Top 20 Thriller Movies Ever: Audience Voted All-Time Favorites!

Fasten your seatbelts, folks! We’re about to take a rollercoaster ride through the shadowy corners of cinema. Welcome to our countdown of the “Top 20 Thriller Movies Ever: Audience Voted All-Time Favorites!” These are the films that made us jump out of our seats, bite our nails down to the quick, and sleep with the lights on. They’ve thrilled us, chilled us, and left us begging for more. From the eerie whispers of psychological suspense to the heart-pounding beats of action-packed sequences, these films have set the bar high for cinematic thrillers. So, whether you’re a die-hard thriller enthusiast or a casual movie-goer looking for a good adrenaline rush, this list is your treasure map to the gems of the genre. Get ready to revisit some old favorites and perhaps discover a few new ones. Let’s dive into the dark, shall we?
Parasite

Parasite

Release Date: 2019-05-30

Genres: Comedy, Thriller, Drama

“Parasite” is a thrilling movie that made it to the list of the 20 best voted thriller movies of all time. Released on May 30, 2019, it follows the story of Ki-taek’s family, who become fascinated by the wealthy Parks and their glamorous lifestyle. However, their lives take an unexpected turn when they get caught up in a mysterious incident. With a talented cast including Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong, Choi Woo-shik, Park So-dam, Lee Jung-eun, Jang Hye-jin, Park Myung-hoon, Jung Ji-so, and Jung Hyeon-jun, this movie is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Song Kang-ho (Kim Ki-taek) , Lee Sun-kyun (Park Dong-ik) , Cho Yeo-jeong (Yeon-kyo) , Choi Woo-shik (Ki-woo) , Park So-dam (Ki-jung) , Lee Jung-eun (Moon-gwang) , Jang Hye-jin (Chung-sook) , Park Myung-hoon (Geun-se) , Jung Ji-so (Da-hye) , Jung Hyeon-jun (Da-song) , Park Keun-rok (Driver Yoon) , Jung Yi-seo (Pizza manager) , Cho Jae-myung (Pizza man) , Jeong Ik-han (Neighbor) , Kim Gyu-baek (Drunk 1) , Ahn Seong-bong (Street man) , Yoon Young-woo (Benz Dealer) , Park Jae-wook (VR Specialist) , Lee Dong-yong (Drunk 2) , Jeon Eun-mi (Mart cashier) , Kim Geon (Party man) , Lee Joo-hyung (Party man) , Lee Ji-hye (A Singer) , Kim Bo-ryeong (Cellist) , Park Hye-sook (Party woman)

Directors: Bong Joon-ho

Writers: Bong Joon-ho, Kim Dae-hwan, Han Jin-won

Tags: birthday party, private lessons, basement, dark comedy, con artist, working class, psychological thriller, class differences, housekeeper, tutor, family, crime family, unemployed, wealthy family, south korea, seoul, south korea

The Dark Knight

The Dark Knight

Release Date: 2008-07-14

Genres: Drama, Action, Crime, Thriller

“The Dark Knight” is a thrilling crime-fighting movie released on July 14, 2008. Starring Christian Bale as Batman, the film follows his relentless pursuit to eradicate crime in Gotham City with the help of Lt. Jim Gordon (Gary Oldman) and District Attorney Harvey Dent (Aaron Eckhart). However, chaos ensues when a menacing criminal mastermind known as the Joker (Heath Ledger) emerges, putting their partnership to the ultimate test. With an incredible cast including Michael Caine, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Morgan Freeman, and Nestor Carbonell, this movie is hailed as one of the best thriller films of all time.

Cast: Christian Bale (Bruce Wayne / Batman) , Heath Ledger (Joker) , Michael Caine (Alfred Pennyworth) , Gary Oldman (James Gordon) , Aaron Eckhart (Harvey Dent / Two-Face) , Maggie Gyllenhaal (Rachel Dawes) , Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox) , Nestor Carbonell (Anthony Garcia) , Monique Gabriela Curnen (Anna Ramirez) , Ron Dean (Michael Wuertz) , Chin Han (Lau) , Eric Roberts (Sal Maroni) , Ritchie Coster (Chechen) , Anthony Michael Hall (Mike Engel) , Keith Szarabajka (Gerard Stephens) , Joshua Harto (Coleman Reese) , Melinda McGraw (Barbara Gordon) , Nathan Gamble (James Gordon Jr.) , Michael Jai White (Gambol) , Colin McFarlane (Gillian Loeb) , Nydia Rodriguez Terracina (Janet Surrillo) , Tommy Lister Jr. (Tattooed Prisoner) , William Fichtner (Bank Manager) , Cillian Murphy (Jonathan Crane / Scarecrow) , Patrick Leahy (Gentleman at Party)

Directors: Christopher Nolan

Writers: Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan, David S. Goyer, Bob Kane

Tags: crime fighter, secret identity, anti hero, scarecrow, sadism, chaos, vigilante, joker, superhero, based on comic, tragic hero, organized crime, anti villain, criminal mastermind, district attorney, super power, super villain, neo-noir

Pulp Fiction

Pulp Fiction

Release Date: 1994-09-10

Genres: Thriller, Crime

“Pulp Fiction” is a thrilling and hilarious crime caper that brings together a burger-loving hit man, a philosophical partner, a drug-addled gangster’s moll, and a washed-up boxer. With a star-studded cast including John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Uma Thurman, and Bruce Willis, this movie takes you on a wild ride through three ingeniously intertwined stories that jump back and forth in time. Released in 1994, it’s no wonder this film has made it to the list of the 20 best voted thriller movies of all time.

