Surreal Movies

From David Fincher, starring Brad Pitt, Edward Norton, Meat Loaf, Zach Grenier
Rated R

Fight Club is a 1999 film directed by David Fincher. It follows an unnamed protagonist, portrayed by Edward Norton, who is discontented with his white-collar job. He forms a "fight club" with soap salesman Tyler Durden, played by Brad Pitt, and they are joined by men who also want to fight recreationally. The fight club evolves into an underground cult-like organization, with a mission to eliminate debt and become free from the materialistic lifestyle. The organization soon spirals out of control, leading to a violent revolution and ultimately a change in the protagonist's life.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Daveigh Chase, Suzanne Pleshette, Miyu Irino, Rumi Hiiragi
Rated PG

Spirited Away is an animated Japanese fantasy film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. Set in the Japanese countryside, the film follows Chihiro, a sullen 10-year-old girl who, while moving to a new home, enters the spirit world. After her parents are transformed into pigs by a witch, Chihiro must work for the witch in order to free them. Along the way, she meets a variety of creatures and spirits with whom she must form alliances in order to save her parents and escape the spirit world. With the help of her new friends, Chihiro embarks on a thrilling journey that tests her courage and resourcefulness. As she discovers the truth behind her parents' transformation, Chihiro must confront her fears and learn to believe in herself in order to return to the human world.

From Francis Ford Coppola, starring Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall, Frederic Forrest
Rated R

Apocalypse Now is set during the Vietnam War and tells the story of a US Army captain, Willard, sent on a mission to kill a renegade American colonel, Kurtz, who has gone insane and set up a cult-like encampment in the jungle. Along the way, Willard fights the evils of war and faces his own inner demons as he unravels the mystery of Kurtz’s madness. The film is an exploration of the darkness of the human soul, as Willard is forced to come to terms with his own feelings of alienation and his views of the war, as he confronts the insanity of the conflict. In the end, he must decide whether to kill or save the man who has come to symbolize the chaos of the Vietnam War.

From Park Chan-wook, starring Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jeong, Kim Byeong-Ok
Rated R

Oldboy is a 2003 South Korean neo-noir revenge thriller film directed by Park Chan-wook. It tells the story of Oh Dae-su, a man who is inexplicably kidnapped and imprisoned for 15 years without explanation. Upon his mysterious release, he embarks on a quest to find his captor to exact revenge. Along the way, he discovers the truth behind his confinement and must face the consequences of his actions. Oldboy is a highly acclaimed film, winning the Grand Prix at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival and is considered to be one of the best films of the 2000s.

From Christopher Nolan, starring Guy Pearce, Carrie-Anne Moss, Joe Pantoliano, Mark Boone Junior
Rated R

Memento is a psychological crime thriller written and directed by Christopher Nolan and released in 2000. The film follows Leonard Shelby, a man with anterograde amnesia, as he attempts to track down his wife's murderer and avenge her death. With his condition, Leonard cannot form new memories, so he uses a system of photographs, notes and tattoos to jolt his memory. As his investigation progresses, Leonard discovers that his amnesia may not be as debilitating as he initially thought. The film is told in reverse chronological order, with two distinct plotlines that move forward and backward in time simultaneously. Memento is a creative and unpredictable thriller that explores the idea of memory and identity in a unique and thought-provoking way.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester, Daniel Richter
Rated G

2001: A Space Odyssey is a science fiction film directed by Stanley Kubrick, released in 1968. The story follows a voyage to Jupiter with the sentient computer HAL after the discovery of a mysterious black monolith affecting human evolution. The film is noted for its scientifically accurate depiction of space flight, pioneering special effects, and ambiguous imagery. The dialogue is sparse, and often open to interpretation. The film also deals with themes of existentialism, human evolution, technology, artificial intelligence, and the possibility of extraterrestrial life. The film has become one of the most influential and acclaimed films of all time, and is often cited as one of the greatest films ever made.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates, Warren Clarke
Rated R

A Clockwork Orange is a 1971 film adaptation of Anthony Burgess' dystopian novel of the same name. Directed by Stanley Kubrick and starring Malcolm McDowell, the film follows the story of Alex DeLarge, a charismatic, sociopathic delinquent whose interests include classical music, rape, and ultra-violence. After a violent encounter with the police, Alex is sentenced to 14 years in prison, where he is subjected to the Ludovico Technique, a form of aversion therapy. The therapy is successful in ending Alex's violent behavior, though not in curing his underlying psychological issues. The film follows Alex as he is released into a society that views him as a victim and no longer respects him as the violent anti-hero he once was.

