If you were captivated by the surreal, mind-bending world of 'Inland Empire' (2006), you're likely craving more films and shows that challenge reality and immerse you in psychological depth. This article explores 10 similar movies and TV series that share its eerie atmosphere, nonlinear storytelling, and haunting themes—perfect for fans of David Lynch's enigmatic masterpiece.

Persona (1966)
Description: A psychological drama that blurs the lines between identity and reality, using experimental narrative techniques and stark visuals.
Fact: The film is often cited as one of the greatest in cinema history, despite its initial mixed reception.


Eraserhead (1977)
Description: A surreal and nightmarish exploration of alienation and existential dread, featuring grotesque imagery and an unsettling atmosphere.
Fact: The film took five years to complete due to its low budget and David Lynch's meticulous attention to detail.


The Tenant (1976)
Description: A psychological horror film that explores paranoia and identity, with a slow-building sense of dread and surreal moments.
Fact: The film is the third in Roman Polanski's 'Apartment Trilogy,' following 'Repulsion' and 'Rosemary's Baby.'


Stalker (1979)
Description: A meditative and philosophical journey through a mysterious zone, filled with existential themes and slow, deliberate pacing.
Fact: The film was shot twice because the original footage was ruined due to a lab error.


Videodrome (1983)
Description: A body horror film that delves into the blurring of reality and media, with grotesque and surreal imagery.
Fact: The film's special effects were created using practical techniques, including animatronics and prosthetics.


Santa Sangre (1989)
Description: A visually stunning and deeply disturbing exploration of trauma and madness, with a dreamlike narrative and vivid imagery.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life case of a man who committed crimes under the influence of his mother.


Twin Peaks (1990)
Description: A surreal and enigmatic series that blends mundane small-town life with supernatural elements and dreamlike sequences.
Fact: The show's iconic red room scenes were inspired by a dream David Lynch had.


Synecdoche, New York (2008)
Description: A labyrinthine and meta-fictional exploration of life, art, and identity, with a nonlinear narrative and dense symbolism.
Fact: The film's title is a play on words, combining 'synecdoche' and 'Schenectady,' the city where it is set.


Under the Skin (2013)
Description: A visually striking and unsettling exploration of alienation and otherness, with a minimalist narrative and haunting atmosphere.
Fact: Many of the scenes featuring non-actors were filmed with hidden cameras to capture authentic reactions.


The Lighthouse (2019)
Description: A claustrophobic and hallucinatory descent into madness, featuring black-and-white cinematography and intense performances.
Fact: The film was shot on 35mm black-and-white film stock to achieve its distinctive look.
