If you were captivated by the thought-provoking themes and artistic depth of The Man Who Sold His Skin (2021), this article is for you. We’ve curated a list of 10 similarly compelling movies and shows that explore identity, sacrifice, and the human condition. Whether you loved the film’s bold storytelling or its striking visuals, these recommendations will keep you engaged.

4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days (2007)
Description: A harrowing exploration of personal freedom and societal oppression, with a stark, unflinching narrative style.
Fact: Won the Palme d'Or at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival. The film was shot in long takes to maintain a sense of realism and tension.


The Class (2008)
Description: A raw and realistic portrayal of education and social inequality, mirroring the struggles of individuals within rigid systems.
Fact: Won the Palme d'Or at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival. The film is based on the director's own experiences as a teacher.


Dogtooth (2009)
Description: A surreal and disturbing take on control, isolation, and the distortion of reality, much like the critique of societal norms and human conditioning.
Fact: Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The film's bizarre premise was inspired by the director's observations of overprotective parenting.


A Separation (2011)
Description: A gripping drama about moral dilemmas, family conflicts, and societal pressures, highlighting the complexities of human relationships.
Fact: First Iranian film to win the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The script was developed through extensive improvisation with the actors.


The Hunt (2012)
Description: A tense drama about false accusations and societal hysteria, reflecting on themes of justice and human fragility.
Fact: Mads Mikkelsen won the Best Actor award at Cannes for his role. The film sparked debates about the treatment of accused individuals in society.


The Lobster (2015)
Description: A darkly comedic and absurdist exploration of love, conformity, and societal pressures, with a unique visual and narrative style.
Fact: Competed for the Palme d'Or at the 2015 Cannes Film Festival. The film's premise involves single people being turned into animals if they fail to find a partner.


The Square (2017)
Description: Explores themes of art, morality, and societal hypocrisy through a satirical lens, much like the critique of commodification and human dignity.
Fact: Won the Palme d'Or at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival. The film features a controversial performance art piece that blurs the line between reality and fiction.


The Salesman (2016)
Description: Focuses on personal and societal tensions, exploring themes of justice, revenge, and human vulnerability.
Fact: Won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. The film's title refers to Arthur Miller's play 'Death of a Salesman,' which features within the movie.


Parasite (2019)
Description: Delves into class struggle and the commodification of human lives, presenting a sharp critique of societal structures.
Fact: First South Korean film to win the Palme d'Or and the first non-English language film to win Best Picture at the Oscars.


Shoplifters (2018)
Description: Examines unconventional family structures and the moral ambiguities of survival, resonating with themes of human dignity and societal neglect.
Fact: Won the Palme d'Or at the 2018 Cannes Film Festival. The film was inspired by real-life reports of families surviving through shoplifting.
