Psychological thrillers: 12 unmissable films and series

Who wants a psychological thriller to binge-watch this Halloween? Check out our recommendations!

One of the most popular genres when we talk about suspense is psychological suspense. You know that movie with a plot so engaging that it keeps you glued to your seat and tense throughout the entire film? That's what we're talking about!

And if you like this category, this content was made for you! Here, we have selected some psychological thriller film and series titles that you need to watch!

What is psychological suspense? Learn more about the genre

Psychological thriller is a literary, film, and television genre that focuses on creating tension, anxiety, and intrigue in the mind of the viewer or reader, rather than relying on direct action or horror elements.

It relies primarily on manipulating emotions and exploring the psychology of characters to keep the audience engaged and intrigued.

Some examples of psychological thrillers include films such as Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho, M. Night Shyamalan's The Sixth Sense, and Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl.

More generally, psychological thrillers are known for their ability to engage audiences in an intense and often distressing experience, exploring the deepest aspects of human psychology.

It's the right choice for those who like plots that involve us.

6 Must-See Psychological Thriller Movies You Need to Watch

Now that you know a little more about the genre, how about we explore our lists? Below, you will find 6 great recommendations for psychological thriller films to get you in the Halloween mood and watch to overcome that fear.

Black Swan

This acclaimed psychological thriller follows the story of Nina Sayers, a ballerina in a New York City ballet company. She is chosen to play the lead role in “Swan Lake,” but pressure and rivalry with another dancer lead her to spiral into obsession and insanity.

Good Night, Mommy

In this Austrian film, identical twins begin to suspect that their mother, who has returned home after plastic surgery, may not actually be their mother. Suspicion and psychological terror unfold as they question her identity.

Searching…

The plot follows a desperate father who uses social media and the internet to find his missing daughter. But it turns out he didn't know his daughter that well.

Following a very different proposal from the other films on the list, this one takes place entirely on a computer screen.

The Woman in the Window

This psychological thriller follows a reclusive woman who believes she has witnessed a crime in a neighboring building. As she tries to solve the mystery, her own sanity is called into question and she begins to doubt what is real and what is not.

A Setback

In this Spanish film, a successful businessman wakes up next to the body of his dead lover and hires a lawyer to prove his innocence. The film is a plot full of twists and turns that explores the mystery surrounding what really happened that night and the consequences it will bring.

Shutter Island

In this film, we follow two federal detectives who investigate the disappearance of a patient from a psychiatric hospital on a remote island. As the investigation progresses, sinister secrets about the hospital and its employees are revealed.

6 Unmissable Psychological Thriller Series You Need to Watch

Not a big fan of movies and prefer longer stories? No problem! In addition to the movies you've already seen so far, we've also selected 6 psychological thriller series for you to play today!

Sharp Objects

Based on a book of the same name, the story follows journalist Camille Preaker, who returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two teenage girls. However, she finds herself forced to confront her troubled past and her family's complex relationships as she investigates the murders.

Homecoming

Heidi Bergman, a social worker at a military rehabilitation center who helps veterans reintegrate into society. The plot oscillates between the present and the past, revealing dark secrets about the Homecoming program.

In addition to Julia Roberts as the protagonist, the second season features Janelle Monáe as the main character.

Rupture

In this series, we follow Mark, who is responsible for leading a team of employees at a company whose goals are unknown. Mark and his colleagues were part of a project that consists of dividing their memories between their professional and personal lives. In other words, while they are at work, they remember absolutely nothing about their lives outside of work, and vice versa.

However, a former co-worker of Mark's decides to appear to him outside of the workplace, causing Mark to embark on a dangerous journey to discover the truth about the company he works for.

Hannibal

The series focuses on the relationship between psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter and FBI Special Agent Will Graham. As they work together to solve serial murder cases, Will gradually discovers Hannibal's dark side, revealing a story of psychological suspense and horror.

Bates Motel

Everyone already knows the story of the classic Psycho. And here, we explore Norman Bates' adolescence, showing his life before the events of the classic film.

The series explores the relationship between Norman Bates and his mother, Norma, as they manage the family motel and deal with dark secrets in their small town.

Mr. Robot

Mixing suspense and drama, the series revolves around Elliot Alderson, a computer programmer with exceptional skills, who gets involved in hacking activities and joins a group that seeks to take down large corporations. But will this mission be that easy?

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