Experiencing fear in real life is generally unpleasant, and most nightmares are no exception, unless they are mild. The less intense nightmares can provide a sense of relief upon waking, while the more disturbing ones tend to linger in memory, even after reassuring oneself that it was merely a (bad) dream. However, horror films and the thrill of being scared by them can be entertaining or at least an intriguing experience.
These films may induce nightmares or evoke similar emotions to those felt during a nightmare, which can be a worthwhile experience. Some of the films listed below belong to the horror genre, but not all do. Some are more anxiety-inducing for different reasons, acknowledging that some nightmares do not necessarily involve supernatural elements.
10
‘After Hours’ (1985)
Indeed, Martin Scorsese can create comedies! Of course, he is well-known for his comedic work, as evidenced by The Wolf of Wall Street, one of his most popular films. It might be more accurate to say that The Wolf of Wall Street was not his first comedic endeavor, as Scorsese had already showcased his humor in the 1980s with films like The King of Comedy and After Hours.
Both films blend psychological drama and thriller elements with comedy, with After Hours likely being the more accessible choice for our discussion. It features dark humor and entertainment while also being an incredibly stressful film about a man experiencing a progressively terrible night, to the point where it feels as if the universe is against him, or he is trapped in an endless purgatory or bad dream. Watching it may be entertaining from a distance, but it resembles observing someone endure a very bad nightmare for about 90 minutes.
9
‘Black Swan’ (2010)
One of the most striking and unsettling films about striving for perfection in recent memory (perhaps second only to Whiplash), Black Swan is a psychological horror film depicting a ballerina’s life spiraling out of control. She secures the lead role in a long-desired production, but faces overwhelming pressures that escalate throughout the film.
This nightmarish film does not initially feel overly terrifying, but nightmare-like elements emerge gradually, intensifying as the story unfolds. The escalation is expertly controlled, making Black Swan both admirable and challenging to watch… a sentiment applicable to many of Darren Aronofsky‘s notable films.
8
‘Angst’ (1983)
Angst is an exceptionally grim film, arguably one of the most disturbing portrayals of a serial killer ever made. It faces stiff competition since it would be peculiar if a movie about a serial killer didn’t evoke discomfort, but Angst elevates this experience to another level while maintaining an incredibly straightforward premise regarding the killer’s targets and actions.
The execution renders Angst one of the grimmest and most harrowing horror films ever produced, featuring that disturbingly realistic type of horror that arguably impacts more than any supernatural or fantastical threats. While there is significant violence present, it is likely the psychological aspects of what Angst aims to convey that leave a lasting impression once it concludes.
7
‘Holy Motors’ (2012)
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