Cast: John Travolta (Vincent Vega) , Samuel L. Jackson (Jules Winnfield) , Uma Thurman (Mia Wallace) , Bruce Willis (Butch Coolidge) , Ving Rhames (Marsellus Wallace) , Harvey Keitel (Winston “The Wolf” Wolfe) , Eric Stoltz (Lance) , Tim Roth (Ringo (“Pumpkin”)) , Amanda Plummer (Yolanda (“Honey Bunny”)) , Maria de Medeiros (Fabienne) , Quentin Tarantino (Jimmie Dimmick) , Christopher Walken (Captain Koons) , Rosanna Arquette (Jody) , Peter Greene (Zed) , Duane Whitaker (Maynard) , Angela Jones (Esmarelda Villalobos) , Phil LaMarr (Marvin) , Steve Buscemi (Buddy Holly) , Bronagh Gallagher (Trudi) , Laura Lovelace (Waitress) , Frank Whaley (Brett) , Burr Steers (Roger) , Paul Calderon (Paul) , Jerome Patrick Hoban (Ed Sullivan) , Michael Gilden (Page for Phillip Morris)

Directors: Quentin Tarantino

Writers: Quentin Tarantino, Roger Avary

Tags: drug dealer, boxer, massage, stolen money, crime boss, dance competition, briefcase, redemption, heirloom, los angeles, california, theft, cult film, nonlinear timeline, multiple storylines, neo-noir

Psycho

Psycho

Release Date: 1960-06-22

Genres: Horror, Drama, Thriller

“Psycho” is a classic thriller released on June 22, 1960, starring Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, and more. The movie follows Marion Crane, a real estate clerk who steals money and seeks refuge at the infamous Bates Motel, run by the peculiar Norman Bates and his housebound mother. With its suspenseful plot and iconic characters, “Psycho” is considered one of the best thriller movies of all time.

Cast: Anthony Perkins (Norman Bates) , Janet Leigh (Marion Crane) , Vera Miles (Lila Crane) , John Gavin (Sam Loomis) , Martin Balsam (Private Det. Milton Arbogast) , John McIntire (Sheriff Al Chambers) , Simon Oakland (Dr. Fred Richman) , Frank Albertson (Tom Cassidy) , Patricia Hitchcock (Caroline) , Vaughn Taylor (George Lowery) , Lurene Tuttle (Mrs. Chambers) , John Anderson (California Charlie) , Mort Mills (Highway Patrol Officer) , Fletcher Allen (Policeman on Steps (uncredited)) , Walter Bacon (Church Member (uncredited)) , Kit Carson (Extra (uncredited)) , Francis De Sales (Deputy District Attorney Alan Deats (uncredited)) , George Dockstader (Extra (uncredited)) , George Eldredge (Police Chief James Mitchell (uncredited)) , Harper Flaherty (Extra (uncredited)) , Sam Flint (County Sheriff (uncredited)) , Virginia Gregg (Norma Bates (voice) (uncredited)) , Alfred Hitchcock (Man Outside Office (uncredited)) , Paul Jasmin (Norma Bates (voice) (uncredited)) , Lee Kass (Extra (uncredited))

Directors: Alfred Hitchcock

Writers: Robert Bloch, Joseph Stefano

Tags: hotel, clerk, arizona, shower, motel, taxidermy, money, secretary, black and white, corpse, murderer, theft, mental illness, private detective, missing person, proto-slasher

Se7en

Se7en

Release Date: 1995-09-22

Genres: Crime, Mystery, Thriller

“Se7en” is a gripping thriller that follows two homicide detectives, played by Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, as they embark on a relentless pursuit of a serial killer who bases his gruesome crimes on the “seven deadly sins.” Released in 1995, this dark and haunting film takes viewers on a chilling journey from one victim’s tortured remains to the next, while Det. Sommerset, portrayed by Freeman, delves deep into the killer’s twisted mind. With a stellar cast including Gwyneth Paltrow and R. Lee Ermey, “Se7en” is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful and thought-provoking movies.

Cast: Brad Pitt (Detective David Mills) , Morgan Freeman (Detective Lt. William Somerset) , Gwyneth Paltrow (Tracy Mills) , R. Lee Ermey (Police Captain) , John C. McGinley (California) , Julie Araskog (Mrs. Gould) , Mark Boone Junior (Greasy F.B.I. Man) , John Cassini (Officer Davis) , Reg E. Cathey (Dr. Santiago) , Peter Crombie (Dr. O’Neill) , Richard Roundtree (Dist. Atty. Martin Talbot) , Richard Schiff (Mark Swarr) , Hawthorne James (George, Library Night Guard) , Michael Massee (Man in Booth at Massage Parlor) , Leland Orser (Crazed Man in Massage Parlor) , Richard Portnow (Dr. Beardsley) , Daniel Zacapa (Detective Taylor) , Alfonso Freeman (Fingerprint Technician) , Harris Savides (911 Operator) , Andrew Kevin Walker (Dead Man) , Pamala Tyson (Thin Vagrant) , Richmond Arquette (Delivery Man) , Emily Wagner (Detective Sara) , Shannon Wilcox (Woman Cop Behind Desk) , George Christy (Workman at Door of Somerset’s Office)

