10 Movies & Shows Similar to Girl in the Basement (2021)

Description: 'The Lovely Bones' and 'A Girl in the Basement' both deal with the tragic abduction and murder of a young girl. While 'The Lovely Bones' incorporates supernatural elements, both films explore the impact of such crimes on the victims' families and the lingering pain of loss.

Fact: 'The Lovely Bones' is based on the novel by Alice Sebold. The film was directed by Peter Jackson, known for his work on 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy. Saoirse Ronan, who plays Susie Salmon, was only 14 years old during filming.

Description: This film, like 'A Girl in the Basement', is based on a true story of extreme abuse and captivity. Both movies depict the horrific realities of prolonged abuse and the failure of systems to protect the vulnerable. The emotional and physical torture endured by the protagonists is a central theme in both narratives.

Fact: 'The Girl Next Door' is based on the novel by Jack Ketchum, which in turn is inspired by the true story of Sylvia Likens. The film is set in the 1950s, adding a period element to the harrowing tale. Director Gregory Wilson chose to shoot the film in a very raw and unfiltered style to emphasize the brutality of the story.

Description: Similar to 'A Girl in the Basement', '10 Cloverfield Lane' involves a woman held captive by a man who claims to be protecting her. Both films explore themes of confinement, manipulation, and the struggle for survival. The psychological tension and the uncertainty about the captor's true intentions are key similarities.

Fact: '10 Cloverfield Lane' is a spiritual successor to the 2008 film 'Cloverfield', though it stands as its own story. John Goodman's performance as Howard was widely praised for its intensity and unpredictability. The film's ending was reshot to provide a more satisfying conclusion, differing from the original script.

Description: 'Prisoners' shares with 'A Girl in the Basement' the theme of abduction and the desperate measures taken by those affected. Both films delve into the psychological and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in extreme situations. The dark, tense atmosphere and the exploration of human resilience under duress are common elements.

Fact: Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal star in this intense thriller directed by Denis Villeneuve. The film's screenplay was featured on the Black List, a survey of the most liked unproduced screenplays in Hollywood, in

Description: 'The Call' shares with 'A Girl in the Basement' the theme of abduction and the race against time to save the victim. Both films focus on the terror of being trapped and the desperate attempts to escape or be rescued. The suspense and urgency of the situations are key similarities.

Fact: Halle Berry stars as a 911 operator trying to save a kidnapped girl. The film's director, Brad Anderson, is known for his work in the thriller and horror genres. The movie's climax was reshot after test audiences found the original ending too dark.

Description: While 'Gone Girl' focuses more on manipulation and media perception, it shares with 'A Girl in the Basement' the theme of a woman trapped in a toxic relationship. Both films explore the darker aspects of human relationships and the extremes to which individuals will go to control or escape their situations.

Fact: 'Gone Girl' is based on the bestselling novel by Gillian Flynn, who also wrote the screenplay. Rosamund Pike received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Amy Dunne. Director David Fincher is known for his meticulous attention to detail, and the film features many hidden clues and foreshadowing elements.

Description: 'The Captive' and 'A Girl in the Basement' both deal with the abduction of a young girl and the long-term effects on her and her family. Both films explore themes of captivity, manipulation, and the psychological toll on the victims and their loved ones.

Fact: 'The Captive' stars Ryan Reynolds and Rosario Dawson. The film was directed by Atom Egoyan, known for his complex narratives. The story is inspired by real-life cases of child abduction and exploitation.

Description: Similar to 'A Girl in the Basement', 'Room' explores the harrowing experience of captivity and the psychological impact on the victim. Both films focus on a young woman held against her will, with 'Room' adding the perspective of a child born in captivity. The themes of survival, resilience, and the bond between mother and child are central to both stories.

Fact: 'Room' is based on the novel of the same name by Emma Donoghue, who also wrote the screenplay. Brie Larson won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Joy Newsome. The film was shot in chronological order to help the child actor, Jacob Tremblay, better understand the story's progression.

Description: Like 'A Girl in the Basement', 'Berlin Syndrome' tells the story of a young woman held captive by a manipulative and controlling man. Both films explore the psychological manipulation and the gradual erosion of the victim's sense of self. The tension and horror of the captivity are central to both narratives.

Fact: 'Berlin Syndrome' is based on the novel by Melanie Joosten. The film was shot on location in Berlin, adding authenticity to the setting. Director Cate Shortland went on to direct 'Black Widow' for Marvel.

Description: 'Split' shares with 'A Girl in the Basement' the theme of abduction and the psychological torment of the victims. Both films feature young women held captive by disturbed individuals, with a focus on the psychological and physical abuse they endure. The tension and horror of the captivity experience are central to both stories.

Fact: 'Split' is part of M. Night Shyamalan's Eastrail 177 Trilogy, which also includes 'Unbreakable' and 'Glass'. James McAvoy's portrayal of Kevin Wendell Crumb and his multiple personalities was highly acclaimed. The film's twist ending connects it to the larger universe of Shyamalan's superhero films.