Good slow burn movies lull audiences into a false sense of comfortability with their low energy but engaging storylines only to deliver an unforgettable ending. They often build to a crescendo that changes your entire perspective of the film up to that point. Maybe it has to do with an unreliable narrator like Memento or The Usual Suspects. One might ever consider the slow, deliberate, and methodical pace of The Batman to be a slow burn superhero movie. Arrival and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy certainly take their time getting to the ending but it's well worth it. Now it's time to determine the best slow burn movie of all time with the help of your votes.
Vote up your favorite slow burning films, you can also vote down other movies that you think other fans should skip. Be sure to check new and up coming slow burn movies as they are released and added to this list.
- 1
Fargo is a masterfully crafted crime thriller from the Coen Brothers that follows the story of Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy) as he orchestrates a kidnapping scheme to obtain ransom money from his wealthy father-in-law. With its snow-swept landscapes, dark humor, and unforgettable performances by Frances McDormand and Steve Buscemi, this film gradually unfolds into a tale of greed, desperation, and retribution that leaves viewers on edge until its satisfying conclusion.
- Released: 1996
- Directed by: Joel Coen
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- 2
With its darkly comedic undertones and exceptional storytelling, Bong Joon-ho's Oscar-winning masterpiece Parasite juxtaposes two families at opposite ends of Korea’s social ladder. This unpredictable thriller gradually builds tension throughout as it uncovers layers of deceit and moral ambiguity beneath the seemingly ordinary lives of its characters. Boasting excellent cinematography and masterful direction from Joon-ho himself, Parasite delivers an unforgettable viewing experience that leaves audiences questioning society’s constructs long after the final scene.
- Released: 2019
- Directed by: Bong Joon-ho
- 3
This quintessential slow burn mystery follows Roger "Verbal" Kint (Kevin Spacey) as he recounts the events leading up to a deadly explosion on a docked ship to Special Agent Dave Kujan (Chazz Palminteri). Engulfed in twists and turns with each revelation about five criminals brought together for what initially appears to be a simple heist gone awry; director Bryan Singer has created an intricate web of deceit within The Usual Suspects. The climactic reveal cements this film's status as an iconic entry in modern cinema.
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Bryan Singer
- 4
John Krasinski directs and stars in A Quiet Place alongside real-life wife Emily Blunt in this taut horror-thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world where sound-hunting creatures have decimated human civilization. Forced to communicate primarily through sign language and live in near-silence, the Abbott family must navigate their unforgiving environment while facing unimaginable horrors lurking around every corner. A Quiet Place excels at building suspense through carefully crafted silent sequences, culminating in a nerve-wracking final act that leaves viewers breathless.
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: John Krasinski
- 5
Arrival features a gripping story about linguist Louise Banks (Amy Adams) who must communicate with extraterrestrial beings that have arrived on Earth. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this visually stunning sci-fi drama takes its time revealing secrets and intricacies as it tackles themes of love, loss, and humanity’s place in the universe. Rich with thought-provoking themes and stellar performances from Adams and Jeremy Renner, Arrival is undoubtedly one of the best slow burn films in recent memory.
- Released: 2016
- Directed by: Denis Villeneuve
- 6
A chilling period piece set in 17th-century New England, The Witch tells the harrowing tale of a deeply religious family living on the outskirts of an unsettling wilderness. As paranoia and distrust begin to take hold amidst mysterious happenings plaguing their isolated existence, they become convinced an evil force is targeting them. Directed by Robert Eggers, this slow-burning horror gem offers an unnerving exploration of religious fervor while showcasing breakout performances from Anya Taylor-Joy and Ralph Ineson.