Directors: David Fincher

Writers: Andrew Kevin Walker

Tags: self-fulfilling prophecy, detective, s.w.a.t., rain, drug dealer, evisceration, rage and hate, pride and vanity, immoderateness, insomnia, sadism, investigation, pension, police, psychopath, murder, serial killer, religion, seven deadly sins, depravity, neo-noir, misanthropy

Rear Window

Rear Window

Release Date: 1954-08-01

Genres: Thriller, Mystery

“Rear Window” is a classic thriller from 1954 starring James Stewart and Grace Kelly. The movie follows a wheelchair-bound photographer who becomes suspicious of his neighbors after witnessing what he believes to be a murder. With a gripping storyline and stellar performances, it’s no wonder this film made it onto the list of the 20 best voted thriller movies of all time.

Cast: James Stewart (L.B. ‘Jeff’ Jefferies) , Grace Kelly (Lisa Fremont) , Thelma Ritter (Stella) , Wendell Corey (Det. Lt. Thomas J. Doyle) , Raymond Burr (Lars Thorwald) , Judith Evelyn (Miss Lonelyhearts) , Ross Bagdasarian (Songwriter) , Georgine Darcy (Miss Torso) , Irene Winston (Emma Thorwald) , Sara Berner (Woman on Fire Escape (uncredited)) , Frank Cady (Man on Fire Escape (uncredited)) , Jesslyn Fax (Miss Hearing Aid (uncredited)) , Rand Harper (Newlywed (uncredited)) , Havis Davenport (Newlywed (uncredited)) , Jerry Antes (Dancer with Miss Torso (uncredited)) , Benny Bartlett (Man with Miss Torso (uncredited)) , Nick Borgani (Minor Role (uncredited)) , Sue Casey (Sunbather (uncredited)) , Iphigenie Castiglioni (Woman with Bird (uncredited)) , James Cornell (Minor Role (uncredited)) , Don Dunning (Detective (uncredited)) , Marla English (Girl at Songwriter’s Party (uncredited)) , Bess Flowers (Songwriter’s Party Guest with Poodle (uncredited)) , Art Gilmore (Radio Announcer (voice) (uncredited)) , Fred Graham (Detective (uncredited))

Directors: Alfred Hitchcock

Writers: John Michael Hayes, Cornell Woolrich

Tags: nurse, photographer, suspicion of murder, girlfriend, neighbor, salesman, whodunit, convalescence, voyeurism, missing wife, homebound, suspicious behavior, flower bed, visiting nurse

The Silence of the Lambs

The Silence of the Lambs

Release Date: 1991-02-14

Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller

“The Silence of the Lambs” is a gripping thriller that follows Clarice Starling, a talented FBI trainee, as she is assigned to interview Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant yet dangerous psychiatrist imprisoned for his gruesome crimes. With an all-star cast including Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, this 1991 release will keep you on the edge of your seat as Starling becomes entangled in a deadly game of cat and mouse with the cunning and manipulative Lecter.

Cast: Jodie Foster (Clarice M. Starling) , Anthony Hopkins (Dr. Hannibal Lecter) , Scott Glenn (Jack Crawford) , Ted Levine (Jame ‘Buffalo Bill’ Gumb) , Anthony Heald (Dr. Frederick Chilton) , Brooke Smith (Catherine Martin) , Diane Baker (Senator Ruth Martin) , Kasi Lemmons (Ardelia Mapp) , Frankie Faison (Barney Matthews) , Tracey Walter (Lamar) , Charles Napier (Lt. Boyle) , Danny Darst (Sgt. Tate) , Alex Coleman (Sgt. Jim Pembry) , Dan Butler (Roden) , Paul Lazar (Pilcher) , Ron Vawter (Paul Krendler) , Roger Corman (FBI Director Hayden Burke) , Lawrence A. Bonney (FBI Instructor) , Lawrence T. Wrentz (Agent Burroughs) , Don Brockett (Friendly Psychopath) , Frank Seals Jr. (Brooding Psychopath) , Stuart Rudin (Miggs) , Masha Skorobogatov (Young Clarice) , Jeffrie Lane (Clarice’s Father) , Leib Lensky (Mr. Lang)

Directors: Jonathan Demme

Writers: Thomas Harris, Ted Tally

Tags: based on novel or book, fbi, kidnapping, psychopath, murder, serial killer, psychological thriller, brutality, cannibal, moth, virginia

Oldboy

Oldboy

Release Date: 2003-11-21

Genres: Drama, Thriller, Mystery, Action

“Oldboy” is a gripping thriller that follows the story of a desperate businessman who finds himself mysteriously imprisoned, drugged, and tortured for 15 long years. With no memory of how he ended up in this nightmare, he embarks on a relentless quest for revenge against his captors. Starring Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, and Kang Hye-jung, this intense and mind-bending film was released on November 21, 2003.

