Madrid, the vibrant capital of Spain, has not only been a backdrop for countless films but also a character in its own right. This curated list of thrillers set in Madrid will take you on a journey through the city's underbelly, where suspense, mystery, and intrigue lurk around every corner. From political conspiracies to psychological dramas, these films showcase the darker side of Madrid, making it a perfect destination for thriller enthusiasts looking for a cinematic escape.

The Day of the Beast (1995)
Description: A priest, a metalhead, and a TV host team up to prevent the Antichrist's birth in Madrid on Christmas Eve. This blend of horror, comedy, and thriller elements makes it a standout film.
Fact: The film was a critical and commercial success in Spain, becoming a cult classic for its unique mix of genres.


The Machinist (2004)
Description: Although primarily set in Barcelona, scenes in Madrid add to the film's eerie atmosphere, where an insomniac factory worker's life spirals into paranoia and mystery.
Fact: Christian Bale lost a significant amount of weight for his role, showcasing his dedication to the character's physical and mental deterioration.


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: While not set in Madrid, this film includes scenes in the city, where a woman returns to her childhood orphanage to open a home for disabled children, only to encounter supernatural occurrences.
Fact: Directed by J.A. Bayona, this film was Spain's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 80th Academy Awards.


The Limits of Control (2009)
Description: This enigmatic film follows a mysterious lone assassin who navigates through Madrid's art galleries and cafes, engaging in cryptic conversations that lead to his next assignment. Its slow pace and surreal atmosphere make it a unique entry in the thriller genre.
Fact: The film features cameos by several notable actors including Tilda Swinton and John Hurt, and was directed by Jim Jarmusch, known for his distinctive storytelling style.


The Skin I Live In (2011)
Description: A plastic surgeon, haunted by his past, experiments with a new skin that could revolutionize burn treatment, but his motives are far from noble. Madrid's opulent settings contrast with the film's dark themes.
Fact: Directed by Pedro Almodóvar, this film explores themes of identity and revenge, and features a haunting performance by Antonio Banderas.


The Secret in Their Eyes (2009)
Description: Although not exclusively set in Madrid, this Argentine film includes scenes in the city, where a retired legal counselor writes a novel, hoping to find closure for an unsolved crime from his past.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and was remade in English in


The Last Circus (2010)
Description: Set during Franco's dictatorship, this surreal thriller features a clown who joins a circus in Madrid, leading to a violent love triangle. The film's dark humor and grotesque imagery make it a unique thriller.
Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of Franco's regime and was not well-received by all critics, but it has a cult following for its bold storytelling.


The Body (2012)
Description: A gripping Spanish thriller where a woman's body disappears from a morgue, leading to a complex investigation that unravels a web of deceit and murder. Madrid's urban landscape adds to the film's chilling atmosphere.
Fact: The film was a box office hit in Spain and has been praised for its twisty plot and strong performances, especially by Belén Rueda.


The Invisible Guest (2016)
Description: A successful businessman wakes up next to his lover's dead body in a locked room, and must prove his innocence with the help of a defense attorney. The film's setting in Madrid adds a layer of sophistication to the plot.
Fact: This film was a massive success in Spain, becoming one of the highest-grossing Spanish films of all time, and has been remade in several languages.


The Red Squirrel (1993)
Description: A man with amnesia finds himself in Madrid with a woman who claims to be his girlfriend. As he tries to piece together his past, the truth becomes increasingly elusive.
Fact: This film marked the debut of director Julio Medem and was praised for its psychological depth and the performances of its leads.
