House arrest is a unique narrative device in cinema, often used to explore themes of isolation, personal growth, and the dynamics of confinement. This curated list of films delves into various aspects of house arrest, from comedic takes to intense dramas, providing viewers with a rich tapestry of human experiences under the constraints of home confinement. Each film offers a different perspective on how individuals cope with being confined to their homes, making this collection valuable for anyone interested in character-driven stories set within the four walls of a house.

The Others (2001)
Description: A gothic horror film where the protagonist and her children are confined to their home due to their photosensitivity, creating a sense of isolation and confinement.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, with the house itself being a character in the story.


The House of the Devil (2009)
Description: A college student takes a babysitting job that turns into a night of terror, effectively trapping her in a house.
Fact: The film was shot on 16mm film to give it an authentic 1980s horror movie feel.


The Roommate (2011)
Description: This thriller showcases the dangers of living with someone who becomes overly possessive, creating a sense of being trapped in one's own home.
Fact: The film was loosely inspired by the 1992 movie "Single White Female."


The Skeleton Twins (2014)
Description: The film explores the dynamics between siblings who reunite after a suicide attempt, with much of the action taking place in their childhood home, giving a sense of confinement.
Fact: Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, who play the twins, are close friends in real life.


The Big Short (2015)
Description: While not about house arrest, the film's characters are often confined to their offices or homes, dealing with the financial crisis, reflecting a form of mental confinement.
Fact: The film uses celebrity cameos to explain complex financial concepts.


The Invitation (2015)
Description: A dinner party turns tense as the host's past and the guests' secrets come to light, creating an atmosphere akin to being trapped in a house.
Fact: The film was shot in 20 days, with most scenes taking place in one location.


The Overnight (2015)
Description: Although not strictly about house arrest, the film captures the awkwardness and tension of being confined with strangers, akin to the feeling of being trapped at home.
Fact: The film was initially conceived as a play before being adapted into a movie.


The Gift (2015)
Description: A couple's life is turned upside down by an old acquaintance, leading to a tense atmosphere within their own home.
Fact: Joel Edgerton, who also stars in the film, wrote and directed it.


The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
Description: While not directly about house arrest, the protagonist's journey with his charge mirrors the feeling of being confined to one's home or routine.
Fact: The film is based on the novel "The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving" by Jonathan Evison.


The House Arrest (2019)
Description: This film follows a man under house arrest who must navigate his life while under constant surveillance, leading to humorous and poignant moments.
Fact: The film was shot entirely in one location to emphasize the feeling of confinement.
