10 Best Movies Like Don't Worry Darling | Similar-List

Olivia Wilde's second directorial effort, Don't Worry Darling, has recently become a major talking point. This psychological thriller has ignited debates not just about its narrative but also the behind-the-scenes controversies. The film centers on Alice, portrayed by Florence Pugh, who begins to unravel the unsettling secrets behind her seemingly perfect 1950s suburban existence. Themes of control, societal expectations, and the darker aspects of utopian ideals are explored with an intensity that captivates and disturbs.

Don't Worry Darling was beset with production challenges, including rumored cast disputes and contentious marketing strategies. Critics delivered mixed reviews upon its release: while Pugh's compelling performance and Wilde's bold direction received praise, the film's narrative coherence and pacing faced criticism. Despite the polarized reviews, it achieved box office success, drawing viewers intrigued by its provocative premise and behind-the-scenes drama.

If you were intrigued by the unsettling atmosphere and complex themes of Don't Worry Darling, you might enjoy these films. Each shares thematic elements, directorial approaches, or cast connections that resonate with Wilde's film.

10 Best Movies Like Don't Worry Darling

Booksmart

Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut, Booksmart, is a sharp and witty coming-of-age comedy that follows two high-achieving high school seniors, Amy and Molly, who decide to let loose and experience all the fun they missed out on by cramming four years of excitement into a single, wild night before graduation. Although Booksmart diverges tonally from Don't Worry Darling, it showcases Wilde’s adeptness at blending humor with emotional depth. Both films feature strong, complex female leads navigating societal pressures and personal growth.

Booksmart was lauded for its refreshing take on the teen comedy genre, breaking away from typical clichés and stereotypes. The film’s success can be attributed to its sharp, clever writing and the outstanding performances by Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein, whose chemistry brings authenticity to their characters. The movie’s portrayal of female friendship is heartfelt and humorous, reflecting Wilde’s nuanced direction.

Booksmart has been praised for its progressive approach to teen comedies. It sensitively and humorously addresses contemporary issues such as gender identity, sexual orientation, and academic achievement pressures. The film’s portrayal of diverse characters and inclusive humor has resonated with a broad audience, making it a significant entry in the genre.

Critics highlighted the film’s innovative narrative structure, blends real-time events with flashbacks, enhancing the comedic and dramatic impact. The film’s direction has been noted for its fresh and dynamic style, establishing Wilde as a talented filmmaker with a unique voice in contemporary cinema.

Booksmart was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its originality and direction. It was nominated for several awards, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy at the Golden Globes, further solidifying Wilde’s reputation as a filmmaker to watch.

One of the standout scenes involves the protagonists trying to navigate a high-school party filled with bizarre and hilarious encounters. This sequence exemplifies the film’s ability to blend humor with poignant moments, illustrating the characters' transition from adolescence to adulthood.

Wilde's background as an actress gave her a unique perspective on directing, allowing her to guide Dever and Feldstein in delivering authentic and engaging performances. Her attention to detail crafting relatable and multidimensional characters contributed significantly to the film’s success.

Midsommar

Midsommar stars Florence Pugh as Dani, a grieving woman who accompanies her boyfriend and friends to a remote Swedish village for a rare midsummer festival. What starts as an idyllic retreat quickly devolves into a nightmarish experience as the festival’s seemingly benign traditions reveal a sinister underbelly.

Midsommar shares thematic similarities with Don't Worry Darling, particularly in exploring psychological horror and societal manipulation. Both films delve into the unsettling aspects of seemingly perfect environments and the dark secrets beneath the surface.

Pugh’s portrayal of Dani is both haunting and deeply emotional. Her journey from a grieving individual to someone engulfed in a nightmarish cult showcases her range as an actress. Pugh's nuanced performance adds psychological depth to the film, paralleling her complex role in Don't Worry Darling.

Directed by Ari Aster, Midsommar is unique for its daylight horror, contrasting with traditional dark, nighttime settings. The film creates a disturbing atmosphere through bright, pastoral visuals and unsettling rituals. This juxtaposition enhances the sense of dread, a technique that resonates with the eerie ambiance of Don't Worry Darling.

