10 Movies & Shows Like The Merciful (2022)

Description: A chilling psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a brilliant but monstrous serial killer, with a strong focus on the cat-and-mouse game between the protagonist and antagonist.

Fact: The film is one of only three to win the 'Big Five' Academy Awards: Best Picture, Director, Actor, Actress, and Screenplay. The character Hannibal Lecter was named the greatest villain in film history by the AFI.

Description: A dark and gruesome crime thriller that follows two detectives as they hunt a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi, culminating in a shocking finale.

Fact: The film's title sequence, designed by Kyle Cooper, is considered one of the greatest in cinema history. The ending was so controversial that the studio considered changing it, but the director fought to keep it.

Description: A deeply emotional and tragic crime drama that explores the lingering effects of childhood trauma and the destructive power of secrets and vengeance.

Fact: The film was shot in Boston, where the novel is set, to maintain authenticity. Clint Eastwood directed the film, which won Oscars for Sean Penn and Tim Robbins.

Description: A meticulously crafted crime thriller based on real events, focusing on the obsessive hunt for a serial killer and the psychological toll it takes on those involved.

Fact: The film's attention to detail included using actual letters sent by the Zodiac killer. Director David Fincher insisted on shooting in the exact locations where the events occurred.

Description: A haunting and emotionally charged crime drama that intertwines a cold case with themes of love, loss, and justice, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The famous stadium chase scene was shot in a single take and took nine months to plan.

Description: A tense and atmospheric crime drama exploring the lengths a desperate father will go to find his missing daughter, blending moral ambiguity with relentless suspense.

Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to help the actors maintain emotional continuity. The script was on the 'Black List' of best unproduced screenplays for years before being made.

Description: A dark and gritty mystery thriller that uncovers disturbing secrets and crimes, featuring a strong, enigmatic protagonist who navigates a world of corruption and violence.

Fact: The film's opening title sequence, set to a cover of 'Immigrant Song' by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, became iconic. The original Swedish version was a massive hit before this Hollywood adaptation.

Description: A gripping mystery thriller that revolves around the discovery of a corpse and the ensuing investigation, filled with twists and moral dilemmas.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by Spanish author Carlos Ruiz Zafón. It was a box office success in Spain and spawned an Indian remake.

Description: A psychological thriller that delves into themes of deception, manipulation, and the dark complexities of human relationships, with a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on edge.

Fact: The film's twist was so well-guarded that even some of the cast members were kept in the dark until the day of shooting. The novel's author, Gillian Flynn, also wrote the screenplay.

Description: A bleak and atmospheric crime thriller set in a harsh, snowy landscape, exploring themes of grief, justice, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life cases of missing Native American women. The director, Taylor Sheridan, also wrote the screenplay, which was nominated for a BAFTA.