Top Rated Thriller Films According To IMDB To Watch This Halloween

Halloween, the spookiest time of the year, calls for a thrilling movie night that will send shivers down your spine. If you're in the mood for heart-pounding suspense, bone-chilling thrills, and mind-bending plot twists, look no further! 

We've compiled a list of the top-rated thriller films according to IMDB ratings that are sure to make your Halloween movie marathon an unforgettable experience. Our Thriller film recommendations include Bong Joon-ho’s award winning Parasite from 2019 and older classics you must see including Kurosawa’s Japanese crime thriller from 1963, High And Low.

Let us know how many of these top rated thriller films you have seen below.

The Dark Knight (2008)

Directed by Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight is a thrilling superhero crime film that delves into the moral complexities and psychological battles between Batman (Christian Bale) and the Joker (Heath Ledger). The film explores themes of chaos, morality, and the nature of heroism. The Dark Knight is considered one of the top-rated thriller films of all time due to its compelling narrative, intense action sequences, and Heath Ledger's iconic portrayal of the Joker. Nolan's masterful direction, combined with the film's exploration of complex characters and ethical dilemmas, sets it apart as a genre-defining and critically acclaimed thriller.

Mirror Game (2016)

Directed by Vijit Sharma, Mirror Game is an Indian psychological thriller that revolves around a renowned psychologist, Dr. Roy Kapoor (Parvin Dabas), and his patient, Professor Rudra (Dhruv Bali). As the two engage in a high-stakes mind game, secrets and hidden motives are revealed. Mirror Game is regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its gripping narrative, intricate plotting, and psychological depth. The film keeps viewers guessing until the final twist, offering a thrilling and suspenseful experience.

Inception (2010)

Directed by Christopher Nolan, Inception is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller that explores the world of dreams and the power of the subconscious. Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his team specialise in entering people's dreams to extract or plant information. Inception is highly acclaimed for its innovative concept, intricate plot, and stunning visual effects. It is considered one of the top-rated thrillers due to its complex narrative layers, thought-provoking themes, and Nolan's exceptional direction. The film's blend of thrilling action, philosophical questions, and emotional depth makes it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Se7en (1995)

Directed by David Fincher, Se7en is a dark crime thriller that follows two detectives, played by Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt, as they hunt down a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as inspiration for his gruesome murders. Se7en is hailed as one of the top-rated thrillers of all time for its atmospheric tension, captivating performances, and Fincher's meticulous direction. The film's gritty depiction of urban decay, moral ambiguity, and its relentless exploration of the human psyche contribute to its enduring popularity and critical acclaim.

The Silence Of The Lambs (1991)

Directed by Jonathan Demme, The Silence of the Lambs is a chilling psychological thriller based on Thomas Harris' novel. The film revolves around young FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) as she seeks the help of incarcerated cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) to catch another serial killer known as Buffalo Bill. The Silence of the Lambs is regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its masterful performances, gripping suspense, and psychological cat-and-mouse game. The film's complex characters, tense atmosphere, and exploration of the darkest corners of the human mind make it an unforgettable and haunting thriller.

The Departed (2006)

Directed by Martin Scorsese, The Departed is a crime thriller set in the gritty underworld of Boston. The film follows two men, an undercover cop (Leonardo DiCaprio) and a mole inside the police force (Matt Damon), as they try to uncover each other's identity. The Departed is praised as one of the top-rated thrillers for its electrifying performances, intricate plotting, and Scorsese's masterful direction. The film's exploration of loyalty, duplicity, and the blurred lines between good and evil, combined with its intense action and suspense, cements its status as a modern classic in the thriller genre.

Parasite (2019)

Directed by Bong Joon-ho, Parasite is a South Korean black comedy thriller that delves into the class divide and the complex dynamics between two families from different socioeconomic backgrounds. The film follows the impoverished Kim family as they infiltrate the lives of the wealthy Park family through a series of deceptions. Parasite made history by becoming the first South Korean film to win the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and later the Academy Award for Best Picture. It is hailed as one of the top-rated thrillers for its brilliant storytelling, sharp social commentary, and Bong Joon-ho's masterful direction. The film's blend of dark humour, suspense, and exploration of the human condition makes it a thought-provoking and riveting cinematic experience.

The Prestige (2006)

Directed by Christopher Nolan, The Prestige is a mind-bending thriller that follows two rival magicians, played by Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale, as they engage in a deadly competition to create the ultimate illusion. The film explores themes of obsession, sacrifice, and the lengths people will go to for success. The Prestige is considered one of the top-rated thriller films due to its intricate storytelling, exceptional performances, and Nolan's expert direction. Its non-linear narrative, twists and turns, and examination of the dark side of ambition make it a compelling and highly regarded thriller.

