If you were captivated by the raw intensity and noir flair of The Naked Kiss (1964), this list is for you. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its gritty storytelling, complex characters, and bold themes. Whether you're a fan of its dark twists or its unflinching social commentary, you'll find something to love in these similar picks.

Detour (1945)
Description: A low-budget noir that captures the desperation and fatalism of its protagonist, with a bleak outlook on fate and chance.
Fact: Despite its limited resources, the film is now considered one of the quintessential examples of film noir.


Gilda (1946)
Description: A tale of passion, betrayal, and revenge set against a glamorous but dangerous backdrop, with a strong femme fatale character.
Fact: Rita Hayworth's performance and the iconic 'Put the Blame on Mame' number became defining moments of her career.


The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946)
Description: A story of illicit love and murder, with a raw and intense portrayal of doomed relationships and moral decay.
Fact: The film was adapted from James M. Cain's novel, which was itself inspired by a real-life murder case.


Ace in the Hole (1951)
Description: A scathing critique of media sensationalism and human exploitation, with a cynical tone and unflinching portrayal of greed.
Fact: The film was a box office failure upon release but has since been reevaluated as a classic of American cinema.


The Bad and the Beautiful (1952)
Description: Delves into the dark side of ambition and success in Hollywood, with a narrative that reveals the cost of fame and power.
Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actress for Gloria Grahame.


The Big Combo (1955)
Description: Features a gritty noir aesthetic with a focus on crime and corruption, highlighting the darker aspects of human nature and societal decay.
Fact: Known for its innovative use of shadow and light, creating a visually striking representation of the noir genre.


Baby Doll (1956)
Description: Shares themes of sexual tension and moral ambiguity, with a Southern Gothic atmosphere that mirrors the seedy underbelly of small-town life.
Fact: The film was controversial upon release for its suggestive content and was condemned by the Catholic Legion of Decency.


The Killing (1956)
Description: A tightly plotted crime drama with a non-linear narrative, emphasizing the inevitability of downfall and the futility of ambition.
Fact: The film's complex structure influenced many later heist movies and was an early example of the time-shifting narrative technique.


Sweet Smell of Success (1957)
Description: Explores themes of power, manipulation, and moral compromise in a cynical world, with sharp dialogue and a relentless pace.
Fact: The screenplay was co-written by Clifford Odets, known for his biting social commentary and theatrical background.


Touch of Evil (1958)
Description: A noir masterpiece with a focus on corruption and moral ambiguity, featuring a tense atmosphere and complex characters.
Fact: The film's famous opening shot is a three-minute continuous take that has been studied and admired for its technical brilliance.
