The 30 Most Disturbing Movies Ever Made That Will Haunt Your Mind

Have you ever seen a movie so disturbing that it finds a permanent place in your memory and continues to haunt your mind over and over and over? A few movies come right to mind, but for me, it will always be “The Human Centipede: First Sequence” that is the number one most disturbing film that is impossible to forget. Lets just say that going to the bathroom will never be the same again after viewing this movie.

So, in the vein of “The Human Centipede”, we have compiled a list of the 30 most disturbing movies ever made. These films lie in cinema’s darkest corners. They defy conventional boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the psyche. These are most definitely not your feel good movie night popcorn flicks. They are disturbing tales that delve into the depths of human nature, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and visual representation.

Each film on this list evokes shock, discomfort, and contemplation.

These films challenge our perceptions, ignite discussions, and, above all, refuse to be forgotten.

Here are the 30 most disturbing movies ever made that will linger in the shadows of our consciousness, forever haunting our memories.

Don’t forget to download the FREE MOVIE CHECKLIST at the end of the article!

30 Most Disturbing Movies Ever Made

1. The Human Centipede (First Sequence) (2009)

• Director: Tom Six 
• Cast: Dieter Laser, Ashley C. Williams, Ashlynn Yennie 
• Genre: Horror, Drama 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘The Human Centipede’ on IMDb

Summary: A twisted tale concocted by director Tom Six, “The Human Centipede” explores the dark realm of a mad scientist who kidnaps and surgically connects three unsuspecting individuals, forming a grotesque, mouth to anus human centipede. Unfolding in a remote, eerie mansion, the movie dives into the psychological and physical horror of the victims as they struggle to endure this abominable experiment.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “The Human Centipede” lies in its unapologetic exploration of body horror and the dehumanization of its characters. The concept alone is enough to make your stomach churn, and the graphic visuals and unsettling atmosphere contribute to the lasting shock value.

2. Martyrs (2008)

• Director: Pascal Laugier 
• Cast: Morjana Alaoui, Mylène Jampanoï, Catherine Bégin 
• Genre: Horror, Drama 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Martyrs’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: Pascal Laugier’s “Martyrs” is a French horror film that follows the harrowing journey of a young woman seeking revenge on those who tortured her in childhood. As the plot unfolds, it delves into existential questions and the extreme lengths one can go to confront their demons, both literal and metaphorical.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Martyrs” is disturbing not only for its intense and brutal scenes of violence but also for its philosophical and existential exploration. It challenges the viewer’s perceptions of pain, suffering, and the pursuit of truth, leaving an indelible mark on the psyche.

3. I Spit on Your Grave (1978)

• Director: Meir Zarchi 
• Cast: Camille Keaton, Eron Tabor, Richard Pace 
• Genre: Horror, Thriller 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘I Spit on Your Grave’ on IMDb
• Streamng FREE on Tubi

Summary: Meir Zarchi’s controversial film “I Spit on Your Grave” tells the story of a woman seeking revenge after a brutal assault. The movie doesn’t shy away from depicting the raw and uncomfortable aftermath of violence, exploring themes of justice and retribution.

Why It’s Disturbing: The unsettling nature of “I Spit on Your Grave” lies in its unflinching portrayal of sexual violence and the subsequent vengeance. It challenges the viewer to confront the uncomfortable realities of trauma and the thin line between justice and revenge.

4. Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom (1975)

• Director: Pier Paolo Pasolini 
• Cast: Paolo Bonacelli, Giorgio Cataldi, Umberto Paolo Quintavalle 
• Genre: Drama, War 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom’ on IMDb

Summary: Pier Paolo Pasolini’s “Salo, or the 120 Days of Sodom” is a disturbing and controversial film set in fascist Italy, where four powerful men indulge in sadistic and perverse acts against a group of kidnapped youths. The movie is a bleak commentary on power, corruption, and the degradation of humanity.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Salo” is disturbing due to its unflinching depiction of extreme violence, sexual depravity, and the abuse of power. It’s a challenging watch that pushes boundaries and forces audiences to confront the darkest aspects of human nature.

