22 Intriguing Movies Like The Crush | Similar-List

"The Crush" (1993) thrusts viewers into a suspenseful tale where innocent flirtations morph into dangerous obsessions, captivating the audience through its intense portrayal of unrestrained infatuation. Featuring Alicia Silverstone as the dangerously obsessed teenager Adrian Forrester, "The Crush" unravels the story of a young girl who fixates on a journalist, leading to a series of manipulative, tension-filled events that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. For those mesmerized by the psychological complexities and gripping narrative of "The Crush," this list offers a selection of films that mirror its intense atmosphere and compelling storytelling. If you’re fascinated by psychological thrillers that explore the darker side of human relationships and obsession, you’ll find these films especially compelling.

Obsessed (2009)

"Obsessed" is a gripping tale of dangerous attraction and its dire consequences, offering viewers a thrilling ride through the dangerous landscape of unchecked obsession and the shocking lengths one will go to get what they want. The movie effectively portrays how a seemingly innocent interest can escalate into severe peril, mirroring the dynamics of obsession depicted in "The Crush." The film delivers notable performances that heighten the narrative’s intensity. Idris Elba’s portrayal of a man caught in a psychological nightmare and Beyoncé’s transition from loving wife to fierce protector add depth and emotional weight to the storyline. The suspenseful build-up and intense climax in "Obsessed" are reminiscent of the psychological tension in "The Crush."

Both films examine how obsessive desire leads to escalating tension and life-threatening situations. A successful executive, Derek Charles, played by Idris Elba, becomes the target of his new temp worker Lisa Sheridan's dangerous infatuation. Lisa's seemingly innocent interest rapidly spirals into a menacing obsession, jeopardizing Derek's career, marriage, and safety. As Lisa’s advances grow more intrusive, Derek's wife, Sharon (played by Beyoncé), finds herself drawn into a nerve-wracking struggle to protect her family from Lisa's relentless fixation. Additionally, the climactic confrontation between Sharon and Lisa underscores the film's exploration of obsession's destructive potential. This scene showcases the dramatic escalation of Lisa's infatuation and highlights Sharon's unwavering determination to safeguard her family, making the stakes palpably high and the resolution deeply satisfying.

The Roommate (2011)

A college freshman, Sara, moves into her dormitory and quickly befriends her new roommate, Rebecca. However, Rebecca's behavior becomes disturbingly possessive and controlling, escalating to dangerous levels as her obsession grows. The plot intricately weaves Sara's life being overshadowed by Rebecca’s unhinged actions, including stalking her friends, isolating Sara from others, and resorting to violence. Combining psychological tension with chilling suspense, "The Roommate" masterfully keeps viewers engaged, making it a must-watch for those fascinated by the dark themes in "The Crush." The film is enriched with numerous specific incidents that highlight Rebecca's instability, adding a layer of realism to the psychological horror. For example, Rebecca tattoos herself to match Sara, seeks to eliminate Sara's previous friendships, and even endangers Sara’s boyfriend by secretly tampering with his medication. These chilling actions create a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge, wondering just how far Rebecca will go to maintain her grip on Sara.

The psychological tension and suspenseful narrative of "The Roommate" will captivate fans of "The Crush." Just as Adrian's fixation on the journalist in "The Crush" leads to terrifying consequences, Rebecca's obsession with Sara spirals dangerously out of control. The film's depiction of a normal relationship turning sinister provides a compelling and unsettling journey that mirrors the dynamics in "The Crush." "The Roommate" and "The Crush" delve into the dangerous consequences of obsessive relationships.

The Boy Next Door (2015)

A high school teacher, played by Jennifer Lopez, engages in a brief affair with her significantly younger neighbor, Noah, portrayed by Ryan Guzman. What begins as a momentary lapse in judgment escalates into a dangerous obsession. Noah's fixation on her intensifies, and he begins infiltrating all aspects of her life, including her family and career. The subplot involving Noah's ability to manipulate school records and his disturbing taunts adds tension and believability to the story.

