The best thriller movies are often the most thrilling, and leave you on the edge of your seat.

These films will keep you guessing until the very end, or have a twist at the end that leaves you reeling for hours after.

 

BEST THRILLER MOVIES

What Are Thriller Movies?

A thriller is a genre of film with an emphasis on suspense and anticipation.

It is typically characterized by the use of thrillers, horror films, or mystery films to heighten excitement and drama.

A thriller may also be defined as a movie that makes viewers feel frightened or tense because they do not know what will happen next.

The word “thriller” derives from the English words “terror” and “thrill.”

 

 

The suspense is enough to make any moviegoer jump out of their skin! What makes some thrillers so engaging? We’ll take a look at 10 thriller movies that will have your heart racing from start to finish.

These are just some of the reasons why these films should be considered thrilling:

Best Thriller Movies

Let’s start the list off with a real classic!

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

The Silence of the Lambs” is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Directed by Jonathan Demme and based on the novel by Thomas Harris, this film is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling.

Jodie Foster delivers a brilliant performance as Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee tasked with interviewing the notorious cannibalistic killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter, played to perfection by Anthony Hopkins.

   

The chemistry between the two actors is electric, as they engage in a twisted game of cat and mouse that will leave you breathless.

The film’s pacing is expertly crafted, with each scene building tension and adding to the overall sense of unease.

The cinematography is hauntingly beautiful, with the dark and moody lighting perfectly capturing the film’s ominous tone.

The supporting cast, including Ted Levine as the deranged Buffalo Bill and Scott Glenn as Clarice’s mentor Jack Crawford, are equally impressive, adding depth and complexity to an already richly layered story.

 

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The Silence of the Lambs
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  • Various (Actor)
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The French Connection (1971)

The French Connection is a gritty and intense crime thriller that stands the test of time.

Gene Hackman delivers a powerhouse performance as NYPD detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle, a tough and relentless cop who will stop at nothing to take down a French heroin smuggling ring.

Director William Friedkin’s masterful direction takes the audience on a thrilling ride through the seedy streets of New York City, with a heart-pounding car chase that is still considered one of the greatest in cinematic history.

The supporting cast is also top-notch, with Roy Scheider as Doyle’s partner and Fernando Rey as the suave French drug lord.

The film’s realistic portrayal of police work and its unflinching look the drug trade adds to its authenticity and impact.

The French Connection
  • Gene Hackman, Roy Scheider, Fernando Rey (Actors)
  • William Friedkin (Director) - Ernest Tidyman (Writer) - G. David Schine (Producer)
  • German (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Rear Window (1954)

Rear Window is a masterful suspense thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Alfred Hitchcock’s direction is flawless, and the performances from James Stewart and Grace Kelly are top-notch.

The film follows Stewart’s character, a photographer who is stuck inside his apartment with a broken leg.

As he looks out his rear window, he becomes obsessed with the lives of his neighbors, and begins to suspect that one of them may have committed a murder.

What makes Rear Window so great is how it builds tension slowly but surely.

Hitchcock expertly uses camera angles and lighting to a sense of unease, and the film’s climax is nothing short of brilliant.

Stewart and Kelly have great chemistry, and their relationship adds a layer of depth to the film. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Thelma Ritter and Raymond Burr.

 

Rear Window [Blu-ray] [1954] [Region Free]
  • Rear Window (1954)
  • Rear Window (1954)
  • James Stewart, Alfred Hitchcock, Grace Kelly (Actors)
  • Alfred Hitchcock (Director) - Rear Window (1954) (Producer)
  • English, Italian, French, German (Subtitles)

North by Northwest (1959)

North by Northwest is classic thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Director Alfred Hitchcock masterfully weaves together a tale of mistaken identity and espionage, with the charismatic Cary Grant leading the way as the suave and witty protagonist.

The film boasts some of the most iconic scenes in cinematic history, including the thrilling cropduster chase and the climactic showdown on Mount Rushmore.