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: Robert Eggers
- 7
Road to Perdition follows hitman Michael Sullivan (Tom Hanks) as he seeks revenge for his wife and son's murder while simultaneously protecting his surviving child. Set during the Great Depression, this compelling crime drama showcases top-notch performances from Hanks, Paul Newman, and Jude Law amidst a backdrop of beautifully bleak cinematography by Conrad L. Hall. With its deliberate pacing and intricate storytelling, director Sam Mendes delivers an emotionally resonant tale about fatherhood, redemption, and betrayal.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Sam Mendes
- 8
A deceptively simple story about a small-town diner owner who thwarts a robbery attempt spirals into a provocative exploration of identity and violence in David Cronenberg's A History of Violence. Viggo Mortensen stars as Tom Stall – a man whose life unravels when his heroic act sets off repercussions that dangerously threaten everything he knows. As Tom confronts ruthless gangsters seeking vengeance against him, this intricately woven film raises questions about past deeds' impact on present-day lives.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: David Cronenberg
- 9
David Fincher's atmospheric crime thriller, Seven, follows two detectives – played by Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman – as they track down a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins to create grisly murder scenes. With its relentlessly bleak atmosphere and methodical pacing, this psychological thriller gradually escalates into an unforgettable climax that still resonates with audiences decades after its release. Seven remains a quintessential example of the slow burn genre done right.
- Released: 1995
- Directed by: David Fincher
- 10
Based on John le Carré's novel of the same name, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy is set during the height of the Cold War, where retired British spy George Smiley (Gary Oldman) is tasked with uncovering a Soviet mole within the MI6. A study in quiet tension and character development, this espionage thriller benefits from its superb ensemble cast including Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, and Benedict Cumberbatch. Director Tomas Alfredson's meticulous pacing allows viewers to become fully immersed in the unfolding mystery that lies at the heart of this acclaimed slow burn film.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Tomas Alfredson
- 11
Christopher Nolan's groundbreaking neo-noir thriller Memento tells the story of Leonard Shelby (Guy Pearce), an insurance investigator suffering from anterograde amnesia following a brutal assault that left his wife dead. As Leonard pieces together clues using tattoos etched onto his body and Polaroid photos to aid his faltering memory; viewers are treated to a meticulously constructed narrative told in reverse chronological order – heightening intrigue all the way to its shocking climax. Memento is a masterstroke of psychological mystery that expertly utilizes its slow burn storytelling technique.
- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Christopher Nolan
- 12
Roman Polanski's classic horror film Rosemary's Baby follows a young wife (Mia Farrow) who becomes increasingly paranoid as she suspects her eccentric neighbors and husband of conspiring against her unborn child. As the narrative builds to a shocking climax, this slow burn horror classic expertly blends psychological unrest with supernatural dread through its slow pacing and unsettling atmosphere. With outstanding performances from Farrow, John Cassavetes, and Ruth Gordon, Rosemary's Baby remains an influential staple of horror cinema that continues to terrify audiences to this day.
- Released: 1968
- Directed by: Roman Polanski
- 13
In Drive, Ryan Gosling stars as an enigmatic stuntman and getaway driver who becomes embroiled in a dangerous criminal underworld when he agrees to help his neighbor (Carey Mulligan) and her young son. Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, this stylish neo-noir thriller relies on atmospheric visuals, moody soundtrack, and understated performances to steadily build tension before erupting in bursts of sudden violence. As it delves into themes of isolation, connection, and redemption, Drive offers an enthralling cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Nicolas Winding Refn
- 14
Donnie Darko is an enigmatic cult classic that follows the titular character, played by Jake Gyllenhaal, as he navigates the increasingly bizarre events unfolding in his seemingly normal suburban life. With elements of sci-fi, psychological drama, and dark humor woven throughout its intricate narrative, this slow burn film keeps audiences guessing about reality and hallucination up until its mind-bending conclusion. Richard Kelly's directorial debut remains a haunting and mesmerizing exploration of youth, destiny, and the supernatural.