5. Cannibal Holocaust (1980)

• Director: Ruggero Deodato 
• Cast: Robert Kerman, Francesca Ciardi, Perry Pirkanen 
• Genre: Adventure, Horror 
• Rating: Unrated (Originally banned in several countries) 
• IMDb: ‘Cannibal Holocaust’ on IMDb

Summary: “Cannibal Holocaust” is an Italian horror film directed by Ruggero Deodato, infamous for its found footage style. The story follows a rescue mission searching for a documentary crew that disappeared in the Amazon rainforest while filming indigenous tribes. The film’s shocking content includes real animal killings and graphic violence.

Why It’s Disturbing: The unsettling nature of “Cannibal Holocaust” is heightened by its use of realistic violence and animal cruelty, challenging ethical boundaries. The film’s graphic scenes and the blurred line between fiction and reality have cemented its reputation as one of the most disturbing movies ever made.

6. A Serbian Film (2010)

• Director: Srđan Spasojević 
• Cast: Srdjan Todorovic, Sergej Trifunovic, Jelena Gavrilovic 
• Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller 
• Rating: NC-17 (Originally banned in several countries) 
• IMDb: ‘A Serbian Film’ on IMDb

Summary: “A Serbian Film” dives into the dark and morally challenging world of a retired porn star who agrees to one last job for financial reasons, only to find himself entangled in a nightmarish descent into depravity. The film is notorious for its explicit and disturbing content, pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable in cinema.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “A Serbian Film” stems from its graphic depictions of extreme violence, sexual exploitation, and the psychological toll it takes on both characters and viewers. It’s a challenging watch that shocks with its unflinching portrayal of taboo subjects.

7. Requiem for a Dream (2000)

• Director: Darren Aronofsky 
• Cast: Ellen Burstyn, Jared Leto, Jennifer Connelly 
• Genre: Drama 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Requiem for a Dream’ on IMDb

Summary: Directed by Darren Aronofsky, “Requiem for a Dream” is a visceral exploration of addiction that follows the lives of four individuals as their dreams disintegrate amidst drug abuse. The film employs intense visual and auditory techniques to convey the harrowing reality of addiction.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Requiem for a Dream” is disturbing due to its unflinching portrayal of the destructive nature of addiction. The film’s intense visuals and haunting score create an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact, depicting the downward spiral of its characters in a gut wrenching manner.

8. Oldboy (2003)

• Director: Park Chan-wook 
• Cast: Choi Min-sik, Yoo Ji-tae, Kang Hye-jung 
• Genre: Action, Drama, Mystery 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Oldboy’ on IMDb

Summary: Park Chan-wook’s “Oldboy” follows the story of Oh Dae-su, a man mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years, only to be released and plunged into a twisted and vengeful journey. The film is renowned for its twisty plot, intense fight sequences, and disturbing revelations.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Oldboy” is disturbing due to its exploration of revenge, psychological trauma, and the unexpected twists that challenge the audience’s moral compass. The film’s visceral fight scenes and the shocking nature of its narrative contribute to its lasting impact.

9. Inside (2007)

• Director: Alexandre Bustillo, Julien Maury 
• Cast: Alysson Paradis, Béatrice Dalle, François-Régis Marchasson 
• Genre: Horror, Thriller 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Inside’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: “Inside” is a French horror film directed by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury. The story unfolds on Christmas Eve when a pregnant widow is terrorized by a mysterious woman seeking to take her unborn child. The film is known for its intense and relentless violence.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Inside” lies in its unrelenting tension, graphic violence, and the visceral fear induced by the home invasion scenario. The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, delivering a brutal and psychologically unsettling experience.

10. Audition (1999)

• Director: Takashi Miike 
• Cast: Ryo Ishibashi, Eihi Shiina, Tetsu Sawaki 
• Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Audition’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: Directed by Takashi Miike, “Audition” starts innocently enough as a widower holds auditions for a fake movie to find a new wife. However, the film takes a dark turn as the selected woman’s true intentions are revealed, leading to a disturbing and psychological descent.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Audition” is disturbing due to its slow build up and the sudden, shocking shift into horror. The film explores themes of obsession and manipulation, with a climax that leaves a profound and unsettling impact on the viewer.

