These movies will achieve an even higher status in the coming years!
In a world populated by timeless classics like "Alien" or "Cape Fear" that have shaped the thriller genre, the contemporary interpretation of thrillers is undeniably remarkable. In the last decade, we've seen a plethora of suspenseful films, ranging from exceptional to lacklustre. Some are poised to attain classic status in their own right. Take a look at today's list of modern thrillers that are on the path to becoming classics; this exploration is bound to pique your interest!
In Denis Villeneuve's "Prisoners," Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) faces every parent's nightmare when his daughter Anna (Erin Gerasimovich) and her friend Joy (Kyla-Drew Simmons) vanish. Detective Loki (Jake Gyllenhaal) struggles with a lack of evidence while pursuing suspect Alex Jones (Paul Dano). Dover's desperation drives him to take matters into his own hands, leading to a morally complex journey alongside other parents. "Prisoners" is a gripping suspense film that challenges perceptions of justice and vengeance, drawing viewers into its gritty atmosphere and dark narrative.
In "The Killing of a Sacred Deer," a complex bond forms between Martin (Barry Keoghan) and Dr. Steven Murphy (Colin Farrell) following Martin's father's death during surgery. Despite Martin's initially genuine gestures, an unsettling atmosphere looms. As Martin integrates into Dr. Murphy's family, unexpected punishment disrupts their happiness. The film, directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, balances dark humor with disturbing tension, diving into psychological horror. Ultimately, it explores the consequences of one person's sins on an entire family, culminating in an agonising choice for redemption.
"Nightcrawler" portrays Lou Bloom (Jake Gyllenhaal), a determined young man navigating the ruthless world of Los Angeles crime journalism. Guided by Nina (Rene Russo), Lou blurs the lines between observer and participant, driven by the allure of adrenaline and profit. Directed by Dan Gilroy, the film explores Lou's descent into moral ambiguity as he bends rules to manipulate his narrative. Gyllenhaal delivers a riveting performance, immersing himself in Lou's dangerously obsessive pursuit with captivating intensity.
In "Parasite," the Kim family devises a daring plan to infiltrate the lives of the wealthy Parks by posing as skilled professionals. Their scheme encounters a major obstacle in the form of the Parks' suspicious housekeeper. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, the film made history as the first non-English-language Best Picture winner at the Oscars, along with three other awards. Through its riveting narrative, "Parasite" offers a poignant commentary on class divisions, expertly portraying the contrasting realities of the rich and the poor.
"The Menu," directed by Mark Mylod, presents a refreshingly original thriller that stands out as one of the best films of 2022. The story revolves around Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) and Tyler (Nicholas Hoult), a young couple embarking on a journey to a remote island for an exclusive and avant-garde dinner experience. Headed by the enigmatic chef Slowik (Ralph Fiennes), the affluent guests eagerly anticipate the culinary spectacle, unaware of the sinister surprises awaiting them. Blending dark comedy, horror, and thriller elements, "The Menu" captivates with Fiennes' compelling portrayal of the vengeful chef, complemented by Taylor-Joy's resilient character determined to survive the night.
Defining the thriller genre poses a challenge, given its diverse range of sub-genres. From thriller-horror to psychological thrillers and even comedic thrillers, this genre encompasses a broad spectrum of storytelling. With their ability to captivate audiences through darkness and mystery, thrillers cater to every viewer's taste within cinema. These films are so acclaimed and loved by everyone that they surely have the potential to gain classic status – and rightly so!