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Richard Kelly
- 15
Kevin Costner directs and stars alongside Robert Duvall in Open Range – a Western tale of revenge and redemption set against the backdrop of frontier-era America. As two free-range cattle herders confront a ruthless land baron (Michael Gambon) intent on driving them from his territory, the plot unfolds with carefully measured pacing that allows viewers to become fully immersed in its richly detailed world. With sweeping landscapes and outstanding performances throughout, Open Range is a prime example of a captivating slow burn western.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Kevin Costner
- 16
Don't Breathe is a tense home invasion thriller that subverts expectations as three burglars, played by Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, and Daniel Zovatto, break into the house of a blind man (Stephen Lang) they believe is hiding a fortune. As the tables turn on the would-be thieves within the claustrophobic setting, director Fede Álvarez masterfully ratchets up suspense through deliberate pacing and clever twists – culminating in a heart-stopping showdown that keeps viewers riveted until the very end.
- Released: 2016
- Directed by: Fede Alvarez
- 17
Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight is a violent, dialogue-driven Western set in post-Civil War America that follows bounty hunter John Ruth ("The Hangman") as he transports fugitive Daisy Domergue (Jennifer Jason Leigh) to her hanging in Red Rock while encountering various unsavory characters along the way. With an ensemble cast including Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell, and Tim Roth – this thrilling whodunit gradually builds tension through expertly crafted storytelling that culminates in explosive bursts of action.
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: Quentin Tarantino
- 18
This found-footage indie horror gem follows aspiring filmmaker Aaron (Patrick Brice) as he accepts a peculiar job from Josef (Mark Duplass), a man who claims to be dying and wants his final days captured on video for his unborn son. As the two spend time together at a secluded cabin, it gradually becomes apparent that Josef may not be as benign as he initially appears. Creep balances dark humor with genuine chills while ratcheting up suspense throughout its intimate narrative – culminating in an unsettling conclusion that leaves audiences reeling.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Patrick Brice
- 19
Though not yet released in theaters and therefore impossible to accurately describe, The Batman (2022) has already generated significant anticipation for its darker take on the Caped Crusader, as portrayed by Robert Pattinson. Teasers hint at a slow-burning neo-noir approach to Gotham City's sinister underbelly, focusing on Matt Reeves' unique vision of iconic characters such as Catwoman (Zoë Kravitz) and Riddler (Paul Dano). As fans eagerly await this new iteration of Batman's legendary story, only time will tell if it delivers the tense, brooding atmosphere promised by early glimpses.
- Released: 2022
- Directed by: Matt Reeves
- 20
Christian Bale gives a striking performance as Trevor Reznik – a factory worker plagued by insomnia and paranoia in The Machinist. As his grip on reality weakens further due to sleep deprivation, Trevor becomes convinced he is being tormented by unseen forces tying back to his past actions. With director Brad Anderson slowly revealing the truth behind Trevor's unraveling mental state amidst haunting visuals reflecting his protagonist’s anguish, The Machinist offers an unforgettable exploration of guilt-induced psychosis.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Brad Anderson
- 21
Director Yorgos Lanthimos explores themes of guilt, retribution, and moral dilemmas in The Killing of a Sacred Deer – a psychological horror film starring Colin Farrell and Nicole Kidman as married doctors whose seemingly perfect lives begin to unravel due to their association with a sinister teenage boy (Barry Keoghan). With its bleak atmosphere, disquieting visuals, and deliberately stilted dialogue punctuated by moments of chilling intensity; this unconventional slow burn thriller deftly weaves menace into every frame.
- Released: 2017
- Directed by: Yorgos Lanthimos
- 22
Antlers is an atmospheric creature-feature directed by Scott Cooper that explores themes of trauma and redemption within its story centered around Julia Meadows (Keri Russell), a small-town teacher investigating one of her students' connection to eerie occurrences plaguing their community. Featuring haunting visuals courtesy of Guillermo del Toro's involvement as producer – this slow-burning horror entry provides ample chills while gradually unveiling the monstrous truth behind the film’s titular cryptid.
