26 International Thrillers That Will Leave You Feeling Unsettled

Get ready to dive into the world of international cinema filled with suspense, tension, and gripping narratives. If you're a fan of thrillers that push the boundaries and leave you on the edge of your seat, we've got you covered. We've compiled a list of 26 international thrillers that will leave you feeling unsettled long after the credits roll. 

From masterpieces of South Korean cinema to gripping narratives from Europe and beyond, these films offer a thrilling escape into the dark and mysterious corners of the human psyche. 

Oldboy (Park Chan-wook, 2003) [South Korea]:

"Oldboy" follows the story of Oh Dae-su, who is mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years without any explanation. Upon his sudden release, he embarks on a relentless quest for revenge, seeking answers to the enigmatic events of his past. As the pieces of the puzzle come together, the film takes unexpected twists, delving into themes of vengeance, redemption, and the dark consequences of one man's pursuit for the truth.

The Handmaiden (Park Chan-wook, 2016) [South Korea]:

"The Handmaiden" is a seductive and twist-filled tale set in 1930s Korea during the Japanese colonial era. A young Korean woman, Sook-Hee, is hired as a handmaiden to a wealthy Japanese heiress, Lady Hideko. However, as their lives become intricately entwined, alliances shift, and a web of deceit, manipulation, and desire unfolds. Blurring the lines between love and betrayal, this psychological thriller explores themes of class, power, and the complexities of human relationships.

Dogville (Lars von Trier, 2003) [Denmark, Sweden, UK, France, Germany]:

"Dogville" is a provocative and thought-provoking film that takes place in a small American town called Dogville. Grace, a mysterious woman on the run, seeks refuge in the town, only to find herself subjected to the town's residents' manipulations and exploitation. As tensions rise, the film examines themes of human nature, morality, and the dark underbelly of society, presenting a unique narrative structure and a profound exploration of power dynamics.

Thelma (Joachim Trier, 2017) [Norway, France, Denmark, Sweden]:

"Thelma" follows the story of a young woman named Thelma, who leaves her strict religious upbringing to study in Oslo, Norway. As she begins to experience intense seizures, Thelma discovers she possesses supernatural abilities tied to her repressed desires. Exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and self-discovery, the film seamlessly combines elements of psychological drama and supernatural mystery, captivating viewers with its atmospheric tension and haunting imagery.

The Innocents (Eskil Vogt, 2021) [Norway]:

"The Innocents" revolves around the life of a teenage girl named Ida, who lives in a small Norwegian town. One day, she witnesses a tragic accident and becomes entangled in a web of secrets, lies, and personal dilemmas. As Ida navigates the complexities of guilt, loss, and her own coming-of-age journey, the film delves into themes of morality, the consequences of actions, and the search for personal redemption.

The House That Jack Built (Lars von Trier, 2018) [Denmark, France, Germany, Sweden, Belgium]:

"The House That Jack Built" is a disturbing and controversial film that follows the life of Jack, a highly intelligent serial killer. Through a series of five incidents, the film explores Jack's perspective on art, beauty, and the nature of evil. Unapologetically graphic and challenging, it delves into the darkest recesses of the human psyche, forcing viewers to confront uncomfortable questions about violence, art, and the boundaries of morality.

Speak No Evil (Christian Tafdrup, 2022) [Denmark]:

"Speak No Evil" is a psychological thriller that follows the story of a troubled family. When a mysterious young woman enters their lives, long-buried secrets and resentments resurface, driving the family members to confront their inner demons. As tensions rise and the lines between reality and illusion blur, the film explores themes of identity, guilt, and the complexities of human relationships.

Burning Days (Emin Alper, 2022) [Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Netherlands, Turkey]:

"Burning Days" is a gripping political thriller set in a fictional near-future dystopian society. As tensions escalate between the government and dissidents, the film follows the journey of a young woman who becomes entangled in a web of conspiracy and rebellion. Against the backdrop of a totalitarian regime, it examines themes of oppression, resistance, and the struggle for freedom.

Black Book (Paul Verhoeven, 2006) [Netherlands, Germany, UK, Belgium]:

"Black Book" is a World War II thriller set in the Netherlands during the Nazi occupation. The film follows the story of Rachel Stein, a Jewish woman who becomes a spy for the Dutch resistance. As she infiltrates the enemy's ranks, she faces danger, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. Filled with suspense, twists, and a complex web of alliances, "Black Book" explores themes of identity, survival, and the human capacity for deception.

