Unsurprisingly, Se7en is hailed as one of the most gripping psychological thrillers in cinematic history. The movie is about Two detectives tracking a serial killer who bases his murders on the se7en deadly sins. If you’re seeking movies that can stir your emotions similarly, let’s delve into the list I’ve curated for top movies like Se7en that you can watch this weekend.
It would have been easy to create a list of 10 movies similar to David Fincher’s Se7en by simply listing most of his films. This would be a testament to his skill as a filmmaker, as he can explore the darkness of his characters through different perspectives. However, this would not be an exciting list. Therefore, I will not include Fincher’s films on this list. If you are interested in watching movies similar to Se7en that Fincher directed, you can check out Zodiac (2007), The Game (1997), The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011), Gone Girl (2014), and the Netflix series Mindhunter (2017-2019).
Let’s delve right into the list of movies like Se7en without further ado.
Movies like Se7en: Nocturnal Animals (2016)
Director: Tom Ford | Writer: Tom Ford (screenplay), Austin Wright (novel) | Stars: Amy Adams, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Shannon | Duration: 1h 56min
Nocturnal Animals is a captivating 2016 American neo-noir psychological thriller[, skillfully penned, produced, and directed by Tom Ford in his second directorial venture. The film draws inspiration from Austin Wright’s 1993 novel Tony and Susan. An ensemble cast including Amy Adams, Jake Gyllenhaal, Michael Shannon, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Isla Fisher, Armie Hammer, Laura Linney, Andrea Riseborough, and Michael Sheen breathe life into its characters. The narrative revolves around an art gallery owner who delves into the newly written novel by her former husband, unearthing uncanny parallels between the story and their past relationship. With an IMDb rating of 7.5 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 73%, Nocturnal Animals weaves a mesmerizing tapestry of intrigue, embodying the enigmatic and suspenseful qualities reminiscent of movies like Se7en.
Stream Nocturnal Animals in Canada
Nocturnal Animals is streaming on Amazon Prime Video in Canada.
Movies like Se7en: 12 Monkeys (1995)
Director: Terry Gilliam | Writers: David Peoples, Janet Peoples (screenplay), Chris Marker (film “La Jetée”) | Stars: Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt | Duration: 2h 9min
Just as Se7en delves into the abyss of intrigue, 12 Monkeys embarks on a mind-bending odyssey of time and obscurity. This 1995 sci-fi thriller, under the direction of Terry Gilliam, unspools a riveting storyline. It revolves around a man sent back in time to avert a cataclysmic pandemic. Starring Bruce Willis and Brad Pitt, the film artfully knits intricate layers of mystery and suspense. Garnering an IMDb rating of 8.0 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 88%, 12 Monkeys delivers an immersive cinematic journey that resonates with the enigmatic elements cherished by Se7en devotees.
Movies like Se7en: The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Director: Jonathan Demme | Writer: Ted Tally (screenplay), Thomas Harris (novel) | Stars: Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn | Duration: 1h 58min
At the heart of The Silence of the Lambs lies a riveting narrative that follows Clarice Starling, a young FBI trainee, as she delves into the twisted mind of the brilliant but deranged serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter. Their chilling interactions form the core of this psychological thriller, as Clarice seeks Lecter’s insights to capture another notorious killer on the loose. The film masterfully builds tension, weaving intricate layers of suspense and horror, making it a captivating watch for fans of movies like Se7en.
The movie has an IMDb rating of 8.6 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 96%; the Silence of the Lambs is a classic in the psychological thriller genre. Its compelling performances, notably Anthony Hopkins as Hannibal Lecter and Jodie Foster as Clarice Starling, contribute to the movie’s lasting impact. The film’s ability to delve into the darkest corners of the human psyche while maintaining mystery is why it remains a favorite for those who appreciate the intricate storytelling in Se7en.
Stream The Silence of the Lambs in Canada
The Silence of the Lambs is available on Apple TV in Canada.
