10 Movies & Shows Like Zola (2021)

Description: A visually hypnotic and disturbing descent into the dark side of beauty and ambition. The film's surreal imagery, electronic score, and themes of exploitation create a dreamlike yet unsettling experience.

Fact: The film's striking color palette was inspired by 1980s fashion photography. It features a cameo by Keanu Reeves as a sinister motel manager.

Description: A satirical take on youth culture, celebrity obsession, and crime, blending dark humor with a critique of materialism. The film's glossy aesthetic and detached tone mirror the superficiality of its characters' world.

Fact: Based on real-life events involving a group of teenagers who burglarized celebrities' homes. Emma Watson's character was inspired by Alexis Neiers, one of the real-life perpetrators.

Description: A sprawling, free-spirited journey through America's heartland, capturing the restless energy and desperation of youth. The film's naturalistic performances and immersive cinematography create a sense of authenticity and spontaneity.

Fact: Many of the cast members were non-professional actors discovered by the director. The film features over 40 songs in its soundtrack.

Description: A provocative exploration of privilege, hedonism, and consequences in a gritty urban setting. The film's unflinching portrayal of its protagonist's reckless behavior and the fallout from her choices creates a tense, unsettling atmosphere.

Fact: The film was shot in just 18 days. It premiered at the Sundance Film Festival to polarized reactions due to its controversial subject matter.

Description: A high-intensity crime thriller that dives deep into the chaotic underbelly of urban life. The film's frenetic pacing, neon-lit visuals, and morally complex characters create a sense of urgency and unpredictability.

Fact: The entire film was shot on 35mm film to achieve its distinctive visual texture. Robert Pattinson learned to speak in a Queens accent for his role.

Description: A gritty, stylish drama that explores themes of survival, crime, and female camaraderie in an urban setting. The film's raw energy and focus on marginalized characters navigating a morally ambiguous world make it compelling.

Fact: The film is loosely based on a true story featured in a New York Magazine article. Jennifer Lopez performed her own pole dancing stunts.

Description: A visually striking and emotionally raw portrayal of life on the fringes of society, focusing on the resilience and resourcefulness of its young protagonist. The film's vibrant color palette and unflinching realism create a powerful contrast between innocence and hardship.

Fact: Many of the child actors had no prior acting experience. The motel where the film was shot is a real budget motel near Disney World.

Description: A relentless, anxiety-inducing ride through the world of gambling, crime, and self-destruction. The film's kinetic energy, overlapping dialogue, and immersive sound design plunge the viewer into its protagonist's chaotic life.

Fact: Adam Sandler's performance was widely praised as a dramatic breakthrough. The film's soundtrack features an original score by electronic musician Oneohtrix Point Never.

Description: A hedonistic, freewheeling comedy-drama that celebrates rebellion and living outside societal norms. The film's vibrant visuals, eccentric characters, and laid-back tone create a sense of carefree abandon.

Fact: Matthew McConaughey improvised many of his lines. The film features cameos by musicians Jimmy Buffett and Snoop Dogg playing fictionalized versions of themselves.

Description: An emotionally charged family drama that explores love, loss, and redemption through a visually stunning lens. The film's dynamic cinematography and shifting aspect ratios mirror its characters' emotional journeys.

Fact: The film's soundtrack features original music by Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross. It was shot on 35mm film to achieve its rich, textured look.