But it’s not just the action that makes North by Northwest so memorable; the film’s sharp dialogue, clever plot twists, and stunning visuals all contribute to its enduring appeal.

Eva Marie Saint is also a standout as the femme fatale who complicates Grant’s mission, bringing a sense of vulnerability and depth to her character.

And of course, no Hitchcock film would be complete without his trademark suspenseful score, which adds an extra layer of tension to every scene.

   
North By Northwest (BD) [Blu-ray]
  • Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason (Actors)
  • Alfred Hitchcock (Director) - Ernest Lehman (Writer) - Alfred Hitchcock (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

The Manchurian Candidate (1962)

“The Manchurian Candidate” is a masterpiece of political thriller cinema.

Director John Frankenheimer’s brilliant adaptation of Richard Condon’s novel is a chilling exploration of the Cold War paranoia and the dangers of brainwashing.

The film follows a group of soldiers who were captured and brainwashed during the Korean War, with one of them, Raymond Shaw (played by Laurence Harvey), being programmed to carry out a political assassination upon returning to the United States.

The film is a gripping tale of conspiracy, betrayal, and psychological manipulation, with an outstanding cast that includes Frank Sinatra, Janet Leigh, and Angela Lansbury.

Sinatra delivers a powerful performance as Major Bennett Marco, the soldier who begins to uncover the truth behind Shaw’s programming, while Lansbury is unforgettable as Shaw’s manipulative mother, who has her own sinister agenda.

The film’s themes of political corruption, power struggles, and the manipulation of the masses still resonate strongly today, making “The Manchurian Candidate” a timeless classic.

The cinematography, editing, and score are all top-notch, creating a tense and eerie atmosphere that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.

 

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The Manchurian Candidate (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]
  • Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh (Actors)
  • John Frankenheimer (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

Blood Simple (1984)

Blood Simple is a masterful piece of neo-noir filmmaking that marked the directorial debut of Joel and Ethan Coen.

The film follows a tangled web of deceit and betrayal involving a Texas bar owner, his unfaithful wife, her lover, and a sleazy private investigator.

What sets Blood Simple apart from other thrillers of its time is its meticulous attention to detail and its relentless tension-building.

Every shot is carefully crafted to heighten the suspense, and the Coen brothers make excellent use of light and shadow to create a moody, atmospheric vibe.

The performances are uniformly excellent, with Frances McDormand shining in her breakout role as the hapless wife caught in the middle of a deadly game.

Dan Hedaya is equally impressive as her jealous husband, and M. Emmet Walsh steals the show as the slimy private investigator who will do anything for a buck.

Blood Simple is a gripping, twisty-turny thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

It’s a testament to the Coen brothers’ skill as filmmakers that their debut feature still holds up as a classic of the genre more than 35 years later.

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Blood Simple (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]
  • Frances McDormand, M. Emmet Walsh (Actors)
  • Ethan Coen (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Se7en (1995)

Se7en is a haunting masterpiece that leaves a lasting impression on every viewer.

David Fincher’s direction is impeccable, creating a dark and gritty world that perfectly complements the disturbing subject matter.

Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman deliver powerhouse performances as detectives tasked with tracking down a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as inspiration for his gruesome murders.

The film’s pacing is expertly crafted, building tension and suspense as the detectives get closer to uncovering the killer’s identity.

The final moments of the film are absolutely chilling and will leave you reeling long after the credits roll.

Se7en is not for the faint of heart, but for those willing to brave its disturbing subject matter, it is a masterclass in filmmaking.

 

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Seven [Blu-ray Book]
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  • Blue BD Case
  • Dolby Digital Surround 7.1 - English
  • 4 Commentaries Featuring Director David Fincher Actors Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman and Other...
  • Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman (Actors)

Memento (2000)

Memento is a mind-bending thriller that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about memory and reality.

Directed by Christopher Nolan, this film follows the story of Leonard, a man suffering from anterograde amnesia, as he tries to track down his wife’s killer.