Cast: Choi Min-sik (Oh Dae-su) , Yoo Ji-tae (Lee Woo-jin) , Kang Hye-jung (Mi-do) , Kim Byeong-ok (Mr. Han) , Ji Dae-han (No Joo-hwan) , Oh Dal-su (Park Cheol-woong) , Lee Seung-shin (Hypnotist) , Yoon Jin-seo (Lee Soo-ah) , Oh Tae-kyung (Young Dae-su) , Yoo Yeon-seok (Young Woo-jin) , You Il-han (Young Joo-hwan) , Oh Gwang-rok (Suicidal Man) , Park Myung-shin (Young-ja) , Lee Dae-yeon (Beggar) , Kim Su-hyun (Chief Secretary) , Yong-ih (Delivery Man) , Syd Lim (Man) , Mun Seong-Bok (Woo-jin’s Bodyguard) , Yoon Jin-yul (Guard) , Park Jae-Woong (Cheol-woong’s Guard) , Seo Myeong-Seok (Cigarette Gangster) , Lee Young-hee (Watch) , Han Jae-duk (Teacher) , Kim San (Electronics store) , Kwak Jung-ae (Nun)

Directors: Park Chan-wook

Writers: Park Chan-wook, Nobuaki Minegishi, Hwang Jo-yoon, Lim Joon-hyung, Garon Tsuchiya

Tags: hypnosis, sushi restaurant, rage and hate, notebook, daughter, hostility, sin, revenge, loneliness, torture, based on manga, urination, anger, catholic, incest, neo-noir, asian origins, remade, south korea, hammer, driven to suicide

The Handmaiden

The Handmaiden

Release Date: 2016-06-01

Genres: Thriller, Drama, Romance

“The Handmaiden” is a thrilling movie set in 1930s Korea, where a clever swindler and a young woman team up to deceive a Japanese heiress and steal her fortune. With a talented cast including Kim Min-hee and Kim Tae-ri, this gripping film takes you on a suspenseful journey filled with seduction, secrets, and unexpected twists. Released in 2016, it’s definitely one of the best thriller movies of all time.

Cast: Kim Min-hee (Lady Hideko) , Kim Tae-ri (Sookee) , Ha Jung-woo (Count Fujiwara) , Cho Jin-woong (Uncle Kouzuki) , Kim Hae-sook (Ms. Sasaki) , Moon So-ri (Aunt of Noble Lady) , Lee Yong-nyeo (Bok-soon) , Kwak Eun-jin (Kkeut-dan) , Lee Dong-hwi (Goo-gai) , Jo Eun-hyung (Young Hideko) , Rina Takagi (Hideko’s Mother) , Han Ha-na (Junko) , Lee Kyu-jung (Maid 1) , Kim Si-eun (Maid 2) , Ha Si-yeon (Maid 3) , Kim Eun-yeong (Maid 4) , Jeong Ha-dam (Maid 5) , Kim In-woo (Audience Member) , Choi Byung-mo (Audience Member) , Choi Jong-ryul (Audience Member) , Bae Il-hyuck (Audience Member) , Oh Man-seok (Audience Member) , Tomomitsu Adachi (Mental Hospital Doctor 1) , Takashi Kakizawa (Mental Hospital Doctor 2) , Seon Uk-hyeon (Harbor Ticket Office Staff)

Directors: Park Chan-wook

Writers: Park Chan-wook, Chung Seo-kyung, Sarah Waters

Tags: based on novel or book, con man, pickpocket, lesbian relationship, swindler, plot, mansion, lust, lgbt, noblewoman, con woman, 1930s, lady’s maid, handmade, seducer, japanese occupation of korea, lesbian

The Shining

The Shining

Release Date: 1980-05-23

Genres: Horror, Thriller

“The Shining” is a classic thriller movie released on May 23, 1980. Starring Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, and Scatman Crothers, it tells the story of Jack Torrance who takes a caretaker job at the isolated Overlook Hotel with his wife Wendy and son Danny. Little do they know, the hotel holds a dark and maddening secret that they must confront during their winter stay. It’s no wonder this film made it to the list of the 20 best voted thriller movies of all time!

Cast: Jack Nicholson (Jack Torrance) , Shelley Duvall (Wendy Torrance) , Scatman Crothers (Dick Hallorann) , Danny Lloyd (Danny Torrance) , Philip Stone (Delbert Grady) , Joe Turkel (Lloyd) , Barry Nelson (Stuart Ullman) , Barry Dennen (Bill Watson) , Tony Burton (Larry Durkin) , Lia Beldam (Young Woman in Bath) , Billie Gibson (Old Woman in Bath) , David Baxt (Forest Ranger 1 (uncredited)) , Manning Redwood (Forest Ranger 2 (uncredited)) , Lisa Burns (Grady Daughter (uncredited)) , Louise Burns (Grady Daughter (uncredited)) , Robin Pappas (Nurse (uncredited)) , Anne Jackson (Doctor (uncredited)) , Alison Coleridge (Secretary (uncredited)) , Burnell Tucker (Policeman (uncredited)) , Jana Shelden (Stewardess (uncredited)) , Paul Desbois (Hotel Porter (uncredited)) , Vivian Kubrick (Smoking Guest on Ballroom Couch (uncredited)) , Derek Lyons (Hotel Bellhop (uncredited)) , Alan Harris (Ballroom Dancer (uncredited)) , Peter McNamara (Dinner Guest (uncredited))

