Unlike horror, thriller movies rely more on viewer suggestions and suspense, which really keeps you on the edge of your seat. Here are the best thriller movies!
Thriller is a tricky genre to define. It is more about how a film makes the audience feel than its specific style or tone. It can also apply to aunty movie that keeps the viewers on the edge. Whether it is film noir, psychological horror, legal drama, sci-fi, crime stories, or murder mysteries, thrillers all involve putting characters in tense situations to get their adrenaline going.
Without further ado, here is the list of the best 30 thriller movies to watch.
- Perfect Blue (1997)
Satoshi Kon’s animated masterpiece features a pop star who transitions to television acting, only to encounter deadly repercussions. This film is a haunting chaos of obsession, fame, violence, misogyny, and mental turmoil. SadayukiMurai’s intricate script continuously alters our perception of reality, leading to what could be a record number of surprises.
- The Insider (1999)
Michael Mann’s gripping drama tracks a journalist (Al Pacino) who, with the help of a tobacco insider (Russell Crowe), uncovers a massive conspiracy. The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of the meticulous journalistic process, detailing how stories are crafted and presented to the public. Each moment carries immense stakes, deeply impacting several industries and threatening the lives of those involved.
- Gone Girl (2014)
Directed by David Fincher, Gone Girl is one of his standout thrillers from the 2010s. The film blends tension with the struggle of a failing marriage. The story follows Nick Dune (Ben Affleck), who becomes a media target after his wife Amy (Rosamund Pike) disappears. As suspicion falls on Nick, the truth proves to be much more complex. Even after knowing the twist, the film remains powerful with its full context adding depth to the experience. Affleck and Pike deliver exceptional performances, making it one of the most memorable mystery thrillers of the decade.
- Blow Out (1981)
In this gripping Brian De Palma film, John Travolta stars as an audio engineer who records a car accident, inadvertently stumbling upon a political scandal. This Hitchcockian thriller captures a profound political cynicism and delves into our complex relationship with art and media. De Palma’s distinctive style, with its split screens, dynamic camera movements, and slow-motion sequences, enhances the thematic depth and entertainment of Blow Out.
- A Man Escaped (1956)
Set during World War II, A Man Escaped follows a French Resistance fighter (François Leterrier) devising a plan to escape from a Gestapo prison. Much of the film’s tension hinges on its sound design, as the protagonist gathers crucial information from sounds beyond his cell walls. The film culminates in one of the most suspenseful prison break scenes in cinematic history.
- All the President’s Men (1976)
This quintessential journalism film traces Bob Woodward (Robert Redford) and Carl Bernstein (Dustin Hoffman) as they investigate the Watergate scandal for The Washington Post. Mostly set in offices, garages, and living rooms, Alan J. Pakula’s direction and William Goldman’s screenplay maintain a palpable tension throughout. A constant undercurrent of danger looms over the characters, particularly as the depth of the conspiracy becomes apparent.
- Sunshine (2007)
In this sci-fi drama/slasher directed by Danny Boyle (Trainspotting) and penned by Alex Garland (Ex Machina), a team of astronauts embarks on a mission to reignite the sun following a catastrophic ice age. The cast includes Cillian Murphy, Chris Evans, Michelle Yeoh, Benedict Wong, Cliff Curtis, and Rose Byrne. The film explores how the vastness and power of the universe, alongside humanity’s trivial place within it, can induce existential dread and complicate one’s purpose, a feat rarely attained in science fiction cinema.
- To Live and Die in L.A. (1985)
William Friedkin’s extensive crime saga follows William Petersen as an obsessed Secret Service agent determined to avenge his slain partner by taking down a large counterfeiting operation. Willem Dafoe captivates as the main antagonist. Like Friedkin’s renowned crime film The French Connection (1971), To Live and Die in L.A. features one of Hollywood’s most exhilarating car chases and portrays its characters as morally ambiguous.
- Inside Man (2006)
Spike Lee’s heist film depicts the clash between a robber (Clive Owen) and a hostage negotiator (Denzel Washington). The film artfully layers tension through quiet interpersonal exchanges, creating an atmosphere where any character might betray others, even those on the same side. As information unfolds slowly, we, like all great heist films, only see the complete plan at the conclusion. Furthermore, the cinematography dynamically enhances the tension and familiarizes viewers with the bank layout.