11. Irreversible (2002)

• Director: Gaspar Noé 
• Cast: Monica Bellucci, Vincent Cassel, Albert Dupontel 
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• Rating: Not Rated (Originally banned in several countries) 
• IMDb: ‘Irreversible’ on IMDb

Summary: Directed by Gaspar Noé, “Irreversible” is a French film that unfolds in reverse chronological order, telling the story of a brutal rape and the subsequent quest for revenge. The film’s narrative structure intensifies the impact of its disturbing content, creating a challenging viewing experience.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Irreversible” is disturbing due to its unflinching portrayal of violence and its unconventional storytelling approach. The extended, unbroken takes and graphic scenes contribute to the film’s shock value, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

12. Dogtooth (2009)

• Director: Yorgos Lanthimos 
• Cast: Christos Stergioglou, Michelle Valley, Angeliki Papoulia 
• Genre: Drama, Thriller 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Dogtooth’ on IMDb

Summary: Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Dogtooth” explores the disturbing dynamics of a family where the parents keep their children in complete isolation, controlling every aspect of their lives. The film delves into the consequences of extreme parental authority and the longing for individuality.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Dogtooth” is disturbing due to its examination of the psychological effects of strict control and isolation. The film challenges societal norms and raises uncomfortable questions about the nature of authority and individual freedom.

13. The Girl Next Door (2007)

• Director: Gregory Wilson 
• Cast: William Atherton, Blythe Auffarth, Blanche Baker 
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Horror 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘The Girl Next Door’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: “The Girl Next Door” is a harrowing tale based on true events, depicting the abuse and torture suffered by two sisters at the hands of their sadistic guardian. The film explores themes of cruelty, power dynamics, and the impact of trauma on its victims.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “The Girl Next Door” stems from its portrayal of real life horror and the brutalization of innocent victims. The film doesn’t shy away from the grim realities of abuse, leaving a haunting impact on the viewer.

14. Possession (1981)

• Director: Andrzej Żuławski 
• Cast: Isabelle Adjani, Sam Neill, Margit Carstensen 
• Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Possession’ on IMDb

Summary: Andrzej Żuławski’s “Possession” is a surreal and psychological horror film that explores the breakdown of a marriage amid supernatural and surreal occurrences. The film takes unexpected and disturbing turns, blending horror with intense emotional drama.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Possession” is disturbing due to its surreal and nightmarish imagery, coupled with the intense performances of its cast. The film delves into themes of love, possession, and the psychological toll of a deteriorating relationship.

15. Tusk (2014)

• Director: Kevin Smith 
• Cast: Justin Long, Michael Parks, Haley Joel Osment 
• Genre: Comedy, Drama, Horror 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Tusk’ on IMDb

Summary: Kevin Smith’s “Tusk” takes a bizarre and darkly comedic turn as it follows a podcaster who falls victim to a man’s twisted desire to transform him into a walrus. The film combines elements of horror and humor, resulting in a unique and disturbing cinematic experience.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Tusk” is disturbing due to its blend of horror and dark humor, exploring themes of body horror and the consequences of human obsession. The film’s absurd premise and unsettling transformation scenes contribute to its disturbing nature.

16. Eden Lake (2008)

• Director: James Watkins 
• Cast: Kelly Reilly, Michael Fassbender, Tara Ellis 
• Genre: Horror, Thriller 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Eden Lake’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: “Eden Lake” follows a couple on a romantic getaway that takes a nightmarish turn when they clash with a group of aggressive local youths. The film explores themes of societal decay and the primal instincts that can surface in desperate situations.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Eden Lake” lies in its realistic portrayal of violence and the unsettling reflection it casts on society. The film taps into primal fears and societal anxieties, creating a tense and chilling experience.

17. The Poughkeepsie Tapes (2007)

• Director: John Erick Dowdle 
• Cast: Stacy Chbosky, Ben Messmer, Samantha Robson 
• Genre: Horror, Mystery, Thriller 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘The Poughkeepsie Tapes’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: “The Poughkeepsie Tapes” is a found footage horror film that presents a fictional documentary about a serial killer who recorded his crimes. The film explores the chilling tapes left behind and the psychological impact on those who investigate.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “The Poughkeepsie Tapes” arises from its found footage format, graphic content, and the unsettling exploration of a sadistic killer’s psyche. The film blurs the lines between reality and fiction, intensifying the horror.