The film is presented in a unique, non-linear format that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

You are thrust into Leonard’s world, where he must rely on notes, tattoos, and Polaroids to piece together his own past and solve the mystery of his wife’s murder.

As the story unfolds, you are forced to question the reliability of Leonard’s own memories, and wonder if he can truly trust anyone around him.

The acting in Memento is top-notch, with Guy Pearce delivering a standout performance as the struggling protagonist.

The supporting cast, including Carrie-Anne Moss and Joe Pantoliano, also shine in their respective roles.

Memento (10th Anniversary Special Edition) [Blu-ray]
  • Condition: New
  • Format: Blu-ray
  • AC-3; Dolby; DTS Surround Sound; Subtitled; Widescreen
  • Pearce, Guy, Pantoliano, Joe, Moss, Carrie-Anne (Actors)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)

No Country For Old Men (2007)

No Country For Old Men is a modern masterpiece of the crime thriller genre.

Directed by the Coen brothers, this film is a tense and atmospheric journey through the desolate landscapes of Texas.

The story follows Llewelyn Moss, a hunter who stumbles upon a drug deal gone wrong and finds a briefcase full of money.

He soon realizes that he is being pursued by a ruthless hitman named Anton Chigurh and a determined sheriff named Ed Tom Bell.

The performances in this film are outstanding, particularly Javier Bardem’s portrayal of Chigurh, which earned him an Academy Award.

His character is both terrifying and mesmerizing, with his calm demeanor and brutal violence.

Josh Brolin also gives a strong performance as Moss, a man who becomes increasingly desperate as he tries to outrun Chigurh.

The cinematography and sound design in this film are also exceptional.

The barren landscapes of Texas are captured in stunning detail, and the use of silence and ambient noise creates an eerie atmosphere that adds to the tension of the story.

No Country For Old Men is not a film for the faint of heart, as it contains scenes of graphic violence and intense suspense.

 

No Country for Old Men [Blu-ray]
  • NEW
  • Javier Bardem, Rodger Boyce, Josh Brolin (Actors)
  • Ethan Coen (Director)
  • Spanish, French (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Prisoners (2013)

Prisoners is a gripping and intense crime thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

Directed by Denis Villeneuve and starring Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Viola Davis, this film takes you on a harrowing journey of a desperate father’s search for his missing daughter.

The cinematography of the film is stunning, with the bleak and desolate landscapes of Pennsylvania serving as a haunting backdrop for the story.

The pacing of the film is slow but deliberate, allowing the tension to build up gradually until it reaches a boiling point in the third act.

The performances of the cast are phenomenal, with Hugh Jackman delivering one of his most intense and emotional performances to date.

Jake Gyllenhaal is equally impressive as the determined detective trying to solve the case, and the supporting cast, including Viola Davis and Paul Dano, add layers of complexity to the story.

Prisoners is not an easy film to watch, as it deals with heavy themes such as child abduction and torture.

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Prisoners (Blu-ray+DVD)
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  • 153

Vertigo (1958)

Vertigo is a masterclass in Hitchcockian suspense and psychological drama. James Stewart delivers a captivating performance as a detective suffering from acrophobia and vertigo, who becomes obsessed with a woman he’s been hired to investigate, played by the stunning Kim Novak.

The film’s intricate plot, filled with twists and turns, keeps the audience on the edge of their seats until the very last frame.

Hitchcock’s use of color and camera angles adds an extra layer of tension to the already suspenseful story.

The film’s exploration of obsession, manipulation, and the fragility of the human psyche make it a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences today.

Hitchcock’s attention to detail and mastery of suspenseful storytelling make Vertigo a must-watch for any fan of cinema.

 

Vertigo [Blu-ray]
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  • James Stewart, Kim Novak, Barbara Bel Geddes (Actors)
  • Alfred Hitchcock (Director) - Alec Coppel (Writer) - Alfred Hitchcock (Producer)
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  • English (Publication Language)

Shallow Grave (1994)

Shallow Grave is a gripping and intense thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows three flatmates who find themselves in possession of a large sum of money after their new roommate dies unexpectedly.