"The Boy Next Door" adeptly mirrors the perilous journey from initial attraction to life-threatening obsession, offering a suspenseful narrative that keeps the audience engaged. Like "The Crush," this film highlights a problematic infatuation that turns lethal. The film’s intense atmosphere and high-stakes drama make it a compelling choice for those captivated by the psychological thrills of "The Crush." Besides, the movie skillfully combines elements of psychological intrigue and dramatic tension. The audience witnesses an ordinary woman’s life spiral out of control as her once-charming neighbor turns increasingly violent and manipulative.

You Get Me (2017)

After a heated argument with his girlfriend, Tyler ends up in a passionate one-night stand with the mysterious Holly. When Tyler tries to break things off and reconcile with his girlfriend, he discovers that Holly has transferred to his high school and is determined to become a permanent fixture in his life, using increasingly manipulative and dangerous tactics to make sure of it. Like "The Crush," "You Get Me" delves into the dark side of obsession and the dangerous consequences of a seemingly innocent fling.

The film’s blend of teen drama and psychological thriller elements mirrors the pacing and tone of "The Crush." The intensity is escalated by Holly’s relentless fixation on Tyler, which leads to a series of unsettling and dangerous events. Fans will appreciate the eerie suspense that builds as Holly’s true nature is revealed, along with the high-stakes scenarios that Tyler must navigate to protect his relationship and his life. With its compelling depiction of obsessive attraction and the hazards that come with it, "You Get Me" is a gripping watch for those who enjoyed the tense, thrill-laden narrative of "The Crush."

The Perfect Guy (2015)

The film follows Leah, who, after ending a relationship, meets the charming and seemingly perfect Carter. However, his behavior soon reveals a darker, more obsessive side, leading to a series of frightening and dangerous events. As Leah tries to break away, Carter’s possessiveness escalates, showcasing the terrifying extremes of his infatuation. Like "The Crush," "The Perfect Guy" explores the sinister side of intense romantic obsession and the lengths someone will go to possess the object of their affection.

The narrative’s robust blend of suspense and tension will strongly resonate with fans of "The Crush." Leah’s journey from romance to horror closely mirrors the unsettling dynamics depicted in "The Crush," making it equally gripping. The film’s portrayal of an ostensibly ideal relationship that turns disturbingly wrong offers a compelling and relatable exploration of psychological manipulation and control. "The Perfect Guy" stands out with its high-stakes drama and intricate psychological twists, making it a must-watch for those captivated by tales of love turning dangerously obsessive.

Fear of Rain (2021)

"Fear of Rain" centers on a teenager named Rain Burroughs, who struggles with schizophrenia. Her vivid hallucinations often make it challenging to distinguish between reality and imagination. When she starts to suspect that her neighbor has kidnapped a child, Rain must convince her family and friends of the danger while grappling with her illness. Both "Fear of Rain" and "The Crush" explore the unsettling impact of psychological disorders and obsessions on the protagonist's life.

The blend of psychological tension and emotional depth in "Fear of Rain" creates a captivating and empathetic portrayal of mental health issues. The film's exploration of a teenager's internal and external battles will resonate strongly with viewers who appreciate the intense psychological drama of "The Crush." Additionally, the palpable suspense as Rain tries to uncover the truth parallels the gripping tension that keeps audiences engaged in both films. By interweaving elements of psychological horror and heartfelt drama, "Fear of Rain" offers a nuanced and compelling story that appeals to fans seeking intense, thought-provoking narratives like those found in "The Crush."

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992)

The story revolves around a seemingly perfect and trustworthy nanny, Peyton Flanders, who seeks revenge and infiltrates a family's home. Initially, Peyton is welcomed with open arms, but her true, malicious intentions soon reveal themselves. As she manipulates and torments the family, they find themselves trapped in her dangerous web. Both "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" and "The Crush" explore the theme of trust being broken by those who seem harmless but harbor dark intentions, leading to severe and dangerous consequences. "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" offers a gripping narrative filled with psychological intrigue and suspense, making it a compelling watch for those who enjoyed the chilling drama and manipulative characters in "The Crush."