Movies like Se7en: Memento (2000)
Director: Christopher Nolan | Writer: Christopher Nolan (screenplay), Jonathan Nolan (short story) | Stars: Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, Joe Pantoliano | Duration: 1h 53min
Sitting between two of Christopher Nolan’s better-known works, Memento in 2000 and Batman Begins in 2005, Insomnia often finds itself in the shadow of its more renowned counterparts. However, it could be one of Nolan’s most underappreciated creations. In contrast to the intricate narratives of his other movies, Insomnia leans closer to the style of Memento. It operates as a psychological thriller, delving into the disintegration of one’s grasp on reality amidst a murder investigation.
While it might not have gained the same popularity as other Nolan films, it might be attributed to its relatively more linear plot than his trademark mind-bending narratives. Additionally, Nolan’s absence from the film’s writing credits could have played a role. Nonetheless, Insomnia remains a captivating and skillfully crafted crime thriller that caters to the same thirst for intrigue as Se7en. The film boasts an impressive ensemble, including Al Pacino, Robin Williams, and Hilary Swank.
Memento is considered to be one of the best films of the 2000s. It has won numerous awards, including the BAFTA Award for Best British Film and the Saturn Award for Best Thriller Film. The movie has an IMDb rating of 8.4 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 93%.
Stream Memento in Canada
Memento is currently accessible for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Hoopla.
Movies like Se7en: I Saw the Devil (2010)
Director: Kim Jee-woon | Writer: Park Hoon-jung | Stars: Lee Byung-hun, Choi Min-sik | Duration: 2h 21min
Regarding exceptional South Korean thrillers, the past few decades have offered a wealth of choices. Among these, I Saw the Devil stands out as one of the finest, possibly even one of the most intense, with its ominous narrative centered around an undercover agent’s relentless quest for retribution against a notorious serial killer triggered by the murder of his fiancé.
Boasting an IMDb rating of 7.8 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 81%, I Saw the Devil resonates with fans of visceral cinema, similar to Se7en. Therefore, the movie made it to our list.
Once the storyline gains momentum, I Saw the Devil unfolds as an unrelenting and fierce descent into darkness, seamlessly transitioning from one disturbing and gut-wrenching sequence to another, all culminating in a startling climax. This film presents a truly chilling experience that might be too extreme for some viewers. However, this movie warrants consideration for those seeking a darker and more gripping realm than Se7en.
Stream I Saw the Devil in Canada
I Saw the Devil is currently accessible for streaming on Hoopla and can be viewed for free with ads on Tubi TV.
Movies like Se7en: Gone Baby Gone (2016)
Director: Ben Affleck | Writers: Ben Affleck, Aaron Stockard | Stars: Casey Affleck, Michelle Monaghan, Morgan Freeman | Duration: 1h 54min
In the list of movies like Se7en, Gone Baby Gone engrosses its audience in a riveting tale that navigates the murky waters of crime and morality. Directed by Ben Affleck, this film plunges into the harrowing journey of two private investigators on the quest for a missing child in a gritty urban backdrop. As the layers of the investigation are meticulously peeled away, the movie deftly exposes the intricate shades of human nature and the moral quandaries that surface in the relentless pursuit of truth. Boasting a tense ambiance, intricately woven narrative, and thought-provoking themes, Gone Baby Gone garners resonance among enthusiasts of the enigmatic and unsettling elements akin to Se7en.
With an IMDb rating of 7.6 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 95%, Gone Baby Gone establishes itself as a compelling addition to the list of movies like Se7en.
Stream Gone Baby Gone in Canada
Gone Baby Gone is currently accessible for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and Hoopla.
Movies like Se7en: Nightcrawler (2014)
Director: Dan Gilroy | Writer: Dan Gilroy | Stars: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Riz Ahmed | Duration: 1h 57min
In a manner reminiscent of Se7en, Nightcrawler also falls within neo-noir cinema, albeit with a distinctly unique premise. While both films traverse deeply dark territories, Nightcrawler diverges in its narrative. The story revolves around Lou Bloom, a man whose unwavering determination leads him to ethically questionable measures to capture and sell crime scene footage to a news station.
Nightcrawler doesn’t shy away from presenting a cast of profoundly flawed characters and maintains a cynical perspective on the media and humanity. Despite this underlying pessimism, the film remains captivating and meticulously paced. Its grim yet stylish and relentless nature will likely resonate with those who appreciate the essence of Se7en.