As they descend into greed and paranoia, their relationships with each other become strained and dangerous.

Director Danny Boyle does an exceptional job of building tension and suspense throughout the film, using tight close-ups and eerie sound design to keep the audience on edge.

The performances from the three leads – Ewan McGregor, Christopher Eccleston, and Kerry Fox – are outstanding, with each actor bringing depth and nuance to their characters’ descent into darkness.

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Shallow Grave (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Kerry Fox, Christopher Eccleston, Ewan McGregor (Actors)
  • Danny Boyle (Director)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)

Deep Cover (1992)

Deep Cover is a gripping crime thriller that delivers on all levels.

by Bill Duke, this film explores the complex world of undercover police work and the toll it takes on those who choose to go deep into the criminal underworld.

Laurence Fishburne delivers a standout performance as Russell Stevens, a police officer who goes undercover to bring down a drug lord.

As Russell becomes increasingly embedded in the criminal world, he must grapple with the moral implications of his actions and the dangerous consequences of his choices.

Jeff Goldblum also shines as David Jason, Russell’s handler who is not without his own motives and secrets.

The chemistry between Fishburne and Goldblum is electric, adding an extra layer of tension to an already suspenseful plot.

The film’s gritty visuals and haunting score perfectly capture the seedy underbelly of the drug trade, immersing the viewer in the dangerous and unpredictable world in which Russell operates.

 

Deep Cover (1992) (Criterion Collection) UK Only [Blu-ray] [2021]
  • The disk has English audio and subtitles.
  • English (Subtitle)

Dog Day Afternoon (1975)

Dog Day Afternoon is a captivating and intense film that tells the story of a botched bank robbery and the ensuing hostage situation that takes place in a Brooklyn bank.

Starring Al Pacino in one of his most iconic roles, the film is a masterclass in acting, directing, and storytelling.

Director Sidney Lumet expertly crafts a tense and suspenseful atmosphere throughout the film, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the situation inside the bank becomes increasingly volatile.

The tight close-ups and claustrophobic setting add to the sense of urgency and desperation, while the use of real-life news footage adds a layer of realism to the story.

Pacino delivers a tour-de-force performance as Sonny, the would-be robber who becomes a media sensation as the events unfold.

His portrayal of a man with good intentions but flawed execution is nuanced and compelling, and the chemistry between him and his on-screen partner, played by John Cazale, is palpable.

The film touches on themes of love, loyalty, and social commentary, and the ending is both poignant and thought-provoking.

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Dog Day Afternoon 40th Anniversary (Blu-ray)
  • Al Pacino, John Cazale, Charles Durning (Actors)
  • Sidney Lumet (Director) - Frank Pierson (Writer) - Martin Bregman (Producer)
  • English (Publication Language)

LA Confidential (1997)

LA Confidential is a masterpiece of neo-noir cinema that transports viewers to the seedy underbelly of 1950s Los Angeles.

The film’s intricate plot, complex characters, and stunning visuals make for a thrilling and unforgettable cinematic experience.

At its core, LA Confidential is a story about corruption and power struggles, as three very different LAPD detectives are drawn into a web of deceit and violence that threatens to destroy them all.

Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce, and Kevin Spacey all deliver powerful performances, bringing their flawed and troubled characters to life in a way that is both nuanced and deeply affecting.

Director Curtis Hanson’s attention to detail is evident in every frame of the film, from the moody, shadowy cinematography to the authentic period costumes and sets.

The result is a film that not only transports viewers to another time and place, but also immerses them in a world that is gritty, dangerous, and all too real.

 

L.A. Confidential [Blu-ray]
  • L.A. Confidential is "tough, gorgeous and vastly entertaining" (James Maslin, The New York Times)...
  • Kevin Spacey, Russell Crowe, Guy Pearce (Actors)
  • Curtis Hanson (Director)
  • English, French, Spanish, Chinese, Danish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Fight Club (1999)

Fight Club – Dir. David Fincher

This is a film that truly stands the test of time. From the first frame to the last, Fight Club is a masterclass in storytelling, visual style, and acting.

