The Best Psychopath Films with Twist Endings that Will Give You Chills

Psychopath-themed films always present an unusual tension. Characters with a dark side, inner conflicts, and surprise-filled plots keep the audience guessing until the end of the story. It's no wonder that a list of the best psychopath films often becomes a choice for thriller and psychological drama lovers who want to experience a chilling sensation along with a story that has deep layers of meaning.

From the story of a successful executive hiding dark secrets to the portrait of an individual under pressure who transforms into a dangerous figure, each title offers a memorable twist ending. Here is a list of the best psychopath films that are not only thrilling but also receive high ratings and are strengthened by the performances of top stars.

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1. AMERICAN PSYCHO (2000)

AMERICAN PSYCHO (credit: imdb )

AMERICAN PSYCHO tells the story of Patrick Bateman, a successful young executive in 1980s New York who lives in luxury. Behind his perfect image, he harbors psychopathic tendencies filled with obsession for social status, appearance, and control.

His seemingly normal routine gradually transforms into a series of brutal actions that question the line between reality and delusion. The film also offers a sharp critique of materialism and narcissism.

The film received a rating of 7.6/10 on IMDb and stars Christian Bale as Bateman, alongside Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Josh Lucas, Samantha Mathis, Chloë Sevigny, and Reese Witherspoon. The film has a runtime of approximately 101 minutes.

2. JOKER (2019)

JOKER (credit: imdb)

JOKER highlights the life of Arthur Fleck, a failed comedian who is depressed by the harshness of Gotham City. He lives in social isolation, suffers from mental disorders, and often becomes a victim of bullying. The mounting frustration slowly triggers a drastic change in him until he transforms into the chaotic figure of the Joker. His transformation is depicted gradually and emotionally, allowing the audience to witness the birth of an iconic antagonist.

With a rating of 8.3/10 on IMDb, the film received positive responses. Joaquin Phoenix plays Arthur Fleck, supported by Robert De Niro and Zazie Beetz.

3. US (2019)

US (credit: imdb)

US tells the story of the Wilson family who go on vacation to Santa Cruz to enjoy time together. However, the relaxed atmosphere turns into a nightmare when a group of mysterious figures appear in their yard and turn out to have identical faces to theirs.

This terror forces the family to confront the dark sides that literally represent themselves. The tension rises as the identities and motives of the "doppelgängers" begin to be revealed.

IMDb gives this film a rating of 6.8/10. Lupita Nyong'o, Winston Duke, and Elisabeth Moss star as the main cast.

4. NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN (2007)

NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN (credit: imdb)

NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN follows Llewelyn Moss who finds millions of dollars at a failed drug deal site in the Texas desert. The decision to take the money drags him into a deadly hunt by Anton Chigurh, a cold, uncompromising psychopathic hitman.

This chase is relentless, creating constant tension. The film also presents reflections on morality and the inevitable violence.

With a rating of 8.2/10 on IMDb, the film stars Josh Brolin, Javier Bardem, and Tommy Lee Jones.

5. DIE MY LOVE (2025)

DIE MY LOVE (credit: imdb)

DIE MY LOVE tells the story of Grace and Jackson who live in a remote house in Montana after receiving a family inheritance. Their initially warm life changes when Grace experiences postpartum depression after giving birth. Her mental condition worsens, triggering tension and danger within their household. The film highlights the psychological pressure of a young mother who feels trapped in loneliness and losing control over reality.

The film has a rating of around 6.1/10 on IMDb. Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson lead the cast, alongside Sissy Spacek, Nick Nolte, and LaKeith Stanfield.

6. THE HOUSEMAID (2025)

THE HOUSEMAID (credit: imdb)

THE HOUSEMAID follows Millie Calloway, who works as a maid in the seemingly perfect Winchester family home. Over time, she begins to notice strange behaviors and tensions within the family, particularly from the lady of the house.

Secret after secret is revealed, trapping Millie in a dangerous situation that tests her courage. The atmosphere of the luxurious home slowly transforms into a space filled with psychological threats.

An IMDb rating of around 7.0/10 indicates positive responses. Sydney Sweeney, Amanda Seyfried, and Brandon Sklenar star in this film.

7. BUGONIA (2025)

BUGONIA (credit: imdb)

BUGONIA tells the story of Michelle Fuller, the CEO of a pharmaceutical company, who is kidnapped by two men who subscribe to conspiracy theories. They believe that Michelle is a dangerous alien disguised as a human and must be stopped to save the world.

Tension arises from the dynamics between the delusional beliefs of the kidnappers and Michelle's struggle for survival. The film explores paranoia, manipulation, and the thin line between belief and madness.

The film has received a rating of around 7.5/10 on IMDb. Emma Stone stars as Michelle, supported by Jesse Plemons and Aidan Delbis.

8. SALTBURN (2023)

SALTBURN (credit: imdb)

SALTBURN follows Oliver Quick, who is captivated by an elite lifestyle after being invited to the luxurious home of the Catton family. Initially, he is just in awe, but gradually his obsession with the family's life deepens. The relationship that develops becomes manipulative and full of secrets. The seemingly glamorous summer ultimately reveals the dark side of ambition and jealousy.

With a rating of 7.0/10 on IMDb, the film stars Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, and Rosamund Pike.

9. PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN (2020)

PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN (credit: imdb)

PROMISING YOUNG WOMAN focuses on Cassie Thomas, who harbors past trauma from the tragedy that befell her best friend. She lives a double life, devising plans to confront men who exploit women in vulnerable situations. Her meticulously crafted strategy takes the story in unexpected directions. The film combines drama, social critique, and strong psychological tension.

IMDb gives it a rating of 7.5/10. Carey Mulligan leads the film alongside Bo Burnham, Alison Brie, Clancey Brown, Laverne Cox, and Jennifer Coolidge.

10. ORPHAN (2009)

ORPHAN (credit: imdb)

Psychopath films often captivate due to their complex characters with deep inner conflicts. The audience is invited to delve into unusual perspectives while experiencing intense emotional tension.

In addition to offering twist endings, these films also raise social issues, morality, and mental health. The combination of strong acting and surprising plots keeps this genre popular to this day.

11. FAQ

1. What is meant by a psychopath movie?
A psychopath movie is a genre that features characters with extreme psychological disorders or dangerous behaviors. The story typically highlights the inner conflict, obsessions, and violent actions of the main character, often accompanied by psychological tension.

2. Which movie has the highest rating on this list?
JOKER (2019) has the highest rating at 8.3/10 on IMDb, showcasing Arthur Fleck's transformation into the iconic Joker. The film has been praised for its character depth and psychological tension.

3. Do all the films on the list have twist endings?
Yes, all the films on the list are designed with twist endings or unexpected conclusions. These twists are a key element that makes the stories more thrilling and leaves a deep impression on the audience.

4. Who are the most prominent actors or actresses in the best psychopath films?
Some standout actors include Christian Bale in AMERICAN PSYCHO, Joaquin Phoenix in JOKER, and Javier Bardem in NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN. They are known for their acting abilities that bring psychological intensity to a high level.

5. Why is the psychopath film genre always popular with audiences?
This genre is popular because it can present extreme tension, moral conflicts, and psychological analysis of complex characters. The combination of strong acting, surprising plot twists, and twist endings makes the best psychopath films always interesting to watch.

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