The film intricately weaves Swedish folklore and pagan symbolism into its narrative. Aster’s attention to detail in depicting the festival's customs and ceremonies adds authenticity and depth to the horror elements. The rituals and symbols serve as a commentary on human nature and societal norms, enriching the film’s thematic layers.

Midsommar received widespread acclaim for its originality and psychological impact. Critics praised Aster’s ability to maintain tension and horror through daylight, a departure from typical horror conventions. The film was noted for its meticulous production design, disturbing imagery, and innovative storytelling.

The film earned several accolades, including awards for its cinematography and production design. It was also recognized at various film festivals for its unique contribution to horror, solidifying Aster’s reputation as a visionary director.

One of the most memorable scenes is the "May Queen" ritual, where Dani is crowned queen and experiences ecstasy and horror. This scene exemplifies the film's ability to blend beauty with terror, reflecting the unsettling charm central to Midsommar and Don't Worry Darling.

Ari Aster’s meticulous approach to creating a believable yet horrifying cult environment involved extensive research into real-life pagan traditions and rituals. This dedication to authenticity enhances the film's immersive experience and contributes to its psychological impact.

Outlaw King

Outlaw King chronicles the life of Robert the Bruce, portrayed by Chris Pine, as he leads a rebellion against English rule in 14th-century Scotland. The film follows his transformation from a nobleman into a fierce leader fighting for Scottish independence. Florence Pugh plays Elizabeth de Burgh, Robert’s wife, whose role is pivotal in his quest for freedom.

Outlaw King reunites Chris Pine and Florence Pugh, contrasting their roles in Don't Worry Darling. While Don't Worry Darling explores psychological suspense and societal control, Outlaw King presents a historical epic with themes of resistance and personal sacrifice. The shared intensity and depth of their performances link the two films thematically.

Outlaw King is lauded for its attention to historical detail. The film provides a gritty, realistic portrayal of medieval warfare and the political landscape of 14th-century Scotland. The depiction of the Battle of Loudoun Hill and other key historical events are meticulously recreated, offering viewers a vivid sense of the era. This commitment to historical accuracy enhances the film's immersive experience.

Chris Pine’s portrayal of Robert the Bruce is both rugged and nuanced. Pine captures the complexity of Bruce’s character, from his initial reluctance to engage in rebellion to his eventual role as a determined leader. His performance brings depth and authenticity to the historical figure, showcasing his versatility beyond his usual roles.

Florence Pugh’s portrayal of Elizabeth de Burgh is powerful and emotionally resonant. While less central to the action, her character provides crucial support to Robert the Bruce and embodies the personal stakes of the historical struggle. Pugh’s performance adds an emotional layer to the film, highlighting the personal sacrifices involved in the fight for independence.

Directed by David Mackenzie, the film is noted for its impressive battle sequences and sweeping cinematography. Practical effects and on-location shooting in Scotland lend authenticity and grandeur to the historical epic. The film’s visual style contrasts with the more intimate and psychological approach of Don't Worry Darling, offering a different type of cinematic experience.

Outlaw King received praise for its action sequences, historical accuracy, and the strong performances by Pine and Pugh. Critics highlighted the film’s engaging narrative and the depth of its character portrayals. However, some reviews noted that while the film was visually impressive, it occasionally struggled with pacing.

The film was recognized for its costume design and battle choreography, earning nominations at several award ceremonies. Its portrayal of medieval Scotland and the personal story of Robert the Bruce were appreciated for their historical depth and dramatic impact.

The film’s depiction of the Battle of Loudoun Hill is a standout moment, showcasing the brutal reality of medieval warfare. This scene and the tense political negotiations and personal moments between Robert and Elizabeth provide a compelling narrative arc that enhances the film’s historical and emotional impact.

The film's production involved extensive research into medieval Scottish history and culture. Authentic locations and historical costumes contributed to the film’s realistic portrayal. The filmmakers aimed to balance historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling, creating an educational and entertaining film.

Dunkirk

Christopher Nolan’s Dunkirk portrays the dramatic evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk during World War II. The film employs a non-linear narrative, intertwining three distinct perspectives—land, sea, and air—to convey the urgency and chaos of the evacuation. Harry Styles stars as a young soldier caught in the turmoil, marking his film debut.

Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling share a focus on intense, immersive experiences, though they operate in different genres. Both films use innovative storytelling techniques to enhance the audience’s engagement with their respective narratives. Dunkirk's visceral portrayal of fear and survival echoes the psychological tension found in Don't Worry Darling.

Nolan’s use of IMAX cameras and practical effects in Dunkirk is widely praised. The film's immersive sound design and minimal use of CGI create a highly realistic and engaging experience. The lack of traditional dialogue in some scenes heightens the sensory experience, pulling viewers into the harrowing conditions faced by the soldiers.

Harry Styles, primarily known as a musician, received acclaim for his acting debut. His portrayal of Alex, a soldier grappling with the stress of evacuation, adds authenticity to the film’s depiction of wartime chaos. Critics noted Styles’ ability to convey vulnerability and resilience, marking a promising start to his acting career.

Dunkirk sheds light on the real-life Dunkirk evacuation, often called Operation Dynamo. The film’s historical accuracy and dramatic flair offer educational and emotional insights into one of World War II's most critical moments. The evacuation's logistical and human challenges provide a powerful portrayal of wartime heroism.

The film received widespread praise for its direction, cinematography, and sound design. It was nominated for several Academy Awards and won Best Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing. Nolan’s unique narrative structure and technical achievements were highlighted as standout elements.

The opening sequence, where soldiers are pinned down by enemy fire on the beach, sets a tense tone. The aerial dogfights, filmed with real aircraft, and the emotional climax of the soldiers finally being rescued are particularly memorable for their intensity and authenticity.

Christopher Nolan’s commitment to realism led to using vintage aircraft and ships rather than CGI. The decision to shoot in real locations, including the beaches of Dunkirk, adds to the film’s authenticity and impact. The practical approach to special effects and the dedication to historical accuracy contribute to the film’s immersive quality.

The Truman Show

In The Truman Show, Jim Carrey stars as Truman Burbank, a man who unknowingly lives his entire life under the gaze of a 24/7 reality TV show. As Truman begins to question the authenticity of his world, he embarks on a quest for truth, challenging the boundaries between reality and illusion.

Both The Truman Show and Don't Worry Darling explore themes of control and manipulated realities. While Don't Worry Darling delves into a fabricated utopia, The Truman Show focuses on a constructed reality show. Both films critique how external forces shape personal experiences and perceptions.

The Truman Show is a poignant satire on media manipulation and reality television. It raises questions about the ethics of surveillance and the nature of personal freedom. The film's examination of a manufactured reality and its impact on individual identity resonates with the thematic concerns of Don't Worry Darling.

Jim Carrey’s role as Truman Burbank is notable for its depth and emotional range, contrasting with his usual comedic roles. Carrey’s portrayal captures Truman’s growing realization and desperation, showcasing his ability to handle dramatic material with sensitivity and nuance.

The Truman Show received critical acclaim for its original concept and Carrey’s performance. The film was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Director for Peter Weir. The film’s innovative storytelling and thought-provoking themes contributed to its success and enduring relevance.

The film has influenced media ethics and reality TV discussions, becoming a cultural touchstone for modern surveillance and media manipulation critiques. Its depiction of a reality TV show as a metaphor for personal freedom and autonomy remains relevant in contemporary media practices.

The climactic scene where Truman sails to the edge of his constructed world represents his ultimate confrontation with the fabricated nature of his existence. This moment encapsulates the film's central themes and offers a powerful commentary on self-discovery and resistance.

The film’s set was a massive, enclosed dome built specifically for the production, reflecting the intricacies of Truman’s fabricated world. The meticulous design of the set and the innovative use of hidden cameras contributed to the film’s realistic portrayal of Truman’s environment and the show’s omnipresence.

Get Out

Get Out, directed by Jordan Peele, follows Chris Washington, a young black man who visits his white girlfriend’s family estate only to uncover a disturbing secret about their intentions. The film blends horror with sharp social commentary on race and identity.

