Unravel the Unspeakable Horror: A Deep Dive into Films that Echo Midsommar's Creeping Terrifying Aesthetic

If you're interested in psychological thriller movies like Midsommar, you may be intrigued by its unique blend of horror and drama. The film, directed by Ari Aster, takes a deep dive into a cult's disturbing midsummer festival in Sweden. Starring Florence Pugh and Jack Reynor, viewers witness their characters' relationship imploding while they unravel horrifying secrets of the pagan festival they've been invited to. The main draw is its harrowing atmosphere, cleverly crafted through evocative visual storytelling. Midsommar boldly charts into the territory of folk horror, a genre that uses folklore and mythology to induce fear.

Much like Midsommar, numerous other psychological thrillers like Hereditary, The Witch, and It Follows, utilize their setting and robust narrative techniques to invoke fear and unsettle viewers. While Midsommar posses deep-seated psychological horror under the unsuspecting guise of daylight, these films also mask their terrors behind the facade of normalcy. So if you enjoyed the slow burn and the sense of impending dread in Midsommar, you're likely to be thrilled by what other gems in the folk horror and psychological thriller genres have to offer. But remember, it's not just about anticipating the horror, it's about getting immersed in the experience... Now are you ready to dive into this thrilling list of movies?

25. Hereditary

If you've already enjoyed Midsommar and are seeking similar atmospheric horror choices, then Hereditary is a must-watch. Both films are titles from Ari Aster, an acclaimed director known for his exceptional narrative and visual storytelling techniques. Like Midsommar, Hereditary builds suspense through carefully crafted atmospheres instead of relying on traditional jump scares, making it one of the best modern psychological horror movies out there. If you enjoyed how Midsommar slowly unraveled the mystery of a creepy cult, then you'll appreciate the way Hereditary uncovers the terrifying secrets of a family's past.

Additionally, Hereditary, like Midsommar, brings forward complex and often uncomfortable themes of grief, mental health, and familial relationships. The way these films pull you into the psychological struggles of their characters is an Ari Aster hallmark, leaving viewers both unsettled and deeply engaged. What's more, Hereditary showcases an equally impressive performance by its lead actress, Toni Collette, similar to Florence Pugh in Midsommar. The storytelling and performances are sure to keep you at the edge of your seat until the very end. So, if you're a fan of atmospheric and thought-provoking horror, then Hereditary is definitely a movie you should not miss.

24. Suspiria

If you're into atmospheric horror films like Midsommar then I’d bet you’d absolutely love Suspiria. Both films cleverly weave through psychological thriller and horror genres, exploring disorienting transgressions in normalcy that keep audiences on edge. They're also visually stunning, showcasing innovative camera techniques, detailed set designs, and gorgeous yet unsettling color palettes. Combine this with enchanting yet eerie soundtracks and you have the perfect recipe for a captivating cinematic experience.

The narratives of both films are centered around similar themes such as cults, female empowerment, and ominous rites of passage set-up in unfamiliar environments. It's easy to appreciate the careful crafting of character arcs in both these films, their descent into madness is haunting, startling, and profoundly unsettling. Suspiria, very much like Midsommar, has a female lead whose transformation is central to the plot, thereby adding layers of intense emotional drama to the horror. If you’re in the mood for a thought-provoking horror film that provides more than just cheap scares, Suspiria is a top-tier choice sure to keep you as enthralled, intrigued, and bewildered as Midsommar did.

23. The Witch

If you're a fan of Midsommar and have an appetite for other films that beautifully blend horror elements with in-depth character studies, The Witch should be next on your list. Both films are masterpieces of folk-horror genre that succeed in building a slow-burning, unsettling narrative brimming with dread and realism. One shared feature of both Midsommar and The Witch is the focus on a female protagonist that undertakes a grueling, transformative psychological journey which offers both central characters' complex personality profiles and inner conflicts.

