This collection delves into the controversial and often taboo subject of incest in cinema. These films offer a unique perspective on human relationships, exploring the psychological, emotional, and ethical dimensions of this sensitive topic. Each film provides a different angle, from dramatic to psychological, offering viewers a chance to engage with complex narratives and character studies that challenge societal norms and provoke deep thought.

The House of Yes (1997)
Description: A dark comedy about a dysfunctional family where the twin siblings engage in an incestuous relationship, highlighting the absurdity and tragedy of their situation.
Fact: The film was adapted from a play by Wendy MacLeod and features Parker Posey in a standout role.


The Ballad of Jack and Rose (2005)
Description: Set on a remote island, this film examines the relationship between a father and his daughter, which turns incestuous as they both struggle with isolation and societal rejection.
Fact: The film was written and directed by Rebecca Miller, who also stars in it alongside her real-life husband, Daniel Day-Lewis.


The Woodsman (2004)
Description: This film deals with the aftermath of child molestation, indirectly touching on themes of familial betrayal and incest.
Fact: Kevin Bacon stars as the lead, delivering one of his most acclaimed performances.


The Heart is Deceitful Above All Things (2004)
Description: This film, based on JT LeRoy's book, includes themes of incest among other dark subjects, focusing on the life of a young boy raised by his unstable mother.
Fact: The film features a cameo by Winona Ryder, who was also involved in the controversy surrounding the authorship of JT LeRoy.


Savage Grace (2007)
Description: Based on true events, this film explores the complex and ultimately tragic relationship between a mother and her son, which turns incestuous.
Fact: The film stars Julianne Moore, who received critical acclaim for her portrayal of Barbara Baekeland.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: While primarily a horror film, it delves into the psychological effects of grief and isolation, with underlying themes of incestuous desire between mother and son.
Fact: The film was directed by Jennifer Kent, who also wrote the screenplay, and it has been praised for its psychological depth.


The Cement Garden (1993)
Description: This film adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel explores the lives of four siblings who, after their parents' death, form an insular world where boundaries blur, including an incestuous relationship between the eldest siblings.
Fact: The film was directed by Andrew Birkin, who also co-wrote the screenplay with McEwan. It was one of the first major roles for Charlotte Gainsbourg.


The War Zone (1999)
Description: A harrowing look at a family dealing with the aftermath of incest, focusing on a teenage boy who discovers his father's abuse of his sister.
Fact: The film was Tim Roth's directorial debut, and it was based on the novel by Alexander Stuart.


The Stoning of Soraya M. (2008)
Description: While not directly about incest, this film touches on themes of sexual abuse within a family, leading to a tragic outcome.
Fact: The film is based on a true story and was directed by Cyrus Nowrasteh.


Dogtooth (2009)
Description: This Greek film portrays a family where the parents keep their adult children isolated from the outside world, leading to bizarre and incestuous dynamics among the siblings.
Fact: "Dogtooth" won the Prix Un Certain Regard at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival and was Greece's submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
