The Best New Thriller Movies Of The Last Few Years

Thrillers have become incredibly popular again lately, giving audiences a wide range of intense and thought-provoking stories. Filmmakers are exploring new ways to build suspense, from nail-biting survival tales and complex legal dramas to modern, shadowy mysteries. These movies often tap into what worries us today, using clever visuals to keep us on the edge of our seats. This list highlights some of the best and most memorable thrillers released in the last ten years, focusing on strong characters and gripping tension.

‘Trap’ (2024)

In ‘Trap,’ a father takes his daughter to a concert that quickly turns into a terrifying police operation. They soon discover the event is a carefully planned trap to catch a serial killer, and he must outsmart both the killer and the authorities to escape. The film focuses on the intense psychological battle for survival as a hunter becomes the hunted, all unfolding in a crowded public space.

‘No Exit’ (2022)

A young woman finds herself trapped at a rest stop during a severe blizzard, along with several strangers. When she discovers a kidnapped child hidden in one of their vans, a dangerous and tense situation unfolds. The film ‘No Exit’ focuses on the feeling of being trapped and the intense struggle to survive the storm. Cut off from help, she must figure out who the kidnapper is while also protecting herself.

‘Cuckoo’ (2024)

When a family relocates to a seemingly peaceful resort in the German Alps, their teenage daughter begins experiencing unsettling noises and frightening visions. She soon uncovers a dark secret: the resort is actually the site of a disturbing biological experiment. ‘Cuckoo’ is a thrilling and suspenseful story that combines psychological horror with a desperate pursuit through the mountains, all while exploring themes of family loss and the terror of facing the unknown when completely cut off from the world.

‘Watcher’ (2022)

Okay, so ‘Watcher’ really got under my skin. It’s about Julia, who relocates to Bucharest with her husband, and quickly starts feeling like she’s being watched – specifically by a neighbor. Now, a genuinely creepy serial killer is also on the loose, but everyone dismisses Julia’s fears as paranoia. The film isn’t about jump scares; it’s a slow, unsettling burn that uses the feeling of being utterly alone in a city to really crank up the tension. Eventually, Julia realizes if she wants to be believed, she’s going to have to investigate herself and prove she’s right about the danger. It’s a gripping, atmospheric thriller.

‘Fair Play’ (2023)

‘Fair Play’ tells the story of a young couple whose relationship is tested when one of them unexpectedly gets a big promotion at a fiercely competitive hedge fund. What began as a loving and equal partnership soon turns into a battle for control, driven by pride and career goals. The film explores how romance and work can become damaging when combined with high pressure, and it sheds light on the emotional impact of gender roles and financial stress.

‘Leave the World Behind’ (2023)

When a family’s relaxing vacation at a rented home is disrupted by two unexpected guests fleeing a huge cyberattack, their peaceful escape turns into a tense ordeal. As the outside world falls into chaos, the group struggles with growing distrust and strange occurrences around them. ‘Leave the World Behind’ explores how quickly society can unravel during a crisis and how hard it is to know what to believe, all while building a gripping and suspenseful atmosphere.

‘Land of Bad’ (2024)

When a dangerous rescue mission in the Philippines fails, one young officer is left stranded and alone. He must depend on a drone pilot thousands of miles away to help him escape through dangerous enemy territory. ‘Land of Bad’ shows the close teamwork needed between those on the ground and those providing air support when lives are on the line, and how a strong connection can form even through distant communication during intense combat.

‘Blink Twice’ (2024)

A billionaire whisks a cocktail waitress and her friend away to a lavish, endless party on his private island. But as unsettling events unfold, the guests begin to suspect their memories are being altered and something sinister is afoot. ‘Blink Twice’ explores the imbalance of power and the way the wealthy can take advantage of others. The main character must unravel the secrets hidden beneath the glamorous surface if she wants to survive and escape the island.

‘Kinds of Kindness’ (2024)

‘Kinds of Kindness’ is a film told in three parts, each focusing on a man seeking self-control and a woman looking for guidance. These interconnected stories delve into themes of obsession, devotion, and how far people will go to feel accepted. The film uses a strange and sometimes disturbing atmosphere to explore what happens when people are pushed to their limits, and features the same actors playing different characters in each segment.