Another striking similarity is their filmmakers' meticulous attention to details, enhancing the viewers' immersion in these eerily believable worlds. Much like Midsommar led you through a daylight-drenched midsummer horror with meticulously crafted visuals, The Witch will take you back to the austere setting of the 17th-century New England, with its hauntingly atmospheric cinematography. Both films shy away from conventional horror tropes and opt for a lingering psychological terror and an exploration of human nature, which truly puts them in a class of their own in the horror genre. With both films receiving critical acclaim for their sophisticated storytelling and masterful execution, you are bound to find The Witch just as riveting and engaging as Midsommar.

22. Get Out

If you loved Midsommar and are now searching for something similar to indulge in, then "Get Out" is a fantastic choice that you won't regret. This critically acclaimed horror movie, much like Midsommar, masterfully uses suspense and psychological horror to evoke emotions and fears rather than relying on cheap jump scares. In both films, conventional expectations of horror are subverted, raising the tension more by disquieting, evolving situations and atmospheric tension than anything else.

Like Midsommar, Get Out also expertly utilizes social commentary as a driving force behind its horror. Director Jordan Peele cleverly uses the medium of horror to expose and critique underlying societal and racial tensions, much like how Ari Aster uses Midsommar's narrative to expose toxic relationships. If you enjoyed the vivid cinematography and profound messages behind Midsommar, the unsettling plot twists and striking thematic depth of Get Out are sure to captivate your interest. So brace yourself for yet another edge-of-the-seat psychological horror experience to enjoy your movie night.

21. Mother!

If you loved the unsettling ambiance and psychological impact of Midsommar, you would absolutely find Mother! equally captivating. Pairing bone-chilling narratives and visually striking scenes, the two movies share a unique DNA. Mother! from Darren Aronofsky bears a striking resemblance in its layers of symbolism and allegory, comparable to the mythological underpinnings visible in Ari Aster's Midsommar. Both films also construct their tension around complex female characters, with the seemingly tranquil and beautiful environment gradually revealing a deep-seated chaos and horror.

Moreover, both Mother! and Midsommar masterfully use the horror genre to explore thought-provoking themes about relationships, environmental responsibility, and personal identity. The films push the boundaries of conventional cinema, leading to an intense roller-coaster ride of emotions, much like what Midsommar did remarkably. Another interesting similarity is their use of light and color, turning traditionally daytime-safe environments into the breeding ground for the macabre. All of these aspects make Mother! a worthy film to consider if you're searching for movies similar to Midsommar.

20. A Quiet Place

A Quiet Place and Midsommar have a few key similarities that fans of the uniquely disturbing Midsommar will surely appreciate. Both films profess a mastery of mood, eliciting pervasive unease, and high-stress tension from their audiences. A Quiet Place, like Midsommar, engages you in a world governed by unorthodox rules, intruding in normality with an eerie twist. Each movie also incorporates an impactful use of sound and silence to create suspense; from the almost unbearable ominous hums in Midsommar to near-silent scenes in A Quiet Place, heightening the senses for that unavoidable jump scare.

Furthermore, the emphasis on interpersonal relationships and their dark complexities elevates both these films above standard horror flicks, offering an extensive exploration of human nature and its dire responses in desperate circumstances. In A Quiet Place, the familial bond and struggle for survival against ominous monsters tugs at heartstrings in a way similar to the disturbingly complex relationships portrayed in Midsommar. Both come adorned with uniquely compelling storylines, nuanced performances, and gripping tension that lasts long after the credits roll, making for an immersive cinematic experience. So if you loved Midsommar and are hunting for similarly evocative horror films, A Quiet Place is definitely worth the watch.

19. The Lighthouse

If you enjoyed the surrealism and psychological horror of Midsommar, then The Lighthouse might just be the next movie you'd want to consider. They both offer a chilling experience that's more about the atmosphere, the looming dread, and psychological elements rather than relying on traditional horror tropes. Just like Midsommar uses the sunny, flower-filled Swedish countryside to flood your senses with unease, director Robert Eggers uses the isolation of a New England lighthouse to ratchet up the tension, offering both films a deeply atmospheric setting.