Directors: Stanley Kubrick

Writers: Stanley Kubrick, Stephen King, Diane Johnson

Tags: hotel, based on novel or book, isolation, hotelier, colorado, delusion, loneliness, caretaker, vision, psychological thriller, writer, alcoholic, cult film, snowed in, haunted hotel, writers-block

Inglourious Basterds

Inglourious Basterds

Release Date: 2009-08-19

Genres: Drama, Thriller, War

“Inglourious Basterds” is a thrilling World War II movie set in Nazi-occupied France. It follows a group of Jewish-American soldiers called “The Basterds” who are on a mission to strike fear into the hearts of Nazis by scalping and brutally killing them. Led by Lt. Aldo Raine, they cross paths with a brave French-Jewish teenage girl who runs a movie theater in Paris, which becomes a target for the soldiers. Starring Brad Pitt, Mélanie Laurent, Christoph Waltz, and other talented actors, this intense and action-packed film was released on August 19, 2009.

Cast: Brad Pitt (First Lieutenant Aldo “The Apache” Raine) , Mélanie Laurent (Shosanna Dreyfus / Emmanuelle Mimieux) , Christoph Waltz (SS Colonel Hans “The Jew Hunter” Landa) , Eli Roth (Staff Sergeant Donny “The Bear Jew” Donowitz) , Michael Fassbender (Lieutenant Archie Hicox) , Diane Kruger (Bridget von Hammersmark) , Daniel Brühl (Private First Class Fredrick Zoller) , Til Schweiger (Sergeant Hugo Stiglitz) , Gedeon Burkhard (Corporal Wilhelm Wicki) , Jacky Ido (Marcel) , B.J. Novak (Private First Class Smithson “The Little Man” Utivich) , Omar Doom (Private First Class Omar Ulmer) , August Diehl (Major Dieter Hellstrom) , Denis Ménochet (Perrier LaPadite) , Sylvester Groth (Joseph Goebbels) , Martin Wuttke (Adolf Hitler) , Mike Myers (General Ed Fenech) , Julie Dreyfus (Francesca Mondino) , Léa Seydoux (Charlotte LaPadite) , Richard Sammel (Sergeant Werner Rachtman) , Alexander Fehling (Staff Sergeant Wilhelm / Pola Negri) , Rod Taylor (Winston Churchill) , Samm Levine (Private First Class Hirschberg) , Paul Rust (Private First Class Andy Kagan) , Michael Bacall (Private First Class Michael Zimmerman)

Directors: Quentin Tarantino

Writers: Quentin Tarantino

Tags: paris, france, guerrilla warfare, self sacrifice, dynamite, mexican standoff, world war ii, jew persecution, nazi, masochism, sadism, anti-semitism, swastika, german occupation of france, british politics, adolf hitler

Shutter Island

Shutter Island

Release Date: 2010-02-14

Genres: Drama, Thriller, Mystery

“Shutter Island” is a gripping thriller that takes place in the 1950s. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Mark Ruffalo, it follows the story of a U.S. Marshal investigating the disappearance of a patient from a hospital for the criminally insane. As he delves deeper into the case, he is haunted by disturbing visions and encounters a mysterious doctor, making this movie a must-watch for fans of suspenseful and mind-bending stories.

Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio (Teddy Daniels) , Mark Ruffalo (Chuck Aule) , Ben Kingsley (Dr. John Cawley) , Michelle Williams (Dolores Chanal) , Emily Mortimer (Rachel Solando) , Patricia Clarkson (Rachel 2) , Max von Sydow (Dr. Jeremiah Naehring) , Jackie Earle Haley (George Noyce) , John Carroll Lynch (Deputy Warden McPherson) , Ted Levine (Warden) , Elias Koteas (Laeddis) , Robin Bartlett (Bridget Kearns) , Christopher Denham (Christian) , Joseph Sikora (Glen Miga) , Curtiss Cook (Trey Washington) , Gary Galone (Gate Guard) , John Franchi (Criminally Insane Inmate (uncredited)) , Nellie Sciutto (Nurse Marino) , Raymond Anthony Thomas (Orderly Ganton) , Joseph McKenna (Inmate Billings) , Ruby Jerins (Little Girl) , Tom Kemp (Ward C Guard) , Bates Wilder (Ward C Guard) , Drew Beasley (Younger Boy) , Dan Marshall (U.S. G.I. at Dachau Liberation / German S.S. Officer Killed (uncredited))

Directors: Martin Scorsese

Writers: Dennis Lehane, Laeta Kalogridis

Tags: based on novel or book, island, hurricane, investigation, psychiatric hospital, u.s. marshal, conspiracy theory, psychological thriller, whodunit, neo-noir, 1950s