Nightcrawler was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $35 million worldwide against a budget of $8 million. The film has an IMDb rating of 7.9/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 92%. It was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor for Gyllenhaal.
Stream Nightcrawler in Canada
Nightcrawler is available for streaming on Paramount Plus in Canada.
Movies like Se7en: Vengeance Is Mine (1979)
Director: Shohei Imamura | Writer: Masaru Baba, Ryuzo Saki | Stars: Ken Ogata, Rentarô Mikuni, Chôchô Miyako | Duration: 2h 20min
Hailing from the late 1970s, Vengeance Is Mine is a Japanese crime film that would have undoubtedly delivered even greater shockwaves upon its initial release. It remains an underappreciated gem that orbits around the unsettling narrative of a serial killer. Dubbed Iwao Enokizu, the movie presents his gruesome deeds with a chilling matter-of-factness, arguably intensifying the disturbing nature of his on-screen atrocities.
Stream Vengeance Is Mine in Canada
Vengeance Is Mine is streaming on Netflix in Canada.
Movies like Se7en: Frailty (2001)
Director: Bill Paxton | Writer: Brent Hanley | Stars: Bill Paxton, Matthew McConaughey, Powers Boothe | Duration: 1h 40min
In a manner evocative of Se7en, Frailty (2001) delves into the shadowy realm of psychological thrillers. This movie likewise traverses disconcerting terrain, delving into the eerie tale of a man who believes he’s on a divine mission to conquer concealed demons in our midst. As the narrative unfolds, Frailty envelops viewers in a bone-chilling story that blurs the boundaries between reality and illusion. Enriched by its unsettling ambiance and powerful performances, the film captivates audiences drawn to the intricately convoluted themes reminiscent of Se7en.
Stream Frailty in Canada
You can stream Frailty in Canada on Amazon Prime Video and Google Play Movies.
You can watch “Peeping Tom” for free with ads on Tubi TV.
Movies like Se7en: Peeping Tom
Director: Michael Powell | Writer: Leo Marks | Stars: Karl Boehm, Anna Massey, Moira Shearer | Duration: 1h 41min
Like Se7en, Peeping Tom marked a pivotal moment in Michael Powell’s career, its initial reception leading to his decline. Yet, as with many of Powell’s works, the film was ahead of its time. It follows Mark Lewis, a film studio focus puller who doubles as a voyeuristic photographer capturing fear in his victims. In contrast to modern slashers, the violence is restrained, focusing on Mark’s anti-heroic arc. Powell deftly handles the male gaze, highlighting the women’s beauty and fear, paralleling our voyeuristic role. Karl Boehm’s portrayal of Mark is chilling and distressing, refusing sympathy but inviting fascination. Powell’s exploration of our voyeuristic tendencies as spectators makes Peeping Tom a thought-provoking cinematic experience that made it to our list of movies like Se7en.
The movie has an IMDb rating of 7.6/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes score of 95%.
Stream Peeping Tom in Canada
You can watch Peeping Tom for free with ads on Tubi TV.
Movies like Se7en: Prisoners (2013)
With notable roles in both Zodiac and Nightcrawler, Jake Gyllenhaal has proven well-suited for dark crime and thriller movies. Adding to this portfolio, he stars in Prisoners alongside Hugh Jackman. This 2013 film portrays a father’s desperate journey as he takes extreme measures to locate his young daughter, who mysteriously disappears one day.
Under the guidance of Denis Villeneuve, a skilled filmmaker known for his expertise in delving into the intricacies of dark psychological thrillers, Prisoners adeptly sustain tension while delivering an intensely emotional encounter. The film courageously delves into somber themes, propelling its characters into equally shadowy realms. A compelling storyline, Prisoners expertly harmonizes the intensity of raw emotions with its unflinching exploration of the depths of the human psyche, making it a captivating choice for those who admire movies akin to Se7en.
Stream Prisoners in Canada
Prisoners can be streamed on platforms like Netflix, Crave, and Crave Starz.
Honorable Mentions
- Before Everything Everywhere
- Taxi Driver
- True Detective Season 1
- Collateral
- Sicario
- Drive
- The Nice Guys
- The Bone Collector
- A History Of Violence