From captivating storytelling to impressive performances, both Midsommar and The Lighthouse feature dynamic character arcs that pull you deep into human psychosis. They draw you in with their unique combination of horror and drama, with the addition of a touch of dark humor. Florence Pugh’s critically acclaimed performance in Midsommar matches the intense and haunting performances of Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe in The Lighthouse. There is also the shared theme of individuals losing themselves in their isolation, creating an eerie, suspenseful atmosphere that will keep you at the edge of your seat. In essence, if you're a fan of creepy, unnerving, and visually stunning films that explore the darkest corners of human psyche, The Lighthouse will definitely be a worthy addition to your must-watch list after Midsommar.

18. The Babadook

Looking for something that can replicate the spine-chilling vibes of Midsommar? Then consider making a rental of the intriguing flick, The Babadook. Much like Midsommar, it is infused with psychological horror, an underlying current of grief, and complex human relationships at its core. Both films turn regular events into harrowing experiences, Midsommar with its summertime festivities and the Babadook with its storybook tale for children. Essentially, just as Midsommar does, The Babadook reframes familiar settings into atmospheric horror narratives that will send a chill down your spine.

When exploring film elements, The Babadook and Midsommar share a similar aesthetic, projecting normal human emotions against dark, sinister backgrounds. Each film deals with loss and grief on an exceptionally intense scale, and both provide a perfect blend of psychological and supernatural themes and elements. In essence, The Babadook talks about loss, grief, and despair using horror language just as effectively as Midsommar enmeshes you in its horror infused daylight fairy tale. Thus, if you found Midsommar captivating, The Babadook provides a similar, yet distinctively different take on the genre of psychological horror films that you'll surely appreciate.

17. It Follows

If you're a fan of the chilling discomfort that Ari Aster's Midsommar brought you, then director David Robert Mitchell's It Follows is a movie you should definitely add to your watch list. Much like Midsommar, It Follows is a horror film that brilliantly navigates psychological terror through its unconventional storytelling, effective cinematography, and haunting score. Both films explore deep-seated fears and anxieties, turning them into tangible, relentless threats to the characters while delivering enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Another striking similarity between Midsommar and It Follows is the unique way they utilize the setting and theme to create an eerie atmosphere. In Midsommar, the endless daylight of the Swedish pastoral setting accentuates the horrific rituals and bizarre events. Likewise, in It Follows, the seemingly benign suburban neighborhood becomes the backdrop for a relentless pursuit by a supernatural entity, intensifying the horror element. Add in the brilliant performances in both films, bringing life to well-developed characters you can't help but feel empathy for, and you have compelling narratives that will keep you hooked from the start and leave a lasting impression. For fans of Midsommar or unique horror thrillers in general, It Follows should not be missed.

16. Don't Breathe

If you're a fan of movies infused with intense psychological thrillers and rich, atmospheric horror like Midsommar, then Don't Breathe is another cinematic treat you would definitely relish. As both films share certain elements of cinematic convulsion, the intriguing narrative and creative execution are likely to leave you spellbound. The crucial strength that binds the two movies is their ability to weave an intricate web of suspense, using the vulnerability of their characters to not just invoke fear but to dive deeper, exploring the psyche of the characters. This intense focus on character development amplifies the lasting mark of the chilling plotlines.

Another significant similarity between Midsommar and Don't Breathe is the exceptional cinematography that frames the narrative beautifully while accentuating the scare factor. Just like that sunlit, dreamlike dread that sends shivers down your spine in Midsommar, Don’t Breathe utilizes the backdrop of an old, gloomy house to its advantage, effortlessly engaging viewers in the claustrophobic terror. Additionally, the plot twists, narrative tension and disturbing revelations unfold unpredictably, providing a palpable sense of dread and paranoia, typical of some of the best psychological thriller movies. If you're in the mood for a film with a unique exploration of horror, Don't Breathe could indeed be a fitting follow-up to the Midsommar experience.

15. Annihilation

If you enjoyed the melange of surreal imagery, psychological horror and escalating tension mixed with beautiful cinematography in Midsommar, I believe Annihilation would be the perfect recommendation for you. Both Midsommar and Annihilation brilliantly use visual storytelling to provide an immersive exploration into human psychology and are thematically focused on transformation and rebirth. This level of introspection creates a disconcerting yet engaging emotional resonance that is not typically seen in standard horror or sci-fi genre fare. To sweeten the deal, Annihilation, like Midsommar, boasts an outstanding ensemble cast led by exceptional performances from their lead actresses.