Leon (1994)

Directed by Luc Besson, Leon (also known as The Professional) is a French thriller about a hitman named Leon (Jean Reno) who forms an unexpected bond with a young girl named Mathilda (Natalie Portman) after her family is killed by corrupt police officers. The film delves into themes of redemption, loneliness, and the blurred lines between good and evil. Leon is revered as one of the top-rated thrillers for its gripping performances, stylish direction, and the unique relationship between its two central characters. Besson's skillful storytelling and the emotional depth of the film set it apart as a memorable and intense thriller.

The Usual Suspects (1995)

Directed by Bryan Singer, The Usual Suspects is a neo-noir thriller that follows a group of criminals who meet during a police lineup and become embroiled in a mysterious and convoluted heist. The film weaves a complex narrative as it explores themes of deception, identity, and unreliable narration. The Usual Suspects is acclaimed as one of the top-rated thrillers for its stellar ensemble cast, particularly Kevin Spacey's Oscar-winning performance, its intricate plot twists, and Singer's stylish direction. The film's unexpected ending and the power of its storytelling have solidified its place as a beloved and influential thriller.

Psycho (1960)

Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, Psycho is a seminal psychological thriller that follows Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) as she checks into the isolated Bates Motel, only to encounter the enigmatic Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins). The film explores themes of identity, madness, and the nature of evil. Psycho is regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its groundbreaking narrative, masterful suspense, and its shocking shower scene that has become an iconic moment in cinema. Hitchcock's direction, Bernard Herrmann's haunting score, and Perkins' chilling performance all contribute to making Psycho a timeless classic in the thriller genre.

Rear Window (1954)

Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, Rear Window is a suspenseful thriller that centres around a wheelchair-bound photographer, played by James Stewart, who believes he witnessed a murder from his apartment window. As he becomes increasingly obsessed with solving the mystery, the film explores themes of voyeurism, guilt, and the dangerous allure of curiosity. Rear Window is celebrated as one of the top-rated thrillers for its innovative storytelling, Hitchcock's masterful direction, and its ability to create tension within the confines of a single location. The film's examination of human nature and its exploration of the ethics of watching have made it an enduring classic in the thriller genre.

Aliens (1986)

Directed by James Cameron, Aliens is a thrilling science fiction action film and a sequel to Ridley Scott's Alien. Set in a future where a group of marines is sent to investigate a colony on a distant planet, the film follows Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) as she confronts a horde of deadly extra-terrestrial creatures. Aliens is revered as one of the top-rated thrillers for its intense action sequences, memorable characters, and the powerful performance by Sigourney Weaver. Cameron's direction, the film's expert blend of suspense and high-octane action, and the iconic Alien creature design have solidified its status as a beloved and influential thriller.

Joker (2019)

Directed by Todd Phillips, Joker is a psychological thriller that serves as an origin story for the iconic Batman villain, the Joker, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix. The film delves into the descent of Arthur Fleck, a struggling comedian, into madness and criminality. Joker is highly regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its bold and compelling character study, Phoenix's transformative performance, and Phillips' gritty direction. The film explores themes of mental illness, societal decay, and the consequences of neglect, creating a haunting and thought-provoking portrayal of one of the most iconic villains in popular culture.

Dark Knight Rises (2012)

Directed by Christopher Nolan, The Dark Knight Rises is the thrilling conclusion to Nolan's Batman trilogy. Set eight years after the events of The Dark Knight, the film follows Batman (Christian Bale) as he faces the formidable villain Bane (Tom Hardy) and must rise to the challenge of saving Gotham City from destruction. The Dark Knight Rises is one of the top-rated thriller films due to its epic scale, complex storytelling, and powerful performances. Nolan's expert direction, the film's exploration of themes like justice and sacrifice, and the intense action sequences make it a highly regarded and satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.

Old Boy (2003)

Directed by Park Chan-wook, Oldboy is a South Korean neo-noir thriller that tells the story of Oh Dae-su (Choi Min-sik), a man who is mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years and seeks revenge once he is released. The film delves into themes of revenge, obsession, and the consequences of one's actions. Oldboy is revered as one of the top-rated thrillers for its mesmerising cinematography, shocking twists, and intense performances. Park Chan-wook's visionary direction, the film's unflinching portrayal of violence, and its exploration of the darkest aspects of human nature make it a haunting and unforgettable thriller.

Memento (2000)

Directed by Christopher Nolan, Memento is a mind-bending psychological thriller that follows Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce), a man suffering from anterograde amnesia who is searching for his wife's killer. The film is known for its unique non-linear narrative structure, presenting the story in reverse order, and gradually revealing clues and fragments of Leonard's memory. Memento is considered one of the top-rated thrillers for its innovative storytelling technique, intricate plot, and exploration of memory, identity, and the nature of truth. Nolan's masterful direction, the film's gripping atmosphere, and Pearce's compelling performance make it a standout and highly regarded thriller.

