.
One adaptation notably missing from the platform is the 2019 Tamil movie Kolaigaran. The English language film adaptation of The Devotion of Suspect X garnered considerable attention when the rights were acquired by Kross Pictures in 2011. The project has been in development in Los Angeles, California. Though highly anticipated, this adaptation has yet to reach our screens.
However, at least six other adaptations of the crime novel have become a bonafide sensation since its publication in 2005. With its clinically sharp narrative and ingenious twist revelation, it is no wonder it has had this kind of a grip on storytellers across the globe.
Whether you prefer Japanese, Korean, Malayalam, or Hindi cinema, a rendition of this timeless tale is waiting for you on Netflix.
In 2008, Japanese cinema brought Higashino’s story to life with Suspect X. This adaptation, directed by Hiroshi Nishitani, stars Shinichi Tsutsumi as Tetsuya Ishigami and Masaharu Fukuyama as Manabu Yukawa. The film was a commercial success when it was released, becoming the sixth highest-grossing film of 2008.
The year 2012 witnessed South Korea’s take on The Devotion of Suspect X with Perfect Number. Directed by Bang Eun-jin, this adaptation featured Ryoo Seung-bum, Lee Yo-won, and Cho Jin-woong.
In 2013, the plot underwent a remarkable transformation when it was unofficially adapted into the Malayalam film Drishyam. This adaptation, helmed by director-writer Jeethu Joseph, relocates the story within a family setting. The film’s phenomenal success led to a Hindi version in 2015, directed by Nishikant Kamat, bearing the same title. The 2015 version, starring Ajay Devgn and Tabu, is available on Netflix.
China joined the ranks of countries inspired by The Devotion of Suspect X in 2017 with its adaptation named the same as the novel. Directed by Alec Su, this version features Ruby Lin and Wang Kai. This was a commercial success in China and was also released in North America and South Korea.
On September 21st, 2023, Netflix welcomed the Hindi adaptation of the novel titled Jaane Jaan. Directed by Sujoy Ghosh and starring Kareena Kapoor, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Vijay Varma, this adaptation brought the mystery to the foggy hills of Kalimpong. You can read our review of Jaane Jaan here.
Every ‘The Devotion of Suspect X’ adaptation on Netflix:
- Suspect X (2008)
- Perfect Number (2012)
- Drishyam (2015)
- The Devotion of Suspect X (2017)
- Jaane Jaan (2023)