Mandy (Panos Cosmatos, 2018) [USA, Belgium]:

"Mandy" is a psychedelic revenge thriller that takes viewers on a surreal journey of vengeance and madness. When a cult leader targets Red Miller's beloved Mandy, he embarks on a brutal quest for revenge. Fueled by grief and rage, Red faces otherworldly adversaries and descends into a nightmarish realm. This visually stunning film combines elements of horror, fantasy, and psychological drama, exploring themes of loss, justice, and the power of love.

The Neon Demon (Nicolas Winding Refn, 2016) [USA, Denmark, France]:

"The Neon Demon" is a visually striking thriller set in the Los Angeles fashion industry. The film follows an aspiring young model named Jesse as she enters a world of beauty, jealousy, and obsession. As her innocence collides with the dark side of the industry, Jesse becomes entangled in a web of narcissism, manipulation, and violence. With its stylish cinematography and haunting atmosphere, the film delves into themes of youth, beauty, and the allure of fame.

Vivarium (Lorcan Finnegan, 2019) [Ireland, Belgium, Denmark]:

"Vivarium" is a suspenseful sci-fi thriller that centres around a young couple who find themselves trapped in a suburban neighbourhood with no means of escape. As they try to unravel the mystery of their confinement, they are subjected to increasingly unsettling and surreal experiences. Exploring themes of isolation, societal conformity, and the loss of personal agency, the film offers a chilling reflection on the human condition.

When the Waves Are Gone (Lav Diaz, 2022) [Philippines]:

"When the Waves Are Gone" is an introspective drama that takes place in a remote coastal village in the Philippines. The film explores the lives of its residents, each grappling with personal struggles, existential questions, and the weight of their pasts. Through its slow-paced and contemplative storytelling, the film delves into themes of time, memory, and the search for meaning in a world marked by transience and change.

Suspiria (Luca Guadagnino, 2018) [Italy, USA]:

"Suspiria" is a supernatural horror film set in 1970s Berlin. It follows a young American dancer named Susie Bannion, who joins a prestigious dance academy. As she becomes entangled in a web of dark secrets and supernatural occurrences, the film explores themes of witchcraft, female power, and the destructive forces that lie beneath the surface. With its atmospheric visuals and intense performances, "Suspiria" offers a chilling and visually stunning exploration of terror and madness.

Don't Look Now (Nicolas Roeg, 1973) [UK, Italy]:

"Don't Look Now" is a psychological thriller that follows a grieving couple, John and Laura Baxter, as they travel to Venice after the tragic death of their daughter. While there, they encounter a series of eerie and inexplicable events that heighten their sense of unease and foreboding. Blurring the line between reality and the supernatural, the film delves into themes of grief, paranoia, and the fragility of the human mind.

Cairo Conspiracy (Tarik Saleh, 2022) [Sweden, Egypt, Norway, Denmark, Finland]:

"Cairo Conspiracy" is a political thriller set in Cairo, Egypt. The film centres around a police officer named Noredin, who is tasked with investigating the murder of a famous singer in the midst of a tumultuous political landscape. As Noredin delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of corruption, conspiracy, and personal betrayal. Through its gripping narrative, the film examines themes of power, justice, and the struggle for truth in a complex and volatile society.

Suburbicon (George Clooney, 2017) [USA, UK]:

"Suburbicon" is a dark comedy crime thriller set in the seemingly idyllic suburban neighbourhood of Suburbicon in the 1950s. The film follows the story of the seemingly perfect Lodge family, whose lives unravel when a home invasion goes awry. As secrets are exposed and tensions rise, the dark underbelly of Suburbicon is revealed. Exploring themes of racism, deceit, and suburban hypocrisy, the film offers a satirical and unsettling commentary on the American Dream.

Hotel Mumbai (Anthony Maras, 2018) [Australia, USA, UK, India]:

"Hotel Mumbai" is a gripping thriller based on the true events of the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks. The film takes place in the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, where guests and staff find themselves trapped in a harrowing fight for survival against the terrorists. Through its intense and suspenseful narrative, the film explores themes of courage, resilience, and the extraordinary acts of ordinary people in the face of unimaginable terror.