The film stars Brad Pitt and Edward Norton in two of their most memorable performances as they take us on a journey through the gritty underbelly of modern society.

The film, based on the novel by Chuck Palahniuk, is a commentary on consumerism, masculinity, and the search for identity in a world that seems to have lost its way.

It’s a film that challenges its audience, pushing us to question the very foundations of our society and the values that we hold dear.

Director David Fincher brings his signature visual style to the film, creating a dark and moody atmosphere that perfectly captures the tone of the story.

The film’s use of split-screen and other visual effects add to its overall impact, making it a truly memorable cinematic experience.

But what really sets Fight Club apart is its willingness to take risks.

It’s a film that is not afraid to be controversial, tackling taboo subjects head-on and forcing us to confront uncomfortable truths about ourselves and the world around us.

Fight Club (10th Anniversary Edition) [Blu-ray]
  • Blu-ray
  • AC-3, Blu-ray, Color
  • English (Subtitled), Spanish (Subtitled), French (Subtitled)
  • 1
  • 139

The Conversation (1974)

The Conversation is a masterclass in suspense and psychological drama.

Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and starring Gene Hackman, the film follows Harry Caul, a surveillance expert who becomes increasingly paranoid about the consequences of his work.

Hackman delivers a powerful and nuanced performance as Caul, a man haunted by his past and struggling to maintain his professional distance.

The film is a slow burn, building tension through subtle clues and eerie sound design that makes the audience feel like they are being watched.

The themes explored in The Conversation are as relevant today as they were in the 70s.

The film raises important questions about privacy, surveillance, and the psychological toll of constantly monitoring others.

It’s a thought-provoking and chilling exploration of the human cost of surveillance.

 

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The Conversation [Blu-ray]
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  • Gene Hackman, John Cazale, Allen Garfield (Actors)
  • Francis Coppola (Director) - Francis Coppola (Producer)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

Inside Man (2006)

Inside Man is a heist film that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

Director Spike Lee masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, creating a complex and engaging narrative that leaves you guessing until the very end.

Denzel Washington shines as Detective Keith Frazier, a smart and determined cop who must negotiate with the cunning and unpredictable bank robber Dalton Russell, played by Clive Owen.

Jodie Foster also delivers a standout performance as a powerful and enigmatic fixer hired to protect the interests of a wealthy client.

What sets Inside Man apart from other heist films is its attention to detail and focus on character development.

Each member of the ensemble cast is given a chance to shine, and the intricate plot is full of surprises and twists that keep you invested in the story.

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Inside Man [Blu-ray]
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  • Denzel Washington, Jodie Foster, Clive Owen (Actors)
  • Spike Lee (Director) - Russell Gewirtz (Writer) - Brian Grazer (Producer)
  • Swedish, Norwegian, Mandarin Chinese, Finnish, Danish (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

Rififi (1955)

Rififi is a gritty, suspenseful crime thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Directed by Jules Dassin, the film follows a group of ex-convicts who plan a daring heist on a Paris jewelry store.

The tension builds steadily as the group meticulously plans and executes their robbery, with each member bringing their own unique skills to the table.

As the plan unfolds, the stakes become higher and the risks more dangerous, leading to a gripping climax that will leave you breathless.

The film’s standout feature is its masterful use of silence.

During the robbery sequence, there is no music or dialogue, allowing the audience to feel the tension and anxiety of the characters as they work in complete silence.

The cinematography is also top-notch, with stunning black and white visuals that capture the gritty underworld of 1950s Paris.

The performances are excellent across the board, with Jean Servais delivering a standout performance as Tony le Stephanois, the mastermind behind the heist. His calm and collected demeanor is the perfect foil to the other members of the group, who are more hot-headed and impulsive.