- Released: 2021
- Directed by: Scott Cooper
- 23
In this gritty neo-noir crime drama, Nicole Kidman delivers a transformative performance as LAPD detective Erin Bell who grapples with past mistakes while hunting down an elusive gang leader behind her partner's murder years prior. Director Karyn Kusama's non-linear storytelling gradually reveals Erin's haunted backstory through flashbacks interspersed within the film's present-day narrative – skillfully ratcheting up tension as it progresses toward its surprising climax.
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: Karyn Kusama
- 24
Paul Thomas Anderson's magnum opus There Will Be Blood chronicles the rise to power of oil tycoon Daniel Plainview (Daniel Day-Lewis) during California's early 20th-century oil boom. With his greed-fueled ambition propelling him toward both wealth and moral corruption as he encounters religious zealot Eli Sunday (Paul Dano); this sprawling epic offers a chilling examination of human nature driven by base instincts throughout its meticulously paced narrative. Day-Lewis' towering performance remains one for the ages in this slow burn cinematic triumph.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Paul Thomas Anderson
- 25
Karyn Kusama’s psychological thriller The Invitation follows Will (Logan Marshall-Green) as he attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife Eden (Tammy Blanchard) and her new husband David (Michiel Huisman). As the evening unfolds, Will grows increasingly suspicious about their intentions for inviting him and other guests into their home. With its slow build-up of suspense through character interactions and atmospheric tension expertly crafted by Kusama’s direction, The Invitation culminates in an unforgettable conclusion that leaves viewers questioning their own perceptions.
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: Karyn Kusama
- 26
Old Henry showcases a mesmerizing tale of an aging farmer who discovers a wounded outlaw on his property, leading to a suspenseful battle of wits and survival. The film masterfully unravels the complex relationship between morality and loyalty while delving into themes of redemption and self-discovery. With its slow-burning tension, standout performances from Tim Blake Nelson, Stephen Dorff, and Gavin Lewis, this Western thriller keeps viewers enthralled until the very end.
- Released: 2021
- Directed by: Potsy Ponciroli
- 27
This edge-of-your-seat thriller stars Audrey Hepburn as Susy Hendrix – a blind woman who becomes embroiled in a deadly game of cat-and-mouse with dangerous criminals seeking something hidden within her apartment. Relying on her wits and resourcefulness while adjusting to her recent loss of sight, Susy fights for survival amidst escalating tension masterfully orchestrated by director Terence Young. As it builds towards its nail-biting climax, Wait Until Dark remains an exemplary entry into the classic slow burn suspense genre.
- Released: 1967
- Directed by: Terence Young
- 28
Stanley Kubrick's seminal sci-fi epic 2001: A Space Odyssey is an unparalleled cinematic achievement that takes its time revealing the mysteries of human existence, artificial intelligence, and extraterrestrial forces at play within its sprawling narrative. With breathtaking visuals, groundbreaking special effects, and a haunting score composed by György Ligeti and Richard Strauss – this slow burn masterpiece continues to shape popular culture and challenge viewers' perceptions of life beyond Earth.