From Ingmar Bergman, starring Victor Sjöström, Bibi Andersson, Ingrid Thulin, Gunnar Björnstrand
Rated Not Rated

Wild Strawberries is a classic 1957 Swedish drama written and directed by Ingmar Bergman. It follows the story of Professor Isak Borg (played by Victor Sjöström) as he embarks on a journey of self-reflection. As he drives from Stockholm to Lund to receive an honorary degree, he reflects on his past and his relationships, facing visions of his own mortality. Along the way, he meets a series of characters who represent different aspects of his life, and he is forced to confront his fears and accept his failings. Through these encounters, Isak Borg comes to a greater understanding of himself, his life, and his place in the world. The film is considered a classic of Swedish art cinema, and Bergman's exploration of life, death, and the human condition are still studied and praised today.

From Ingmar Bergman, starring Max von Sydow, Gunnar Björnstrand, Bengt Ekerot, Nils Poppe
Rated Not Rated

The Seventh Seal is an iconic 1957 Swedish film by director Ingmar Bergman. Set during the Black Plague in the Middle Ages, it follows a knight and his squire, who decide to challenge Death to a chess match for the knight’s life. Along the way, they have a series of philosophical conversations with other characters. Ultimately, the knight and his companions come to terms with the inevitability of Death and the futility of their struggles. The film is noted for its distinct visuals, existential themes, and the iconic chess match between Death and the Knight.

From Ingmar Bergman, starring Bertil Guve, Pernilla Allwin, Kristina Adolphson, Börje Ahlstedt
Rated R

Fanny and Alexander is a 1982 drama film directed by Ingmar Bergman. The story follows two siblings, Fanny and Alexander Ekdahl, as they experience a turbulent period in their childhood. After the death of their father, their mother remarries a strict and oppressive bishop. Struggling to survive within the harsh new environment, the siblings find solace in the memories of their loving late father, and in the mysterious family theatre. As their struggles intensify, Fanny and Alexander find strength in each other and eventually find a way to escape their difficult circumstances. The film is a beautiful and poignant exploration of family, love, loss, and resilience.

From Ingmar Bergman, starring Bibi Andersson, Liv Ullmann, Margaretha Krook, Gunnar Björnstrand
Rated Not Rated

Persona is a psychological drama directed by Ingmar Bergman and released in 1966. The film follows nurse Alma and her patient, Elisabet Vogler, a stage actress who has suddenly gone mute. As the two women spend time together in isolation, they form an intimate bond, and Alma finds herself losing her identity as she starts to take on aspects of Elisabet's personality. As Alma's sense of reality begins to blur, she and Elisabet both struggle to discover who they truly are. The movie examines themes of identity, personal relationships, and the power of art to shape our lives.

From Andrei Tarkovsky, starring Natalya Bondarchuk, Donatas Banionis, Jüri Järvet, Vladislav Dvorzhetskiy
Rated PG

Solaris is a 1972 Soviet science fiction film directed by Andrei Tarkovsky. It follows the story of psychologist Kris Kelvin who is sent to a space station orbiting the mysterious planet Solaris to investigate the strange phenomena occurring there. Once on the station, Kris discovers that Solaris is a living entity that is capable of creating physical manifestations of the astronauts’ innermost thoughts and feelings. As Kris encounters these manifestations, he is forced to confront his past and the guilt he carries regarding the death of his son. His struggle with the entity leads him to a state of emotional and spiritual growth and ultimately, understanding of the planet’s true purpose.

From Federico Fellini, starring Marcello Mastroianni, Anouk Aimée, Claudia Cardinale, Sandra Milo
Rated Not Rated

8½ is a classic Italian comedy-drama film directed by Federico Fellini. The film follows Guido Anselmi, a film director who is struggling with writer's block and a personal crisis while he attempts to make a new film. The story unfolds as Guido interacts with his various associates, including his wife and mistress, his producer and his crew, and his imaginary fantasy figures. As Guido works through his creative and personal issues, the film offers a look at his complex life and the surreal world that he inhabits. Ultimately, the film culminates in a cathartic and surreal exploration of the creative process. 8½ is considered by many to be one of Fellini's finest works, and it was awarded the 1963 Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.

