Agoraphobia, the fear of open or public spaces, has been a compelling theme in cinema, offering viewers a window into the psychological struggles of its characters. This curated list of films delves into the lives of individuals grappling with this condition, providing not only entertainment but also a deeper understanding of mental health issues. These movies, with their English dubbing or subtitles, showcase the diverse ways in which agoraphobia can manifest and affect lives, making them valuable for anyone interested in psychological dramas or personal growth narratives.

The Woman in the Window (1944)
Description: Professor Richard Wanley becomes embroiled in a murder mystery, leading to a situation where he must stay hidden, showcasing a form of agoraphobia due to fear of exposure.
Fact: The film was remade in 1949 as "The Window."


The Apartment (1960)
Description: While primarily a comedy-drama, the film touches on themes of isolation and confinement, with the protagonist, C.C. Baxter, using his apartment as a retreat from the world, akin to agoraphobic behavior.
Fact: Won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


The Tenant (1976)
Description: Trelkovsky, the protagonist, develops agoraphobic tendencies as he becomes increasingly paranoid and isolated in his new apartment, reflecting themes of fear and confinement.
Fact: Roman Polanski directed and starred in this film, which was shot in Paris.


Copycat (1995)
Description: Dr. Helen Hudson, a criminal psychologist, becomes agoraphobic after surviving an attack by a serial killer. Her condition becomes central to the plot as she helps catch another killer from the safety of her home.
Fact: Sigourney Weaver's performance earned her a nomination for Best Actress at the Saturn Awards.


The Hours (2002)
Description: Virginia Woolf's character in the film struggles with mental health issues, including a form of agoraphobia, as she grapples with her inner world versus the external one.
Fact: Nicole Kidman won an Oscar for Best Actress for her portrayal of Virginia Woolf.


The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: Walter Mitty, a day-dreamer, lives a life of quiet desperation and avoidance of real-world interaction, which can be seen as a form of agoraphobia.
Fact: The film was shot in multiple locations around the world, including Iceland and Greenland.


The Machinist (2004)
Description: Trevor Reznik's insomnia leads to extreme weight loss and paranoia, causing him to avoid public spaces, mirroring agoraphobic symptoms.
Fact: Christian Bale lost 62 pounds for the role.


The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007)
Description: Jean-Dominique Bauby, after suffering a stroke, becomes locked-in syndrome, which can be metaphorically linked to agoraphobia due to his inability to interact with the outside world.
Fact: The film was nominated for four Academy Awards.


The King of Staten Island (2020)
Description: Scott Carlin, played by Pete Davidson, exhibits traits of social withdrawal and fear of leaving his comfort zone, reflecting aspects of agoraphobia.
Fact: The film is semi-autobiographical, based on Davidson's own life experiences.


The Panic in Needle Park (1971)
Description: While not explicitly about agoraphobia, the film features a character whose drug addiction leads to a form of social withdrawal, akin to agoraphobic behavior, highlighting the isolation and fear of public spaces.
Fact: Al Pacino's first starring role, which helped launch his career.
