If you were captivated by the dreamlike visuals and introspective storytelling of 'Long Day's Journey into Night' (2018), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similarly mesmerizing films and shows that blend poetic cinematography, emotional depth, and surreal narratives. Whether you're drawn to its haunting atmosphere or its nonlinear storytelling, these recommendations will satisfy your craving for more cinematic gems like it.

Days of Being Wild (1990)
Description: A moody and atmospheric film that explores themes of restlessness, unrequited love, and the search for identity through its languid pacing and evocative visuals.
Fact: The film was the first in an informal trilogy, followed by 'In the Mood for Love' and '


Chungking Express (1994)
Description: A fragmented narrative that delves into urban loneliness and fleeting connections, with a dreamlike quality enhanced by its kinetic cinematography and use of music.
Fact: The film was shot in just 23 days, with the director using handheld cameras to capture the energy of Hong Kong. The famous 'California Dreamin'' sequence was inspired by the director's own experiences.


Fallen Angels (1995)
Description: A visually striking film that captures the alienation and disjointed lives of its characters through its hyper-stylized cinematography and fragmented storytelling.
Fact: The film was shot using wide-angle lenses to create a distorted, surreal look. Many scenes were filmed in the early hours of the morning to capture the emptiness of Hong Kong's streets.


In the Mood for Love (2000)
Description: A visually stunning film that explores themes of longing, missed connections, and unspoken emotions through its slow-burning narrative and meticulous cinematography.
Fact: The film's iconic cheongsam dresses were designed by William Chang, who also served as the production and costume designer. It was shot without a completed script, relying heavily on improvisation.


Happy Together (1997)
Description: A raw and emotional portrayal of a turbulent relationship, marked by its intimate cinematography and exploration of love, loss, and identity.
Fact: The film was shot in Argentina, far from the director's usual Hong Kong settings. The title is inspired by The Turtles' song of the same name, which features prominently in the film.


2046 (2004)
Description: A melancholic exploration of memory, time, and unfulfilled love, told through a non-linear narrative and lush, atmospheric visuals.
Fact: The film's title refers to both the year 2046 and the room number where much of the story takes place. It was originally conceived as a sequel to 'In the Mood for Love.'


Oldboy (2003)
Description: A brutal and visually arresting film that delves into themes of revenge, obsession, and the cyclical nature of violence, with a narrative that twists and turns unpredictably.
Fact: The famous hallway fight scene was shot in a single take, with no CGI or stunt doubles. The film's twist ending was kept secret from even the actors until the day of shooting.


The Grandmaster (2013)
Description: A visually poetic martial arts film that blends action with deep philosophical themes, focusing on the passage of time and the weight of legacy.
Fact: The film took over a decade to complete, with extensive research into the life of Ip Man. The fight scenes were choreographed to emphasize the beauty and precision of martial arts.


The Handmaiden (2016)
Description: A lush, visually sumptuous film that weaves a tale of deception, desire, and betrayal, with a narrative structure that unfolds in unexpected ways.
Fact: The film is an adaptation of Sarah Waters' novel 'Fingersmith,' transposed from Victorian England to 1930s Korea under Japanese rule. It features elaborate sets and costumes that recreate the era in stunning detail.


Burning (2018)
Description: A slow-burning psychological thriller that explores class tension, alienation, and the elusive nature of truth, with a haunting and ambiguous narrative.
Fact: The film is based on a short story by Haruki Murakami, but expands significantly on the original material. It was the first Korean film to make the shortlist for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