Much like "The Crush," "The Hand That Rocks the Cradle" masterfully builds tension through psychological manipulation and gradually unveils the antagonist's true nature. The film also explores the vulnerabilities of its characters, making the suspense palpable and engaging. Fans will appreciate the well-developed characters and the high-stakes interactions that drive the narrative forward. One memorable example of Peyton’s manipulation is when she ingratiates with the family's young daughter while subtly undermining the mother’s confidence and stability. This increases the tension and showcases Peyton's cunning and strategic thinking. Another powerful scene is when the husband begins to suspect that Peyton is not who she seems, creating a rift within the family and heightening the suspense. These moments echo the intense psychological dynamics seen in "The Crush."

Single White Female (1992)

The story revolves around Allie, a woman who takes in a new roommate, Hedy, after a breakup. Initially, Hedy appears supportive and friendly, but it soon becomes apparent that she harbors a sinister obsession with Allie. Hedy begins to copy Allie’s appearance and behavior and even attempts to take over her life—including her relationships. Both "Single White Female" and "The Crush" deeply explore the themes of identity manipulation and the destructive nature of unrestrained control.

The film masterfully builds psychological tension as Hedy's behavior escalates from slightly odd to dangerously unhinged. The character’s unnerving transformation and their shared apartment's suspenseful, intimate setting significantly heighten the sense of unease. This portrayal of intense psychological manipulation will strongly resonate with fans of "The Crush," who will appreciate the intricate exploration of a toxic, obsessive relationship. With its nail-biting suspense, intriguing character dynamics, and an unforgettable performance by Jennifer Jason Leigh as Hedy, "Single White Female" is a gripping, psychological thriller that delves into the dark side of human relationships and the terrifying potential of unchecked obsession.

Unlawful Entry (1992)

The story revolves around a couple, played by Kurt Russell and Madeleine Stowe, who become the target of a psychotic police officer, portrayed by Ray Liotta, after responding to a burglary at their home. What begins as an offer to protect them soon turns into a nightmare as the officer's obsession with the wife spirals out of control, leading to increasing acts of intimidation and violence. Both "Unlawful Entry" and "The Crush" explore the terrifying consequences of obsessive behavior and the intrusion of dangerous individuals into the lives of unsuspecting victims.

The film's portrayal of escalating psychological terror and the invasion of personal space resonates with the unsettling dynamics seen in "The Crush." The character of Ray Liotta masterfully embodies the charm and menace of an obsessed authority figure, drawing parallels to Adrian's manipulative and relentless nature in "The Crush." "Unlawful Entry" delivers a suspenseful narrative filled with tension and unnerving twists, making it a compelling choice for those who enjoyed the psychological intensity of "The Crush."

Malice (1993)

"Malice" is a taut psychological thriller where a small-town college dean, played by Bill Pullman, suspects his wife (played by Nicole Kidman) and an esteemed surgeon (played by Alec Baldwin) of masterminding a malicious plot with life-altering consequences. The story hinges on deceit, betrayal, and the unnerving knowledge that those closest to you might harbor dangerous secrets. "Malice" and "The Crush" delve into intricate psychological manipulations and the dark side of human relationships.

Fans of "The Crush" will appreciate the deep psychological twists and turns in "Malice." The plot is enriched with suspenseful revelations and morally complex characters, much like the seductive duplicity and obsession seen in "The Crush." The film’s ability to mislead and surprise viewers keeps it consistently engaging. "Malice" combines stellar performances with a screenplay that masterfully intertwines themes of trust and betrayal, providing an unsettling and captivating experience. Its intricate plotting and persistent suspense make it a compelling choice for those drawn to the psychological intensity of "The Crush."

The Good Son (1993)

This film features Macaulay Culkin in an unsettling role as Henry, a seemingly charming boy who reveals a darker side, leading to increasingly sinister and violent behaviors. Elijah Wood plays his cousin Mark, who must confront and expose Henry’s true nature before it's too late. "The Good Son" and "The Crush" dive into the deceptively innocent appearances of young characters who harbor dark, dangerous obsessions.

Fans of "The Crush" will appreciate the intense psychological manipulation and the chilling dynamics between the characters. The film’s portrayal of the hidden, malignant tendencies lurking beneath a child's innocent facade provides an added layer of suspense and intrigue. "The Good Son" captivates with its haunting narrative and strong performances, making it a compelling watch for those drawn to stories of hidden hostility and psychological suspense.