- Wait Until Dark (1967)
Audrey Hepburn delivers a powerful performance as a blind woman confronting intruders in this intense suspense film adapted from Frederick Knott’s acclaimed play. Similar to Rear Window, Wait Until Dark creates gripping tension entirely within the protagonist’s home. Alan Arkin excels in his role as the villain, balancing charming composure with volatile rage.
- Double Indemnity (1944)
Billy Wilder’s exceptional film noir features an insurance agent (Fred MacMurray) conspiring with a seductive housewife (Barbara Stanwyck) to murder her husband for insurance money. Co-written by Wilder and acclaimed author Raymond Chandler, the screenplay is rich with stylish, elegant dialogue. The narration from MacMurray’s character lends a literary touch to the unfolding events, making you unexpectedly root for the morally questionable characters to evade justice.
- Mulholland Drive (2001)
David Lynch’s Mulholland Drive is a film that feels like it exists at the crossroads of Hollywood fantasies and bizarre and dream-like logic. Lynch creates a world where the usual rules do not apply, and anything can happen. The movie throws in strange elements like eerie characters, mysterious figures wearing cowboy hats pulling the strings, fractured realities,m random crime stories, etc. You will get to witness even an unexpected subplot that involves Billy Ray Cyrus. What makes this movie so unique is that while people often debate its deeper meaning and try to figure out its puzzle, it remains the same old engaging throughout. Even though it does not offer easy answers, it still works as a thrilling noir film, a compelling mystery, and most importantly, a chilling horror story. The beauty of Lynch’s work is that it does not need to explain everything – it is simply a masterful place of cinema that keeps you intrigued from beginning to the very end.
- Seven (1995)
When it is a list of thriller movies, David Fincher is one director who cannot be ignored. Seven marks a major turning point for David Fincher where he transitions from making visually striking music videos for artists like Madonna into a filmmaker crafting deeper and more impactful stories. The film oozes Fincher’s signature dark, ominous tone, starting with its gripping opening credits and continuing through its portrayal of a grim and rain-soaked landscape that feels almost suffocating. But Seven is more than just a stylish thriller – it is a subversive piece of cinema that feels as daring and provocative as a Fritz Lang classic, The film critiques not only the police but also the twisted moral philosophy of the serial killer, creating a sharp tension between right and wrong. Andrew Kevin Walker’s script cleverly contrasts intellectual and methodical thinking with reckless action. But Fincher’s genius lies in showing us that both approaches are just coping mechanisms and survival strategies that only get to you so far before they start to break down. Fincher does not just create mystery, he explores how these characters driven by their own personal flaws and frustrations try to make sense of a world that does not offer easy answers.
- Vertigo (1958)
Vertigo is often hailed as one of cinema’s greatest achievements, showcasing Hitchcock’s deep exploration of psychosexual themes in beautiful Technicolor. Kim Novak plays Judy Barton, who may also be Madeleine Elster. She embodies a complex and mysterious femininity that captivates and unsettles. Jimmy Stewart’s portrayal of Scottie Ferguson, a former detective consumed by obsession marks a stark shift from his typical wholesome roles. As Scottie spirals deeper into his fixation with Judy, Hitchcock masterfully subverts both Stewart’s image and the audience’s expectations. It creates a haunting tale of obsession, identity, and the dark side of desire. The film remains a groundbreaking exploration of psychological complexity.
- Taxi Driver (1976)
A disturbed and angry individual gains access to a gun and decides to take action in a misguided attempt to “make America great again”. This scenario might feel eerily familiar. Around 50 years before Martin Scorsese’s film, Taxi Driver explores the themes of alienation and the dangerous delusions of a troubled man, it still has the power to shock and disturb anyone. In fact, it might even feel more unsettling now than it did when it was first released. The film’s exploration of a loner, Travis Bickie, who is a Vietnam War veteran turned vigilante, remains just as relevant. If Travis were alive today, you could easily imagine him getting involved in real-life events like the January 6 Capitol riot, such is the current resonance of his character’s mindset and actions.
- The Fugitive (1993)
When people say “they don’t make movies like they used to,” they are often talking about The Fugitive. It is a thrilling murder mystery with great characters, complex motives, and exciting action. Harrison Ford stars as Dr. Richard Kimble, a man wrongly accused of killing his wife. He escapes while being transferred to prison. Ford plays the role with a lot of emotion, and Tommy Lee Jones, who won an Oscar for his role, plays the role of a determined cop chasing him. Today, the movie’s more unbelievable moments would likely be treated humorously, but it works so well because it is sincere, It is like a modern-day Hitchcock movie, taken seriously.