The core of Annihilation, much like Midsommar, revolves around a woman's journey in confronting her past trauma, self-acceptance, and personal transformation. The movies uniquely weave psychological complexities into their narratives, creating a thought-provoking and unsettling viewing experience. Aside from their thematic similarities, they also share a focus on atmospheric cinematography; visually stunning environments that contrast with the creeping sense of dread pervading the storylines. To cap it off, there's the almost hallucinatory quality to both films' climaxes, creating an unforgettable cinematic spectacle. If films that engage your psyche and offer an otherworldly visual feast are your jam, then Annihilation should be on your must-watch list.

14. Rosemary's Baby

If you enjoyed the eerie ambiance and psychological tension of Midsommar, then you're certainly going to appreciate Rosemary's Baby. Both films intertwine dread and suspense into a narrative woven around folk-horror and a disturbing sense of social communion. Like Midsommar, Rosemary's Baby is a masterful exercise in cultivating a sense of foreboding and a slowly growing paranoia. As the protagonist grows increasingly distant from society, so does the viewers' sense of comfort and ease, plunging further into the spiral of uncanniness as each scene unfolds. In both movies, there is an exceptional use of symbolism and subtle hints that enrich the overall narrative score, making the audience think deeper, beyond the surface-level plot.

The aesthetics of Rosemary's Baby deliver the very same ethereal and captivating visuals that fascinated you in Midsommar. The parallels extend to themes of isolation, manipulation, and sacrifice, components that play pivotal roles in how the characters evolve, the plot progression, and the disquiet that gets under your skin. Furthermore, both films have layers of hidden depths to explore and analyze, providing endless fodder for post-viewing conversation—making them the perfect picks for movie fans who love to peel back the layers of a complex narrative. So if you liked the way Midsommar intricately wove a terrifying and thought-provoking narrative, Rosemary's Baby will certainly deliver a similar complex, enthralling viewing experience.

13. Antichrist

If you enjoyed the chilling, folkloric visuals and disturbing psychological underpinnings of Midsommar, you might be interested in exploring Antichrist. This provocative work by director Lars von Trier exhibits a similar exploration of myth and rituals as Midsommar, but weaves its narrative through a deeply troubled couple coping with a tragic loss. Like Midsommar, Antichrist boasts rich, eerie cinematography that draws you in and holds you captive, playing with natural settings in a way that evokes an unsettling sense of beauty and horror.

Antichrist is also unflinching in its depiction of mental decay and despair, much like Aster's haunting portrayal of grief in Midsommar. It toys with the idea of dread, isolation, and despair, creating a distorted mirror through which we view the human condition. Themes of nature and its darker side, primal instincts, and pagan symbolism, all of which leave an indelible mark in Midsommar, are strongly echoed in Antichrist. In both films, the line between reality and nightmare becomes alarmingly blurred, causing you to question the sanity, morality, and motives of the people involved. If you're a fan of slow-burning horror that creeps under your skin and leaves you contemplating for days, Antichrist surely delivers on that front.

12. The Haunting of Hill House

If you're a fan of Midsommar, then you're definitely going to appreciate The Haunting of Hill House. Both of these productions expertly immerse their audience in environments where an underlying sense of dread never really leaves. Just like your favorite, Midsommar, The Haunting of Hill House builds tension and foreshadows looming trauma throughout its story but the focus here is on paranormal activities surrounding a family rather than psychological horrors associated with a pagan festival. The complex characters, unexpected jumpscares, and gripping storytelling are a trademark of both these cinema gems, making you question what is real and what's not. Furthermore, the intricate plot and stunning cinematography of The Haunting of Hill House echoes the visually appealing, symbol-heavy imagery and clever narrative tricks that Midsommar employs so effectively.

