10 Movies & Shows Like Joker (2019)

Description: A dystopian satire about a violent young man who undergoes experimental rehabilitation. The film explores themes of free will, morality, and the nature of evil, with a protagonist who revels in chaos.

Fact: The film was banned in several countries due to its graphic violence. The fictional slang 'Nadsat' used by the characters is a mix of Russian and English.

Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a lonely, mentally unstable protagonist who becomes increasingly alienated from society, leading to violent outbursts. The film explores themes of urban decay, isolation, and the thin line between sanity and madness.

Fact: The iconic 'You talkin' to me?' scene was improvised by Robert De Niro. The film was inspired by the diaries of Arthur Bremer, who attempted to assassinate presidential candidate George Wallace.

Description: A dark exploration of masculinity, identity, and societal disillusionment, featuring a protagonist who struggles with insomnia and a fractured psyche. The narrative blurs the line between reality and delusion, culminating in chaotic violence.

Fact: The film's twist ending was so closely guarded that even the actors didn't know the full plot until the final scenes were shot. The book's author, Chuck Palahniuk, was initially disappointed with the adaptation but later grew to appreciate it.

Description: A satirical yet disturbing portrayal of a wealthy, narcissistic businessman whose violent fantasies blur with reality. The film critiques consumerism and the emptiness of modern life, with a protagonist whose psyche unravels in gruesome ways.

Fact: The film's production was controversial, with protests from women's groups. The script was rewritten multiple times to balance the dark humor and horror elements.

Description: A harrowing depiction of addiction and its devastating effects on four individuals. The film's frenetic editing and surreal visuals amplify the characters' descent into despair and madness.

Fact: The film's score, composed by Clint Mansell, is one of the most recognizable in modern cinema. The director, Darren Aronofsky, used split-screen techniques to heighten the sense of chaos.

Description: A psychological drama about an insomniac factory worker whose physical and mental health deteriorates due to guilt and paranoia. The film's bleak tone and unreliable narrator create a haunting atmosphere.

Fact: Christian Bale lost 63 pounds for the role, reducing his weight to just 120 pounds. The film's title refers to both the protagonist's job and his mechanical, deteriorating state of mind.

Description: A stylized neo-noir about a stoic stunt driver who moonlights as a getaway driver. The film's protagonist is a man of few words but extreme violence, living on the fringes of society with a code of his own.

Fact: The film's soundtrack became a cultural phenomenon, blending electronic and retro synth-pop. The iconic scorpion jacket worn by the protagonist was custom-made for the film.

Description: A psychological horror film about a ballet dancer whose pursuit of perfection leads to a breakdown of her sanity. The film's intense focus on duality, obsession, and self-destruction mirrors the protagonist's unraveling psyche.

Fact: Natalie Portman trained in ballet for over a year to prepare for the role. The film's climactic transformation scene was shot in one take.

Description: A chilling character study of an ambitious but morally bankrupt freelance journalist who thrives on capturing violent crimes. The film examines the ethics of media sensationalism and the protagonist's descent into amorality.

Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal lost 20 pounds for the role to achieve a gaunt, predatory look. The film's title refers to the nocturnal nature of the protagonist's work.

Description: A gritty, psychological thriller about a traumatized hitman who rescues trafficked girls. The film's fragmented storytelling and intense violence mirror the protagonist's fractured mental state and moral ambiguity.

Fact: The entire film was shot in just 30 days. The director, Lynne Ramsay, edited the film herself, often working late into the night.