Can You Recommend Any Psychological Thriller or Horror Movies That Have No Violence Just Tension?

When looking for psychological thrillers or horror movies that focus on suspense and tension without heavy violence, there are several classic and contemporary options to consider. Here is a curated list that fits your criteria.

Classics with Tension

Here are some iconic films that prioritize psychological tension and mood over graphic violence:

Rosemary's Baby (1968) - This film sets the standard for psychological horror with its chilling atmosphere and suspenseful storytelling. Repulsion (1965) - is another great example that delivers intense psychological horror without resorting to violence. Lets Scare Jessica to Death (1976) - Known for its eerie atmosphere and subtle scares, it entrances viewers through unspoken tension. The Innocents (1961) - Based on Henry James's novel, it builds suspense gradually through scaffolding and mystery. Hour of the Wolf (1979) - Recommended for its experimental style and haunting visual effects that create psychological tension. Annihilation (2018) - A more recent contribution with a focus on psychological horror and atmospheric tension. Duel (1971) - Directed by Steven Spielberg, this early film is a gripping tale of survival that escalates and showcases storytelling excellence. The Wailing (2016) - This Korean film, directed by Na Hong-jin, is a powerful psychological thriller that relies on atmospheric tension and character development. The Innocence (1964) - Featuring an unsettling atmosphere and slow-burning suspense, it's a thought-provoking psychological thriller. The Seventh Victim (1943) - A classic that explores the darker aspects of human nature through suspense and intrigue. The Uninvited (1944) - A chilling and atmospheric exploration of supernatural forces and psychological tension. Poltergeist (1982) - Familiar for its supernatural elements, but deeply rooted in psychological tension and character development. The Curse of the Cat People (1942) - A predecessor to modern psychological horror, it combines fear and suspense with a touch of the supernatural.

Modern Psychological Thrillers

Here are some recent films that continue the tradition of delivering psychological horror and suspense:

The Others (2001) - Directed by Alejandro Amenábar, it creates a claustrophobic and eerie environment filled with psychological tension. Curse of the Demon (1957) - A chilling twist on the supernatural horror genre, this film effectively utilizes psychological tension. The Conspiracy (2010) - It's a film that focuses on psychological horror, delving into conspiracy theories and paranoia. The Witch (2015) - Directed by Robert Eggers, it delivers a suspenseful and paranoid atmosphere with nods to Puritan history. Somewhere in the Dark (2013) - Known for its practical effects and psychological horror elements, it builds suspense without resorting to gore. The Babadook (2014) - This film is a masterclass in psychological horror, using storytelling and atmosphere rather than violence.

Specific Recommendations

For a personal favorite that is incredibly tense and thought-provoking:

Duel (1971)

It's an oldie but a goodie. For a movie that focuses on suspense and not gore, check out Duel (1971) by Steven Spielberg.

Starring Dennis Weaver, it's about a car journey where an anonymous tormentor sets out to sabotage the protagonist's life. The film is known for its relentless tension and masterful direction, laying the groundwork for Spielberg's later work as a filmmaker.

Specific Review of The Wailing

My absolute favorite thriller due to how clever it is. The Wailing is like a feast for the soul. It is a very personal film for the director, Na Hong-jin, who draws on his own experiences to create a tense and atmospheric film.

The movie opens with a biblical quote, which serves to foreshadow the events to come. The story is a masterful blend of mystery and suspense, with a narrative that may not be easy to follow but requires attention.

The atmosphere and acting are exceptional, especially the performances of Jun Kunimura and the young actress. The film is a stark contrast to American films, which often rush to reveal everything immediately. Here, the director takes his time to set the scene and build the tension. The film's themes revolve around faith, betrayal, and resurrection, which make the narrative richer and more layered.