The unsettling narrative of *Saltburn*, featuring a character involved in desperate acts at a literal grave, has earned the film its reputation as “disturbingly beautiful”according to critic reviews. Starring notable actors like Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, and Rosamund Pike, the film tells the story of Oliver Quick, an Oxford University student portrayed by the *Eternals* actor.
The plot follows Oliver as he struggles to adjust to life at Oxford. He becomes enamored with his aristocratic classmate, Felix Catton, played by Elordi, and reluctantly joins Felix and his family for a summer vacation. However, Oliver’s obsession with Felix spirals out of control, leading to chaos throughout the narrative.
Directed by Emerald Fennell, *Saltburn* explores themes of class disparity, identity, and the darker aspects of human interactions. Currently, there are no sequels planned, yet cinephiles can explore several films that encapsulate the essence of *Saltburn*.
8 Movies Similar to Saltburn That Capture Its Psychological Thrills and More
If you’re seeking similarly intense and unconventional films reminiscent of *Saltburn*, consider the following eight recommendations:
- Promising Young Woman
- The Killing of a Sacred Deer
- Parasite
- Gone Girl
- Thoroughbreds
- Ready or Not
- The Talented Mr. Ripley
- The Menu
1) Promising Young Woman (2020) – Peacock, Fubo
Both *Saltburn* and *Promising Young Woman* create discomfort through their narratives. With Emerald Fennell directing both films, they share a dark and unconventional ethos alongside multifaceted characters.
In *Promising Young Woman*, Carey Mulligan plays Cassie Thomas, who leads a double life. By day, she appears vulnerable, but by night, she takes revenge on predatory men responsible for her best friend’s tragic fate.
A film rich in tension and dark humor, *Promising Young Woman* blends character motivations with twists, as Cassie’s pursuit of justice morphs into a dangerous obsession.
2) The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017) – HBO Max
Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, *The Killing of a Sacred Deer* centers on a surgeon named Steven Murphy and his connection with a teenage boy named Martin. As their relational dynamics shift, Martin begins to exert control over Steven and his family.
As the plot unfolds, Steven faces outrageous moral dilemmas while remaining oblivious to the boy’s ominous agenda, dangerously impacting his personal and professional life. The film delivers chilling encounters that leave audiences on edge.
Much like *Saltburn*, this 2017 film features Barry Keoghan as Martin alongside Colin Farrell as Steven. Both films successfully create a tense atmosphere filled with shocking psychological elements.
3) Parasite (2019) – HBO Max
Winners of the Oscar for Best Picture, *Parasite* adopts a darkly comedic narrative. It follows the struggling Kim family as they devise schemes to penetrate the lives of the affluent Parks family, employing clever tactics to infiltrate their circle.
With morally ambiguous motives, high-stakes situations, and an ambiance of suspense throughout its runtime, *Parasite* captivates its audience fully.
4) Gone Girl (2014) – Apple TV, Prime Video
Directed by David Fincher and adapted from Gillian Flynn’s 2012 novel, *Gone Girl* features Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike as Nick and Amy Dunne. The film unearths buried secrets, affairs, betrayals, and deceptions that unravel into a gripping narrative.
The plot commences when Nick returns home to find Amy missing on their fifth wedding anniversary, leading to a spiraling investigation that uncovers dark truths.
*Gone Girl*, like *Saltburn*, employs shocking plot twists that exploit its psychological thrills and provide audiences with a whirlwind experience.
5) Thoroughbreds (2018) – Apple TV, Prime Video
*Thoroughbreds* features Olivia Cooke as Amanda and Anya Taylor-Joy as Lily, who rekindle their friendship after years apart. Amanda, with her lack of empathy, and Lily, who struggles with depression, plot manipulative schemes against those around them.
However, as their plan escalates, their descent into dark and chilling territory intensifies. The film culminates in a disturbing finale that mirrors elements of *Saltburn*.
6) Ready or Not (2017) – Hulu, FX Now
In contrast to Oliver’s obsession in *Saltburn*, *Ready or Not* features Samara Weaving as Grace, a bride fighting for survival on her wedding night. The story escalates when Grace unveils the horrifying truth about her new in-laws’ deadly family ritual during a seemingly innocent hide-and-seek game.
This dark psychological horror film skillfully builds tension, maintaining suspense until the thrilling climax consumes the audience.
7) The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999) – Paramount+
Nominated for five Academy Awards, *The Talented Mr. Ripley* stars Matt Damon as Tom Ripley, a New York con artist who becomes engulfed in greed. He is hired to manipulate and retrieve Dickie, the son of a shipping magnate, resulting in a web of lies and his obsessive desire to emulate Dickie’s extravagant lifestyle.
Similar to *Saltburn*, this film illustrates how desperation leads individuals to extremes to secure wealth and status.
8) The Menu (2022) – Fubo, FX Now, Prime Video
The plot centers around Chef Slowik, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, who prepares an exclusive menu at a remote island restaurant named Claude’s. An elite couple, Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) and Tyler (Nicholas Hoult), arrive eager to taste this unique gastronomical experience.
This film interweaves themes of control, identity, and moral ambiguity, unveiling a darkly humorous narrative comparable to *Saltburn*.
Filled with elements of mystery, introspection, horror, and psychological drama, these eight recommendations are sure to enhance the thrill for those searching for films akin to *Saltburn*.
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