If you loved the dark, psychological tension of 'Poser' (2021), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 gripping movies and shows that share its themes of obsession, identity, and underground subcultures. Whether you're drawn to eerie atmospheres or complex character studies, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Description: Follows a manipulative and charismatic protagonist who assumes another person's identity, exploring themes of deception, envy, and the lengths one will go to fit in.
Fact: The film is based on the 1955 novel of the same name by Patricia Highsmith. It features a notable jazz soundtrack that complements its stylish and suspenseful tone.


American Psycho (2000)
Description: Portrays a protagonist obsessed with image and status, whose violent tendencies are masked by a polished exterior, critiquing superficiality and materialism.
Fact: The film is based on Bret Easton Ellis's controversial 1991 novel. Christian Bale prepared for his role by studying Tom Cruise's mannerisms, particularly his smile.


The Social Network (2010)
Description: Explores themes of ambition, deception, and the dark side of success, focusing on a protagonist who manipulates his way to the top in a competitive environment.
Fact: The screenplay was written by Aaron Sorkin, who based it on the book 'The Accidental Billionaires' by Ben Mezrich. The film's score was composed by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, winning them an Academy Award.


The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Description: Features a protagonist with a dark past and a talent for uncovering hidden truths, set against a backdrop of crime and psychological tension.
Fact: The film is an adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel, the first in the Millennium series. The role of Lisbeth Salander required Rooney Mara to undergo a dramatic physical transformation, including piercings and a haircut.


Her (2013)
Description: Examines the complexities of human relationships and identity through the lens of technology, with a protagonist who forms an emotional bond with an artificial intelligence.
Fact: The film's futuristic setting was inspired by Shanghai, which director Spike Jonze felt had a timeless quality. The voice of the AI, Samantha, was performed by Scarlett Johansson.


The Neon Demon (2016)
Description: Explores themes of beauty, obsession, and identity in a visually striking and often unsettling manner, set in the cutthroat world of modeling.
Fact: The film premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, where it received mixed reactions due to its graphic content. Director Nicolas Winding Refn described it as a 'horror film about beauty.'


Black Mirror (2011)
Description: Delves into the psychological and societal impacts of technology, often portraying characters who become obsessed with image, fame, or control, leading to dark consequences.
Fact: The series was created by Charlie Brooker and originally aired on Channel 4 in the UK before being acquired by Netflix. Each episode is a standalone story, often with a dystopian or satirical twist.


The Bling Ring (2013)
Description: Focuses on a group of young individuals obsessed with fame and luxury, engaging in criminal activities to achieve their desires, highlighting themes of obsession and identity.
Fact: The film is based on real-life events involving a group of teenagers who burglarized celebrities' homes in Los Angeles. It was directed by Sofia Coppola, who also wrote the screenplay.


Gone Girl (2014)
Description: Examines the complexities of identity and perception, with a protagonist who meticulously crafts a false narrative to manipulate those around her.
Fact: The film is based on Gillian Flynn's bestselling novel, and she also wrote the screenplay. It was a critical and commercial success, earning widespread acclaim for its twists and performances.


Nightcrawler (2014)
Description: Centers on a morally ambiguous protagonist who exploits the media and crime scenes for personal gain, showcasing the dark side of ambition and the pursuit of success.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal lost 20 pounds for his role to portray the gaunt and intense character of Lou Bloom. The film was shot entirely in Los Angeles, often at night.
