Grab your popcorn and get ready for a perfect Friday night! Immerse yourself in some of the best thriller movies of all time. They are an ideal pick for a friend’s movie night as they will keep you hooked till the end.
In this blog, we are going to talk about the 20 highest-rated thriller movies on IMDb that you simply can’t miss.
Top 20 Must-Watch Thriller Movies of All Time
Mentioned below are the top 20 thriller movies as per IMDb that you should consider watching.
1. Seve7en
David Fincher’s “Se7en” revolves around detectives Somerset and Mills as serial killers who use the Seven Deadly Sins as their way of crime. They are known for their dark, atmospheric tension and shocking endings.
Kevin Spacey’s shocking portrayal of the killer and the film’s intense plot make it a highlight of the thriller, exploring the depths of human morality and the psychological effects of crime in the 19th century.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1995 |
| Cast | Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, Kevin Spacey |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.6 |
2. The Silence of the Lambs
In Jonathan Demme’s “The Silence of the Lambs,” a FBI trainer named Clarisse Starling works with imprisoned serial killer Dr. Johnny to catch another killer. Hannibal enlists the help of Lecter, especially Hopkins’ portrayal of Lecter, and the film is known for its thrilling, psychological depth.
It explores issues of addiction, fear, and the human psyche, earning critical acclaim and numerous Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress. It is one of the best thriller movies to watch.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1991 |
| Cast | Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Lawrence A. Bonney |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.6 |
3. Gone Girl
Directed by David Fincher, “Gone Girl” stars Ben Affleck as Nick Dunn, whose wife Amy goes missing. As the investigation starts, dark secrets about their marriage are revealed, challenging the reality of truth and innocence. All actors give wonderful performances, keeping the audience engaged in the film’s twists and turns.
The film criticises media influence and personal deception, delivering a dark, suspenseful story that keeps audiences guessing.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2014 |
| Cast | Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, Neil Patrick Harris |
| Genre | Drama, Mystery, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.1 |
4. Zodiac
David Fincher’s “Zion” tells the story of a real-life search for the Zodiac Killer, a serial killer active in the 1960s. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr. and Mark Ruffalo, the film follows reporters and detectives as they uncover the complexities of the case.
The film’s rich plot, intense atmosphere and intense acting create a unique portrait of joy and longingness in the face of an unsolved crime that is still unsolved. It is one of the best crime thriller movies out there.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2007 |
| Cast | Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr., Mark Ruffalo |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Mystery |
| IMDb Rating | 7.7 |
5. Prisoners
In Denis Villeneuve’s “Prisoners,” Hugh Jackman plays Keller Dover, a father who takes extreme measures after his daughter and her friend go missing. Jake Gyllenhaal plays Detective Loki, who leads the investigation. The film offers a compelling and emotional narrative to explore themes of morality, despair and justice.
Jackman’s strong acting and Villeneuve’s amazing direction make a wonderful thriller that dives into the darker side of parenting and law enforcement.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2013 |
| Cast | Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Viola Davis |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.1 |
6. The Sixth Sense
In Night Shyamalan’s “The Sixth Sense,” Bruce Willis plays Dr. Seuss. Malcolm plays Crowe who cures Cole, a boy who sees dead people. The film is known for its twist endings and suspense stories. Osment provides a terrific story, and Willis adds depth to the story.
The film combines psychological drama with supernatural elements to create a memorable experience, touching on the emotional impact that has become a hallmark of thrillers.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1999 |
| Cast | Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette |
| Genre | Drama, Mystery, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.1 |
7. Shutter Island
In Martin Scorsese’s “Shutter Island,” the U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels tracks down a patient who went missing from a mental hospital. The film’s atmospheric tension and psychological twists make for an interesting story. DiCaprio’s acting sets the scene, while Scorsese’s direction maintains suspense throughout.
The film delves into issues of depression, idealism, and deception. This movie will keep you hooked till the end.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2010 |
| Cast | Leonardo DiCaprio, Emily Mortimer, Mark Ruffalo |
| Genre | Drama, Mystery, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.2 |
8. Memento
Christopher Nolan’s “Memento” follows Leonard Shelby, a guy short of memory, as he seeks revenge for the murder of his wife. The movie presents events in opposite timelines, the film’s unique structure adds suspense and mystery.
