Whenever I search for a movie to watch on Netflix, the thriller genre is my first choice. And if it has a dark thriller twist, it’s a whole new level of fun. I love movies that have the perfect mix of suspense, tension, dark situations, and shocking outcomes.
The good thing is that there’s no shortage of dark thrillers on Netflix. I’ve explored Netflix’s vast library and shortlisted the 5 best dark thrillers you can stream this week. Warning: These movies are not exactly feel-good fare. Each film is intense, disturbing, and will keep you hooked until the end.
If you are not in the mood for light entertainment and want to watch something that will both mentally disturb and impress you, then this list is for you.
1) Calibre (2018)
“Calibre” is a psychological dark thriller set in the Scottish Highlands. I randomly watched this movie shortly after its release, without much expectation. But after 100 minutes, I was literally shaken.
The story revolves around two childhood friends – Vaughn and Marcus – who go to the countryside for a weekend hunting trip. While hunting deer in the forest, an accidental tragedy occurs: the death of a young boy. Shocked and terrified, the two decide that the best option is to hide the truth and get away.
But in a small village, where everyone knows each other, secrets don’t stay hidden for long. The tension of the movie slowly builds and the final scene is sure to linger in your mind for a long time.
This movie is only for those who can handle emotionally heavy content.
2) 10×10 (2018)
I’m a sucker for single-location thrillers, and “10×10” falls into that category. Its title refers to a 10×10-foot room in the home of a man named Robert.
Robert kidnaps a woman, Cathy, and locks her in this tiny, padded room. His objective is simple: he won’t release her until Cathy reveals a secret from her past.
The concept may seem a bit generic—captive vs. captor—but the real thrill lies in discovering Robert’s true motive. The movie’s pace is tight (less than 90 minutes), so the story doesn’t unnecessarily stretch. Luke Evans’ performance is quite menacing and convincing.
If you like mind games, this is a solid pick.
3) Bone Lake (2024)
“Bone Lake” is a dark erotic thriller that’s not exactly subtle. The story revolves around two couples who book the same lakehouse for the weekend.
Diego and Sage arrive at the lakehouse hoping for a romantic getaway. But another couple – Will and Cin – claims to have booked the same property. Forced sharing begins a twisted game in which manipulation, sexual tension, and dark secrets gradually surface.
The first half of the movie is tense and intriguing. A strong twist occurs midway through that completely shifts the narrative. The second half takes on a slightly slasher-esque style, which may not be to everyone’s liking, but the overall experience is engaging.
This movie is more suitable for a mature audience.
4) 1922 (2017)
“1922” is a slow-burning, dark thriller based on a Stephen King novel. If you can stay patient, the payoff is quite powerful.
Set in 1920s Nebraska, the story revolves around Wilf, a farmer who is upset by his wife’s divorce plans. When he learns she wants to move to Omaha, he hatches a horrifying plan: murder her and involve his own son in the crime.
But the murder is just the beginning. Guilt, paranoia, and a psychological breakdown gradually destroy Wilf’s life. The movie’s atmosphere is dark and disturbing. And yes – if you are afraid of rats, then maybe avoid this movie.
5) Oxygen (2021)
“Oxygen” is a French-language, single-location thriller set inside a cryogenic pod for almost the entire film.
The story begins when a woman wakes up inside an airtight pod. She can’t even remember her own name, has no memory, and no context. The situation becomes even more frightening when the system warns that she only has 90 minutes of oxygen left.
Now begins a race against time – how will she get out? Who is she? And who locked her in there?
Despite the confined setting, the film remains engaging, and the mystery element is strong. There is a slight pace drop towards the end, but overall it is a gripping experience.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for something intense, disturbing, and thought-provoking to watch on Netflix this week, these 5 dark thrillers are the perfect choice. These movies will entertain you while also challenging you mentally.
If you’re in the mood for a light comedy or rom-com, skip these.
But if you prefer suspense, psychological tension, and shocking endings—start with Calibre.
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