If you enjoyed the gripping tension and psychological twists of 'Detour' (2017), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its dark, unpredictable storytelling and intense character-driven drama. Whether you're a fan of neo-noir thrillers or love a good mind-bending plot, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Memento (2000)
Description: A non-linear narrative that explores memory, identity, and deception, creating a tense and disorienting experience for the viewer.
Fact: The film's unique structure was inspired by a short story written by the director's brother, Jonathan Nolan.


The Machinist (2004)
Description: A psychological thriller that delves into the protagonist's deteriorating mental state, featuring a haunting atmosphere and themes of guilt and paranoia.
Fact: Christian Bale lost 63 pounds for his role, bringing his weight down to 120 pounds, which is one of the most extreme physical transformations in film history.


Zodiac (2007)
Description: A meticulous and atmospheric crime thriller based on real events, focusing on obsession and the elusive nature of truth.
Fact: The film's production designer recreated the 1970s San Francisco Chronicle newsroom down to the smallest details, using archival photos as reference.


Shutter Island (2010)
Description: A gripping psychological mystery set in an isolated mental institution, with themes of reality versus illusion and a deeply unreliable narrator.
Fact: The film's lighthouse scene was shot during a real hurricane, adding to the authenticity of the stormy atmosphere.


Prisoners (2013)
Description: A tense and morally ambiguous crime drama that explores desperation, vengeance, and the lengths a parent will go to for their child.
Fact: The film's screenplay was on the 'Black List' of best unproduced scripts in Hollywood for several years before being made.


The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Description: A gritty mystery with a complex female protagonist, delving into dark family secrets and violent crime in a cold, isolated setting.
Fact: The opening title sequence, featuring a surreal liquid metal effect, took six months to create and was inspired by the work of artist David Fincher.


Gone Girl (2014)
Description: A dark and twisty thriller that examines manipulation, media sensationalism, and the complexities of relationships, with a narrative full of shocking reveals.
Fact: The iconic 'cool girl' monologue was almost cut from the film but was kept after test audiences reacted strongly to it.


Coherence (2013)
Description: A mind-bending sci-fi thriller that plays with alternate realities and paranoia, all set during a seemingly normal dinner party gone wrong.
Fact: The film was shot in just five nights, with much of the dialogue improvised by the actors based on loose guidelines from the director.


Nightcrawler (2014)
Description: A chilling character study of an ambitious loner in the world of crime journalism, with themes of moral decay and the commodification of violence.
Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal lost 30 pounds for the role to achieve his character's gaunt, coyote-like appearance.


Nocturnal Animals (2016)
Description: A stylish and unsettling neo-noir that weaves together two narratives, exploring themes of revenge, regret, and the power of storytelling.
Fact: The film's striking opening sequence featuring obese nude women dancing was performed by real plus-size dancers, not CGI.
