Chile, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, provides a perfect backdrop for suspenseful storytelling. This curated list of 10 thrilling films set in Chile offers a mix of psychological tension, political intrigue, and personal drama, showcasing the country's diverse cinematic offerings. Whether you're a fan of edge-of-your-seat action or slow-burning suspense, these films will transport you to the heart of Chile's thrilling cinematic landscape.

The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
Description: While not a thriller in the traditional sense, this film captures the journey of young Che Guevara through Chile, offering a backdrop of political tension and personal discovery.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations in South America, including Chile, to authentically recreate Che's journey. It also features a young Gael García Bernal in a breakout role.


The Maid (2009)
Description: While not a traditional thriller, this film builds tension through the psychological dynamics between a maid and her employers, set in Santiago, Chile.
Fact: The film was inspired by the director's own family maid. It also won the Grand Jury Prize at Sundance Film Festival.


The 33 (2015)
Description: This film dramatizes the real-life event of the 2010 Copiapó mining accident where 33 miners were trapped underground for 69 days. It's a gripping tale of survival, hope, and human spirit, set against the backdrop of Chile's Atacama Desert.
Fact: The film was shot in Colombia, not Chile, due to logistical reasons. Also, the miners themselves were involved in the film's production to ensure authenticity.


No (2012)
Description: This film delves into the 1988 Chilean national plebiscite where the country voted on whether to extend Pinochet's rule. It's a political thriller that captures the tension and creativity of the "No" campaign.
Fact: The movie was shot on U-matic video, the same format used during the actual campaign, to give it an authentic 1980s feel. It also won the Art Cinema Award at the Cannes Film Festival.


The Dance of Reality (2013)
Description: A surreal, autobiographical film by Alejandro Jodorowsky, set in his childhood town in Chile, blending elements of fantasy, magic realism, and psychological drama.
Fact: Jodorowsky plays his own father in the film, and his son, Brontis Jodorowsky, plays the young Alejandro.


The Club (2015)
Description: A dark and unsettling tale about a group of disgraced priests living in a secluded house in a small Chilean town. When a new priest arrives, secrets begin to unravel, leading to a psychological thriller.
Fact: The film was selected as the Chilean entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 88th Academy Awards. It also sparked controversy for its portrayal of the Catholic Church.


Machuca (2004)
Description: Set during the political turmoil of 1973 Chile, this film explores the friendship between two boys from different social classes amidst the backdrop of Allende's overthrow. It's a poignant look at innocence lost in the face of political upheaval.
Fact: The film was inspired by the director's own experiences during the same period. It also features real historical figures, like President Allende, portrayed by actors.


Tony Manero (2008)
Description: In the backdrop of Pinochet's Chile, a man obsessed with John Travolta's character from "Saturday Night Fever" goes to extreme lengths to emulate him, leading to a dark and twisted narrative.
Fact: The film was banned in Chile for a time due to its depiction of the era. It also explores the theme of escapism through cinema during oppressive times.


Post Mortem (2010)
Description: Set during the 1973 coup in Chile, this film follows a morgue worker whose life intertwines with the political upheaval. It's a chilling exploration of how personal lives are affected by national events.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white to evoke the era's atmosphere. It also features real historical footage from the coup.


The Last Supper (1976)
Description: Although not set in Chile, this Cuban film about a plantation owner staging a Last Supper with slaves has thematic connections to Chile's colonial past and its social issues.
Fact: The film was banned in Cuba for its critical portrayal of slavery and was later restored and re-released.
