Obsession, a powerful force that can both captivate and destroy, is a recurring theme in cinema. Countless films delve into the minds of characters consumed by their desires, exploring the thin line between ambition and obsession. These narratives offer a glimpse into the allure and dangers of relentless pursuits, leaving audiences both fascinated and unsettled. Here are seven movies that masterfully depict the dark side of obsession, showcasing how these consuming passions can unravel lives and lead to unforeseen consequences.
7. Nightcrawler (2014)
Lou Bloom, a down-on-his-luck petty thief in Los Angeles, stumbles upon the lucrative world of freelance photojournalism. This discovery ignites a fire within him, transforming him into a stringer who seeks out increasingly violent incidents to sell to local news stations. The more sensational the footage, the higher the payout, and Lou becomes obsessed with capturing the perfect shot, even if it means manipulating crime scenes and compromising his ethics. This neo-noir thriller, directed by Dan Gilroy, is elevated by Jake Gyllenhaal’s captivating performance as the sociopathic Lou. His unsettling apathy makes him perfectly suited for this dark world, reflecting and critiquing the unethical practices often employed by journalism in the pursuit of sensationalism and consumer demand.
6. The Prestige (2006)
In Christopher Nolan’s masterful thriller, “The Prestige,” two magicians, Robert Angier and Alfred Borden, engage in a fierce rivalry fueled by their obsession to outshine each other. Their competition consumes their lives, driving them to uncover each other’s secrets. Angier becomes particularly fixated on Borden’s ultimate trick, “The Transported Man.” The film, set in the late 19th century, unfolds with unexpected twists and turns, featuring intriguing characters like David Bowie’s Nikola Tesla. The core of the narrative lies in the unhealthy dynamic between Angier and Borden, highlighting how their obsession ultimately costs them far more than they initially imagined. “The Prestige,” a relatively underrated entry in Nolan’s filmography, is a must-see for fans who appreciate his signature non-linear narratives and use of symbolism.
5. Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
Stanley Kubrick’s final masterpiece, “Eyes Wide Shut,” follows Dr. Bill Harford, a seemingly stable man in a seemingly stable marriage with Alice. But beneath the surface, a heated argument reveals Alice’s sexual fantasies about another man, shaking Harford’s sense of security. Driven by jealousy and a desire to understand his wife’s desires, Harford embarks on a night-long sexual journey that leads him to a secretive masked ball. The encounter with individuals and experiences in this forbidden world become increasingly surreal and unsettling as his obsession with exploring his own unknown desires intensifies. “Eyes Wide Shut,” like many of Kubrick’s works, is steeped in symbolism and layered meanings, ultimately focusing on the unraveling of Harford’s psyche in the face of his wife’s confession.
4. American Psycho (2000)
Patrick Bateman, a wealthy New York City investment banker, lives a seemingly perfect life of luxury. But beneath his polished exterior, a dark secret lurks: a violent obsession with enacting his gruesome fantasies. The film contrasts his obsession with appearances and materialism with his increasingly erratic behavior, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. Based on Bret Easton Ellis’s eponymous novel, “American Psycho” satirizes the excesses of 1980s yuppie culture, showcasing how wealth and success are often measured by superficial markers. Bateman’s obsession with material possessions, outward appearances, and status symbols serves as a commentary on the moral decay that can fester beneath a materialistic façade.
3. Whiplash (2014)
Damien Chazelle’s “Whiplash” is a powerful drama that explores the destructive dynamic between Andrew Neiman, an ambitious young jazz drummer, and Terence Fletcher, his ruthless instructor. Andrew, a first-year student at a prestigious music conservatory, dreams of becoming a legendary musician. He believes that Fletcher, notorious for his abusive teaching methods, can help him achieve his goal. Fletcher pushes Andrew to his physical and mental limits, their toxic relationship escalating to an emotionally charged climax. The film unflinchingly portrays the grueling pursuit of artistic perfection, showcasing the sacrifices made in the name of ambition. Both Andrew and Fletcher are consumed by obsession, highlighting the dangers of romanticizing the struggle for artistic greatness, even at the expense of personal well-being.
2. Vertigo (1958)
Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece, “Vertigo,” features James Stewart as John “Scottie” Ferguson, a former police detective plagued by a debilitating fear of heights. He is hired to follow Madeleine, the wife of his old acquaintance, Gavin Elster. As Scottie trails Madeleine, he becomes captivated by her, and her sudden death deeply affects him. He later encounters Judy Barton, a woman who bears a striking resemblance to Madeleine, further fueling his obsession. This psychological thriller is driven by Scottie’s unnerving fixation on Madeleine and his attempts to mold Judy into the image of his lost love. The film blurs the lines between reality and illusion, leaving audiences questioning the true nature of Scottie’s obsession.
1. Taxi Driver (1976)
Martin Scorsese’s “Taxi Driver” tells the story of Travis Bickle, a Vietnam War veteran struggling with insomnia. As he drives his cab through the streets of New York City, he becomes increasingly enraged by the poverty and crime he witnesses. His mental state deteriorates further as his attempts to connect with others fail. When he becomes obsessed with rescuing a young sex worker, Iris, his anger and isolation reach their peak. His disconnection with society leads to a destructive obsession with cleansing the city of its filth, culminating in a violent conclusion. Robert De Niro’s iconic performance as the unhinged Travis is a testament to the power of obsession, showcasing how it can transform a person from a disillusioned veteran into a dangerous vigilante. “Taxi Driver” serves as a gritty depiction of urban alienation, exploring the dark side of obsession and the desperate need for redemption in a world dominated by crime and corruption.