As an aficionado of thought-provoking horror and suspense, you'd find the nuanced approach of The Haunting of Hill House similar to Midsommar. Both depict deep emotional trauma and grief wrapped in horrific incidents that are vital to the overall storyline. While Midsommar depicts communal living and ancient rituals in broad daylight, The Haunting of Hill House predominantly takes place in a menacing mansion, creating a dark atmosphere with its startling silences and shadowy corners. Themes just as heavy and chilling as Midsommar are explored, including the loss of a loved one, guilt, and mental illness. But the true beauty of The Haunting of Hill House, like Midsommar, lies in its subtle symbolism and intricate details spread across the series, making it a truly thrilling piece of cinema that requires multiple viewings to fully absorb.

11. The Killing of a Sacred Deer

If your movie tastes gravitate towards visually striking, incredibly unsettling, and deeply symbolic horror-dramas like Midsommar, then The Killing of a Sacred Deer is a film worth picking up! Like Midsommar, it's filled with psychological suspense, bizarre rituals, and thematic depth that can keep you pondering long after the end credits roll. Director Yorgos Lanthimos, much like Midsommar's Ari Aster, harbors a unique way of presenting discomfort, blending it with dark humor and aesthetic beauty, making it an compelling cinematic experience.

Moreover, the films share a sense of dread that stems not from traditional jump scares, but from increasingly uneasy interpersonal dynamics and situations that spiral out of control. In The Killing of a Sacred Deer, the unsettling story, like Midsommar, unfolds in broad daylight, challenging the traditional horror setting. It uses naturalistic dialogue, slow burns, and gorgeous cinematography to accentuate the horror. The exploration of guilt, responsibility and justice underlying the eerie narrative is something both these films excel at, making them engrossingly disturbing. So if thought-provoking psychological horror-dramas are your aesthetic, you wouldn't want to miss out on this one!

10. The Invitation

The Invitation, much like Midsommar, is a riveting thriller that embeds itself deep into the psychological horror genre. Both films explore the traumas and fears of the protagonists amidst insidious and mysterious cult-like gatherings. Ariel Schulman and Karl Glusman from The Invitation have the same disoriented and unsuspecting role as Florence Pugh in Midsommar, where a friendly gathering progressively unveils disturbing truths.

In both Midsommar and The Invitation, the filmmakers effectively utilize the eerie atmosphere of isolation and the constant dread of the unknown to build up suspense throughout the plot. With splendid cinematography and a slow-burning narrative, these films share an uncanny ability to leave you on edge, questioning every action and intention of the characters. If you were fascinated by Midsommar's unsettling depiction of a Swedish midsummer festival turned nightmarish, you will find The Invitation's ominous dinner party equally gripping and chilling.

9. The Ritual

If you loved Midsommar, then The Ritual is another film that you should absolutely not miss. The Ritual, like Midsommar, revolves around a group of friends who find themselves entangled in a horrific scenario associated with ancient practices and unknown forces. Both films masterfully mix psychological thriller elements with folk horror, setting their stories in seemingly calm yet uncannily eerie wilderness. In both movies, the protagonists travel into the heart of the extraordinary, facing their worst fears and exploring the core of their identities.

The themes of grief, trauma, friendship, and horrifying secrets in both Midsommar and The Ritual are powerfully enthralling, with breathtaking cinematography that heightens the suspense and horror. As you delve into the journey of these characters, you'll be immersed in the visceral intensity that these modern folk horror films so effectively deliver. There's also an appealing touch of the surreal, as the borders of reality and nightmare become beautifully blurred. If Midsommar's uncanny portrayal of folk festivals and rituals intrigued you, then The Ritual's spine-chilling journey into Norse mythology and beliefs will have you glued to the screen.

8. The Wailing

If you have already enjoyed the visceral and emotional rollercoaster that is Midsommar, then you will definitely find a new favorite in The Wailing. Like Midsommar, The Wailing is another powerful entry in the horror genre that utilizes a variety of cultural elements to deliver a gritty and mesmerizing experience. Both films share a unique trait, which is tapping into cultural fears and beliefs to weave a horrifying narrative, with Midsommar focusing on Swedish pagan practices and The Wailing delving into Korean shamanistic rituals.

