Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) has long fascinated filmmakers and audiences alike, offering a window into the complex and often misunderstood world of mental health. This curated list of films delves into the lives of characters grappling with DID, providing not just entertainment but also a deeper understanding of this condition. From psychological thrillers to poignant dramas, these movies showcase the multifaceted nature of DID, making them essential viewing for anyone interested in human psychology or simply looking for a compelling story.

The Three Faces of Eve (1957)
Description: Based on a true story, this film portrays the life of Eve White, a woman with three distinct personalities, as she undergoes treatment to integrate her alters. It's one of the earliest films to deal with DID.
Fact: Joanne Woodward won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Eve, marking one of the first times an actress won for playing multiple characters in one film.


Primal Fear (1996)
Description: While not exclusively about DID, this legal thriller features a young man, Aaron Stampler, who claims to have a dissociative identity, complicating his murder trial.
Fact: Edward Norton made his film debut in this movie and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.


Identity (2003)
Description: This film involves a group of strangers stranded at a remote motel, where one of them might have DID, leading to a series of mysterious deaths. It's a twisty thriller with psychological undertones.
Fact: The film's ending has been a subject of much debate, with its complex narrative structure and the revelation of the protagonist's condition.


The United States of Tara (2004)
Description: While primarily about insomnia, the film delves into the protagonist's psychological state, hinting at DID through his interactions with a mysterious character.
Fact: Christian Bale lost a significant amount of weight to portray the emaciated Trevor Reznik, showcasing his dedication to the role.


The Voices (2014)
Description: Jerry, a factory worker, hears voices from his pets, which guide him through his life, including his darker impulses. This dark comedy-drama touches on themes of DID and mental health.
Fact: Ryan Reynolds stars and also provides the voices for Jerry's pets, showcasing his range as an actor.


Split (2016)
Description: This psychological thriller follows Kevin, a man with 23 distinct personalities, as one of them kidnaps three teenage girls. The film explores the struggle for control among his alters and the emergence of a terrifying new personality.
Fact: M. Night Shyamalan directed this film, and it serves as a standalone sequel to his earlier work, "Unbreakable." The character of Kevin was inspired by real-life cases of DID.


Frankie and Alice (2010)
Description: This film tells the story of Frankie, a go-go dancer in the 1970s, who struggles with DID, with one of her alters being a Southern white racist woman. It's based on the true story of Frankie Murdoch.
Fact: Halle Berry stars as Frankie, and her performance was critically acclaimed, though the film itself received mixed reviews.


Sybil (1976)
Description: This TV movie is based on the book about Shirley Ardell Mason, who was diagnosed with 16 separate personalities. It's a landmark film in the portrayal of DID.
Fact: Sally Field's portrayal of Sybil won her an Emmy Award, and the film was one of the most-watched TV movies of its time.


The Quiet Room (1996)
Description: This Australian film explores the life of a young girl, Rhona, who develops DID after witnessing her mother's suicide. It's a poignant look at childhood trauma and its psychological aftermath.
Fact: The film was directed by Rolf de Heer, known for his unique storytelling style, often focusing on marginalized characters.
