People are drawn to psychological thrillers because they’re intense, nail-biting, suspenseful, and have crazy twists that no one saw coming. This genre of movies focuses on the inner and intricate workings of the human mind, often exploring themes of conflict and manipulation.
Generally, these thrillers delve deep into the complexities of the human psyche and blur the line between reality and illusion. With intricate plot twists and nail-biting mysteries, they keep audiences on the edge of their seats as they slowly unravel the layers underneath the narrative.
So, if you’re on the hunt for psychological thrillers that will keep your mind racing even after the final credits have rolled in, keep reading. We’ve got you covered with some of the best-rated psychological thrillers to add to your watchlist right now!
Gone Girl
This mind-twister is based on Gillian Flynn’s bestselling novel, Gone Girl. Nick Dunne is shocked to learn of his wife Amy’s disappearance. However, Dunne becomes the primary suspect until he discovers evidence that Amy is not the damsel in distress she makes herself out to be.
You can watch Gone Girl on Netflix or stream it by renting or purchasing on Google Play movies or Apple TV.
The Silence of the Lambs
This movie isn’t just one of the best psychological thrillers of all time, but it’s also one of the best movies ever, making it an influential classic. The story revolves around the strange relationship between a young FBI agent and a serial killer.
Clarice Starling is a young agent who is working on a case that leads her to interview Dr. Hannibal Lecter, who was once a reputed psychiatrist who was later revealed to be a cannibalistic killer. The theme of the film explores the intense psychological game the killer engages in, making him one of the greatest villains to grace the big screen.
The Silence of the Lambs can be watched on Amazon Prime Video or streamed on Google Play Movies or Apple TV.
Black Swan
Starring Natalie Portman as Nina Sayers, Black Swan is a gripping take on the profoundly competitive and intense world of professional ballet. Having worked very hard for years, Nina hopes to secure a lead role in a New York City production of Swan Lake. When the role is almost within her reach, a newcomer named Lily appears, sparking a fierce rivalry between the two. With her position threatened, Nina experiences a descent into madness, and the movie explores this in a riveting fashion.
You can watch Black Swan on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Disney Plus, and Apple TV.
Memento
Directed by Christopher Nolan, Memento follows the story of a man who struggles with anterograde amnesia but who is determined to track down the person responsible for the rape and murder of his wife. Leonard Shelby permanently tattoos important phrases about his life on his skin so he can exact revenge on the person responsible for murdering his wife while also coming to terms with his own secrets.
Watch Memento on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Peacock Premium, and Peacock Premium Plus, or stream it on Google Play Movies, Fandango At Home, and Amazon Video.
American Psycho
Set in the 1980s in New York City, this movie follows Patrick Bateman, a successful investment banker who seems to be living the perfect life. However, behind his seemingly demure demeanor, little does his colleagues know that he lives a disturbing double life as a serial killer.
The movie explores themes of toxic masculinity, materialistic obsessions, and the greed that is rampant on Wall Street. Although it was released 23 years ago, it’s still very relevant today, making it worth rewatching.
Watch American Psycho on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount Plus, or Apple TV.
You
Based on the novel by Caroline Kepnes, You follows the story of Joe Goldberg, a serial killer obsessed with female characters. The story explores Goldberg’s twisted idea of love as he unravels his infatuations and murderous plans. The way he treats his victims is disturbing on a psychological level, making it a gripping story to watch.
You is running its fourth season and is available on Netflix.
Mare of Easttown
An authentic portrayal of small-town life, Mare of Easttown explores the ripple effects of tragedy in a tightly knit community. It follows Detective Mare Sheehan as she investigates a string of intricate murders. In addition to the thrill factor, this show also offers a raw and honest look into grief as it shows how each character deals with loss. Riddled with unexpected twists that will make viewers sit on the edge of their seats, this movie is compelling, emotional, and gripping.
Mare of Easttown is a limited HBO series, but is also available for viewing with a subscription on Max, Prime Video, or Hulu.
Se7en
Se7en follows two detectives who are on the lookout for an insane serial killer who is using the Seven Deadly Sins as a motivation for killing. As the corpses start piling up, the detectives have to unravel the imaginative handiwork of the psychopath and put a stop to his killing rampage.
Se7en is available to watch on Netflix, Google Play, Amazon Video, and Apple TV.
