Let's find out with Topshare about the top 10 haunting psychological horror movies that you should know? This is a list of scary and popular films, which give viewers awe-inspiring experiences and explore the dark psyche. From complex and tense stories, to compelling and dramatic segments, these films have the ability to create deep hauntings in the hearts of audiences.
1 Black Swan
Black Swan - haunting psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: CNN Indonesia
Black Swan - Trailer of the haunting psychological thriller you should know
Black Swan is a 2010 psychological horror film directed by Darren Aronofsky and starring Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel and Barbara Hershey. The film follows the life of a ballerina named Nina Sayers, who is searching for her perfection and ambition in the field she loves.
Nina, a talented dancer, is chosen to play the female lead in the performance of "Swan Lake" by the New York Ballet. She faces great pressure from director Thomas Leroy and internal difficulties in her life. The film reveals that Nina has a complex inner personality, obsessed and tired of striving for perfection. She feels competitive with a new dancer, Lily, who has a free and sexy personality.
In the process of preparing for the role, Nina began to experience unpredictable and ambiguous mental states. She begins to see manifestations of a "Black Fairy" within herself, and her fears and impulses gradually become stronger. The contrast between pure and evil personality in Nina gradually becomes blurred, and the distinction between real and virtual is also blurred.
"Black Swan" combines a complex psychological story with elements of horror and mystery, especially through its reinterpretation of beautiful ballet performances. The film explores burnout, greed and human past confinement, as well as the impact of pressure and artistic life on mind and spirit.
Directed by: Darren Aronofsky
Screenwriters: Mark Heyman, Andres Heinz, John J. McLaughlin
Actors: Natalie Portman, Mila Kunis, Vincent Cassel, Barbara Hershey
Duration: 108 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Horror, Psychological, Dance
Release year: 2010
America
2 Joker (2019)
Joker (2019) - obsessive psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: IMDb
Joker (2019) - Trailer of the obsessive psychological thriller you should knowc
"Joker" is a 2019 psychological crime drama film, directed by Todd Phillips and starring Joaquin Phoenix. The film tells the journey of Arthur Fleck, a man full of misfortune and psychosis, to become the super evil character Joker - the famous villain in the Batman universe.
Arthur Fleck is a failed clown who lives a difficult life in Gotham City, a city of decay and depravity. He suffers from a lack of love, cannot express joy, and is equated with society. Gradually, social injustice and violence increased the discontent and frenzy in Arthur's mind. In the process of becoming the Joker, Arthur Fleck entered the criminal path and became a symbol of chaos and disruption of society. This character became the inspiration for the protests and riots in Gotham City, creating a deep division in the community.
"Joker" was critically acclaimed for his performance by Joaquin Phoenix, who won the Academy Award for "Best Actor" for his portrayal of Arthur Fleck. The film explores human negativity and cruelty, and raises questions about the role society and the environment play in shaping and creating an evil name. "Joker" has attracted great attention and controversy from critics and the public. The film is considered a psychological work of art and creates a great influence in the world of cinema.
Directed by: Todd Phillips
Screenwriters: Todd Phillips, Scott Silver
Actors: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, Zazie Beetz, Frances Conroy
Duration: 122 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Psychological, Crime, Action, Drama
Release year: 2019
America
3 The Machinist
The Machinist - obsessive psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: IMDb
The Machinist - Trailer of the haunting psychological thriller you should know
"The Machinist" is a 2004 psychological horror film directed by Brad Anderson and starring Christian Bale. The film follows the life of Trevor Reznik, a metalworking worker who suffers from a sleep disorder and is experiencing a severe mental breakdown.
Trevor Reznik lived a lonely life and lost a lot of weight, only 52 kg, and became extremely tired. He is constantly haunted by mysterious images and events, and feels threatened around him. He begins a relationship with a mysterious woman named Stevie, who works at the factory's front desk. As Trevor begins to uncover the truth behind the strange events happening around him, he gradually realizes that things are not always as he thought. The film focuses on a coherent and unexpected story, pulling viewers into a dark and mysterious world of Trevor's psyche.
"The Machinist" is considered a dramatic and haunting film, with an unpredictable story and elements of surprise. It creates curiosity and tension throughout the viewing process and wows the audience with its complicated plot and unpredictable ending.
Directed by: Brad Anderson
Screenwriter: Scott Kosar
Actors: Christian Bale, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Aitana Sánchez-Gijón
Duration: 101 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Psychological, Horror, Mystery
Release year: 2004
Country: USA, Spain
4 Taxi Driver
Taxi Driver - obsessive psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: Galaxy Cinema
Taxi Driver - Trailer of the haunting psychological thriller you should know
Taxi Driver is a 1976 psychological crime film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Jodie Foster, Cybill Shepherd and Harvey Keitel. The film revolves around the story of Travis Bickle, a taxi driver in New York City, who gradually becomes hysterical and affected by the unstable social situation.