‘The Pale Blue Eye’ (2022)

A seasoned detective takes on a disturbing murder case at West Point, teaming up with a young cadet named Edgar Allan Poe. Their investigation reveals a complex network of secrets, including strange occult practices and the hidden motives of powerful figures within the military. ‘The Pale Blue Eye’ is a chilling historical mystery with a gothic feel, focusing on the clever and growing bond between the detective and Poe as they solve the case.

‘Longlegs’ (2024)

When an FBI agent starts investigating an old, unsolved case involving a serial killer, she finds herself drawn into a disturbing world of the occult. As she digs deeper, she discovers a personal connection to the killer and must desperately try to prevent another horrific family tragedy. ‘Longlegs’ is a chilling thriller that uses unsettling visuals and a unique style to build suspense, and it delves into the dangerous side of religious extremism and the lasting effects of past trauma.

‘Emily the Criminal’ (2022)

Facing student loan debt and struggling to find stable employment, Emily falls into a credit card scam, which introduces her to a dangerous criminal world. She unexpectedly excels at this illegal work, leading her further into a life of risky fraud. The film ‘Emily the Criminal’ offers a critical look at the challenges of the gig economy and the societal issues that can push people towards committing crimes. It portrays her descent into this life with a raw and realistic approach, showing how she becomes a skilled and hardened criminal.

‘The Killer’ (2023)

Following a failed assassination attempt, a highly skilled killer goes on a global quest to find and eliminate those who targeted him in response. He operates by a rigid set of personal rules and a precise professional method, all while dealing with the difficulties of his mission. ‘The Killer’ offers a detailed and personal view into the careful planning and ruthless precision needed for his profession, highlighting both the mental strength and technical expertise of a man living a life of secrecy.

‘Nope’ (2022)

In California, a brother and sister who run a horse ranch stumble upon a mysterious flying object. This object starts to threaten their land, and they try to get clear video proof of its existence while also staying out of its way. The film ‘Nope’ explores our fascination with extraordinary sights and the risks of trying to control nature. It’s a blend of science fiction and a gripping story about fighting for survival.

‘Rebel Ridge’ (2024)

‘Rebel Ridge’ tells the story of a Marine veteran who tries to help his cousin by posting bail, but runs into trouble with a dishonest police force. When his money is unfairly taken, he uses his military skills to reveal widespread corruption in the town. The film explores how quickly a situation can escalate between someone with specialized training and a powerful, established system, and shines a light on the complicated issues and personal risks involved in disagreements with rural law enforcement.

‘Hit Man’ (2023)

A quiet college professor leads a double life, pretending to be a hitman to assist the police in catching would-be clients. Things get complicated when he falls in love with one of them, and he starts to lose himself in the role of a professional killer. ‘Hit Man’ is a film that examines how easily identities can shift and the gray areas of undercover police work, mixing dark comedy with the constant threat of exposure.

‘Sisu’ (2022)

Toward the end of World War II, a lone gold prospector in the Finnish wilderness has a dangerous encounter with a Nazi death squad. After stealing his gold, the soldiers realize this seemingly harmless old man is actually a legendary, incredibly resilient former commando. ‘Sisu’ is a fast-paced, action-packed chase across harsh terrain, filled with creative and violent fight scenes. The film is a celebration of one man’s unwavering determination to protect everything he’s worked for, even when facing impossible challenges.

‘Civil War’ (2024)

Set in a divided America on the brink of collapse, ‘Civil War’ follows a group of journalists as they journey to Washington D.C. The film portrays the brutal truths of a nation consumed by conflict, documenting the last days of the current government. It’s a powerful and realistic look at both the professional distance and emotional toll experienced by war correspondents, and the unraveling of society itself.

‘Nightmare Alley’ (2021)

‘Nightmare Alley’ tells the story of a charismatic but manipulative carny who meets a psychiatrist who’s just as cunning as he is. They team up to con a rich man, but their scheme quickly unravels into a web of deceit and betrayal. This dark and stylish film, inspired by classic noir, delves into the worlds of mentalism and high-stakes fraud, examining themes of greed, destiny, and the darker side of humanity.

‘Barbarian’ (2022)

A young woman arrives at her rental late at night and discovers another stranger has been booked into the same house. Though hesitant, she decides to stay, but quickly realizes the house holds disturbing secrets far beyond a simple booking mistake. ‘Barbarian’ is a film full of surprises, starting as a tense psychological thriller and descending into a terrifying underground horror. It cleverly messes with what the audience expects, exploring themes of safety and the unsettling past hidden beneath city life.