- The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
In the early 1950s, America was scared of Soviet control. But in Hollywood things were more complicated, after the Joseph McCarthy hearings, filmmakers realized they had as much to fear from their own government as they did from other countries. The Manchurian Candidate shows this fear clearly. It is a tense movie about manipulation, filmed in black and white, which is ironic because the film shows that things are not so simple or clear-cut.
- Memento (2000)
Memento is a deeply thought-provoking film that explores themes of memory, loss, and grief. Its unique storytelling technique, which unfolds both forwards and backward makes it feel like it should be a complex and niche film that only fits in small art house theaters rather than the mainstream cinemas. Despite this, the movie became a major success, proving how talented writer-director Christopher Nolan is, not only did it become a hit, but it also helped launch Nolan’s career, turning him into one of the most successful directors in modern Hollywood. A big part of the film’s success also comes from Gue Pearce, the lead actor, who delivers a compelling performance. His ability to portray the intense emotional struggles of his character makes it feel like he is holding the entire movie together, giving it the emotional weight it needs to connect with the audience.
- The Conversation (1974)
Released between The Godfather and The Godfather: Part II, Francis Ford Coppola’s smaller, quieter film often gets overlooked. But it is a standout not just in Coppola’s career, but for that entire time period. A big reason for this is Gene Hickman’s powerful performance as Harry Caul, a private surveillance expert who understands that true privacy no longer exists. Haunted by guilt over his job, Caul becomes paranoid and self-destructive after recording what he thinks is a murder confession. While the film was seen as a comment on Watergate when it was released, it is just as relevant today with the rise of doorbell cameras, smart devices, and targeted ads.
- Zodiac (2007)
David Fincher’s Zodiac is a chilling crime thriller that explores the search for truth with the elusive answers becoming the final victim of a serial killer’s mystery. Set in the late 1960s and the early 70s, the film follows journalists and investigators frustrated by the ghost-like Zodiac Killer. Based on real events in California, it captures the paranoia and fear of the time. Fincher, who was haunted by the case as a child, channels his own obsession with the unsolved mystery into the film. Zodiac Killer is not just about a killer – it is a study of how obsession can consume lives.
- Les Diaboliques (1955)
Set in a chilling and isolated boarding school, this suspense-filled thriller features a cruel headmaster, a frustrated wife, and a jealous lover, who all create a tense atmosphere. Directed by Henri-Georges Clouzot, often called France’s Alfred Hitchcock, the film brings together the quiet, plain wife (Vera Clouzot, the director’s real-life spouse) in a plan to murder their shared enemy. Clouzotexpertlyu uses eerie, dark corridors, grimy swimming pools, and unsettling children to build suspense, creating a foreboding environment where danger lurks around every corner. The film is packed with unexpected twists and turns, making it a truly thrilling experience. In fact, its intricate plotting is so intense that it includes a title card at the end asking viewers not to spoil the ending. With each character hiding secrets and deceiving others, the film keeps you guessing until the very last frame, leaving you shocked and captivated.
- The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
St in a tense and troubled America where violence lurks beneath the surface, Jonathan Demmer’s chilling serial killer thriller The Silence of the Lambs borders on horror. The film’s unlikely hero is FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jordie Foster), whose performance combines both strength and vulnerability as she faces terrifying challenges. The story splits its fears between disturbing images like grotesque moths, and a brutal killer who hunts women. The film also focuses on the sinister Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), a cannibalistic mastermind locked in prison who manipulates those around him, all while hinting at his disturbing taste for liver and fava beans. The film is known for its exceptional cross-cutting and the suspense leading up to a spine-tingling final reveal that will leave you breathless. The Silence of the Lambs became one of the greatest movies of the 1990s, and it’s one of the rare thrillers to win major Oscars, proving its lasting impact and cinematic brilliance.
- The Sixth Sense (1999)
- Night Shyamalan’s supernatural mystery The Sixth Sense is famous for its shocking twist ending, but the film is gripping and suspenseful throughout, not just in the final moments. Bruce Willis plays a child psychologist who forms a bond with a young boy (Haley Joel Osment) who has a special ability. Shyamalan is not afraid to let emotions shine through, encouraging his actors to show a raw vulnerability that is unusual in modern thrillers.