Pierce’s portrayal of a man struggling with his situation, along with the film’s innovative storyline, creates a compelling, surprising thriller that challenges viewers to associate the truth with the hero.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2000 |
| Cast | Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, Joe Pantoliano |
| Genre | Mystery, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.4 |
9. The Others
In Alejandro Amenabar’s “Others,” Nicole Kidman plays Grace Stewart, who lives in a remote mansion with her two light-sensitive children. It’s a haunting psychological thriller that focuses on atmosphere and tension. As strange events unfold, Grace’s search for answers uncovers a cold secret.
The haunting atmosphere of the film and Kidman’s compelling performance make for a compelling story with intricate and emotional plots.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2001 |
| Cast | Nicole Kidman, Fionnula Flanagan, Christopher Eccleston |
| Genre | Drama, Fantasy, Horror |
| IMDb Rating | 7.6 |
10. Nightcrawler
Dan Gilroy’s “Nightcrawler” stars Jake Gyllenhaal as Lewis Bloom, an ambitious man who becomes a freelance crime journalist and captures disturbing footage of violent events. The film criticizes journalism, personal interests and moral constraints, with Gyllenhaal giving a hooking performance.
The dark, suspenseful story and dynamic social commentary make for a compelling thriller that explores the lengths one will go to in order to succeed, as well as the morals that come from harnessing tragedy.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2014 |
| Cast | Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Riz Ahmed |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 7.7 |
11. Oldboy
Park Chan-wook’s “Oldboy” is a South Korean thriller about Oh Dae-su (Choi Min-sik), who has been imprisoned for no reason for 15 years. When they release him, he seeks revenge and discovers shocking truths.
The film is known for its intense action sequences, which are filled with famous one-take fight scenes and incredible plot twists. “Oldboy” explores themes of revenge, fate and psychological trauma, delivering a complex and engaging cinematic experience.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2003 |
| Cast | Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jung |
| Genre | Action, Drama, Mystery |
| IMDb Rating | 8.4 |
12. The Game
David Fincher’s “The Game” stars Michael Douglas as Nicholas Van Orton, a wealthy banker who gets involved in a complex and dangerous game set up by his brother. Douglas gives a strong performance, and Fincher’s direction maintains a tense, unpredictable atmosphere.
The film explores issues of control, trust, and authenticity, revealing a surprising and moving conclusion.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1997 |
| Cast | Michael Douglas, Sean Penn, Deborah Kara Unger |
| Genre | Drama, Mystery, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 7.8 |
13. Heat
Directed by Michael Mann, “Heat” stars Al Pacino as Lt. Col. Mann. Vincent Hanna and Robert De Niro as professional thief Neil McCauley. The film explores the cat-and-mouse game between Hannah and McCauley as their lives intersect in a high-stakes heist.
Known for its great character development, intense action and iconic food, “Heat” is a compelling thriller that delves into the psychological and business aspects of its complex character.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1995 |
| Cast | Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Val Kilmer |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.3 |
14. A History of Violence
David Cronenberg’s “A History of Violence” stars Viggo Mortensen as Tom Stahl, a small-town restaurant owner whose violent past resurfaces as he protects his family from theft.
The film explores the effects of violence on personality and family life. Mortensen’s realistic acting and Cronenberg’s direction make for a compelling, thought-provoking story that explores issues of identity, morality and the darkness hidden in ordinary life.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2005 |
| Cast | Viggo Mortensen, Maria Bello, Ed Harris |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 7.5 |
15. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
David Fincher’s adaptation of the Stieg Larsson novel stars Daniel Craig as journalist Michael Blomqvist and Rooney Mara as hacker Lisbeth Salander. They both are looking for Harriet Vanger, who is involved with a girl from a wealthy family who is missing.