Travis Bickle is a lonely man, suffering from psychological disorders and difficult to adapt to society. He often walks through the dark streets of the city and witnesses the chaos, crime and injustice in everyday life. Travis gradually became disgruntled and eventually decided to commit a violent act to solve the social problem.
In the course of his actions, Travis becomes an assassin and assassin, but at the same time becomes a symbol against corruption and injustice in society. He is caught up in a war against crime and corruption, while trying to create a better world for himself and those around him.
"Taxi Driver" is considered a classic and famous movie of American cinema. The film offers a realistic and ominous look at social status, violence, and loneliness. Robert De Niro's performance as Travis Bickle was greatly praised and is considered one of the best roles of his career. "Taxi Driver" has achieved both commercial and artistic success. The film was nominated for four Academy Awards and won the Palme d'Or at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival. It also made a profound impact in the film industry and is considered a great memoir in history. film.
Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Screenwriter: Paul Schrader
Actors: Robert De Niro, Jodie Foster, Cybill Shepherd, Harvey Keitel
Duration: 114 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Psychological, Crime, Drama
Release year: 1976
America
5 Insomnia
Insomnia - obsessive psychological thriller that you should know. Photo credit: phimtho.tv
Insomnia – The Obsessive Psychological Thriller You Should Know Trailer
Insomnia is a 2002 crime drama film directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Al Pacino, Robin Williams and Hilary Swank. The film is a remake of a Norwegian film of the same name released in 1997.
The story revolves around the protagonist Will Dormer (played by Al Pacino), a detective from Los Angeles who travels to Alaska to help the local police team in their investigation of a mysterious murder. However, in the process of tracking the suspect, Dormer lost sleep because the sunlight never sinks in this land. Fatigue and pressure mount as Dormer becomes erroneous in the investigation and tries to cover up his mistakes. At the same time, he has to face the suspect Walter Finch (played by Robin Williams), who possesses dark secrets related to the case.
"Insomnia" explores the blurring of right and wrong, with Dormer slowly sinking into misunderstanding and guilt. The film creates a tense and dark atmosphere, combined with the excellent acting of the main actors.
Directed by the brilliant Christopher Nolan, "Insomnia" is appreciated for its sharp story, beautiful visuals and unique exploration of character psychology. The film creates an indescribable inner space and makes it difficult for the audience to distinguish between reality and fantasy. "Insomnia" received generally positive reviews and was a commercial success. It is a must-see work by Christopher Nolan and offers an exceptional look at the crime, psychology, and predicament faced by the protagonist.
Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Screenplay: Hillary Seitz (based on an original screenplay by Erik Skjoldbjærg)
Actors: Al Pacino, Robin Williams, Hilary Swank
Duration: 118 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Psychological, Crime, Mystery
Release year: 2002
Country: USA, Canada
6 The Silence of the Lambs
The Silence of the Lambs - the haunting psychological thriller you should know. Image source: IMDb
The Silence of the Lambs - The Obsessive Psychological Thriller You Should Know Trailer
The Silence of the Lambs is a 1991 psychological horror film, based on the novel of the same name by writer Thomas Harris. The film is directed by Jonathan Demme and stars Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins and Scott Glenn.
The film's story revolves around Clarice Starling (played by Jodie Foster), a new FBI agent tasked with understanding the psychology of serial killer Buffalo Bill. To help with the investigation, Clarice enlists the help of Hannibal Lecter (played by Anthony Hopkins), an intelligent and insane serial killer who is being held in a mental institution.
Clarice must find a way to infiltrate Hannibal Lecter's mind and use the information he provides to find clues and save the lives of Buffalo Bill's potential victims. In the process, she faces psychological challenges and dangerous confrontations.
"The Silence of the Lambs" was a huge hit both commercially and artistically. The film won Oscars for important categories such as "Best Picture", "Best Director", "Best Actress" and "Best Actor". It has become a classic of the psychological horror genre and has a profound influence on the film industry.
Directed by: Jonathan Demme
Screenwriter: Ted Tally (based on the novel of the same name by Thomas Harris)
Actors: Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn, Ted Levine
Duration: 118 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Psychological, Crime, Horror, Mystery
Release year: 1991
America
7 American Psycho
American Psycho - obsessive psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: IMDb
American Psycho - Trailer of the obsessive psychological thriller you should know
"American Psycho" is a 2000 psychological horror film based on the novel of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis. The film is directed by Mary Harron and stars Christian Bale, Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto and Reese Witherspoon.
The story takes place in 1980s New York City and revolves around the character Patrick Bateman (played by Christian Bale), a young, successful man with a perfect life outside. However, under the guise of success and power, Bateman is a psychopath and serial assassin.
Bateman is a brutal killer, but still maintains a polite and perfect appearance in the eyes of everyone around. He is obsessed with control, perfection, and exclusivity. But as his mental stream begins to crumble, Bateman gradually loses the ability to distinguish between reality and virtual, and becomes more and more dangerous.
