If you were captivated by the psychological tension and eerie atmosphere of A Patch of Fog (2015), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 gripping movies and shows that share its themes of obsession, suspense, and unsettling character dynamics. Whether you're a fan of slow-burn thrillers or psychological dramas, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Description: A psychological thriller about identity theft, obsession, and deception, where a charming yet manipulative protagonist infiltrates the lives of the wealthy. The film's tension arises from the protagonist's escalating lies and moral decay.
Fact: The film is based on Patricia Highsmith's 1955 novel. The Italian filming locations add a lush, dreamlike quality to the otherwise dark story.


One Hour Photo (2002)
Description: Centers on a lonely, socially isolated individual who becomes dangerously obsessed with a family, blurring the boundaries between professional and personal life. The film's psychological tension and exploration of voyeurism create a chilling narrative.
Fact: Robin Williams took the role to break away from his comedic image. The film's visual style uses cold, sterile colors to reflect the protagonist's detachment from reality.


The Machinist (2004)
Description: A psychological thriller about a man suffering from severe insomnia and guilt, leading to a fractured sense of reality. The film's bleak tone and exploration of psychological torment make it a gripping watch.
Fact: Christian Bale lost over 60 pounds for the role, drastically altering his appearance. The film's color palette was deliberately muted to reflect the protagonist's mental state.


The Rental (2020)
Description: A modern thriller that explores paranoia, distrust, and hidden surveillance, where a seemingly innocent getaway turns into a nightmare. The film's tension arises from the characters' secrets and the unseen threat lurking around them.
Fact: This was Dave Franco's directorial debut. The film was inspired by real-life stories of Airbnb rentals with hidden cameras.


Creep (2014)
Description: A found-footage horror film that delves into the psyche of a manipulative and unpredictable antagonist. The unsettling intimacy and psychological games played between characters create a deeply disturbing experience.
Fact: The film was shot in just eight days, with much of the dialogue improvised. It was initially released on video-on-demand platforms before gaining a cult following.


Nightcrawler (2014)
Description: A neo-noir thriller about an ambitious but morally ambiguous man who exploits crime scenes for profit. The film's dark commentary on media sensationalism and its unsettling protagonist create a tense narrative.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal lost significant weight for the role to appear more gaunt and intense. The film was inspired by real-life stringers who film crime scenes for news outlets.


The Guest (2014)
Description: A thriller with a charismatic yet sinister protagonist who inserts himself into a grieving family's life. The film balances tension, dark humor, and a retro aesthetic, creating an unpredictable and gripping narrative.
Fact: The soundtrack heavily features synth-wave music, paying homage to 1980s horror and thriller films. The director and writer previously collaborated on the film 'You're Next.'


The Gift (2015)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores themes of obsession, manipulation, and the blurred lines between victim and perpetrator. The slow-burning tension and unsettling atmosphere mirror the psychological depth and moral ambiguity often found in similar films.
Fact: The film marked Joel Edgerton's directorial debut, and he also wrote and starred in it. It was inspired by real-life experiences of bullying and the long-term effects it can have.


The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
Description: A psychological horror film with a cold, clinical tone, exploring themes of guilt, retribution, and moral dilemmas. The unsettling atmosphere and slow-burning tension create a deeply disturbing experience.
Fact: The film's title references the Greek myth of Iphigenia. Director Yorgos Lanthimos is known for his deadpan dialogue and surreal storytelling.


The Perfect Host (2010)
Description: A darkly comedic thriller about a criminal who seeks refuge in a stranger's home, only to find the host has sinister intentions. The film plays with expectations and features a cat-and-mouse dynamic filled with twists.
Fact: David Hyde Pierce's performance was praised for its unsettling charm. The entire film was shot in just 18 days.