The Usual Suspects

The Usual Suspects

Release Date: 1995-07-19

Genres: Drama, Crime, Thriller

“The Usual Suspects” is a gripping thriller released in 1995 that revolves around Verbal Kint, played by Kevin Spacey, who finds himself in an intense interrogation room in Los Angeles. He weaves a captivating tale about a legendary crime lord named Keyser Soze, claiming that Soze orchestrated a high-stakes heist that drew Verbal and his four partners into a dangerous web of deceit and danger. With an explosive ending and a stellar cast including Gabriel Byrne, Stephen Baldwin, and Chazz Palminteri, this movie will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Cast: Gabriel Byrne (Dean Keaton) , Stephen Baldwin (Michael McManus) , Kevin Spacey (Roger ‘Verbal’ Kint) , Chazz Palminteri (US Customs Agent Dave Kujan) , Kevin Pollak (Todd Hockney) , Peter Postlethwaite (Kobayashi) , Suzy Amis (Edie Finneran) , Giancarlo Esposito (FBI Agent Jack Baer) , Benicio del Toro (Fred Fenster) , Dan Hedaya (Sgt. Jeffrey “Jeff” Rabin) , Paul Bartel (Smuggler) , Carl Bressler (Saul Berg) , Christine Estabrook (Dr. Plummer) , Clark Gregg (Dr. Walters) , Morgan Hunter (Arkosh Kovash) , Louis Lombardi (Agent Strausz) , Frank Medrano (Agent Rizzi) , Ron Gilbert (Daniel “Dan” Metzheiser) , Peter Greene (Redfoot the Fence) , Castulo Guerra (Arturro Marquez) , Vito D’Ambrosio (Arresting Officer) , Gene Lythgow (Cop on Pier) , Smadar Hanson (Keyser’s Wife) , Christopher McQuarrie (Interrogation Cop (uncredited)) , Bert Williams (Old Cop)

Directors: Bryan Singer

Writers: Christopher McQuarrie, John Coven

Tags: new york city, relatives, flashback, heist, gay interest, police corruption, whodunit, theft, criminal, criminal mastermind, cargo ship, mind game, neo-noir, mystery villain

Memento

Memento

Release Date: 2000-10-11

Genres: Mystery, Thriller

“Memento” is a mind-bending thriller that follows Leonard Shelby, a man on a relentless quest to find his wife’s killer. The catch? Leonard suffers from a rare form of short-term memory loss, making his search even more challenging. With an incredible cast including Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Joe Pantoliano, this gripping film will keep you on the edge of your seat as you try to unravel the mystery alongside Leonard. Released in 2000, “Memento” is hailed as one of the best thriller movies of all time.

Cast: Guy Pearce (Leonard Shelby) , Carrie-Anne Moss (Natalie) , Joe Pantoliano (John Edward “Teddy” Gammell) , Mark Boone Junior (Burt) , Russ Fega (Waiter) , Jorja Fox (Catherine Shelby) , Stephen Tobolowsky (Samuel R. “Sammy” Jankis) , Harriet Sansom Harris (Mrs. Jankis) , Thomas Lennon (Doctor) , Callum Keith Rennie (Dodd) , Kimberly Campbell (Blonde) , Marianne Muellerleile (Emma) , Larry Holden (James F. “Jimmy” Grantz)

Directors: Christopher Nolan

Writers: Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan

Tags: insulin, tattoo, waitress, amnesia, drug dealer, motel, manipulation, insurance salesman, revenge, murder, flashback, confusion, memory loss, psychological thriller, whodunit, los angeles, california, polaroid, cult film, based on short story, nonlinear timeline, individuality, phone call, neo-noir, reverse chronology

Vertigo

Vertigo

Release Date: 1958-05-28

Genres: Mystery, Romance, Thriller

“Vertigo” is a thrilling 1958 movie starring James Stewart and Kim Novak. It follows a retired detective with a fear of heights who investigates the suspicious behavior of his friend’s wife. As he delves deeper into the case, he becomes dangerously obsessed with her, leading to a suspenseful and captivating storyline.

Cast: James Stewart (Det. John ‘Scottie’ Ferguson) , Kim Novak (Madeleine Elster / Judy Barton) , Barbara Bel Geddes (Marjorie ‘Midge’ Wood) , Tom Helmore (Gavin Elster) , Henry Jones (Coroner) , Raymond Bailey (Scottie’s Doctor) , Ellen Corby (Manager of McKittrick Hotel) , Konstantin Shayne (Pop Leibel) , Lee Patrick (Car Owner Mistaken for Madeleine) , Bess Flowers (Diner at Ernie’s (uncredited)) , Alfred Hitchcock (Man Walking Past Elster’s Office (uncredited)) , David Ahdar (Priest (uncredited)) , Sara Taft (Nun (uncredited)) , Ezelle Poule (Older mistaken identity (uncredited)) , John Benson (Salesman (uncredited)) , Paul Bryar (Capt. Hansen (uncredited)) , Steve Conte (Burglar (uncredited)) , Fred Graham (Policeman on Rooftop (uncredited)) , Forbes Murray (Diner at Ernie’s (uncredited))

Directors: Alfred Hitchcock

Writers: Pierre Boileau, Thomas Narcejac, Alec Coppel, Samuel A. Taylor

Tags: san francisco, california, detective, sense of guilt, bachelor, obsession, love of one’s life, vertigo, museum, necklace, grave, plan, painting, film noir, golden gate bridge, psychological thriller, fear of heights

Joker

Joker

Release Date: 2019-10-01

Genres: Crime, Thriller, Drama

“Joker” is a gripping thriller that takes us back to the 1980s, where a failed stand-up comedian’s life takes a dark turn. Driven to madness, he embraces a life of crime and chaos in Gotham City, ultimately transforming into the notorious psychopathic crime figure we all know. With an incredible cast including Joaquin Phoenix, Robert De Niro, and Zazie Beetz, this highly anticipated film is set to hit theaters on October 1, 2019.

