If you loved the raw intensity and coming-of-age drama of Rites of Passage (1999), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows that capture similar themes of personal transformation, rebellion, and self-discovery. Whether you're drawn to the film's emotional depth or its unflinching portrayal of youth, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

The Wicker Man (1973)
Description: The film explores themes of isolation, ritualistic practices, and the clash between modernity and ancient beliefs, set in a remote, insular community.
Fact: The movie was initially marketed as a horror film but is often considered a folk horror masterpiece. It features a unique musical score that blends folk music with eerie undertones.


The Believers (1987)
Description: A psychological horror film about a psychiatrist uncovering a sinister cult practicing human sacrifice in New York City.
Fact: The movie was one of the first mainstream films to explore Santería rituals. It was initially criticized for its graphic content but has since gained a cult following.


The Ninth Gate (1999)
Description: A dark, atmospheric thriller about a rare book dealer drawn into a world of occult mysteries and dangerous rituals.
Fact: The film's plot is inspired by the novel 'The Club Dumas.' It features elaborate set designs and a haunting score by Wojciech Kilar.


The Village (2004)
Description: A story about an isolated community living in fear of mysterious creatures, exploring themes of control, fear, and the unknown.
Fact: The movie's twist ending was highly debated among audiences. The soundtrack was composed by James Newton Howard and features a haunting violin solo.


Kill List (2011)
Description: A gritty, unsettling journey into violence and cult-like conspiracies, blending crime thriller with folk horror elements.
Fact: The movie's abrupt and shocking ending left many viewers stunned. It was shot on a low budget but received critical acclaim for its raw intensity.


The Sacrament (2013)
Description: A found-footage thriller about a journalist investigating a remote commune, revealing dark secrets and cult-like behavior.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the Jonestown massacre. It was produced by Eli Roth and features a documentary-style approach.


The Endless (2017)
Description: A mind-bending tale of two brothers returning to a cult they once escaped, blending sci-fi with psychological horror.
Fact: The movie is connected to the directors' previous film, 'Resolution,' through shared themes and characters. It was made on a shoestring budget but received praise for its creativity.


The Devil's Doorway (2018)
Description: A found-footage horror film set in a Magdalene Laundry, exploring themes of religious extremism and hidden atrocities.
Fact: The film was shot in a real abandoned asylum, adding to its eerie atmosphere. It uses minimal special effects to enhance its realism.


Hereditary (2018)
Description: Delves into family trauma, occult practices, and the unraveling of reality, with a focus on psychological and supernatural horror.
Fact: The film's miniature house sets were used to create eerie, disorienting visuals. It was praised for its slow-building tension and shocking moments.


Midsommar (2019)
Description: Centers around a secluded, pagan community with disturbing rituals, blending psychological horror with themes of grief and belonging.
Fact: The film was shot almost entirely in daylight, subverting traditional horror tropes. It features meticulously designed sets and costumes inspired by Swedish folklore.
