Top 10 Thrillers About Prostitution

Description: This legal thriller involves a young boy who witnesses a suicide related to a prostitution ring. It's a gripping tale of innocence, corruption, and the fight for justice.

Fact: The film was based on John Grisham's novel. Susan Sarandon was nominated for an Academy Award for her role as the boy's lawyer.

Description: This film tells the true story of Aileen Wuornos, a prostitute turned serial killer. It's a psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a woman driven to extreme actions by her circumstances.

Fact: Charlize Theron won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her transformative role. The film was shot in Florida, where Wuornos committed her crimes.

Description: While primarily about a pedophile's attempt at redemption, the film includes themes of prostitution as part of its exploration of societal fringes and moral ambiguity.

Fact: Kevin Bacon's performance was critically acclaimed, earning him a nomination for a Golden Globe. The film was shot in Philadelphia, capturing the gritty urban environment.

Description: This film delves into the dark world of human trafficking and prostitution, focusing on a Russian mobster's involvement in the sex trade. It's a gritty, intense thriller that explores the intersection of crime, family, and redemption.

Fact: Viggo Mortensen's full-frontal nudity scene was not in the original script but was added to emphasize the character's vulnerability. The film was shot in London, with many scenes filmed in real-life locations associated with the Russian community.

Description: Based on true events, this film follows a Nebraska police officer who uncovers a human trafficking and prostitution ring involving UN peacekeepers in post-war Bosnia. It's a chilling reminder of the exploitation that can occur under the guise of peacekeeping.

Fact: Rachel Weisz, who plays the lead, was deeply involved in the research for this film, meeting with real whistleblowers and survivors. The movie was shot in Romania, which stood in for Bosnia.

Description: This horror-thriller, while not directly about prostitution, includes elements of exploitation and the dark side of human nature, making it a fitting addition to this list.

Fact: The film was shot on 16mm film to give it an authentic 1980s feel. It was inspired by classic horror films like "The Exorcist" and "Rosemary's Baby."

Description: While not exclusively about prostitution, this thriller features a subplot involving a sex trafficking ring. The film's dark atmosphere and complex characters make it a compelling watch for those interested in the darker side of human nature.

Fact: The film was adapted from Stieg Larsson's bestselling novel. The tattoo on Lisbeth Salander's back was designed by the film's costume designer and took over 40 hours to apply.

Description: Known for its non-linear narrative, this film includes a harrowing scene of violence against a woman, exploring themes of revenge, justice, and the brutality of the underworld, including prostitution.

Fact: The film was shot in reverse order, starting with the ending and moving backward. The infamous 10-minute single-take rape scene was highly controversial and remains one of cinema's most disturbing sequences.

Description: This Swedish film tells the tragic story of a teenage girl who falls into prostitution after being abandoned by her mother. It's a raw, emotional journey that highlights the vulnerability of youth and the exploitation they can face.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories of young girls trafficked from Eastern Europe. The director, Lukas Moodysson, chose to shoot in Estonia to capture the bleak atmosphere of post-Soviet life.

Description: This film, set during WWII, includes scenes where the protagonist encounters prostitution and sexual violence, offering a grim look at survival in a war-torn landscape.

Fact: The film was banned in several countries due to its graphic content. It's based on Jerzy Kosinski's novel, which was also controversial for its depiction of Eastern European life during the war.