If you're a fan of suspense, science, and the unexpected, then this curated list of thriller films centered around laboratory experiments is just for you. These movies delve into the dark corners of scientific exploration, where the line between discovery and disaster blurs. From genetic mutations to psychological experiments gone awry, each film offers a unique take on the perils and potentials of lab work. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of suspense, ethical dilemmas, and mind-bending twists.

Altered States (1980)
Description: A Harvard scientist experiments with altered states of consciousness, leading to physical and psychological transformations. It's a mind-bending journey into the unknown.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the concept of sensory deprivation tanks in cinema.


The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: After a car accident, a schoolteacher gains the ability to see the future, leading him to confront a potential political disaster. It's a suspenseful exploration of fate and free will.
Fact: The film is based on Stephen King's novel of the same name.


The Fly (1986)
Description: A scientist's teleportation experiment goes horribly wrong when he merges his DNA with that of a fly. This film is a classic example of how lab experiments can lead to monstrous consequences.
Fact: The film's special effects were groundbreaking at the time, earning it an Academy Award for Best Makeup.


Flatliners (1990)
Description: Medical students experiment with near-death experiences, but their actions come back to haunt them. It's a psychological thriller about the consequences of tampering with life and death.
Fact: The film was remade in 2017, but the original remains a cult classic.


The Island of Dr. Moreau (1996)
Description: A shipwrecked man discovers a mad scientist's island where he conducts experiments to create human-animal hybrids. The film explores themes of creation, control, and the ethics of genetic manipulation.
Fact: The film had a notoriously troubled production, with multiple directors and script changes.


The Cell (2000)
Description: A psychologist enters the mind of a comatose serial killer to find his latest victim. It's a blend of psychological thriller and sci-fi, exploring the dark recesses of the human psyche.
Fact: The film's visual effects were highly praised, showcasing the inner workings of the mind.


The Experiment (2010)
Description: Based on the infamous Stanford prison experiment, this film shows how a group of men turn into tyrants and victims when placed in a simulated prison environment.
Fact: The film is a remake of the German film "Das Experiment" from


Splice (2009)
Description: Two genetic engineers create a new organism, leading to unforeseen and terrifying results. It's a chilling reminder of the ethical boundaries in scientific research.
Fact: The creature, Dren, was portrayed by both a male and female actor to show its gender transformation.


The Invisible Man (2020)
Description: A modern take on the classic tale where a scientist uses an invisibility suit to terrorize his ex-girlfriend. It delves into themes of control, abuse, and the misuse of scientific discovery.
Fact: The film was praised for its innovative use of practical effects to depict invisibility.


The Lazarus Effect (2015)
Description: A group of researchers bring a dead subject back to life, only to find that the resurrected individual has unexpected side effects. This film explores the moral implications of playing God.
Fact: The title refers to the biblical story of Lazarus, who was raised from the dead by Jesus.