- Released: 1968
- Directed by: Stanley Kubrick
- 29
Based on Cormac McCarthy's novel of the same name, No Country for Old Men is a gripping neo-Western crime thriller by directors Joel and Ethan Coen about an ordinary man (Josh Brolin) who becomes entangled in a deadly battle with a merciless hitman (Javier Bardem) after discovering drug money in the Texas desert. As their cat-and-mouse game unfolds amidst stark landscapes and tense shootouts, this slow burn film showcases unforgettable performances from its ensemble cast while exploring themes of destiny, morality, and the relentless passage of time.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
- 30
Takashi Miike's controversial horror film Audition explores themes of grief, loneliness, and obsession within its harrowing story centered around widower Shigeharu Aoyama (Ryo Ishibashi), who stages a fake casting call to find a new wife only to become entangled in an unpredictable and nightmarish relationship with enigmatic applicant Asami Yamazaki (Eihi Shiina). Lauded for its haunting visuals, shocking violence, and expert direction by Miike – Audition remains a powerful example of slow burn terror that lingers long after the credits roll.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Takashi Miike
- 31
Quentin Tarantino’s crime drama Jackie Brown focuses on flight attendant Jackie (Pam Grier) caught smuggling money for arms dealer Ordell Robbie (Samuel L. Jackson). When faced with charges from ATF agent Ray Nicolette (Michael Keaton), Jackie strikes a deal with both sides to save herself from impending incarceration or death. This slow burn thriller features an all-star ensemble cast, including Robert Forster and Robert De Niro, whose nuanced performances contribute to the film’s enduring appeal.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Quentin Tarantino
- 32
In Alex Garland's directorial debut Ex Machina, programmer Caleb Smith (Domhnall Gleeson) is invited to administer the Turing Test on Ava (Alicia Vikander) – an advanced humanoid robot created by reclusive tech genius Nathan Bateman (Oscar Isaac). As Caleb becomes increasingly intrigued by Ava's capacity for emotion and self-awareness throughout their interactions within Nathan's isolated research facility; Ex Machina explores themes of artificial intelligence, consciousness, and manipulation through its cleverly paced narrative that keeps audiences guessing until the very end.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Alex Garland
- 33
This low-budget indie sci-fi gem follows two teenagers in 1950s New Mexico as they stumble upon mysterious radio signals potentially originating from extraterrestrial sources. As they search for answers while evading sinister forces lurking behind their small town's façade, The Vast of Night masterfully melds old-school charm with deft storytelling to deliver an engrossing audiovisual experience by director Andrew Patterson. This slow burn sci-fi mystery proves that big budget isn't always needed for a gripping, otherworldly tale.
- Released: 2019
- Directed by: Andrew Patterson
- 34
Set in post-World War II Berlin, Phoenix tells the story of Holocaust survivor Nelly Lenz (Nina Hoss), who undergoes reconstructive surgery after sustaining facial injuries during her time in a concentration camp. As Nelly attempts to reconnect with her estranged husband Johnny (Ronald Zehrfeld), their complicated relationship unfolds amidst a backdrop of lingering trauma and uncertainty about the future. Director Christian Petzold masterfully weaves a haunting tale of love, betrayal, and identity through this slow burn drama that keeps audiences enthralled until its powerful final moments.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Christian Petzold
- 35
Ti West's The House of the Devil is a chilling homage to 1980s horror movies, following college student Samantha Hughes (Jocelin Donahue) as she accepts a babysitting job that takes an unexpected and sinister turn. With its retro aesthetic, slow pacing, and unnerving tension gradually escalating toward a heart-stopping climax – this low-budget indie gem proves that sometimes less is more when it comes to crafting effective slow burn horror.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: Ti West
- 36
In Peter Weir's acclaimed thriller Witness, Philadelphia detective John Book (Harrison Ford) must protect young Amish boy Samuel Lapp (Lukas Haas) after he witnesses a brutal murder committed by corrupt cops. As Book becomes immersed in the peaceful Amish community while evading his pursuers; this captivating slow burn film delves into themes of cultural differences, love, and the struggle for justice amidst a haunting rural backdrop.
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Peter Weir
- 37
In Matt Reeves' American adaptation of Swedish vampire film Let the Right One In; young outcast Owen (Kodi Smit-McPhee) forms a bond with his enigmatic neighbor Abby (Chloë Grace Moretz), who harbors a dark secret that threatens to alter their lives irrevocably. Let Me In expertly balances tender moments between its two leads with graphic violence, resulting in an atmospheric coming-of-age tale rooted within supernatural horror – providing viewers with an unforgettable slow burn experience.
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Matt Reeves
- 38
Willem Dafoe delivers an outstanding performance in The Hunter as Martin David – a skilled mercenary hired to hunt down the last known Tasmanian tiger for unscrupulous biotech researchers. As he navigates through treacherous wilderness and forms unexpected bonds with locals along the journey, Martin finds himself increasingly conflicted about his mission's true purpose. The Hunter is a taut, character-driven thriller that expertly blends survivalism, environmentalism, and the thin line between hunter and prey.
