TMDb/Knives Out TV Explore how detective franchises stay fresh beyond the classic whodunit formula, avoiding clichés to keep audiences engaged for seasons. April 5, 2026 AceShowbiz - Fictional detectives have long been a crowded field. Whether presented as feature films or TV series, the classic whodunit formula remains a popular and easily replicated structure. Audiences consistently enjoy unraveling mysteries, meaning creating a detective franchise often boils down to selecting an appealing location, casting capable actors, and inviting viewers to play detective.