Movies like Longlegs: The creepiest serial killer films on OTT

When it comes to haunting thrillers, the devious and cunning serial killer films top the list by chilling our bones and ensuring we forever sleep with one eye open. These films explore psychological depths and deliver heart-pounding suspense, delving into the darkest corners of the human psyche. Ahead of the much-hyped upcoming psychological thriller Long Legs, which releases in theatres on July 12, 2024, here’s a gripping lineup of movies that push the boundaries of the genre which feeds on fear and delivers dread like no other.

Se7en (1995)

David Fincher's Se7en immerses viewers in a grim cityscape where a seasoned detective played by Morgan Freeman and his rookie partner played by Brad Pitt hunt a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. The film's haunting atmosphere, intricate plot, and unexpected twists sets a benchmark for psychological thrillers to follow and left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Streaming on Netflix

Zodiac (2007)

David Fincher’s Zodiac is a chilling account based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer who terrorized California in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The film meticulously chronicles the obsession of journalists and investigators caught in the killer's web, blending true crime with nail-biting suspense. Fincher's signature style, coupled with stellar performances from Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr., and Mark Ruffalo, creates an atmosphere of relentless tension and psychological intrigue. Streaming on Amazon Prime Video

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Perhaps the most popular film on this list, Jonathan Demme's The Silence of the Lambs is a masterpiece of psychological horror. FBI trainee Clarice Starling played by Jodie Foster seeks the insights of incarcerated cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter to nab another elusive murderer, Buffalo Bill. Jodie Foster pulls a compelling performance as Starling, while this can be billed as Anthony Hopkins’ best performance ever, as he slips into the skin of the unnerving serial killer Dr Hannibal Lecter. The film grips audiences with its deep psychological twists, stellar performances, and the cat-and-mouse chase sequences that will keep you on the edge of your seat.  Streaming on Amazon Prime Video

The Watcher (2000)

The Watcher stars Keanu Reeves as a former FBI agent haunted by a serial killer he once pursued. When the killer resurfaces, he taunts the agent with cryptic messages, plunging him into a desperate race to stop the next murder. Reeves delivers an intense performance and the suspenseful narrative and unexpected twists keep one constantly guessing how this film would fold up. Directed by Joe Charbanic, Watcher's atmospheric tension and psychological drama make it a compelling addition to this list. Streaming on ZEE5

Dressed to Kill (1980)

Brian De Palma's Dressed to Kill weaves a provocative tale of murder witnessed by a high-society housewife played by Angie Dickinson. As she delves deeper into the case, she uncovers unsettling truths about the killer's motives. Known for his distinct style which packs shocking twists, this De Palma film explores themes of eroticism and obsession and is considered a classic among psychological thrillers. The film’s visual flair and suspenseful storytelling is enough to keep you enthralled until the chilling revelation in the climax. Streaming on Amazon Prime Video

Red Dragon (2002)

Red Dragon, directed by Brett Ratner, is a prequel to The Silence of the Lambs that explores FBI agent Will Graham’s pursuit of the elusive serial killer Francis Dolarhyde. The leads are played to perfection by Edward Norton and Ralph Fiennes. Revisiting the chilling dynamics between Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter played by Anthony Hopkins, the film delves into the psychology of its characters amidst a backdrop of escalating tension and terror.  Streaming on JioCinema

The Bone Collector (1999)

In The Bone Collector, Denzel Washington portrays a quadriplegic ex-cop who teams up with young detective Amelia Donaghy played by Angelina Jolie to catch a diabolical serial killer. As they decode cryptic clues left at crime scenes across New York City, the duo races against time to prevent the next murder. Directed by Phillip Noyce, the film blends suspenseful storytelling with Washington and Jolie's compelling chemistry, creating a gripping thriller that keeps audiences forever fearful and the shocking conclusion will surely be worth sitting through this one for. Streaming on Netflix

Well that's all we got for this episode, until the next one it's your host Nikhil signing out.

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Written by Apurva Dutta

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