The film’s intense atmosphere, strong performances and complex plot make for a compelling thriller. The complex combination of mystery, drama and central relationships creates a complex story that captures the essence of Larson’s best-selling novel.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2011 |
| Cast | Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Mystery |
| IMDb Rating | 7.8 |
16. Cape Fear
One of the best Hollywood thriller movies, “Cape Fear,” is a remake of the 1962 classic, starring Robert De Niro as Max Cady, a convicted rapist seeking revenge on the prosecutor who locked him up. The film is super interesting to watch.
De Niro’s chilling direction from Cady and Scorsese explores themes of justice, revenge, and the impact of past actions, creating a never-ending atmosphere of tension and suspense.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1991 |
| Cast | Robert De Niro, Nick Nolte, Jessica Lange |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 7.3 |
17. North by Northwest
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, “North by Northwest” stars Cary Grant as Roger Thornhill, an advertising executive who is mistaken for a spy and followed across America.
Grant gives a wonderful performance, and the film’s blend of action, romance, and adventure makes for a classic thriller that remains impressive in this genre.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1959 |
| Cast | Cary Grant, Eva Marie Saint, James Mason |
| Genre | Adventure, Mystery, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.3 |
18. The Fugitive
In Andrew Davies’ “The Fugitive,” Harrison Ford plays Dr. Johnson. Richard plays Kimball, who has been wrongfully convicted of murdering his wife and is on the run looking for the real killer. Tommy Lee Jones of the U.S. Army. Officer Samuel Gerard is handling Kimball’s pursuit.
The film combines high-stakes action with a compelling story. Ford’s acting and the film’s thrilling chase sequences make for an incredible thriller that explores themes of justice, perseverance and the search for truth.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 1993 |
| Cast | Harrison Ford, Tommy Lee Jones, Sela Ward |
| Genre | Action, Crime, Drama |
| IMDb Rating | 7.8 |
19. The Departed
Martin Scorsese’s “The Departed” features an undercover cop infiltrating a Boston crime syndicate headed by Leonardo DiCaprio’s Jack Nicholson. Matt Damon plays a mole in the police force. The film is known for its incredible plot, strong performances and incredible tension.
Scorsese’s direction and stellar production deliver an intriguing story full of twists and turns that explores themes of deception, honesty and the blurring of lines between law and crime.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2006 |
| Cast | Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Jack Nicholson |
| Genre | Crime, Drama, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.5 |
20. The Prestige
Christopher Nolan’s “The Prestige” stars Christian Bale and Hugh Jackman as magicians competing in a fierce competition to create the ultimate illusion. The film’s complex plot, compelling performances and twists explore themes of attraction, sacrifice and the nature of confusion.
Nolan’s direction and the film’s narrative structure create an engaging and thought-provoking experience that keeps viewers engaged and deep in exploring the meaning of the darker side of aspiration.
| Aspects | Details |
| Year | 2006 |
| Cast | Christian Bale, Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson |
| Genre | Drama, Mystery, Thriller |
| IMDb Rating | 8.5 |
Ready to Grab Popcorn and Watch Thriller Movies?
These suspenseful thrillers excels at creating compelling stories and a strong atmosphere. Captivating audiences with complex plots, surprising characters and unexpected plot twists they demonstrate the film’s ability to explore deep psychological and moral issues.
Each film blends tension and history in a unique way to ensure viewers have remained engaged and on the edge of their seats. With brilliant direction and compelling performances, these films highlight the power of suspense stories to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.
FAQs
1. Is thriller scarier than horror?
Thriller and horror are two different genres. Thrillers are fast-paced, have intricate storylines and involves a lot of twists and turns. They can be scarier than horror movies as they include lot of blood and gore scenes.
2. Which movie has the highest rating?
Some movies with the highest ratings are One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Interstellar, It’s a Wonderful Life, and The Silence of the Lambs.
3. Why are psychological thrillers the best?
Psychological thrillers are considered to be one of the most well-crafted genres, as they are meant to keep the viewers hooked and entertained till the end. They also invoke intense emotions like fear, anxiety, anticipation, and surprise. Viewers are unable to move on from movies of this genre for a long time which makes it the best.