"American Psycho" creates a sharp and ruthless picture of the rich and successful in New York City in the 1980s. The film explores the psychological turmoil of a person caught up in violence. and cruel. It offers a terrifying and poignant look at modern life, neon lights and the inhumanity of society.
Directed by: Mary Harron
Screenwriters: Mary Harron, Guinevere Turner (based on the novel of the same name by Bret Easton Ellis)
Actors: Christian Bale, Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Reese Witherspoon
Duration: 101 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Psychological, Thriller, Crime
Release year: 2000
Country: USA, Canada
8 The Shining
The Shining - the haunting psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: The Times
The Shining - The Obsessive Psychological Thriller You Should Know Trailer
"The Shining" is a 1980 horror film, based on the novel of the same name by writer Stephen King. The film is directed by Stanley Kubrick and stars Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall and Danny Lloyd.
The story takes place at the Overlook Hotel in the Rocky Mountains, where a family of three - Jack Torrance (played by Jack Nicholson), wife Wendy (played by Shelley Duvall) and son Danny (played by Danny Lloyd) ) - come to work as hotel custodian in winter. As the family begins to live in loneliness and feeling isolated, Jack gradually becomes dismayed and affected by supernatural powers in the hotel. Strange events and nightmares begin to happen, and Jack gradually transforms from a normal person into a madman, ready to kill his family.
"The Shining" is highly appreciated for its psychological expression and gloomy atmosphere. The film is best known for its mesmerizing scenes, terrifying music, and brilliant performance by Jack Nicholson, who created an icon of madness and horror with his portrayal of Jack Torrance. Although initially received mixed reviews from critics, "The Shining" has become a classic and deeply influential in the film industry. The film explores sex, violence and insanity, while questioning the dismay and acquisition of the past.
Directed by: Stanley Kubrick
Screenwriters: Stanley Kubrick, Diane Johnson (based on Stephen King's novel of the same name)
Actors: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd, Scatman Crothers
Duration: 144 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Horror, Psychological
Release year: 1980
Country: USA, UK
9 The Call
The Call - the obsessive psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: Tuoi Tre newspaper
The Call - The Obsessive Psychological Thriller Trailer You Should Know
"The Call" is a 2020 South Korean psychological thriller film, directed by Lee Chung-hyun. The film stars Park Shin-hye, Jeon Jong-seo and Kim Sung-ryoung.
The film's story revolves around Seo-yeon (played by Park Shin-hye), a young woman living in modern times, who receives a call from a woman named Young-sook (played by Jeon Jong-seo). shoulder) live in the past. Seo-yeon discovers that she and Young-sook are living in the same house, but in two different times - Seo-yeon in the present and Young-sook in the past.
The call between these two women is not only time and space, but also becomes a tense battle for survival and psychology. Seo-yeon must find a way to prevent a series of tragic events in Young-sook's past, but each of her actions affects the future and the present.
"The Call" brings a dramatic, thrilling and haunting story to the audience. The film explores emotions, revenge, and the consequences of action, while questioning the possibility of changing destiny and the dilemma of deciding between the right to live or die.
Directed by: Lee Chung-hyun
Screenwriters: Lee Chung-hyun, Oh Jeong-mi
Actors: Park Shin-hye, Jun Jong-seo, Kim Sung-ryung, Lee El
Duration: 112 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Horror, Psychological, Thriller
Release year: 2020
Country: Korea
10 The Wailing
The Wailing - the haunting psychological thriller that you should know. Image source: VnExpress
The Wailing - Trailer of the haunting psychological thriller you should know
"The Wailing" is a 2016 South Korean horror film directed by Na Hong-jin. The film revolves around the story of a small town in Korea caught up in a series of murders and the spread of a strange disease. The story mainly focuses on a translator detective named Jong-goo, who investigates cases and discovers that the people in town are being possessed by ghosts.
Jong-goo begins to investigate and learn about a mysterious alien who is believed to have caused mysterious deaths. During his investigation, he meets a priest and a female shaman who provide him with information about demons and miracles related to plagues.
As he delves deeper into the investigation, Jong-goo discovers that his daughter has been influenced by evil powers and is becoming dangerous. He must face the fear and brutality of the spirit world while trying to save his daughter and end the plague.
"The Wailing" was critically acclaimed cinematically and received widespread praise for its insightful content, intricate plot, and thrilling action sequences. The film creates a gloomy and tense atmosphere, giving the audience a scary and unexpected experience.
Directed by: Na Hong-jin
Screenwriter: Na Hong-jin
Actors: Kwak Do-won, Hwang Jung-min, Chun Woo-hee
Duration: 156 minutes
Status: The movie has been completed and released
Genre: Horror, Psychological, Mystery
Release year: 2016
Country: Korea
