If you were captivated by the psychological tension and eerie atmosphere of The Tenant (1976), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its unsettling themes of paranoia, identity crisis, and claustrophobic dread. Whether you're a fan of Roman Polanski's chilling masterpiece or simply love mind-bending thrillers, this list will guide you to your next obsession.

Rosemary's Baby (1968)
Description: A psychological horror film that delves into paranoia and isolation, with a protagonist who begins to question the reality around them. The slow-building tension and surreal atmosphere mirror the unsettling tone of the reference.
Fact: The film was shot in the iconic Dakota building in New York City, which later became famous as the location where John Lennon was murdered. Mia Farrow's pixie haircut in the movie became a major fashion trend.


Don't Look Now (1973)
Description: This film explores grief and psychological unraveling, with a haunting atmosphere and a protagonist who becomes increasingly detached from reality. The use of color and symbolism enhances the eerie, dreamlike quality.
Fact: The film's editing creates a sense of disorientation, with quick cuts and fragmented scenes. The famous sex scene was controversial for its time due to its realism and emotional intensity.


Eraserhead (1977)
Description: A surreal and nightmarish exploration of alienation and existential dread. The film's bizarre visuals and unsettling sound design create a deeply immersive and disturbing experience.
Fact: The film was shot over several years due to budget constraints. The eerie sound design was created using industrial noises and animal sounds.


The Shining (1980)
Description: A masterclass in psychological horror, featuring a protagonist descending into madness in an isolated setting. The film's use of surreal imagery and slow-building dread creates a deeply unsettling experience.
Fact: The iconic 'Here's Johnny!' line was improvised by Jack Nicholson. The hedge maze scene was filmed using a miniature set and forced perspective to create the illusion of size.


Possession (1981)
Description: A surreal and intense exploration of a disintegrating relationship, with themes of madness and supernatural horror. The film's chaotic energy and disturbing imagery make it a standout in psychological horror.
Fact: The film was banned in several countries due to its extreme content. The subway scene was filmed in a real, abandoned station in Berlin.


The Vanishing (1988)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores obsession and the unknown, with a protagonist who becomes increasingly desperate. The film's slow, methodical pacing and shocking conclusion create a lasting sense of dread.
Fact: The film's director refused to allow a Hollywood remake to change the original's bleak ending. The antagonist's calm demeanor makes his actions even more terrifying.


The Others (2001)
Description: A gothic horror film that plays with perception and reality, featuring a protagonist who begins to question the nature of their surroundings. The film's slow reveal and atmospheric tension are key to its unsettling effect.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in Spain, using natural light to enhance its eerie atmosphere. It was one of the highest-grossing Spanish films at the time of its release.


Black Swan (2010)
Description: A psychological thriller that explores the disintegration of the protagonist's mind under pressure. The film's use of body horror and surreal imagery creates a sense of unease and disorientation.
Fact: Natalie Portman trained in ballet for over a year to prepare for her role. The film's intense shooting schedule mirrored the protagonist's mental and physical breakdown.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: A horror film that delves into grief and mental illness, with a protagonist who becomes increasingly unstable. The film's use of shadow and sound design creates a pervasive sense of dread.
Fact: The Babadook character was created using practical effects and stop-motion animation. The film's director also wrote the children's book featured in the movie.


Hereditary (2018)
Description: A family drama turned horror, exploring themes of grief and inherited trauma. The film's slow-building tension and shocking imagery create a deeply unsettling atmosphere.
Fact: The miniature models in the film were created by the protagonist actress herself. The film's climax was shot in one continuous take to heighten the tension.
