Psychological experiments have long fascinated filmmakers, offering a rich tapestry for exploring human nature, ethics, and the boundaries of the mind. This collection of 10 dramatic films delves into the murky waters of psychological research, showcasing the tension, moral dilemmas, and often chilling outcomes of such experiments. Each film provides a unique perspective on the psychological journey, making this selection invaluable for those intrigued by the human psyche and the ethical quandaries of science.

The Stanford Prison Experiment (2015)
Description: This film recreates the infamous 1971 Stanford prison experiment, where college students played the roles of prisoners and guards, leading to unexpected and disturbing results. It's a stark examination of power dynamics and human behavior under extreme conditions.
Fact: The film was shot in the same building where the original experiment took place, and several of the actors were psychology students.


The Experiment (2010)
Description: An American remake of the German film "Das Experiment," it follows a similar premise but adds its own twists, focusing on the psychological transformation of participants in a prison simulation.
Fact: Adrien Brody, who stars in this film, also produced it.


The Wave (2008)
Description: A German teacher conducts an experiment to show his students how easy it is for fascism to take root, which spirals out of control. This film is a powerful look at group dynamics and the allure of authoritarianism.
Fact: The film is based on a real-life classroom experiment conducted in California in


Experimenter (2015)
Description: This biopic focuses on Stanley Milgram, the psychologist behind the controversial obedience experiments. It delves into the ethical implications and personal life of Milgram, offering insight into the man behind the experiment.
Fact: Peter Sarsgaard, who plays Milgram, actually met with Milgram's daughter to prepare for the role.


Compliance (2012)
Description: Based on true events, this film explores the psychological manipulation of a fast-food restaurant manager by a caller posing as a police officer, leading to a series of disturbing events. It's a chilling study in obedience and authority.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life incident known as the "Strip Search Prank Call Scam."


Das Experiment (2001)
Description: Inspired by the Stanford Prison Experiment, this German film explores the dynamics between prisoners and guards in a simulated prison environment, leading to violent and psychological breakdowns.
Fact: The film was remade in English as "The Experiment" in


The Human Behavior Experiments (2006)
Description: This documentary-style film examines several psychological experiments, including Milgram's obedience study, the Stanford Prison Experiment, and the Asch conformity experiments, offering a comprehensive look at human behavior under experimental conditions.
Fact: The film features interviews with participants and psychologists involved in the original experiments.


The Mind Game (2012)
Description: A psychological thriller where a group of people are unknowingly part of an experiment to test the limits of human endurance and morality, leading to a tense and unpredictable narrative.
Fact: The film was shot in a single location to enhance the claustrophobic atmosphere.


The Experimenter's Dilemma (2018)
Description: A fictional story about a psychologist who conducts an experiment on empathy, only to find his own life spiraling out of control as he becomes too involved with his subjects.
Fact: The film uses real psychological theories as its basis, making it both educational and dramatic.


The Experiment: Escape Room (2019)
Description: While not directly about a psychological experiment, this film explores the psychological effects of being trapped in an escape room, testing the limits of human ingenuity and survival instincts.
Fact: The film was inspired by the popularity of escape rooms and the psychological stress they can induce.