Sliver (1993)

In "Sliver," Sharon Stone portrays Carly Norris, a woman who moves into an upscale New York City apartment building with a sordid past. Unbeknownst to her, the building's owner, Zeke Hawkins (played by William Baldwin), has a network of hidden cameras, allowing him to spy on the residents' private lives. As Carly becomes romantically involved with Zeke, she discovers the truth about his voyeuristic tendencies and the string of mysterious deaths among the building’s previous tenants. Both "Sliver" and "The Crush" explore the darker facets of obsession and the invasion of privacy.

Fans of "The Crush" will appreciate the suspense and psychological intensity found in "Sliver." The film’s exploration of voyeurism and manipulation parallels the unsettling dynamics of "The Crush." Additionally, the tension mounts as Carly unravels the truth about her seemingly perfect new abode, akin to how Adrian's obsession escalates in "The Crush." "Sliver" combines a provocative blend of eroticism, suspense, and psychological intrigue. Its compelling narrative and unsettling themes captivate viewers who enjoy delving into the darker aspects of human behavior and obsession, much like "The Crush."

Fear (1996)

This film tells the story of Nicole Walker, a teenage girl who falls for the charming David McCall. Initially, David seems perfect, but his behavior soon turns possessive and violent. The idyllic romance transitions into a nightmare, putting Nicole and her family in grave danger. Both "Fear" and "The Crush" focus on young, obsessive love that spirals dangerously out of control, showcasing the darker aspects of infatuation.

The intense psychological elements and escalating suspense in "Fear" mirror the dangers depicted in "The Crush." With standout performances by Mark Wahlberg as David and Reese Witherspoon as Nicole, the film captures the horrifying descent from romance into terror. Key scenes such as David carving Nicole's name into his chest and the climactic home invasion build relentless tension, making it a riveting experience for viewers. "Fear" adeptly portrays the perilous slide from romance into obsession, combining psychological thrills with powerful character performances to create a deeply unsettling and memorable film.

Poison Ivy: The New Seduction (1997)

In this third installment of the Poison Ivy series, Jaime Pressly stars as Violet, a teenager who seeks vengeance by insinuating herself into the life of her childhood friend’s family. Using her seductive charm and cunning, Violet manipulates those around her, leading to a trail of destruction and chaos. Both "Poison Ivy: The New Seduction" and "The Crush" focus on dangerously seductive young women who manipulate and disrupt the lives of those around them. "Poison Ivy: The New Seduction" captivates with its dark, seductive exploration of manipulation and revenge. Jaime Pressly’s portrayal of Violet adds a charismatic yet menacing element, making this film a gripping watch for those drawn to the intense psychological games seen in "The Crush."

The themes of manipulation, seduction, and psychological intrigue in "Poison Ivy: The New Seduction" align closely with those in "The Crush." Both films feature young women whose obsessive behaviors and dangerous charms lead to dire consequences for those entangled in their schemes. The tension and suspense build as Violet's intentions become increasingly sinister, echoing the unsettling atmosphere of "The Crush." Fans of psychological thrillers will appreciate the sophisticated layers of deceit and control that drive the plot.

A Perfect Murder (1998)

The film centers around a wealthy industrialist, Steven Taylor (played by Michael Douglas), who discovers that his wife, Emily (played by Gwyneth Paltrow), is having an affair with a struggling artist. In a bid to maintain his control and reclaim his wealth, Steven concocts a plan to have Emily murdered, hiring her lover to do the deed. As the plot unfolds, the treacherous scheme spirals out of control, leading to a tense and suspenseful cat-and-mouse game. "A Perfect Murder" and "The Crush" dive deep into themes of deception, manipulation, and the dangerous consequences of obsessive relationships.

