8 Recommendations for Psychological Thriller Movies, Some Starring Natalie Portman

GOODNIGHT MOMMY (2014) – Original Version from Austria This Austrian film tells the story of twin children who begin to suspect that their mother, who has just undergone facial surgery, is not the person they know. With a chilling atmosphere and a shocking twist, GOODNIGHT MOMMY is a perfect example of a psychological thriller that creates tension slowly but surely.

THE VISIT (2015)  Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, THE VISIT combines elements of horror and psychological thriller in the form of found footage (video recordings captured by characters in the story). The film tells the story of two siblings who visit their grandparents for the first time, only to discover that something is very wrong with their behavior. With Shyamalan's signature plot twist, the film successfully creates an uncomfortable and tense atmosphere until the end.

1922 (2017)  Adapted from the novella by Stephen King, 1922 tells the story of Wilfred James, a farmer who plans the murder of his wife with the help of his son. After the crime is committed, they are haunted by guilt and strange occurrences. With an unusual plot and a grim atmosphere, this film offers chilling tension and stirs the emotions of the audience.

SMILE (2022)  This film successfully blends horror and psychological thriller with a unique storyline. SMILE tells the story of a therapist who begins to experience strange occurrences after one of her patients commits suicide in front of her. The film presents deep trauma manifested in a terrifying smile, leaving the audience constantly questioning what is really happening.

IT FOLLOWS (2014)  Many may not know about this film, but IT FOLLOWS is a psychological horror film that presents a new concept in the world of terror. The story is about a curse that is transmitted through intimate relationships, where the victim must constantly flee from a mysterious creature that never stops chasing them. 

THE HIDDEN FACE (2011)  This Spanish film is a perfect blend of mystery, love, and psychological thriller. THE HIDDEN FACE tells the story of a man searching for his mysteriously missing girlfriend. Throughout the film, the audience is taken on a journey filled with enigmas. This film not only surprises with its twists but also presents an in-depth study of obsession and trust in a relationship.

BLACK SWAN (2010)  Directed by Darren Aronofsky, BLACK SWAN is a psychological thriller that explores the line between ambition and mental destruction. Natalie Portman plays a ballerina obsessed with achieving perfection in her role as the Swan Queen, but as she becomes more immersed in her character, the line between reality and hallucination blurs. The film is not only tense but its scenes linger in the minds of the audience.

OLDBOY (2003)  This iconic work from South Korea tells the story of a man who is imprisoned for 15 years without reason, only to be released and given five days to find out who trapped him. OLDBOY is a journey of revenge, betrayal, and mental suffering, with a shocking twist at the end. The film is not only a gripping psychological thriller but also about justice.