Cast: Joaquin Phoenix (Arthur Fleck / Joker) , Robert De Niro (Murray Franklin) , Zazie Beetz (Sophie Dumond) , Frances Conroy (Penny Fleck) , Brett Cullen (Thomas Wayne) , Shea Whigham (Detective Burke) , Bill Camp (Detective Garrity) , Glenn Fleshler (Randall) , Leigh Gill (Gary) , Josh Pais (Hoyt Vaughn) , Rocco Luna (GiGi Dumond) , Marc Maron (Gene Ufland) , Sondra James (Dr. Sally) , Murphy Guyer (Barry O’Donnell) , Douglas Hodge (Alfred Pennyworth) , Dante Pereira-Olson (Bruce Wayne) , Carrie Louise Putrello (Martha Wayne) , Sharon Washington (Social Worker) , Hannah Gross (Young Penny) , Frank Wood (Dr. Stoner) , Brian Tyree Henry (Carl (Arkham Clerk)) , April Grace (Arkham Psychiatrist) , Mick Szal (Woman on Subway) , Carl Lundstedt (Wall Street Three) , Michael Benz (Wall Street Three)

Directors: Todd Phillips

Writers: Scott Silver, Bob Kane, Todd Phillips, Bill Finger, Jerry Robinson

Tags: street gang, dream, clown, villain, society, psychopath, based on comic, murder, psychological thriller, criminal mastermind, mental illness, anarchy, clown makeup, subway train, social realism, supervillain, tv host, 1980s, mother son relationship, origin story, falling into madness

The Departed

The Departed

Release Date: 2006-10-04

Genres: Drama, Thriller, Crime

“The Departed” is a thrilling crime movie released on October 4, 2006. Starring Jack Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, and a talented ensemble cast, it tells the story of an undercover cop who infiltrates the Irish Mafia in South Boston, while unknowingly being hunted by a mole within the police force. With intense performances and a gripping plot, this film is a must-watch for fans of suspenseful thrillers.

Cast: Jack Nicholson (Francis ‘Frank’ Costello) , Leonardo DiCaprio (William “Billy” Costigan, Jr.) , Matt Damon (Staff Sgt. Colin Sullivan) , Mark Wahlberg (Staff Sgt. Sean Dignam) , Vera Farmiga (Dr. Madolyn Madden) , Martin Sheen (Capt. Oliver Charles Queenan) , Ray Winstone (Arnold “Frenchy” French) , Anthony Anderson (Trooper Brown) , Alec Baldwin (Capt. George Ellerby) , Kevin Corrigan (Cousin Sean) , James Badge Dale (Barrigan) , David O’Hara (Fitzy) , Robert Wahlberg (Lazio) , Kristen Dalton (Gwen) , Thomas B. Duffy (Govenor) , Richard Hughes (Uncle Edward) , Chance Kelly (Exam Instructor) , Larry Mitchell (Younger Priest) , Mark Rolston (Delahunt) , J. C. MacKenzie (Realtor) , Mary Klug (Billy’s Aunt) , Robert ‘Toshi’ Kar Yuen Chan (Triad Boss) , Peg Holzemer (Mrs. Kennefick) , Gurdeep Singh (Pakistani Proprietor) , Armen Garo (Providence Gangster #1)

Directors: Martin Scorsese

Writers: William Monahan, Alan Mak, Felix Chong

Tags: undercover, boston, massachusetts, irish-american, gangster, police, friends, remake, crime boss, organized crime, mafia, undercover cop, mobster, mole, state police, police training, realtor

Double Indemnity

Double Indemnity

Release Date: 1944-06-14

Genres: Crime, Thriller

“Double Indemnity” is a classic thriller from 1944 starring Fred MacMurray, Barbara Stanwyck, and Edward G. Robinson. Set in California, it follows a cunning insurance agent and a wealthy woman who conspire to murder her husband for the insurance money. With a backdrop of stunning Californian locations, they meticulously plan the perfect accidental death to claim the double indemnity policy.

