​​Five essential psychological thriller films to binge on Netflix this weekend

This week, Netflix presents one of its most anticipated releases, Ripley, a limited series starring Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, and Johnny Flynn. If this gets you in the mood to explore more psychological thrillers, then we’ve got you.

Adapted from Patricia Highsmith’s classic The Talented Mr. Ripley, this neo-noir masterpiece unfolds across eight episodes, set against the backdrop of 1960s Italy and shot in captivating black and white. And this is why Anthony Minghella’s 1999 adaptation is also on our list of essential binges this week.

These five essential psychological thriller films on Netflix promise to enthral. The notion of a psychological thriller is a difficult one to pin down and enjoy. But there are five movies below that deliver in spades. These movies will have you scratching your heads, reaching for the tissues and hiding behind your cushions.

From tales of deception and manipulation to journeys into the darkest recesses of the human psyche, these films are going to be quite the experience. So dim the lights, grab your popcorn, and set forth. Happy bingeing!

​​Five essential psychological thriller films to binge on Netflix:

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

Directed by Anthony Minghella, this film adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s novel stars Matt Damon as the titular character. This young man ends up impersonating the rich and callous Dickie Greenleaf after becoming obsessed with him.

With stellar performances from Jude Law, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Cate Blanchett, The Talented Mr. Ripley delves into themes of identity, obsession, and the darker facets of the human psyche with just a twinge of ‘Eat the rich’ vigour thrown in.

Karthik Calling Karthik (2010)

This Indian psychological thriller, directed by Vijay Lalwani, offers a unique blend of mystery and psychological intrigue. 

Starring Farhan Akhtar and Deepika Padukone, the film follows the story of an introverted man whose life takes a mysterious turn after he begins receiving phone calls from an unknown caller who claims to be him from the future. Karthik Calling Karthik has an innovative premise that makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)

If you thought Poor Things was impressive, then dive into the director’s pivotal release. Yorgos Lanthimos’ unnerving The Killing of a Sacred Deer challenges your perception with its surreal and chilling atmosphere. 

Starring Colin Farrell and Nicole Kidman, the film explores themes of guilt, sacrifice, and existential dread. The Killing of a Sacred Deer plays with the boundaries between reality and nightmare until they blur. Plus, the performances are worth watching this for.

Shutter Island (2010)

Martin Scorsese’s Shutter Island is a psychological thriller that keeps on giving. It’s often thought of as one of the director’s few missteps, but it has some rich value.

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio as a US Marshal investigating the disappearance of a patient from a remote psychiatric facility, the film is a labyrinth of twists and turns. With its atmospheric setting and powerhouse performances, Shutter Island is a gripping journey. The film also features Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley, Max von Sydow and Michelle Williams.

Gone Girl (2014)

David Fincher’s Gone Girl is nowhere near as enjoyable as Gillian Flynn’s bestselling novel the film is based on. But it is still an enjoyable watch, if only for Rosamund Pike’s performance as the disturbing Amy Dunne.

Ben Affleck and Pike play a couple entangled in a twisted and gendered game of cat and mouse. As secrets unravel and perceptions shift, Gone Girl keeps you on the edge.