If you enjoyed the dark, psychological twists of 'Cruel and Unusual' (2017), this list is for you. Dive into 10 gripping movies and shows that share its eerie atmosphere, mind-bending narratives, and unsettling themes. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers or dystopian mysteries, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Game (1997)
Description: A psychological thriller where a man is drawn into a mysterious and dangerous game, blurring the lines between reality and manipulation.
Fact: The film's twist ending was kept highly secretive, with even the cast not knowing the full plot until filming was complete.


Battle Royale (2000)
Description: A violent, high-stakes game where students are forced to fight to the death, delving into themes of authority, fear, and survival.
Fact: The film was controversial in Japan and initially faced censorship debates due to its graphic content.


Saw (2004)
Description: A psychological horror where victims are forced into brutal games of survival, emphasizing themes of punishment and moral choices.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a short film to pitch a larger project, but it gained enough attention to become a full feature.


The Stanford Prison Experiment (2015)
Description: Explores psychological manipulation and the dark side of human nature under controlled conditions, similar to themes of power dynamics and moral decay.
Fact: Based on the real-life 1971 Stanford Prison Experiment, which was terminated early due to extreme psychological effects on participants.


The Belko Experiment (2016)
Description: A high-stakes survival scenario where ordinary people are forced into violent conflict, reflecting themes of human desperation and ethical boundaries.
Fact: The film was shot in Bogotá, Colombia, and features a mix of American and Colombian actors.


Exam (2009)
Description: A tense, claustrophobic thriller where characters are subjected to psychological pressure and moral dilemmas in a confined setting.
Fact: The entire film takes place in a single room, creating an intense and immersive atmosphere.


The Hunger Games (2012)
Description: A dystopian survival competition where participants are pitted against each other, exploring themes of control, rebellion, and human resilience.
Fact: The book series was inspired by reality TV shows and ancient Roman gladiatorial games.


The Human Race (2013)
Description: A brutal survival game where participants are forced to compete under extreme conditions, highlighting themes of dehumanization and survival instincts.
Fact: The film was made on a very low budget but gained a cult following for its raw and intense execution.


The Maze Runner (2014)
Description: A group of individuals trapped in a deadly maze, forced to navigate life-or-death challenges, mirroring themes of confinement and psychological stress.
Fact: The maze in the film was a practical set built in Louisiana, standing over 40 feet tall.


The Purge (2013)
Description: A societal experiment where all crime is legal for one night, exploring the breakdown of morality and human nature under extreme conditions.
Fact: The entire film was shot in just 20 days, contributing to its raw and urgent feel.