Knowing (Alex Proyas, 2009) [USA, UK, Australia]:

"Knowing" is a sci-fi thriller that follows the story of a professor who discovers a mysterious numerical code predicting major global disasters. As he unravels the pattern, he realizes the code holds a terrifying truth about the future of humanity. With its blend of suspense, apocalyptic themes, and a race against time, "Knowing" explores themes of fate, existentialism, and the human struggle to comprehend the unknown.

Come to Daddy (Ant Timpson, 2019) [New Zealand, Canada, Ireland, USA]:

"Come to Daddy" is a dark comedy thriller that follows the story of a man named Norval Greenwood, who travels to a remote coastal cabin to reconnect with his estranged father. However, as tensions rise and secrets are revealed, the seemingly simple reunion takes a twisted and violent turn. With its mix of humour, suspense, and unexpected twists, the film explores themes of family, identity, and the dark side of human relationships.

Bacurau (Kleber Mendonça Filho, Juliano Dornelles, 2019) [Brazil, France]:

"Bacurau" is a Brazilian Western thriller set in a small village called Bacurau. The film explores the community's struggle against an impending threat when they discover they have been erased from the map. As tensions rise and violence ensues, the villagers must unite and fight for their survival against a group of outsiders. With its mix of genre elements, social commentary, and gripping storytelling, "Bacurau" offers a thrilling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.

The Lighthouse (Robert Eggers, 2019) [USA, Canada]:

"The Lighthouse" is a psychological horror film set in the late 19th century. It follows the story of two lighthouse keepers, Thomas Wake and Ephraim Winslow, who are stationed on a remote and mysterious island. As isolation and madness set in, their sanity and identities become blurred, leading to a descent into darkness and turmoil. With its atmospheric black-and-white cinematography and intense performances, "The Lighthouse" explores themes of isolation, power dynamics, and the human psyche.

The Secret in Their Eyes (Juan José Campanella, 2009) [Argentina, Spain]:

"The Secret in Their Eyes" is an Argentine-Spanish crime thriller that weaves together past and present narratives. The film follows a retired legal counsellor who decides to write a novel based on an unresolved murder case from his past. As he delves into the investigation once again, old wounds reopen, and the search for justice becomes intertwined with personal redemption. Through its intricate storytelling and emotional depth, "The Secret in Their Eyes" explores themes of love, loss, and the enduring impact of the past.

Sicario (Denis Villeneuve, 2015) [USA]:

"Sicario" is a gripping crime thriller that delves into the complexities of the war on drugs along the U.S.-Mexico border. The film follows an idealistic FBI agent who joins a task force aiming to take down a powerful drug cartel. As she navigates the morally ambiguous world of law enforcement, she becomes entangled in a dangerous web of violence, corruption, and shifting loyalties. With its intense and visceral portrayal of the drug trade, "Sicario" explores themes of morality, justice, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

Amores Perros (Alejandro González Iñárritu, 2000) [Mexico]:

"Amores Perros" is a Mexican drama thriller comprising of three interconnected stories that explore the lives of characters brought together by a car accident in Mexico City. Through its nonlinear narrative, the film delves into themes of love, loss, and the gritty realities of urban life. With its raw and intense performances, "Amores Perros" offers a visceral portrayal of human relationships, highlighting the fragility and resilience of the human spirit.

The Ritual (David Bruckner, 2017) [Canada, USA, UK]:

"The Ritual" is a supernatural horror film that follows a group of friends who embark on a hiking trip in the Swedish wilderness. However, they soon find themselves haunted by a malevolent presence in the forest. As their fears and tensions escalate, the line between reality and nightmare becomes increasingly blurred. Through its atmospheric setting and psychological horror, "The Ritual" explores themes of guilt, trauma, and the terrifying power of ancient folklore.

Whether you enjoy the adrenaline rush of a psychological mind game or the heart-pounding intensity of a suspenseful chase, these international thrillers have a way of leaving a lasting impact. 

From the captivating storytelling of Park Chan-wook and the boundary-pushing narratives of Lars von Trier, to the pulse-pounding suspense crafted by directors from various corners of the world, these international thrillers offer a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

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