Get Out and Don't Worry Darling both utilize psychological horror to explore themes of societal manipulation and hidden realities. While Don't Worry Darling critiques the control within a seemingly perfect society, Get Out addresses racial exploitation and the façade of liberalism, making both films powerful critiques of societal norms

Get Out is celebrated for its incisive commentary on race relations and systemic racism. Peele’s film employs horror to expose the underlying prejudices of ostensibly progressive characters, creating a terrifying and thought-provoking narrative. The film’s critique of performative liberalism and racial appropriation adds layers of meaning to its horror elements.

Get Out was Peele’s directorial debut and was notable for its originality and impact. Peele, known for his work in comedy, successfully transitioned to the horror genre, earning praise for his innovative approach and storytelling. The film’s success established Peele as a significant voice in contemporary cinema.

Get Out received widespread acclaim for its original script and effective blending of horror and social critique. It was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The film’s success at the box office and with critics highlights its relevance and impact.

The film sparked conversations about race and representation in Hollywood. It has been widely discussed in academic and cultural contexts for its exploration of racial dynamics and its innovative use of horror to address social issues. Get Out has influenced other filmmakers and continues to be relevant in discussions about race and media.

The “Sunken Place” scene, where Chris is mentally trapped while his body remains paralyzed, is a powerful metaphor for racial oppression and control. This scene encapsulates the film’s central themes and offers a striking visual representation of psychological and physical confinement.

Peele’s meticulous attention to detail in the film’s symbolism and social commentary reflects his deep understanding of racial issues and cinematic storytelling. The film’s use of metaphor and allegory enhances its horror elements, making it a standout example of socially conscious genre filmmaking.

The Stepford Wives

The Stepford Wives tells the story of Joanna Eberhart, who moves with her family to the seemingly idyllic town of Stepford. As she unravels the town’s secrets, she discovers a sinister plot that turns the women into submissive, perfect housewives.

The film’s exploration of conformity and control parallels the themes in Don't Worry Darling. Both films depict environments where outward perfection conceals darker truths, using their narratives to critique societal expectations and the suppression of individuality.

The Stepford Wives addresses themes of gender roles and societal expectations. The film critiques the pressure on women to conform to traditional roles, presenting a chilling vision of a society that sacrifices individuality for superficial perfection. This critique resonates with the feminist themes explored in Don't Worry Darling.

The film has had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing discussions about gender roles and conformity. The 1975 original is often cited for its feminist commentary, while the 2004 remake, although less acclaimed, revisits the themes with a modern twist. Both versions of the film highlight the dangers of enforced perfection and conformity.

The original 1975 film received praise for its satirical approach and social critique. The remake was noted for its updated take on the classic story but received mixed reviews. Despite this, both films contribute to the ongoing discourse about societal expectations and personal freedom.

The reveal of the Stepford Wives' true nature, where Joanna uncovers the town’s dark secret, is a pivotal moment that encapsulates the film’s themes of control and conformity. This scene is a powerful critique of societal pressures and the loss of individuality.

The original film’s production involved a careful balance of satire and horror, using its genre to explore serious social issues. The remake’s modern take aimed to update the themes for contemporary audiences, reflecting ongoing discussions about gender and societal expectations.

Being John Malkovich

John Malkovich follows Craig Schwartz, who discovers a portal that allows him to enter the mind of actor John Malkovich. The film explores the implications of inhabiting another person’s consciousness and the ethical dilemmas that arise.

John Malkovich and Don't Worry Darling delve into themes of control and manipulated realities. While Don't Worry Darling addresses societal control and personal autonomy, Being John Malkovich explores the consequences of literal mind control and identity invasion.