"A Perfect Murder" captivates with its intricate plotting, complex character dynamics, and nail-biting suspense, making it a compelling watch for fans of "The Crush." The psychological duels and unforeseen twists echo the volatile and unpredictable nature of Adrian’s obsession in "The Crush," keeping viewers engrossed and guessing until the very end. Rich with themes of betrayal, greed, and lethal manipulation, "A Perfect Murder" delivers a riveting, sophisticated thriller that leaves a lasting impact. Michael Douglas and Gwyneth Paltrow’s performances ensure a captivating experience for any fan of intense psychological dramas.

Devil in the Flesh (1998)

Starring Rose McGowan, "Devil in the Flesh" revolves around Debbie Strand, a troubled teenager who becomes dangerously infatuated with her high school English teacher. As Debbie's obsession intensifies, she resorts to increasingly ruthless tactics to eliminate anyone she perceives as an obstacle to her relationship, manipulating situations to her advantage with chilling precision. Echoing "The Crush," "Devil in the Flesh" delves deep into the destructive nature of obsessive desires and the manipulation that often accompanies them.

Debbie Strand's character mirrors Adrian Forrester's manipulative and obsessive nature from "The Crush." Both characters are driven by a single-minded determination that leads to difficult and suspenseful events. Specific scenes, such as Debbie's chilling confrontation with her teacher's girlfriend, underscore the lengths she will go to achieve her twisted desires, embodying a similar sense of peril and psychological tension. "Devil in the Flesh" captivates viewers with its intense psychological drama and the disturbingly effective performance by Rose McGowan. The film's exploration of dark, obsessive love and manipulation makes it a compelling watch for those who appreciate the unsettling narrative of "The Crush."

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

Starring Matt Damon as Tom Ripley, the film follows a young man who becomes dangerously fixated on the lavish lifestyle of his wealthy friend, Dickie Greenleaf, played by Jude Law. Tom's envy and desire drive him to increasingly drastic actions, from deceit to identity theft, leading to a chilling unraveling of his psyche. "The Talented Mr. Ripley" combines psychological intrigue with a haunting exploration of obsession, making it a must-watch for fans of "The Crush." The film's exploration of deception, envy, and the lengths one will go to achieve one's desires creates a compelling narrative that remains as memorable as it is unsettling.

"The Talented Mr. Ripley" and "The Crush" delve into the dark psychology of obsessive and manipulative characters. Like Adrian in "The Crush," Tom Ripley is a master manipulator whose charm masks a sinister agenda. The cat-and-mouse game he plays adds layers of suspense, making viewers question the nature of identity and morality. Fans will appreciate the sophisticated tension, emotional depth, and intricate plot twists that keep them guessing until the end. One particularly gripping scene involves Tom impersonating Dickie, seamlessly integrating himself into Dickie's circle of friends. This not only highlights Tom's cunning but also his deep-seated desire to escape his own identity. The transformative journey of Tom Ripley offers a psychological complexity that mirrors Adrian's relentless pursuit of what she desires.

Devil in the Flesh 2 (2000)

This film centers around an obsessive student who becomes dangerously fixated on her charming teacher, leading to manipulative and increasingly dangerous events. The compelling narrative captures the unsettling dynamics of a student-teacher relationship taken to the extreme, much like Adrian's infatuation with the journalist in "The Crush." Fans will appreciate the psychological tension and the protagonist’s cunning tactics. "Devil in the Flesh 2" is a gripping exploration of obsessive love and the havoc it can wreak, mirroring the intense psychological drama of "The Crush," ensuring it’s a captivating watch for fans of such narratives.

"The Crush" and "Devil in the Flesh 2" explore the dangerous consequences of infatuation and inappropriate relationships. "Devil in the Flesh 2" doesn't just present a typical obsession story; it dives deep into the protagonist's psyche, showing how her seemingly harmless crush escalates into a dangerous fixation. The film effectively uses suspenseful scenarios, such as the protagonist's calculated schemes to get closer to her teacher and intense climactic moments that keep viewers engrossed. Moreover, the nuanced performances by the cast add a layer of authenticity to the chilling portrayal of possessive love.

