10 Movies & Shows Like Black Narcissus

Description: A gothic tale of vanity, corruption, and the duality of human nature. The film's lush visuals and psychological depth create a haunting, atmospheric experience.

Fact: The portrait of Dorian Gray was painted by Ivan Albright, a renowned artist known for his macabre style. The film's Technicolor sequences were groundbreaking for their time.

Description: A visually stunning film that explores themes of obsession, passion, and the conflict between personal desires and societal expectations. Its lush cinematography and psychological depth create a haunting atmosphere.

Fact: The ballet sequences were choreographed by Léonide Massine, a former star of the Ballets Russes. The film's Technicolor cinematography is considered some of the most beautiful ever captured.

Description: A gothic-tinged story of transformation and rebirth, set in a mysterious, isolated estate. The film's lush visuals and themes of hidden secrets and emotional healing create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere.

Fact: The garden set was meticulously designed to change throughout the film, reflecting the story's themes of renewal. The film was one of the first to use Technicolor for a children's story.

Description: A visually striking film that blends noir and gothic horror elements. Its themes of good versus evil, religious hypocrisy, and the corruption of innocence create a deeply unsettling atmosphere.

Fact: The film was the only one directed by actor Charles Laughton. The iconic 'love' and 'hate' knuckle tattoos were inspired by a real-life criminal.

Description: A masterclass in psychological horror that relies on atmosphere and suggestion rather than explicit scares. The film's gothic setting and exploration of repressed emotions create a deeply unsettling mood.

Fact: The film was shot in black and white to enhance its eerie atmosphere. The house used for exterior shots was actually a miniature model.

Description: A slow-burning ghost story that emphasizes atmosphere and psychological terror over jump scares. The film's themes of grief and unresolved past trauma resonate deeply.

Fact: The film's iconic séance scene was based on an actual event reported by the screenwriter. The house used in the film is a real mansion in Vancouver.

Description: A gothic ghost story that builds tension through isolation and psychological unease. The film's restrained approach to horror and its exploration of perception versus reality create a haunting experience.

Fact: The entire film was shot using natural light to maintain its eerie atmosphere. The house used in the film is the same one featured in 'The Haunting' (1963).

Description: A gothic horror story set against the backdrop of war, blending supernatural elements with deep emotional and psychological themes. The film's atmospheric tension and haunting visuals are unforgettable.

Fact: The film is often considered a spiritual prequel to 'Pan's Labyrinth.' The ghostly apparition in the film was created using practical effects rather than CGI.

Description: A haunting tale that blends psychological horror with emotional depth. The film's exploration of maternal grief and its eerie, atmospheric setting create a powerful, unsettling experience.

Fact: The film was produced by Guillermo del Toro, who also served as a creative consultant. The orphanage set was built from scratch to match the director's vision.

Description: A gothic horror film that relies on atmosphere and suspense rather than gore. The isolated setting and themes of loss and vengeance create a deeply unsettling mood.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Yorkshire, England, using many real historic buildings. The production used minimal CGI to maintain a classic horror feel.