The character development in The Wailing bears a striking resemblance to the immersive storytelling of Midsommar, from the slow transformation of the main characters to their horrifying climaxes. These films do an exceptional job of keeping you on the edge of your seat and injecting a sense of dread, but they also offer a deep exploration into human nature and psychological horror. Moreover, both movies aren't just about scares and thrills. They explore themes of grief, loss, and vulnerability against a backdrop of exquisite cinematography and haunting landscapes. The Wailing and Midsommar are films guaranteed to leave an impression long after the credits roll, making them perfect choices for horror movie enthusiasts.

7. The Neon Demon

I think you'll find that The Neon Demon shares many similarities with Midsommar, both in its striking visuals and its unsettling exploration of sacrificial rituals. Like Midsommar, The Neon Demon thrives on its unforgettable, high contrast cinematography and shocking plot twist, creating a haunting and immersive experience that will stick in your mind long after the credits roll. The director of The Neon Demon, Nicolas Winding Refn, uses vivid colors and lingering shots to mirror Ari Aster’s style in Midsommar, painting a stunning, yet eerie portrait of the fashion industry.

But the similarities go deeper than just aesthetics. The Neon Demon's exploration of beauty as a commodity mirrors Midsommar's focus on sacrifices made for a cult. In both films, the female protagonists are enmeshed in unsettling ceremonies and become tragic victims of circumstances beyond their control. Just as Dani ends up in a twisted, isolated Swedish 'utopia' in Midsommar, Jesse in The Neon Demon also finds herself trapped in the haunting beauty of the Los Angeles modeling world. Both movies portray a frequent sense of dread, which perfectly captures the sinister side of their respective settings. If you appreciated Midsommar's terrifying journey into the unknown, you'll definitely enjoy the similar path The Neon Demon treads.

6. Parasite

Are you in the mood for another mind-bending cinematic experience like Midsommar's frightfully mesmerizing journey? Then look no further than the masterpiece unveiled by Bong Joon-Ho, titled Parasite. These two films are strikingly unique yet share an uncanny resemblance in terms of their complex narratives, psychologically thrilling twists, and brilliant cinematography. Both movies ingeniously blend grueling horror with wicked humor, leaving audiences awakened to societal themes and grotesque realities. In a way, Parasite mirrors Midsommar's brilliance in exploring societal constructs and human behavior patterns, while its sharp, unpredictable plot takes audiences on an exhilarating ride.

Parasite and Midsommar excel in generating an intensifying sense of dread throughout their duration, leading to apexes that are as shocking as they are visceral. They both thrive in maintaining an ominous undertone, hybridizing reality and fiction to create a dangerously alluring ambiguity. The two films uphold a powerful contrast between the charming aesthetics of their settings and the underlying brutal truth of their narratives, making the revelation all the more jarring and disturbing. Having Midsommar's surreal horror under your belt, watching Parasite will only enhance your appreciation for modern cinema's daring ventures into uncharted territories of storytelling.

5. Coherence

If you're a fan of Midsommar‘s captivatingly grim and psychologically twisted storytelling, then you are sure to appreciate the ingenious plot of Coherence. Both films are brilliantly-crafted psychological thrillers that seamlessly blend elements of horror and mystery. As with Midsommar, Coherence delivers a strong atmospheric tension that builds throughout the movie, keeping you on edge as you anxiously anticipate what comes next. This is due to their shared narrative style, where unsettling circumstances drive the story forward, engrossing you in a suspense-filled account of bizarre events.

Exploring similar themes of horror expressed through interpersonal dynamics and psychological unraveling, Coherence and Midsommar both masterfully ensnare you in their eerie universes. Midsommar pulls you in with its slow-burning terror and Coherence does the same with its unusual premise. Coherence features dinner party guests who suspect they're experiencing a parallel reality — not too far a leap if you've survived the sun-blanched, dreamlike Swedish cult of Midsommar. Both movies keep viewers guessing and questioning their own understanding of reality, making for an immersive cinematic experience that continues to haunt and intrigue long after the credits roll.

