If you were captivated by the dark, psychological journey of 'Ulysses: A Dark Odyssey (2018),' you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similarly gripping movies and shows that delve into themes of existential dread, surrealism, and intense character studies. Whether you're a fan of mind-bending narratives or haunting atmospheres, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Fargo (1996)
Description: A darkly comedic crime film that blends violence with absurdity, set in a snowy, bleak landscape. The film's quirky yet sinister tone and exploration of human folly make it a unique entry in the genre.
Fact: The film's opening title claims it is based on a true story, but this is entirely fictional. The wood chipper scene became one of the most iconic moments in cinema history.


The Proposition (2005)
Description: A gritty Australian Western that examines brutality, justice, and redemption in a lawless frontier. The film's harsh visuals and morally complex narrative echo the themes of a dark and unforgiving journey.
Fact: The screenplay was written by musician Nick Cave, who also composed the film's score. The film was shot in the remote Queensland outback, adding to its authentic, rugged feel.


There Will Be Blood (2007)
Description: A gripping drama about greed, power, and corruption, set against the backdrop of the early oil industry. The film's intense character study and haunting score evoke a sense of relentless ambition and moral decay.
Fact: The film's score was composed by Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood, marking his first major film composition. The famous 'I drink your milkshake' line was improvised by Daniel Day-Lewis.


No Country for Old Men (2007)
Description: A neo-Western crime thriller that delves into themes of fate, violence, and moral ambiguity. The film's stark cinematography and relentless tension mirror the bleak, unforgiving tone of a dark odyssey.
Fact: The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The character Anton Chigurh's iconic weapon, a captive bolt pistol, was inspired by real-life cattle slaughtering tools.


The Road (2009)
Description: A post-apocalyptic tale of survival and the bond between father and son, filled with despair and fleeting hope. The film's desolate landscapes and grim tone reflect a journey through a world stripped of humanity.
Fact: The film is based on Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name. The production used real locations affected by natural disasters to enhance the apocalyptic atmosphere.


The Revenant (2015)
Description: A brutal survival story set in the wilderness, focusing on revenge and endurance. The film's raw, visceral cinematography and unflinching portrayal of suffering create a harrowing and immersive experience.
Fact: The film was shot using only natural light to maintain authenticity. Leonardo DiCaprio reportedly ate raw bison liver during filming, despite being vegetarian.


True Detective (2014)
Description: A crime anthology series with a dark, philosophical undertone, exploring themes of existential dread and the nature of evil. The first season's Southern Gothic atmosphere and nonlinear storytelling add to its haunting quality.
Fact: The first season was shot in Louisiana, and the eerie landscapes became a character in themselves. The series was inspired by the works of horror writer Thomas Ligotti.


Hell or High Water (2016)
Description: A modern Western heist film that explores economic desperation and brotherhood. The film's tense pacing and stark Texas setting create a sense of inevitability and doom.
Fact: The film was shot in just 28 days. The title is derived from a phrase often used in legal contracts, symbolizing unwavering commitment.


Sicario (2015)
Description: A tense thriller about the moral ambiguities of the drug war, filled with suspense and brutal violence. The film's shadowy cinematography and relentless tension mirror the descent into darkness.
Fact: The word 'Sicario' means 'hitman' in Spanish. The film's aerial shots of the Mexican border were inspired by real-life surveillance footage.


The Lighthouse (2019)
Description: A psychological horror film with a dark, surreal atmosphere, exploring themes of isolation, madness, and descent into chaos. The black-and-white cinematography and intense performances create a claustrophobic and unsettling experience.
Fact: The film was shot on 35mm black-and-white film stock to achieve its distinctive visual style. The script was inspired by real-life lighthouse keeper stories and Edgar Allan Poe's unfinished story 'The Light-House.'
