12 Weird But Still Great Thrillers
Have you just finished watching Saltburn? Whether alone or during a family viewing, the film has likely left a strong impression. The striking image of Barry Keoghan of Jacob Elordi is hard to shake off. If you’re eager for a similar vibe, look no further. This list of films should satisfy your urge for that "Saltburn" experience, with dark humor and shocking plot twists. This is prepared by SSP.
From exposing the upper-class facade to shocking viewer sensibilities, here are 12 thrillers to check out after Saltburn.
1. The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
This obvious choice is essential. The Talented Mr. Ripley serves as a significant inspiration for Saltburn, showcasing quiet boys wreaking havoc among the elite. Tom Ripley, played by Matt Damon, becomes embroiled in the luxurious world of Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law). Narratives of opportunity, intrigue, and obsession lead to tragedy. If Jacob Elordi captivated you, Jude Law will secure your affections, too. Available on Netflix.
2. A Simple Favor (2018)
This film thrives on Saltburn's themes—wealth, twists, and murder. Following mommy blogger Stephanie (Anna Kendrick), she befriends glamorous mom Emily (Blake Lively), only to have Emily vanish mysteriously. As Stephanie adopts Emily's life, expect a blend of predictability and surprise in its plot twists. Enjoy watching this captivating mystery on Amazon Prime.
3. Gone Girl (2014)
Rosamund Pike connects Saltburn and Gone Girl. In Saltburn, her character is naïve; however, as Amy in Gone Girl, she is calculated and manipulative. The film’s significant twists and secrets include a haunting midpoint revelation that will leave you shocked. This tense thriller outdoes Saltburn in terms of plot twists. Catch it on Netflix.
4. Triangle of Sadness (2022)
This film pushes the "eat the rich" narrative further than most. Centered on an influencer couple on a luxury cruise that leads to survival chaos, it questions morality stripped down to human nature in dire situations. A thought-provoking companion to Saltburn, it’s available on Amazon Prime.
5. Cruel Intentions (1999)
This classic examining morality features mostly flawed characters. Set in an elite boarding school, Sebastian (Ryan Philippe) aims to seduce Annette (Reese Witherspoon) as part of a twisty bet. Cruel Intentions thrives in deceptive antics and undercurrents of manipulation—perfect for Saltburn fans. Watch it on Amazon Prime.
6. The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
Prepare yourself—The Killing of a Sacred Deer won't provide an easy watch. Barry Keoghan exemplifies the unsettling threshold between charm and menace as a teenager disturbs a privileged family's tranquility. It’s haunting and deeply unsettling, so proceed carefully. Find it on Amazon Prime.
7. The Riot Club (2014)
This film showcases elite university life, full of privilege and destructive chaos. Based on the real-life Bullingdon Club, The Riot Club follows members who inflict harm on both their classmates and community. The experiences underscore the troubling aspects of wealth and entitlement. Available on Apple TV.
8. The Cook, The Thief, His Wife & Her Lover (1989)
Much of Saltburn's inspiration echoes in this stylized film. The body of visual art shapes the narrative about power and privilege. A femme fatale, played by Helen Mirren, begins an affair entwined with shocking occurrences. An experience loaded with artistic influence and a revealing storyline awaits on Amazon Prime.
9. Thoroughbreds (2017)
This often-overlooked film revolves around two friends scheming to kill an abusive figure. With rich themes blended in old-money America settings, the film establishes an effective contrast to Saltburn's British influences. Thoroughbreds spotlights rising stars Anya Taylor-Joy and Olivia Cooke. Available on Amazon Prime.
10. The Menu (2022)
In a"richly" ironic premise, a group of rich foodies visits a chef’s remote island for an exclusive dining experience. The twist shocks them when they discover his darker intentions—a literal reckoning from their actions. Watch this hypnotizing culinary thriller on Disney+.
11. Stoker (2013)
Visually striking and unsettling, Stoker delves into familial secrets and ghostly atmosphere. Following India (Mia Wasikowska) and her unsettling uncle (Matthew Goode), expect escalating tension that culminates in bizarre events. Navigating sinister loops is best done with limited prior knowledge, now streaming on Apple TV.
12. Match Point (2005)
Match Point blends themes of romance and betrayal, exploring wealth's seductive grip. Chris (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), feeling the pressure of dual lives, resorts to drastic solutions when truth surfaces. If Oliver's manipulations left you speechless, this film will continue that exploration seamlessly. Available on Disney+.