4. Martyrs

If you enjoyed the chilling ambiance, psychological horror, and cult motif of Midsommar, then Martyrs is a must-watch for you. Just like Midsommar, Martyrs delves deep into the terrifying aspects of human psychology, portraying how despair and fear can puppeteer a person's actions. This French-Canadian horror film doesn't shy away from spotlighting the grotesque, but this raw intensity only serves to add a layer of authenticity, much like Midsommar's unfiltered look at grief and despair. The two movies share a knack for pulling off a disturbingly captivating narrative, leaving viewers at the edge of their seats.

One of the key similarities between Martyrs and Midsommar is their exploration of the underbelly of human existence and sacrifice. Just as Midsommar uses the bright, daytime setting of a Swedish summer to contrast the horrific events that occur, so too does Martyrs adopt the unsettling contrast of brutality amidst innocence. The films delve into several overlapping horror movie genres, the psychological, the surreal and the fantastic, forging an unforgettable cinematic experience for viewers. If Midsommar has sparked in you a fascination for films that examine the disturbing aspects of human society and psychology, Martyrs is a horror movie experience you won't want to miss.

3. Under the Skin

If you loved Midsommar for its intense, mysterious storytelling and viscerally haunting images, then Under the Skin is absolutely a must-see movie for you. Both films share a profound dedication to the craft. Jonathan Glazer's Under The Skin, like Ari Aster's Midsommar, takes viewers on a slow-burning journey where the tension gradually builds to a pitch. Each scene drips with menace, provoking a sense of uncertainty and dread. Key to both are their central female characters, overt and covert outsiders respectively, whose experiences form the emotional core of the narratives.

Where Midsommar uses the Swedish midsummer festival as a backdrop for exploring themes of grief, relationship breakdown, and cultural disorientation, Under the Skin plumbs the depths of the human consciousness through a predatory extraterrestrial in humanoid form navigating the bleak landscapes of Scotland. These films share a thought-provoking exploration of human relationships, fear, isolation, and society's often-predatory nature. The atmospheric, lingering cinematography, symbolic visuals, and exquisite musical scores add further layers to their mood and themes. So if Midsommar left you hungry for more thought-provoking, artfully crafted psychodrama, Under the Skin is a natural choice for your next movie night.

2. Blue Velvet

While at a surface-level glance, David Lynch's Blue Velvet and Ari Aster's Midsommar may seem quite different, they both delve deeply into the complex nature of human behavior, manipulation, and the grotesque underbelly of society. Both are visually stunning films, known for their respective breathtaking cinematography and intricate attention to detail. The films share this common trait in spinning the unsettling amidst the seemingly beautiful, creating a disconcerting juxtaposition that leaves viewers in awe and discomfort in equal measure.

Moreover, Blue Velvet, like Midsommar, uses its characters and their experiences as an exploration of psychological horror. Rather than relying on traditional horror tropes, they masterfully construct their narratives around more profound fears, emotional turmoil, and societal anxieties. These films keep you on the edge of your seat with a mounting sense of dread and have endings that leave you questioning their underlying themes. If you enjoyed the haunting atmosphere and psychological depth of Midsommar, Blue Velvet's compelling story of seedy small-town secrets and strange characters will surely captivate you.

1. Mulholland Drive

Mulholland Drive, like Midsommar, immerses you in a world that seems normal but is incredibly surreal and eerie underneath. Both films explore the depths of the human psyche, employing intricate symbolic language and disturbing thematic elements to convey a sense of emotional disarray. Mulholland Drive is birthed from the same imaginative horror and psychological thriller genre as Midsommar; it's a journey where dream sequences overlap with reality, creating a cinematic labyrinth that is as intriguing as it is terrifying.

Directed by David Lynch, Mulholland Drive echoes the mood of Midsommar’s village with its own gloomy Los Angeles backdrop—a veneer of beauty barely concealing the terror within. The acting performances are a perfect balance of subtle drama and outright horror, an aspect shared with Midsommar's masterful character arcs. If you loved Midsommar and wish to experience more unsettling plots adjacent with carefully orchestrated layers of storytelling and symbolism, Mulholland Drive is definitely a movie you ought to add to your watch list.

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