If you were captivated by the eerie, surreal atmosphere of Berberian Sound Studio (2012), this list is for you. Dive into 10 similarly unsettling films and shows that blend psychological horror, sound design mastery, and mind-bending narratives. Perfect for fans of slow-burn tension and avant-garde storytelling.

The Conversation (1974)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into themes of paranoia, surveillance, and the unraveling of reality, mirroring the unsettling atmosphere and sound-centric narrative.
Fact: The film was inspired by the Watergate scandal and features one of the first uses of a Steadicam in cinema.


Eraserhead (1977)
Description: A surreal, nightmarish exploration of isolation and psychological distress, with a heavy emphasis on unsettling sound design.
Fact: The film took five years to complete due to budget constraints and David Lynch's meticulous attention to detail.


The Tenant (1976)
Description: A psychological horror film that delves into themes of identity, paranoia, and the disintegration of the self, much like the reference film.
Fact: Roman Polanski himself plays the lead role, adding a layer of personal intensity to the film.


Blow Out (1981)
Description: Explores the manipulation of sound and its impact on perception, creating a tense, paranoid atmosphere similar to the reference film.
Fact: The film's climax was shot during the actual Liberty Day celebrations in Philadelphia, adding to its authenticity.


Possession (1981)
Description: A visceral, surreal exploration of a disintegrating relationship, filled with unsettling imagery and sound design.
Fact: The film was banned in several countries upon its release due to its extreme content.


Videodrome (1983)
Description: A body horror film that explores the blurring of reality and media-induced hallucinations, with a focus on disturbing sound and visuals.
Fact: The film's special effects were created using practical effects, including the infamous 'living TV' scene.


The Fly (1986)
Description: A body horror film that delves into themes of transformation and identity, with a strong emphasis on grotesque sound design and practical effects.
Fact: The film's makeup effects took over five hours to apply each day, and were so intense that they caused health issues for the actor.


Black Swan (2010)
Description: A psychological thriller that blurs the line between reality and hallucination, focusing on the protagonist's descent into madness.
Fact: Natalie Portman trained in ballet for over a year to prepare for her role, performing most of the dances herself.


Under the Skin (2013)
Description: A visually and sonically immersive experience that blurs the line between reality and nightmare, focusing on alienation and identity.
Fact: Many of the scenes featuring non-actors were filmed with hidden cameras to capture genuine reactions.


The Lighthouse (2019)
Description: A claustrophobic, black-and-white psychological horror that explores madness and isolation, with a strong emphasis on sound and atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot on 35mm black-and-white film stock to achieve its distinctive visual style.