 

Rififi (Criterion Collection) (Blu-ray + DVD)
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Carl M hner, Magali No l, Perlo Vita (Actors)
  • Jules Dassin (Director) - Ren G. Vuattoux (Producer)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)

Assault on Precinct 13 (1976)

Assault on Precinct 13 is a gritty and intense action thriller directed by John Carpenter.

Set in a nearly abandoned police station, the film follows a group of cops and civilians who are forced to defend themselves against a violent gang seeking revenge.

What makes this movie so powerful is its minimalism.

Carpenter creates tension through silence, darkness, and a relentless sense of danger that permeates every frame.

The characters are well-drawn and the acting is top-notch, particularly from Austin Stoker, who plays the stoic and determined Sergeant Ethan Bishop.

The violence is graphic and visceral, but never gratuitous.

Carpenter is a master at creating and satisfying action that earned. The score, also composed by Carpenter, adds an eerie and unsettling quality to the film.

Assault on Precinct 13 is a true gem of the action genre and a testament to Carpenter’s ability to make the most out of a low budget.

It’s a must-see for fans of thrillers and anyone who appreciates the power of minimalist filmmaking.

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Assault on Precinct 13
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  • Ethan Hawke, Laurence Fishburne, Drea De Matteo (Actors)
  • Jean-Francois Richet (Director) - James DeMonaco (Writer) - Pascal Caucheteux (Producer)
  • French, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

Berberian Sound Studio (2012)

Berberian Sound Studio is a mesmerizing and haunting film that completely immerses the viewer in its twisted world of Italian horror cinema.

The film follows a British sound engineer named Gilderoy (played masterfully by Toby Jones) who travels to Italy to work on a giallo film, only to find himself slowly losing his grip on reality as the lines between the film and his own life begin to blur.

Director Peter Strickland creates a truly unique and unsettling atmosphere, using sound design and visuals to immerse the viewer in the world of Berberian Sound Studio.

The film is a love letter to the art of sound engineering and the power of cinema to transport and transform its audience.

Toby Jones delivers a standout performance as Gilderoy, capturing the character’s descent into madness with nuance and subtlety.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, bringing to life the eccentric and often disturbing characters that populate the film’s world.

Berberian Sound Studio is not a film for everyone, as its slow-burning and surreal nature may not appeal to all viewers.

 

Berberian Sound Studio
  • Berberian Sound Studio (2012) ( Studio ihografiseon Berberian )
  • Berberian Sound Studio (2012)
  • Studio ihografiseon Berberian
  • Toby Jones, Cosimo Fusco, Fatma Mohamed (Actors)
  • Peter Strickland (Director) - Mary Burke (Producer)

Uncut Gems (2020)

Uncut Gems is a masterful film that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Adam Sandler delivers a career-best performance as Howard Ratner, a New York City jeweler and compulsive gambler who finds himself in over his head when he obtains a valuable gemstone.

The Safdie Brothers’ direction is both frenetic and focused, adding to the tension and chaos of the story.

The supporting cast, including Kevin Garnett and newcomer Julia Fox, are all fantastic in their roles.

The score by Daniel Lopatin is haunting and perfectly complements the film’s mood.

Uncut Gems is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that is not for the faint of heart but is an absolute must-see for fans of intense and unpredictable cinema.

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Uncut Gems (The Criterion Collection) [4K UHD] [Blu-ray]
  • Adam Sandler, Julia Fox, Idina Menzel (Actors)
  • Benny Safdie (Director)

Gaslight (1944)

Gaslight is a true classic in the film noir genre, delivering a riveting and suspenseful tale of psychological manipulation and deceit.

Directed by George Cukor, the film features brilliant performances from its lead actors, Ingrid Bergman and Charles Boyer, who bring a depth and complexity to their characters that is both captivating and chilling.

At the heart of the film is the story of a young woman named Paula (Bergman) who, after the mysterious death of her aunt, marries a charming and wealthy man named Gregory (Boyer).