• Additional Context:
  • The film is known for its surreal and inventive storytelling. Accessing someone else’s mind provides a unique exploration of identity and consciousness. The film’s originality and inventive approach make it a standout example of creative and thought-provoking cinema.
  • Critical Reception and Awards:
    • Being John Malkovich was acclaimed for its originality and the performances of its cast, including John Malkovich, who plays himself. The film received three Academy Award nominations, including Best Director for Spike Jonze. Its creative narrative and thought-provoking themes were widely praised.
  • Cultural Impact:
    • The film has influenced discussions about identity and consciousness, offering a fresh perspective on mind control. Its exploration of the human psyche and the ethical implications of such a power resonate with similar themes found in Don't Worry Darling.
  • Notable Scenes:
    • The scenes where characters enter John Malkovich’s mind and experience his thoughts and perceptions are central to the film’s exploration of identity and consciousness. These scenes highlight the film’s inventive approach and its commentary on personal autonomy.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Insight:
    • The film’s imaginative script and direction reflect a bold approach to storytelling. The use of metaphors and surreal elements enhances the film’s exploration of identity and mind control, making it a significant entry in the psychological and speculative cinema genre.

Fresh

• Brief Synopsis:
  • Fresh is a darkly comedic thriller that follows Noa, a young woman who discovers disturbing truths about her new boyfriend’s peculiar eating habits. The film explores themes of trust, deception, and the hidden horrors beneath seemingly perfect facades.
• Connection to Main Topic:
  • Both Fresh and Don't Worry Darling deal with hidden horrors beneath the surface of idealistic settings. Fresh uses dark humor and suspense to reveal the sinister aspects of a romantic relationship, paralleling the uncovering of disturbing secrets in Don't Worry Darling.
• Additional Context:
  • Genre Blending:
    • Fresh blends horror, thriller, and dark comedy elements, creating a unique viewing experience. The film’s use of humor and suspense to explore themes of deception and control adds layers to its narrative, offering a fresh perspective on genre conventions.
  • Critical Reception:
    • The film received praise for its inventive plot and strong performances. The combination of horror and dark comedy was noted for its originality and effectiveness in addressing the film’s themes. Critics highlighted the film’s ability to balance suspense with humor.
  • Notable Scenes:
    • Key scenes include revealing the boyfriend’s true nature and the subsequent unraveling of the relationship. These moments highlight the film’s exploration of trust and deception, contributing to its overall impact.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Insight:
    • The film’s script and direction reflect a creative approach to storytelling. Genre conventions are used to explore deeper themes of control and manipulation. Blending horror and comedy adds to the film’s unique voice and thematic depth.

Revolutionary Road

• Brief Synopsis:
  • Revolutionary Road features Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet as a couple in 1950s America struggling with the disparity between their dreams and reality. The film examines the pressures of suburban life and the impact of societal expectations on personal happiness.
• Connection to Main Topic:
  • Both Revolutionary Road and Don't Worry Darling critique societal expectations and the façade of a perfect life. Revolutionary Road's exploration of marital discontent and the search for personal fulfillment resonates with Don't Worry Darling's themes of control and illusion.
• Additional Context:
  • Emotional Depth and Performances:
    • The film is celebrated for the powerful performances by DiCaprio and Winslet. Their portrayal of a couple grappling with unfulfilled dreams and societal pressure provides a poignant look at the challenges of conforming to societal norms. Their chemistry and emotional depth enhance the film’s impact.
  • Critical Reception and Awards:
    • Revolutionary Road received critical acclaim for its performances and direction. The film was noted for exploring complex emotional and social themes and earned nominations for several awards. Its depiction of marital and societal struggles adds depth to its narrative.
  • Notable Scenes:
    • The confrontational scenes between the couple, where they express their frustrations and desires, are central to the film’s exploration of personal and societal conflict. These moments highlight the film’s emotional intensity and thematic concerns.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Insight:
    • Directed by Sam Mendes, the film’s attention to detail in portraying the 1950s era and its focus on character-driven storytelling reflect a commitment to exploring the intricacies of human relationships and societal pressures. The film’s period setting and character dynamics contribute to its rich thematic content.

In this list, we’ve explored ten films that share thematic elements, directorial styles, or cast connections with Don't Worry Darling. Each movie offers psychological thrills, societal critiques, and compelling performances that echo the essence of Wilde’s film.

We invite you to explore these films to deepen your appreciation of the themes and styles discussed. Each offers a unique perspective on psychological tension and societal constructs, enhancing your understanding of similar cinematic experiences.

What do you think of these recommendations? Are there any other films you believe should be included? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments or on social media. Let’s continue the discussion!