From Katsuhiro Ôtomo, starring Mitsuo Iwata, Nozomu Sasaki, Mami Koyama, Tesshô Genda
Rated R

Akira is set in a post-apocalyptic Neo-Tokyo, 31 years after the city was destroyed in a mysterious explosion. The story follows the leader of a biker gang, Shotaro Kaneda, and his best friend Tetsuo Shima, as they get involved in a government project which is trying to unlock the secrets of a mysterious boy named Akira. As Tetsuo begins to unlock his own supernatural powers, he must battle an ancient evil that threatens the entire world. In the end, the government project is stopped, but Tetsuo and Akira are nowhere to be found. The film is filled with stunning animation, intense action sequences and a complex story line, making it one of the most iconic works of Japanese animation.

From Alan Parker, starring Bob Geldof, Christine Hargreaves, James Laurenson, Eleanor David
Rated R

Pink Floyd: The Wall is a 1982 surrealist musical drama film directed by Alan Parker and based on the 1979 Pink Floyd album of the same name. The film follows the story of a rock star named Pink, whose personal demons and mental breakdowns lead him to construct a metaphorical wall around himself. As he deconstructs his world, the film explores themes of abandonment, isolation, and mental illness, as well as the power of music to express emotion. The film features a mix of animation, live action, and theatrical performances, and includes many of the songs featured on the album, including the iconic "Another Brick in the Wall". The film was nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the 1982 Academy Awards and was a box-office success.

From Richard Kelly, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Mary McDonnell, Holmes Osborne
Rated R

Donnie Darko is a psychological thriller directed by Richard Kelly, starring Jake Gyllenhaal in the title role. It follows the story of a troubled teenager who is plagued with visions of a large bunny rabbit that manipulates him to commit a series of crimes. When an apocalyptic event nearly destroys his small town, Donnie is left with the task of figuring out what it all means and how he can save everyone. Along the way, he discovers the power of time travel and its consequences. Along with a strong ensemble cast, the film features an original and thought-provoking story that has left audiences pondering its meaning ever since.

From Terry Gilliam, starring Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, Brad Pitt, Joseph Melito
Rated R

12 Monkeys is a 1995 science fiction film written and directed by Terry Gilliam and starring Bruce Willis, Madeleine Stowe, and Brad Pitt. The plot follows the story of a convict who, in 2035, is sent back in time to 1996 to prevent a deadly virus from wiping out the human race. In his mission, he meets a scientist who is working on the same problem, and they form an unlikely alliance. As they explore the past, they uncover a conspiracy that could lead to the destruction of the future. The film was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Pitt. It is considered one of the most influential sci-fi films of the 1990s.

From Terry Gilliam, starring Jonathan Pryce, Kim Greist, Robert De Niro, Katherine Helmond
Rated R

Brazil is a 1985 science fiction film directed by Terry Gilliam, depicting a dystopian and retro-futurist world. The main character, Sam Lowry, is a low-level government employee who is trying to find a woman who appears in his dreams. As he searches for her, he uncovers a massive conspiracy involving his own government and a shadowy figure known as "The Man". Along the way, he is framed for a crime he did not commit and must fight against the oppressive bureaucracy and oppressive surveillance systems to find the truth. In the end, Sam must make a choice between the dream-like world of his fantasies and the harsh realities of the world around him.

From Directors: Jean Cocteau, René Clément, starring Jean Marais, Josette Day, Mila Parély, Nane Germon
Rated Not Rated

Beauty and the Beast (1946) is a classic French fantasy film directed by Jean Cocteau and René Clément. The story follows Belle, a beautiful young girl living in a small village, who is taken to a magical chateau by a Beast who has been cursed by an enchantress. Belle falls in love with the Beast, despite his frightening outward appearance, and the two of them work together to break the curse and find true happiness. Along the way, Belle encounters a variety of magical creatures, including an enchanted clock, a candelabra, and a magical mirror. This timeless classic, filled with stunning visuals, is a reminder that beauty is found within, and that true love can overcome any obstacle.