- Released: 2011
- Directed by: Daniel Nettheim
- 39
Nicolas Winding Refn's visually dazzling psychological horror film The Neon Demon follows aspiring model Jesse (Elle Fanning) as she navigates the cutthroat world of Los Angeles' fashion industry – only to discover that beauty can be a deadly obsession for those who covet it. With its hypnotic visuals, pulsating soundtrack, and striking performances from its ensemble cast; this slow burn thriller offers an unsettling exploration of vanity, jealousy, and the ruthless pursuit of perfection in all its sinister forms.
- Released: 2016
- Directed by: Nicolas Winding Refn
- 40
Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller Rear Window stars James Stewart as L.B. "Jeff" Jefferies; a wheelchair-bound photographer who becomes convinced that his neighbor is guilty of murder after spying on him through his apartment window. As Jeff enlists the help of girlfriend Lisa (Grace Kelly) to uncover the truth, Hitchcock masterfully creates an atmosphere of suspense and voyeurism within this slow burn film that leaves viewers questioning their own instincts right up until its thrilling climax.
- Released: 1954
- Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock
- 41
Martin Scorsese's iconic character study Taxi Driver delves into the life of troubled Vietnam War veteran Travis Bickle (Robert De Niro) as he navigates New York City's seedy underbelly while working as a taxi driver. Grappling with insomnia, loneliness, and a growing disillusionment with society, Bickle's mental state deteriorates throughout the film, culminating in a violent outburst that remains etched in cinematic history. With its deliberate pacing and masterful storytelling by Scorsese and screenwriter Paul Schrader, Taxi Driver stands as a powerful testament to the slow burn genre.
- Released: 1976
- Directed by: Martin Scorsese
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- 42
David Cronenberg's adaptation of Stephen King's novel The Dead Zone follows schoolteacher Johnny Smith (Christopher Walken), who awakens from a coma with psychic powers enabling him to see people's future by touching them. As Johnny grapples with the burden of his newfound abilities while becoming embroiled in various personal dilemmas; this character-driven thriller offers viewers an introspective look at the nature of fate and responsibility through its carefully paced narrative.
- Released: 1983
- Directed by: David Cronenberg
- 43
In Jonathan Kaplan's suspenseful thriller Unlawful Entry, happily married couple Michael (Kurt Russell) and Karen Carr (Madeleine Stowe) find their idyllic life upended when they become increasingly terrorized by an obsessive police officer named Pete Davis (Ray Liotta). As Davis' fixation on Karen spirals out of control amidst mounting tension and unease, this slow burn film builds towards an adrenaline-fueled climax that leaves audiences breathless.
- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Jonathan Kaplan
- 44
Debra Granik’s critically acclaimed drama Winter’s Bone follows resilient teenager Ree Dolly (Jennifer Lawrence) as she searches for her missing father amidst the harsh landscape and unforgiving inhabitants of rural Missouri. With its deliberately paced narrative centered around themes such as survival, loyalty and familial bonds; this powerful slow burn film showcases Lawrence's breakout performance while providing audiences with a gripping viewing experience.
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: Debra Granik
- 45A mild-mannered college professor (Jake Gyllenhaal) discovers a look-alike actor and delves into the other man's private affairs.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Denis Villeneuve
- 46
Christopher Nolan's visually stunning sci-fi epic Interstellar chronicles humanity's last-ditch effort to find a new habitable planet in order to escape Earth’s impending environmental collapse. As astronaut Joseph Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) leads a team of researchers through wormholes across vast interstellar distances; this slow burn film blends elements of drama, adventure, romance while tackling themes such as family bonds transcending time and space.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Christopher Nolan
- 47
In Charlie McDowell's quirky romantic dramedy The One I Love; struggling couple Ethan (Mark Duplass) and Sophie (Elisabeth Moss) embark on a weekend retreat in an attempt to salvage their marriage – only to discover that their idyllic getaway hides an unusual secret with profound implications for their relationship. Filled with twists and turns, this thought-provoking slow burn film offers a unique exploration of love, identity, and the nature of commitment.
