If you loved the bizarre and darkly comedic horror of 'The Brain' (1988), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that capture the same eerie charm, mind-bending plots, and unsettling humor. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers or sci-fi horror, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Andromeda Strain (1971)
Description: A science fiction thriller about a team of scientists investigating a deadly extraterrestrial microorganism, focusing on scientific methodology and human error.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use a multi-screen split effect to show simultaneous events, a technique later popularized in other films.


The Terminal Man (1974)
Description: A psychological thriller about a man who undergoes experimental brain surgery to control his violent impulses, only for the procedure to have unintended consequences.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Michael Crichton, who also wrote 'Jurassic Park' and 'The Andromeda Strain.'


Coma (1978)
Description: A medical thriller that delves into the ethical and moral dilemmas of organ harvesting and the commodification of human life.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Robin Cook, a physician who used his medical knowledge to add realism to the story.


Altered States (1980)
Description: Explores the boundaries of human consciousness and the effects of sensory deprivation and hallucinogenic drugs on the mind, delving into psychological and scientific experimentation.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Paddy Chayefsky, who initially wrote the screenplay but later disowned the project due to creative differences.


Scanners (1981)
Description: Focuses on individuals with extraordinary psychic abilities, particularly telepathy and telekinesis, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding their powers.
Fact: The film's iconic 'head explosion' scene was achieved using a plaster head filled with fake blood and animal parts, detonated with a shotgun blast.


The Thing (1982)
Description: A horror film that explores paranoia and the fear of the unknown, as a shape-shifting alien infiltrates a remote research station.
Fact: The film's groundbreaking special effects were created by Rob Bottin, who was only 22 years old at the time.


Brainstorm (1983)
Description: Explores the potential of a device that records and plays back human experiences, raising questions about the nature of consciousness and memory.
Fact: The film's production was delayed due to the tragic death of its lead actress, Natalie Wood, during filming.


The Man with Two Brains (1983)
Description: A comedic take on brain transplantation and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation, blending humor with science fiction.
Fact: The film's title was inspired by a real-life medical case where a patient was believed to have two distinct personalities due to brain surgery.


Videodrome (1983)
Description: A surreal and psychological horror film that examines the effects of media and technology on the human mind, blurring the lines between reality and hallucination.
Fact: The film's distinctive visual style was influenced by the works of surrealist artists like Salvador Dalí and H.R. Giger.


Dreamscape (1984)
Description: Centers on psychic abilities and the manipulation of dreams, blending science fiction with psychological thriller elements.
Fact: The movie features one of the earliest depictions of a 'dream invasion' concept, which later influenced films like 'Inception'.