From David Lynch, starring Naomi Watts, Laura Harring, Justin Theroux, Jeanne Bates
Rated R

Mulholland Drive is a neo-noir psychological thriller film written and directed by David Lynch. The film follows the story of a young woman, Betty Elms, who arrives in Los Angeles to become a movie star. When she arrives, she meets another woman, Rita, who has lost her memory and identity. Together, the two women search for clues to Rita's identity, soon finding themselves in a dark and strange world of mystery, nightmares, and deceit. As the film unfolds, Betty and Rita uncover a dangerous and twisted conspiracy that is linked to the city's dream-like facade. Along the way, they will discover secrets and lies, love and loss, and terrifying truths that will forever change their lives.

From Mamoru Oshii, starring Atsuko Tanaka, Iemasa Kayumi, Akio Ôtsuka, Kôichi Yamadera
Rated TV-MA

Ghost in the Shell is a 1995 science fiction anime film directed by Mamoru Oshii. The film centers around Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg working for a secret government organization known as Section 9 whose mission is to combat dangerous cybercriminals. The plot follows Kusanagi as she attempts to capture a mysterious hacker known only as the Puppet Master. As Kusanagi gets closer to discovering the Puppet Master's identity, she is forced to confront her own identity and existence as a cyborg. With its thought-provoking themes, stunning visuals, and unique soundtrack, Ghost in the Shell is considered to be one of the most influential anime films of all time.

From Alejandro Jodorowsky, starring Alejandro Jodorowsky, Horacio Salinas, Zamira Saunders, Juan Ferrara
Rated R

The Holy Mountain is a 1973 Mexican surrealist fantasy film written, produced, and directed by Alejandro Jodorowsky. It follows a spiritual and philosophical journey of a thief who joins a group of nine individuals led by a mysterious alchemist on a quest to reach the summit of the titular Holy Mountain in order to attain immortality. Along the way, they are tested in ways designed to help them gain a better understanding of themselves and the world. The film is filled with symbolism and surrealist imagery, examining themes such as death, spirituality, and human nature. The film is widely considered by many to be an artistic masterpiece and one of the defining works of the surrealist film movement.

From Luis Buñuel, starring Fernando Rey, Delphine Seyrig, Paul Frankeur, Bulle Ogier
Rated PG

The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie is a surrealist film directed by Luis Buñuel in 1972. It follows a group of upper-class friends who are continually thwarted in their attempts to have a meal together. As they try and fail again and again, the film shifts into a series of dream-like sequences that reveal the characters' subconscious desires and frustrations. Through darkly comic scenes, the film satirizes the upper classes, the Church, and power structures in general. Ultimately, Buñuel shows that the bourgeois are, in fact, powerless against the absurdity of life.

From Spike Jonze, starring John Cusack, Cameron Diaz, Catherine Keener, John Malkovich
Rated R

Being John Malkovich is a satirical comedy-drama film directed by Spike Jonze and written by Charlie Kaufman. The film follows a struggling puppeteer named Craig Schwartz (John Cusack) who discovers a portal into the mind of actor John Malkovich (portrayed by himself). After the discovery, Craig and his pet-obsessed co-worker, Maxine (Catherine Keener), hatch a plan to charge people $200 to take a fifteen-minute trip into Malkovich's head. As their scheme grows more successful, Craig discovers that they are unable to control the outcome of their customers' experiences inside Malkovich's head, which results in all manner of odd and surreal experiences. Meanwhile, Craig's marriage to his pet-store colleague Lotte (Cameron Diaz) is tested as he falls in love with Maxine. As the film progresses, the characters learn the consequences of their actions and the power of self-discovery.

From Tod Browning, starring Wallace Ford, Leila Hyams, Olga Baclanova, Roscoe Ates
Rated Not Rated

Freaks is a 1932 American horror drama film directed by Tod Browning and released by MGM. It follows a group of carnival performers who have been ostracized by society due to their physical disabilities. When a beautiful trapeze artist employs a con man to marry her in order to gain access to their money, the "freaks" rally together to seek revenge. The film has become a cult classic, and its influence can still be seen in modern horror films.