- Released: 2014
- Directed by: Charlie McDowell
- 48
Joe Carnahan’s gritty crime drama Narc follows suspended narcotics officer Nick Tellis (Jason Patric) as he is reinstated to investigate the murder of an undercover cop alongside hotheaded partner Henry Oak (Ray Liotta). As they navigate the seedy underbelly of Detroit's drug scene, this engrossing slow burn thriller explores themes such as loyalty, morality, and redemption amidst a backdrop of corruption and violence.
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Joe Carnahan
- 49
In director Alan J. Pakula's conspiracy thriller The Parallax View; investigative reporter Joe Frady (Warren Beatty) uncovers a shadowy organization responsible for assassinating political figures against the backdrop of post-Watergate America. As he delves deeper into his investigation with each increasingly dangerous revelation - Pakula expertly weaves suspense throughout this cinematic masterpiece that remains eerily relevant today.
- Released: 1974
- Directed by: Alan J. Pakula
- 50Alice Creed (Gemma Arterton), the daughter of a wealthy family, is kidnapped for ransom by two masked men, one of whom is her boyfriend, Danny (Martin Compston). The other man is Vic (Eddie Marsan), who Danny intends to double-cross once they get the ransom. Although Alice eventually discovers that Danny is one of her abductors, they are forced to continue acting like strangers, since Vic does not know about Alice and Danny's relationship -- and would kill them both if he were to find out.
- Released: 2009
- Directed by: J Blakeson
- 51
Writer-director S. Craig Zahler’s crime drama Dragged Across Concrete stars Mel Gibson and Vince Vaughn as two suspended police officers who decide to cross moral lines in their quest for redemption and financial stability. Through deliberate pacing and gritty storytelling, Zahler builds tension while exploring themes of corruption, loyalty, and consequences within the film's brutal world populated by criminals upon whom our protagonists have embarked on a collision course.
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: S. Craig Zahler
- 52
Roman Polanski's neo-noir classic Chinatown features Jack Nicholson as private investigator J.J. Gittes who is drawn into a web of deception and murder involving Los Angeles' water supply during the 1930s drought. With its intricate plotline slowly unraveling through stunning cinematography and stellar performances from Nicholson, Faye Dunaway, and John Huston; Chinatown exemplifies how expertly crafted storytelling can elevate the slow burn genre to new heights of engrossing intrigue and dramatic intensity.
- Released: 1974
- Directed by: Roman Polanski
- 53While exploring the uncharted wilderness in 1823, frontiersman Hugh Glass (Leonardo DiCaprio) sustains life-threatening injuries from a brutal bear attack. When a member (Tom Hardy) of his hunting team kills his young son (Forrest Goodluck) and leaves him for dead, Glass must utilize his survival skills to find a way back to civilization. Grief-stricken and fueled by vengeance, the legendary fur trapper treks through the snowy terrain to track down the man who betrayed him.
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: Alejandro González Iñárritu
- 54Private detective Philip Marlowe (Elliott Gould) is asked by his old buddy Terry Lennox (Jim Bouton) for a ride to Mexico. He obliges, and when he gets back to Los Angeles is questioned by police about the death of Terry's wife. Marlowe remains a suspect until it's reported that Terry has committed suicide in Mexico. Marlowe doesn't buy it but takes a new case from a beautiful blond, Eileen Wade (Nina van Pallandt), who coincidentally has a past with Terry.
- Released: 1973
- Directed by: Robert Altman
- 55In 1986, Park (Song Kang-ho) and Cho (Kim Roi-ha) are two simple-minded detectives assigned to a double murder investigation in a South Korean province. But when the murderer strikes several more times with the same pattern, the detectives realize that they are chasing the country's first documented serial killer. Relying on only their basic skills and tools, Park and Jo attempt to piece together the clues and solve the case in this thriller based on true events.