‘Love Lies Bleeding’ (2024)

‘Love Lies Bleeding’ tells the story of a quiet gym manager who unexpectedly falls in love with a determined bodybuilder traveling through for a competition. Their passionate relationship quickly spirals into danger, drawing them into a world of crime and hidden family truths. Set against the stark backdrop of the American Southwest, the film is a raw and visually striking look at love, obsession, and the sacrifices people make in pursuit of a better life.

‘Last Night in Soho’ (2021)

A young fashion designer finds she has a strange ability to travel back in time to 1960s London, where she meets a captivating aspiring singer. But the glamorous world of the past isn’t what it seems, and a disturbing history begins to surface, impacting her life in the present. ‘Last Night in Soho’ is a visually stunning and atmospheric film that warns about the pitfalls of romanticizing the past. It’s a blend of psychological thriller and supernatural horror, as the main character’s sense of reality starts to fall apart.

‘Missing’ (2023)

I was completely hooked by ‘Missing’! It’s about a woman whose mom vanishes during a trip to Colombia, and she takes it upon herself to find her. What’s really cool is the entire movie unfolds on computer screens – we see everything through her laptop, phone, and security cameras. It’s a super fast-paced, immersive experience, and it really makes you think about how much we rely on the internet these days – both how helpful it can be in solving mysteries, and where its limits lie. It’s a really unique and gripping thriller!

‘Talk to Me’ (2022)

‘Talk to Me’ follows a group of friends who find a way to contact spirits using a preserved hand, quickly becoming addicted to the experience. But when one of them pushes too far, they unleash frightening supernatural entities that won’t let go. The film delves into the risks of chasing viral sensations and the deep, lingering effects of grief. It builds suspense through realistic special effects and a growing sense of unease.

‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ (2022)

Detective Benoit Blanc investigates a suspicious death during a lavish murder mystery party on a private Greek island. The victim is a tech billionaire, and the guests are his close friends. As Blanc unravels the truth, he exposes the hidden flaws and motivations of the ultra-rich in this clever and engaging film. ‘Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery’ is a satirical puzzle that highlights the power of careful observation and the complexities of social connections.

‘The Menu’ (2022)

A young couple ventures to a secluded island for a meal at a highly exclusive restaurant. What starts as a lavish dining experience quickly turns sinister as they and the other guests discover they’re part of a carefully orchestrated, deadly game. ‘The Menu’ is a darkly humorous critique of the world of high-end dining and the snobbery that often comes with it, building suspense as the horrifying truth behind each course is revealed.

‘Decision to Leave’ (2022)

A detective investigating a man’s death in the mountains becomes fixated on the victim’s enigmatic wife. As he digs deeper into the case, his professional and personal feelings start to mix. ‘Decision to Leave’ is a beautifully shot and cleverly constructed film that examines the complicated emotions of love and guilt. It’s a slow-paced romantic thriller that focuses on the emotional toll of seeking the truth.

‘Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant’ (2023)

The film ‘The Covenant,’ directed by Guy Ritchie, tells the true story of a U.S. Army sergeant and the Afghan interpreter who saved his life. During the war in Afghanistan, the interpreter bravely risked everything to rescue the sergeant after he was injured. When the interpreter is later denied safe passage to the U.S., the sergeant feels a deep obligation and returns to Afghanistan to repay the debt. The movie is a thrilling action story, but at its heart, it’s about the powerful bond of loyalty and sacrifice between two men.

‘Anatomy of a Fall’ (2023)

After a man dies in the snow near his and his wife’s remote chalet, she becomes the prime suspect in a murder investigation. The resulting trial isn’t just about the crime itself, but a detailed examination of their difficult relationship and her past. The film, ‘Anatomy of a Fall,’ uses the courtroom to question how reliable truth and memory really are. It’s a compelling psychological drama that leaves the audience to decide what actually happened.

‘The Batman’ (2022)

I’ve been following Batman’s story for a while now, and this latest take is really gripping. It’s been two years since Bruce Wayne started cleaning up Gotham, but this time, he’s facing a killer who’s leaving these twisted clues. It’s pulling him into the really dark side of the city, forcing him to team up with new people and truly become a detective. What I love is that this Batman is younger and driven by a lot of anger, and he’s really digging into his family’s past. It feels more like a classic detective story, with a really gritty, noir vibe – it really gets to the heart of what makes Batman, Batman.

Share your favorite modern thriller picks with us in the comments.

2026-02-10 08:56