- The Handmaiden (2016)
Park Chan-wook’s historical drama focuses on four characters – an heiress (Kim Min-hee), her servant (Kim Tae-ri), her rich uncle (Cho Jin-woong), and a scheming suitor (Ha Jung-woo) – who fight for a large fortune in a story full of love, lust, class struggles, political tension, cruelty, and deception. Park skillfully reveals just enough information to surprise the viewers with twists and betrayals that are shocking but feel inevitable once they happen. Kim Tae-ri and Kim Min-hee give standout performances as the two complex women at the heart of the story, showcasing deep inner conflict that makes their actions and motives hard to predict.
- M (1931)
Fritz Lang’s gripping film M tells the story of a serial killer (played by Peter Lorre) who is trying to evade both the police and a furious group of civilians in Berlin. As the hunt for the killer intensifies, the film explores the darker aspects of human nature, particularly the violent tendencies that can arise when fear takes hold of a community. The mob mentality is a central theme, showcasing how collective anxiety can drive people to act in harmful, unjust ways. The film reveals how fear can be used to justify invasion of privacy, force, and violence, ultimately uniting people in a way that leads to dangerous consequences. Through its portrayal of both law and enforcement and vengeful civilians, M highlights how societies shaped by fear can turn on individuals that distort justice and morality.
- Rear Window (1954)
In Alfred Hitchcock’s tense crime drama Rear Window, a photographer who’s stuck in a wheelchair (James Stewart) starts investigating a violent mystery by watching his neighbors from his apartment window. Despite being confined to one location, Hitchcock and his team manage to create a thrilling, exciting mystery. The film plays with the excitement of spying on others while also questioning the characters’ nosy behavior, making it a morally complex story. Even with these deeper themes, it never loses its ability to entertain and keep you hooked.
- Chinatown (1974)
Chinatown is a standout film from the 1970s, representing the height of New Hollywood’s creativity. It is the perfect Los Angeles movie, showing the dark side of the city, even in its water. The well-researched script by Robert Towne about land theft, murder, and a curious man is a model for future screenwriters. For some people in L.A., watching the film is like realizing they live in a place built on corruption. Despite its serious themes, the film owes much of its success to Jack Nicholson’s charm, Faye Dunaway’s nervous energy, John Huston’s intimidating presence, and Roman Polanski’s direction at his best. The film looks like an old romance from the 1930s but has a dark and toxic undercurrent, making Kit a powerful masterpiece.
- Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
In Sidney Lumet’s Dog Day Afternoon, a frantic man (Al Pacino) tries to rob a bank in a desperate attempt to raise money for his partner’s sex change operation. The film stands out for its deep empathy toward its characters, portraying their complicated, often painful situations without judgment or oversimplification. It is a tightly paced-thriller, filled with sharp, memorable dialogue and stunning cinematography. Pacino delivers one of his most powerful performances, capturing a mix of exhaustion and frantic energy as his character struggles to keep everything together. Chris Saradon also plays a key role, bringing genuine emotional depth to the story and adding an extra layer of compassion to the film.
- North By Northwest (1959)
This thriller may be the most exciting, sexy, and memorable one out there, Alfred Hitchcock’s film feels effortless, taking us smoothly from New York to Mount Rushmore. The journey had stops in Chicago and a Midwestern bus stop as Cary Grant’s character gets caught in a case of mistaken identity. Making it look easy was hard work but thanks to Hitchcock and his team, the film became such a timeless hit that it is still one of the most copied films for sequences. The cast including Eva Marie Saint, James Mason, Martin Landau, and Jessie Royce Landis shine but it is Grant’s movie, playing the perfect punchline when needed.
- Psycho (1960)
In Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, a nervous young woman (Janet Leigh) goes on the run and meets a strange motel manager (Anthony Perkins). Psycho twists expectations and breaks traditional storytelling rules, making it one of the most surprising thrillers ever made. The film keeps viewers guessing by shifting focus between different characters. So, you never know what is going to happen next. Bernard Herrmann’s eerie music adds tension, making even ordinary scenes feel suspenseful.
Now that you have this list, make this weekend memorable and watch these spine-tingling thrillers!