- Released: 2003
- Directed by: Bong Joon-ho
- 56Spencer Reinhard, Warren Lipka, Eric Borsuk and Chas Allen are four friends who live an ordinary existence in Kentucky. After a visit to Transylvania University, Lipka comes up with the idea to steal the rarest and most valuable books from the school's library. As one of the most audacious art heists in U.S. history starts to unfold, the men question whether their attempts to inject excitement and purpose into their lives are simply misguided attempts at achieving the American dream.
- Released: 2018
- Directed by: Bart Layton
- 57In the near future, a military family is relocated so it can participate in a groundbreaking experiment of man's genetic evolution into space.
- Released: 2017
- Directed by: Lennart Ruff
- 58Surveillance expert Harry Caul (Gene Hackman) is hired by a mysterious client's brusque aide (Harrison Ford) to tail a young couple, Mark (Frederic Forrest) and Ann (Cindy Williams). Tracking the pair through San Francisco's Union Square, Caul and his associate Stan (John Cazale) manage to record a cryptic conversation between them. Tormented by memories of a previous case that ended badly, Caul becomes obsessed with the resulting tape, trying to determine if the couple are in danger.
- Released: 1974
- Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
- 59A former boxer loses his job as an auto mechanic, and his troubled marriage is about to expire. At this crossroads in his life, he feels that he has no better option than to work as a drug courier. He soon finds himself in a gunfight between police officers and his own ruthless allies. When the smoke clears, Bradley is badly hurt and thrown in prison, where his enemies force him to commit acts of violence that turn the place into a savage battleground.
- Released: 2017
- Directed by: S. Craig Zahler
- 60In the taut thriller, Three Days of the Condor, Joe Turner (Robert Redford), a low-key CIA analyst, finds his life abruptly upended. Returning from lunch to discover his entire office assassinated, he's thrust into a desperate cat-and-mouse game. Faye Dunaway portrays Kathy Hale, a stranger unwittingly entangled in Turner's world of espionage and danger. Directed by Sydney Pollack, this film is a masterful blend of suspense and political intrigue, winning an Edgar Award for Best Motion Picture Screenplay. As Turner delves deeper into the conspiracy, he grapples with trust issues and survival instincts in a world where friends could be foes.
- Released: 1975
- Directed by: Sydney Pollack
- 61In the Old West, a sheriff (Kurt Russell), his deputy (Richard Jenkins), a gunslinger (Matthew Fox),and a cowboy (Patrick Wilson) embark on a mission to rescue three people from a savage group of cave dwellers.
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: S. Craig Zahler
- 62On a routine journey through space to a new home, two passengers, sleeping in suspended animation, are awakened 90 years too early when their ship malfunctions. As Jim and Aurora face living the rest of their lives on board, with every luxury they could ever ask for, they begin to fall for each other, unable to deny their intense attraction until they discover the ship is in grave danger. With the lives of 5,000 sleeping passengers at stake, only Jim and Aurora can save them all.
- Released: 2016
- Directed by: Morten Tyldum
- 63Two lighthouse keepers try to maintain their sanity while living on a remote and mysterious New England island in the 1890s.
- Released: 2019
- Directed by: Robert Eggers
- 64When rival crook Johnny Amato (Vincent Curatola) hatches a plan to rob a card game run by mob lackey Markie (Ray Liotta), he picks a low-rent thug named Frankie (Scoot McNairy) to do the job. Frankie picks a less-than-ideal partner (Ben Mendelsohn) to help him, but despite their combined incompetence, they manage to make off with the mob's money. In retaliation, Markie's bosses hire Jackie Cogan (Brad Pitt), a mob enforcer, to eradicate those responsible.
- Released: 2012
- Directed by: Andrew Dominik
- 65Modern bounty hunter Ralph "Papa" Thorson (Steve McQueen) hunts fugitives for a bail bondsman (Eli Wallach).
- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Buzz Kulik