But as their relationship progresses, Paula begins to doubt her own sanity as Gregory systematically tries to convince her that she is losing her grip on reality.

It’s a fascinating exploration of the power dynamics between men and women, and the ways in which abuse and manipulation can be disguised as love and protection.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with its use of shadow and light creating a haunting and eerie atmosphere that perfectly complements the story.

And while Gaslight may be over 75 years old, its themes and message still resonate strongly today, making it a must-see for fans of classic cinema and psychological thrillers alike.

 

Gaslight
  • Charles Boyer, Ingrid Bergman, Joseph Cotten (Actors)
  • George Cukor (Director)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

You Were Never Really Here (2017)

You Were Never Really Here is a breathtakingly intense and haunting film that leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.

The movie follows the story of Joe, played brilliantly by Joaquin Phoenix, a former soldier and FBI agent who now works as a hitman, hired to rescue a young girl from a sex trafficking ring.

The film is directed by Lynne Ramsay, who manages to create a deeply atmospheric and unsettling world through her masterful use of sound and imagery.

Phoenix delivers a powerhouse performance as Joe, a man tormented by his past and struggling to find meaning in a world that has left him emotionally numb.

His physical transformation for the role is impressive, but it is his nuanced portrayal of a man haunted by trauma that truly sets him apart.

Ramsay’s direction is equally impressive, as she expertly weaves together the film’s violent action sequences with moments of quiet introspection, creating a film that is both brutal and deeply emotional.

The cinematography and sound design are also standouts, with the use of close-ups and sound effects adding to the film’s sense of unease.

You Were Never Really Here [Blu-ray] [2018]
  • Polish Release, cover may contain Polish text/markings. The disk has English audio.
  • Joaquin Phoenix, Ekaterina Samsonov, Alex Manette (Actors)

Utøya: July 22 (2018)

Utøya: July 22 is a harrowing and powerful film that tells the story of the real-life terror attack that took place on the Norwegian island of Utøya in 2011.

Director Erik Poppe masterfully captures the chaos and fear of the event, using a single, unbroken take to create a sense of immediacy and urgency that is both thrilling and devastating.

The film focuses on the experiences of one young woman, Kaja (Andrea Berntzen), as she tries to survive the attack and find her way to safety.

Berntzen gives a stunning performance, conveying the terror and desperation of her character with raw emotion and heartbreaking realism.

Utøya: July 22 is not an easy film to watch, but it is an important one.

It forces us to confront the reality of mass violence and the impact it has on those who experience it firsthand.

Poppe’s sensitive and respectful approach to the material is a testament to the power of cinema to educate, enlighten, and move us. This is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

 

Peeping Tom (1960)

Peeping Tom is a chilling psychological thriller that delves into the dark and twisted mind of a voyeuristic serial killer.

The film follows Mark Lewis, a young photographer who uses his camera to capture the fear and terror of his unsuspecting victims.

As the story unfolds, we are taken on a journey through the eyes of Mark as he struggles with his own demons and the consequences of his actions.

The film is beautifully shot and the use of color and light add an eerie tone to the already disturbing subject matter.

The performances are top-notch, with Carl Boehm delivering a haunting and nuanced portrayal of Mark.

The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Anna Massey’s character providing a much-needed sense of humanity and empathy to the story.

Peeping Tom is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Peeping Tom Special Edition [Blu-ray] [1960]
  • Horror from 1960 by Michael Powell with Karl Boehm and Moira Shearer
  • English (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)

Locke (2013)

Locke is a film that takes a simple concept—a man driving from one place to another—and turns it into a gripping, emotional drama.

The film follows construction manager Ivan Locke (Tom Hardy) as he drives from Birmingham to London, making a series of phone calls that will change his life and career forever.

The entire film takes place within the confines of Locke’s car, with Hardy’s performance carrying the weight of the story.

It’s a testament to the actor’s skill that he is able to keep the audience engaged for the entire duration of the film, despite the limited setting.

As Locke deals with one crisis after another, the tension in the film builds to almost unbearable levels.