Come And See (1985)

Directed by Elem Klimov, Come and See is a Soviet war drama-thriller set during World War II. The film follows a young Belarusian boy, Florya (Aleksey Kravchenko), who joins the resistance against the Nazis and witnesses the horrors of war. Come and See is highly acclaimed for its raw and realistic portrayal of the brutality and psychological impact of war. It is regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its unflinching examination of the human cost of conflict, its powerful performances, and Klimov's striking direction. The film's haunting visuals, emotional depth, and its ability to evoke a sense of urgency and tension contribute to its status as a masterpiece of the genre.

The Lives Of Others (2006)

Directed by Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, The Lives of Others is a German drama-thriller set in East Germany during the Cold War. The film revolves around a Stasi officer, Gerd Wiesler (Ulrich Mühe), who is assigned to survey a playwright and his actress girlfriend. As Wiesler becomes immersed in their lives, he starts to question his loyalty to the state. The Lives of Others is regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its powerful portrayal of surveillance and oppression, its examination of the individual's struggle against an oppressive system, and its exceptional performances. The film's nuanced exploration of human nature, moral dilemmas, and its expertly crafted tension make it a critically acclaimed and thought-provoking thriller.

Witness For The Prosecution (1957)

Directed by Billy Wilder, Witness for the Prosecution is a courtroom drama-thriller based on Agatha Christie's play. The film centres around the trial of Leonard Vole (Tyrone Power), a man accused of murdering a wealthy widow. As the trial unfolds, unexpected twists and revelations keep the audience on the edge of their seats. Witness for the Prosecution is considered one of the top-rated thrillers for its masterful storytelling, brilliant performances (including Marlene Dietrich and Charles Laughton), and its intricate plot full of suspense and surprises. Wilder's skilled direction, the film's sharp dialogue, and its examination of manipulation and betrayal make it a classic and beloved thriller.

High And Low (1963)

Directed by Akira Kurosawa, High and Low (Tengoku to jigoku) is a Japanese crime thriller based on Ed McBain's novel "King's Ransom." The film follows a wealthy executive, Kingo Gondo (Toshiro Mifune), whose life is turned upside down when he becomes involved in a kidnapping case. High and Low is revered as one of the top-rated thrillers for its gripping narrative, dynamic camerawork, and Kurosawa's masterful direction. The film explores themes of morality, social hierarchy, and the nature of justice. Its meticulous pacing, tension-filled scenes, and Mifune's powerful performance make it a standout thriller that showcases Kurosawa's cinematic brilliance.

Kaithi (2019)

Directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj, Kaithi is an Indian action thriller film that follows Dilli (Karthi), a recently released prisoner, who becomes entangled in a race against time to save the lives of a group of police officers held hostage by criminals. Kaithi is celebrated as one of the top-rated thriller films for its relentless pace, gripping suspense, and Kanagaraj's skillful direction. The film's innovative storytelling, high-stakes action sequences, and Karthi's intense performance make it a standout thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Drishyam 2 (2021)

Directed by Jeethu Joseph, Drishyam 2 is a Malayalam-language psychological thriller and a sequel to the highly acclaimed Drishyam. The film continues the story of Georgekutty (Mohanlal), a common man who is entangled in a web of lies and deception to protect his family. Drishyam 2 is regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its gripping narrative, intricate character development, and Joseph's expert direction. The film explores the consequences of Georgekutty's actions in the aftermath of the events depicted in the first film, delving into moral dilemmas and psychological tension. Its intelligent storytelling, Mohanlal's powerful performance, and the unexpected twists make it a must-watch thriller.

Vertigo (1958)

Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, Vertigo is a psychological thriller that follows former police detective John "Scottie" Ferguson (James Stewart) as he becomes obsessed with a mysterious woman named Madeleine (Kim Novak). The film explores themes of identity, obsession, and the power of perception. Vertigo is considered one of the top-rated thrillers for its atmospheric tension, masterful camerawork, and Hitchcock's meticulous direction. The film's exploration of complex psychological themes, its memorable performances, and its visual beauty make it a seminal work in the thriller genre.

Reservoir Dogs (1992)

Directed by Quentin Tarantino, Reservoir Dogs is a neo-noir crime thriller that centres around a group of criminals brought together for a heist gone wrong. The film delves into themes of loyalty, deception, and violence as the characters navigate the aftermath of the failed robbery. Reservoir Dogs is highly regarded as one of the top-rated thrillers for its innovative nonlinear narrative structure, Tarantino's sharp dialogue, and its ensemble cast delivering memorable performances. The film's gritty realism, tense standoffs, and exploration of the criminal underworld have made it a cult classic and a defining film in the thriller genre.

We hope you've found some new favourites in this list of top rated thrillers according to IMDB that will keep you on the edge of your seat this Halloween! 

Whether you prefer psychological mind games, supernatural terrors, or adrenaline-fueled chase sequences, there's something for everyone in this collection. 

Thanks for reading "Top Rated Thriller Films According To IMDB To Watch This Halloween" on January Media.