When the mood strikes for a movie night, think beyond romance films and lighthearted comedies, and turn to Netflix's array of psychological thrillers instead to add a little suspense to your evening in. Pop the popcorn, pour a glass of wine, and find someone to share the couch with who won't mind you grabbing their arm mid-movie when an unexpected twist blows your mind.
Indulge in iconic films like The Sixth Sense, which quite possibly holds the title for the greatest twist of all time or suspenseful flicks like The Invitation, with its sinister plot. They're eerie, unsettling, and will keep you guessing until the final credits roll. Tune into one the best thrillers on Netflix below for a dose of adrenaline.
Before I Wake (2016)
Netflix
This eerie film follows an eight-year-old boy named Cody after he's adopted by a couple who recently lost their own son. The couple begins seeing visions of their dead son after Cody moves in, which leads them to wonder if their grief has taken over or if something more sinister is happening.
Available On: Netflix
The Sixth Sense (1999)
Netflix
The Sixth Sense always entertains and will keep you guessing until the end. It's about a young boy who sees dead people and the child psychologist who tries to help him. Even if you already know the famous "twist," this one's worth a rewatch.
Available On: Netflix
The Invitation (2015)
Netflix
When a man accepts an invitation to a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife in his former home, a sinister plot reveals itself. He hasn't seen his ex since their son died tragically years ago, but now she's back with a new husband, a new life, and a mysterious agenda.
Available On: Netflix
Would You Rather (2012)
Netflix
As the title suggests, this psychological thriller follows a group of people forced to play a game of "Would You Rather." Only instead of playing for fun, a collection of downtrodden individuals enticed by a reward end up playing for their lives. Reminiscent of the Saw franchise, this film is a horrifying portrayal of the lengths people will go to survive.
Available On: Netflix
Fracture (2007)
Netflix
Ryan Gosling plays opposite Anthony Hopkins in a twisty film about murder, betrayal, and weakness. When Hopkins' character discovers that his wife is having an affair, he plans the perfect murder, although it's not as simple as it first appears.
Available On: Netflix
The Captive (2014)
Netflix
In this Canadian thriller, Ryan Reynolds plays the father of a girl who's gone missing. Eight years after his daughter's disappearance, he's still the prime suspect, but new clues seem to indicate that Cassandra could still be alive. The Captive is a mysterious thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Available On: Netflix
Secret in Their Eyes (2015)
Netflix
A remake of an Argentinian film by the same name, Secret in Their Eyes unravels the mystery behind the murder of an FBI agent's daughter. Julia Roberts plays a mother who's spent 13 years obsessively looking for her daughter's killer, but it's her former fellow agent, Ray, who uncovers a new lead that might solve the case after so many years. This thriller will have you guessing until the end.
Available On: Netflix
Bird Box (2018)
Netflix
In Bird Box, if you come face to face with a mysterious force, you die. So a woman (played by Sandra Bullock) and her kids embark on a journey to find a place that offers sanctuary in this post-apocalyptic thriller.
Available On: Netflix
A Most Violent Year (2014)
Netflix
Violence and corruption threaten a fuel supplier's family business in A Most Violent Year. He must try to follow his moral compass regardless in this crime drama.
Available On: Netflix
Thumper (2017)
Netflix
In a low-income neighborhood, teens work for the local drug dealer. A new girl in town attracts the attention of the leader of the drug ring in Thumper.
Available On: Netflix