The audience is left wondering how everything will play out, and whether Locke will be able to salvage his professional and personal life.

At its core, Locke is a film about the consequences of our actions and the importance of taking responsibility for our mistakes.

It’s a powerful message that is delivered with subtlety and nuance, making the film all the more impactful.

Locke [Blu-ray]
  • The disk has English audio.
  • German, English (Subtitles)

Sorcerer (1977)

Sorcerer is a cinematic masterpiece that is equal parts intense, suspenseful, and thought-provoking.

Directed by William Friedkin, the film follows four men from different parts of the world who are brought together in a South American jungle to transport a shipment of volatile nitroglycerin.

The visuals are stunning, with breathtaking scenery and nail-biting action sequences that keep you on the edge of your seat.

The performances are outstanding, with Roy Scheider leading the ensemble cast with his portrayal of a man haunted by his past.

The editing is masterful, building tension with each passing moment until the explosive finale.

Sorcerer is must-watch for any cinephile, and its themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the human condition make it a timeless classic.

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Sorcerer (40th Anniversary Collector’s Edition) [Blu-ray] [1977]
  • The disk has English audio.
  • English (Subtitle)

The Night of the Hunter (1954)

The Night of the Hunter is a hauntingly beautiful film that expertly blends elements of film-noir and horror to create a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Directed by Charles Laughton, this film tells the story of a sinister preacher (played to perfection by Robert Mitchum) who terrorizes a small town in search of hidden treasure.

Mitchum’s performance as the charismatic yet malevolent preacher is truly chilling, and his on-screen presence is enough to send shivers down your spine.

The black and white cinematography is stunning and perfectly captures the dark and foreboding atmosphere of the film.

But what really sets The Night of the Hunter apart is its use of symbolism and allegory.

The film is packed with religious imagery and metaphors, which add an extra layer of depth to an already captivating story.

 

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The Night of the Hunter [Blu-ray]
  • Robert Mitchum, Shelley Winters, Lillian Gish (Actors)
  • Charles Laughton (Director)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

Duel (1971)

Duel is a masterclass in suspenseful storytelling.

Steven Spielberg’s feature film debut is a lean, mean, road thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows David Mann (played brilliantly by Dennis Weaver), a mild-mannered salesman who finds himself stalked by a mysterious tanker truck driver on a lonely California highway.

What starts as a simple case of road rage soon spirals into a terrifying game of cat and mouse, as David tries to outwit his relentless pursuer and stay alive.

Spielberg’s direction is nothing short of genius, using every trick in the book to ratchet up the tension and keep the audience guessing.

The cinematography is stunning, with the vast, empty landscapes of the American West providing a haunting backdrop to the action.

But what really sets Duel apart is its simplicity.

There are no elaborate set-pieces or special effects here, just a man, a truck, and a whole lot of fear. It’s a testament to Spielberg’s skill as a filmmaker that he can wring so much suspense out of such a basic premise.

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Duel [Blu-ray]
  • Dennis Weaver, Jacqueline Scott, Eddie Firestone (Actors)
  • Steven Spielberg (Director) - Richard Matheson (Writer) - George Eckstein (Producer)
  • French (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: PG (Parental Guidance Suggested)

Nightcrawler (2014)

Nightcrawler is a gripping thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a haunting performance as Lou Bloom, a desperate and ambitious man who will stop at nothing to achieve success as a crime journalist.

The film’s portrayal of the sensationalism and exploitation that often drives the media industry is both timely and thought-provoking.

Director Dan Gilroy’s use of dark and moody cinematography perfectly captures the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles at night, creating an eerie atmosphere that only intensifies as the story progresses.

The tension builds steadily as Lou descends deeper into a world of crime and corruption, and the film’s final act is a masterclass in suspenseful filmmaking.

Nightcrawler is not an easy watch, but it’s a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Gyllenhaal’s transformative performance and Gilroy’s skillful direction make this a must-see for fans of dark, psychological thrillers.

 

 

 

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