Envy is a powerful emotion, often hidden beneath a facade of happiness. These films delve into the complexities of human relationships, showcasing how envy can lead to dramatic and sometimes tragic outcomes. From tales of rivalry to stories of unfulfilled dreams, this collection offers a profound look at the darker side of happiness.

The Ice Storm (1997)
Description: Set during Thanksgiving 1973, this film explores the envy and dissatisfaction within two families, leading to a series of events that change their lives forever.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Rick Moody. It was one of the first films to explore the cultural shift of the 1970s in America.


A Simple Plan (1998)
Description: Three men find a crashed plane with $4.4 million inside. Their plan to keep the money simple turns complex as envy and greed unravel their lives.
Fact: The film was adapted from a novel by Scott B. Smith, who also wrote the screenplay. It was nominated for two Academy Awards.


The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Description: Tom Ripley, a young man with a talent for mimicry, is sent to Italy to bring back a wealthy man's son. His envy of the luxurious lifestyle leads him down a dark path of deception and murder.
Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay. The character of Tom Ripley was inspired by real-life con artists.


The Piano Teacher (2001)
Description: A repressed piano teacher's envy of her students' freedom and happiness leads her into a destructive relationship, exploring themes of control, desire, and envy.
Fact: The film won three awards at the Cannes Film Festival, including Best Actress for Isabelle Huppert. It was based on the novel by Elfriede Jelinek.


The Hours (2002)
Description: Three women from different eras are connected by the novel "Mrs. Dalloway," each dealing with their own struggles with envy, depression, and the pursuit of happiness.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Actress for Nicole Kidman. It was adapted from Michael Cunningham's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.


The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Description: An aspiring journalist lands a job at a high-fashion magazine, where she becomes envious of her boss's success and lifestyle, leading to a transformation of her own values and identity.
Fact: Meryl Streep's character was loosely based on Vogue editor Anna Wintour. The film was a box office success, grossing over $326 million worldwide.


The Prestige (2006)
Description: Two rival magicians in turn-of-the-century London engage in a battle of one-upmanship, where their envy for each other's success leads to obsession and tragedy.
Fact: The film was inspired by a true story of two magicians in the late 19th century. Christopher Nolan wrote the screenplay while working on "Batman Begins."


Black Swan (2010)
Description: Nina, a ballerina, is consumed by her desire to be perfect, leading to a psychological battle with her own identity and the darker side of her ambition, fueled by envy towards her rival, Lily.
Fact: Natalie Portman won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film was shot in chronological order to capture the character's mental deterioration.


The Social Network (2010)
Description: The story of the founding of Facebook and the subsequent legal battles, highlighting the envy and betrayal among friends as they vie for control and recognition.
Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay. Mark Zuckerberg was initially reluctant about the film but later praised its accuracy.


The Great Gatsby (2013)
Description: In the roaring twenties, Jay Gatsby's lavish parties and mysterious past hide his deep-seated envy for the life he could have had with Daisy Buchanan.
Fact: This adaptation was directed by Baz Luhrmann, known for his visually stunning films. The soundtrack features contemporary music, blending old and new.