Swimfan (2002)

A high school swim star finds himself the target of a new student's dangerous obsession after a brief encounter. Ben Cronin, the protagonist, leads a seemingly perfect life with a promising swimming career and a devoted girlfriend. However, it all turns dark when Madison Bell, a mysterious new girl, seduces him and becomes dangerously obsessed. Madison's fixation drives her to sabotage Ben's relationships and livelihood and even frame him for attempted murder, illustrating the dangerous extremes of her obsession. "Swimfan" engages viewers with its suspenseful and intriguing narrative, highlighting the devastating effects of unchecked obsession and the fight for one's life and reputation.

Like "The Crush," "Swimfan" explores the destructive lengths one will go to for infatuation. The mix of teen drama entwined with psychological thriller elements will resonate with fans of "The Crush." The tension escalates as Madison's actions grow increasingly erratic and violent, creating a gripping atmosphere. The film effectively portrays the chilling consequences of a moment's weakness and its impact on an individual's life. Fans of "The Crush" will appreciate the mounting suspense and the psychological warfare Madison wages against Ben, making "Swimfan" a compelling watch.

Down in the Valley (2005)

In "Down in the Valley," a young girl named Tobe, played by Evan Rachel Wood, becomes romantically involved with Harlan, an older man deeply entrenched in a fantasy of the Wild West. Harlan's behavior becomes increasingly erratic and controlling as their relationship progresses, leading to a dangerous and captivating climax. "Down in the Valley" is an intriguing and thought-provoking film that delves into the complexities of obsessive relationships and the clash between reality and fantasy, making it a must-watch for fans of "The Crush."

"Swimfan" engages viewers with its suspenseful and intriguing narrative, highlighting the devastating effects of unchecked obsession and the fight for one's life and reputation. The film’s exploration of obsessive love and the dangerous impact of delusions provide a compelling parallel to "The Crush." Edward Norton delivers a haunting performance as Harlan, whose charming demeanor masks a deeply troubled psyche. Like Adrian in "The Crush," Harlan's fixation grows darker as the plot unfolds, creating an atmosphere of psychological tension and unpredictability.

Hard Candy (2005)

In "Hard Candy," a seemingly innocent teenage girl named Hayley, played by Ellen Page (now Elliot Page), turns the tables on an older man, Jeff, whom she believes to be a sexual predator. The intense psychological cat-and-mouse game that ensues keeps viewers on edge, much like the tension-filled moments in "The Crush." "Hard Candy" is a gripping thriller that dives deep into the dark aspects of human psychology and manipulation, offering a compelling narrative that will captivate fans of "The Crush." The film’s unflinching examination of its provocative themes ensures an unforgettable viewing experience.

Both "Hard Candy" and "The Crush" explore the themes of manipulation, psychological warfare, and the complex dynamics of predator and prey. The film's powerful performances and unsettling subject matter make "Hard Candy" compelling. Ellen Page’s portrayal of Hayley stands out as she deftly navigates the role of both victim and manipulator, creating an atmosphere of constant suspense. The battle of wits between Hayley and Jeff echoes the psychological mind games evident in "The Crush," drawing viewers into a labyrinth of moral ambiguities and shocking revelations.

Homecoming (2009)

"Homecoming" follows the unsettling story of a woman, played by Mischa Barton, who becomes dangerously fixated on her high school ex-boyfriend after he brings his new girlfriend home for a visit. The film escalates as Barton’s character, Shelby, spirals into an irrational obsession, attempting to sabotage the new relationship through increasingly devious and harmful actions. "Homecoming" not only captivates with its compelling narrative and chilling portrayal of a scorned lover but also layers its suspense with psychological depth and small-town intrigue. The film's relentless tension and devious mind games will resonate strongly with viewers who enjoy the unnerving obsession depicted in "The Crush."

Like "The Crush," "Homecoming" delves deeply into the dark side of obsessive behavior and the lengths one will go to win back an unreturned love. The psychological tension in "Homecoming" is palpable, with Barton's performance as the unstable ex-girlfriend mirroring the intense obsession portrayed by Alicia Silverstone in "The Crush." The film uses its small-town setting to accentuate the claustrophobic and inescapable nature of Shelby's fixation. Scenes like Shelby’s manipulation of those around her and the sinister measures she takes to eliminate her competitor amplify the suspense, making it a gripping watch for fans of obsessive thrillers.