Cast: Fred MacMurray (Walter Neff) , Barbara Stanwyck (Phyllis Dietrichson) , Edward G. Robinson (Barton Keyes) , Porter Hall (Mr. Jackson) , Richard Gaines (Edward S. Norton Jr.) , Jean Heather (Lola Dietrichson) , Tom Powers (Mr. Dietrichson) , Fortunio Bonanova (Sam Garlopis) , Byron Barr (Nino Zachetti) , John Berry (Bit Part (uncredited)) , Raymond Chandler (Man Reading Book (uncredited)) , Edmund Cobb (Train Conductor (uncredited)) , Kernan Cripps (Conductor (uncredited)) , Bess Flowers (Norton’s Secretary) , Eddie Hall (Man in Drug Store (uncredited)) , Teala Loring (Pacific All-Risk Telephone Operator (uncredited)) , Sam McDaniel (Charlie the Garage Attendant (uncredited)) , Billy Mitchell (Pullman Porter (uncredited)) , Clarence Muse (Man (uncredited)) , Douglas Spencer (Lou Schwartz (uncredited)) , John Philliber (Joe Peters) , Harold Garrison (Redcap) , James Adamson (Pullman Porter (uncredited)) , Betty Farrington (Dietrichsons’ Maid Nettie (uncredited)) , George Magrill (Man (uncredited))

Directors: Billy Wilder

Writers: Billy Wilder, Raymond Chandler, James M. Cain

Tags: insurance fraud, femme fatale, film noir, murder, life insurance, black and white, insurance agent, insurance policy, murder plot, scheming wife

Reservoir Dogs

Reservoir Dogs

Release Date: 1992-09-02

Genres: Crime, Thriller

“Reservoir Dogs” is a gripping thriller released on September 2, 1992. The movie follows a group of criminals who find themselves in a tense situation after a failed robbery. As suspicions rise about a possible police informant among them, the survivors must navigate through escalating violence and unravel the truth. Starring Harvey Keitel, Tim Roth, Michael Madsen, Chris Penn, Steve Buscemi, Lawrence Tierney, Randy Brooks, Kirk Baltz, Edward Bunker, and directed by Quentin Tarantino, this film is hailed as one of the best voted thrillers of all time.

Cast: Harvey Keitel (Mr. White / Larry Dimmick) , Tim Roth (Mr. Orange / Freddy Newandyke) , Michael Madsen (Mr. Blonde / Vic Vega) , Chris Penn (“Nice Guy” Eddie Cabot) , Steve Buscemi (Mr. Pink) , Lawrence Tierney (Joe Cabot) , Randy Brooks (Detective Holdaway) , Kirk Baltz (Officer Marvin Nash) , Edward Bunker (Mr. Blue) , Quentin Tarantino (Mr. Brown) , Rich Turner (Sheriff #1) , David Steen (Sheriff #2) , Tony Cosmo (Sheriff #3) , Stevo Polyi (Sheriff #4) , Michael Sottile (Teddy) , Robert Ruth (Shot Cop) , Lawrence Bender (Young Cop) , Linda Kaye (Shocked Woman) , Suzanne Celeste (Shot Woman) , Steven Wright (K-Billy DJ (voice)) , Laurie Lathem (Background Radio Play (voice)) , Maria Strova (Background Radio Play (voice)) , Burr Steers (Background Radio Play (voice)) , Craig Hamann (Background Radio Play (voice)) , Rowland Wafford (Diner Patron (uncredited))

Directors: Quentin Tarantino

Writers: Quentin Tarantino, Roger Avary

Tags: traitor, jewelry, psychopath, thief, heist, betrayal, escape, gang, plan gone wrong, cult film, nonlinear timeline, warehouse, told in flashback, heist gone wrong, botched robbery, foreshadowing, rendezvous, iconic, set in one room, uneasy alliance, rag tag group, based on short film

Yojimbo

Yojimbo

Release Date: 1961-04-25

Genres: Drama, Thriller

“Yojimbo” is a thrilling samurai movie set in feudal Japan. It follows a nameless ronin who arrives in a small village where two rival businessmen are fighting for control of the local gambling trade. The ronin, played by the talented Toshirō Mifune, cleverly manipulates the situation, pitting the businessmen against each other in an intense gang war. Released in 1961, this action-packed film is a must-watch for fans of thrilling and suspenseful movies.

Cast: Toshirō Mifune (Sanjuro Kuwabatake / The Samurai) , Tatsuya Nakadai (Unosuke, gunfighter) , Yōko Tsukasa (Nui) , Isuzu Yamada (Orin) , Daisuke Katō (Inokichi) , Seizaburō Kawazu (Seibê – brothel operator) , Takashi Shimura (Tokuemon, sake brewer) , Hiroshi Tachikawa (Yoichiro) , Yōsuke Natsuki (Kohei’s Son) , Eijirō Tōno (Gonji, Tavern Keeper) , Kamatari Fujiwara (Tazaemon) , Ikio Sawamura (Hansuke) , Atsushi Watanabe (The Cooper (Coffin-Maker)) , Susumu Fujita (Homma, Instructor Who Skips Town) , Kyū Sazanka (Ushitora) , Kō Nishimura (Kuma) , Takeshi Katō (Ronin Kobuhachi) , Ichirō Nakatani (First Samurai) , Sachio Sakai (First Foot Soldier) , Akira Tani (Kame) , Namigoro Rashomon (Kannuki the Giant) , Yoshio Tsuchiya (Kohei) , Gen Shimizu (Magotaro) , Jerry Fujio (Roku – Samurai Whose Arm is Cut) , Yutaka Sada (Matsukichi)

Directors: Akira Kurosawa

Writers: Akira Kurosawa, Ryūzō Kikushima

Tags: japan, gambling, swordplay, samurai, sword, bodyguard, fighting, family, intrigue, ronin, jidaigeki, revolver, edo period, feudal japan, 19th century, asian western

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