If you were captivated by the unsettling tension and psychological thrills of The Crush (1993), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 gripping movies and shows that share similar themes of obsession, manipulation, and dark romance. Whether you're drawn to twisted relationships or chilling coming-of-age tales, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Lolita (1962)
Description: Explores the controversial and taboo theme of an older man's obsession with a much younger girl, delving into the psychological and moral complexities of such a relationship.
Fact: The film was banned in several countries upon release due to its provocative subject matter. It was based on Vladimir Nabokov's novel, which he also adapted into the screenplay.
Watch Now 
The Graduate (1967)
Description: Explores the complexities of an affair between a recent college graduate and an older woman, blending satire with poignant drama about societal expectations.
Fact: The film's soundtrack by Simon & Garfunkel became iconic. It was Mike Nichols' second feature film and won him the Academy Award for Best Director.
Watch Now 
Election (1999)
Description: Uses dark comedy to explore themes of obsession and power, particularly through the lens of a teacher's complicated relationship with an ambitious student.
Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Tom Perrotta. Reese Witherspoon's performance earned widespread acclaim and solidified her as a leading actress.
Watch Now 
American Beauty (1999)
Description: Examines themes of forbidden desire and midlife crisis, focusing on a man's infatuation with a teenage girl, blending dark humor with dramatic tension.
Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The iconic rose petal scene was inspired by a dream the screenwriter had.
Watch Now 
Y Tu Mamá También (2001)
Description: Examines youthful desire and the complexities of relationships, blending raw emotion with a road-trip narrative that explores themes of passion and betrayal.
Fact: The film was a breakthrough for director Alfonso Cuarón. It was shot entirely in Mexico and features a mix of scripted and improvised dialogue.
Watch Now 
Notes on a Scandal (2006)
Description: Focuses on an illicit relationship between a teacher and a student, framed through the perspective of a jealous colleague, highlighting themes of obsession and manipulation.
Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Zoë Heller. Both Judi Dench and Cate Blanchett received Academy Award nominations for their performances.
Watch Now 
Black Swan (2010)
Description: Delves into themes of obsession, perfectionism, and psychological turmoil, mirroring the intensity and dark undertones of forbidden relationships.
Fact: Natalie Portman trained in ballet for a year to prepare for her role. The film won her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Watch Now 
The Reader (2008)
Description: Centers on a clandestine and morally complex relationship between a teenage boy and an older woman, exploring themes of guilt, secrecy, and the consequences of forbidden love.
Fact: Kate Winslet won an Academy Award for her role, marking her first Oscar win. The film is based on the bestselling novel by Bernhard Schlink.
Watch Now 
A Teacher (2020)
Description: Chronicles the destructive consequences of a teacher-student affair, focusing on power dynamics and emotional manipulation in an illicit relationship.
Fact: The series is a remake of a 2013 film of the same name. It was praised for its raw and unflinching portrayal of the subject matter.
Watch Now 
An Education (2009)
Description: Follows a young girl's coming-of-age story as she becomes involved with an older man, exploring themes of innocence lost and the allure of sophistication.
Fact: Carey Mulligan's breakout role earned her an Academy Award nomination. The screenplay was written by Nick Hornby, based on a memoir by Lynn Barber.
Watch Now 