18. Masters of Horror: Imprint (2006)

• Director: Takashi Miike 
• Cast: Youki Kudoh, Michié, Toshie Negishi 
• Genre: Horror, Drama 
• Rating: TV-MA 
• IMDb: ‘Imprint’ on IMDb

Summary: “Imprint” is part of the “Masters of Horror” series and directed by Takashi Miike. The story follows a man searching for a woman he fell in love with in a brothel, uncovering a series of disturbing and supernatural events. The film is known for its graphic content and disturbing narrative.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Imprint” is disturbing due to its graphic depictions of violence and the surreal nature of its storytelling. Miike’s penchant for pushing boundaries is evident, creating an unsettling and memorable entry in the horror anthology series.

19. Mother! (2017)

• Director: Darren Aronofsky 
• Cast: Jennifer Lawrence, Javier Bardem, Ed Harris 
• Genre: Drama, Horror, Mystery 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Mother!’ on IMDb

Summary: Darren Aronofsky’s “Mother!” is a psychological horror film that follows a couple whose tranquil life is disrupted by unexpected guests, leading to a surreal and nightmarish experience. The film is an allegorical exploration of creation, destruction, and societal chaos.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Mother!” is disturbing due to its intense and surreal narrative, as well as its allegorical exploration of biblical themes. The film’s descent into madness and the visceral portrayal of chaos contribute to its disturbing and provocative nature.

20. Frontiers (2007)

• Director: Xavier Gens 
• Cast: Karina Testa, Aurélien Wiik, Patrick Ligardes 
• Genre: Action, Horror, Thriller 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Frontiers’ on IMDb

Summary: “Frontiers” is a French horror film that follows a group of friends escaping a riot in Paris and stumbling upon a sinister rural community. The film combines elements of survival horror with intense and graphic violence.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Frontiers” is disturbing due to its relentless and brutal depiction of violence, as well as the suspenseful atmosphere created by the characters’ desperate struggle for survival. The film’s gritty and unflinching approach adds to its disturbing impact.

21. Tetsuo: The Iron Man (1989)

• Director: Shinya Tsukamoto 
• Cast: Tomorowo Taguchi, Kei Fujiwara, Nobu Kanaoka 
• Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Tetsuo: The Iron Man’ on IMDb

Summary: “Tetsuo: The Iron Man” is a Japanese cyberpunk film that delves into the surreal and grotesque. The story follows a man who, after a bizarre encounter, starts transforming into a metal being. The film is known for its avant-garde style, industrial soundtrack, and nightmarish visuals.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Tetsuo: The Iron Man” stems from its surreal and chaotic imagery, as well as its exploration of body horror and the merging of man and machine. The film’s experimental style and unsettling atmosphere contribute to its lasting impact.

22. Teeth (2007)

• Director: Mitchell Lichtenstein 
• Cast: Jess Weixler, John Hensley, Josh Pais 
• Genre: Comedy, Fantasy, Horror 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Teeth’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: “Teeth” takes a unique approach to horror comedy, telling the story of a high school girl with a peculiar anatomical feature: teeth in her genitalia. The film humorously explores themes of empowerment and revenge as the protagonist navigates adolescence.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Teeth” is disturbing due to its blend of horror and dark comedy, addressing societal taboos and fears surrounding female sexuality. The film’s unconventional premise and moments of graphic horror contribute to its disturbing nature.

23. In a Glass Cage (1987)

• Director: Agustí Villaronga 
• Cast: Günter Meisner, David Sust, Marisa Paredes 
• Genre: Drama, Horror 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘In a Glass Cage’ on IMDb
• Streaming FREE on Tubi

Summary: “In a Glass Cage” is a Spanish horror film that follows a former Nazi doctor paralyzed in an iron lung, cared for by a mysterious young man. The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the cyclical nature of violence.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “In a Glass Cage” lies in its exploration of dark themes, including the aftermath of war and the unsettling dynamics between the characters. The film’s psychological horror and moral complexity contribute to its disturbing impact.

24. Infinity Pool (2023)

• Director: Brandon Cronenberg 
• Cast: Alexander Skarsgård, Mia Goth, Cleopatra Coleman 
• Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi 
• Rating: R
• IMDb: ‘Infinity Pool’ on IMDb

Summary: While on an all inclusive beach getaway on the fictional island of La Tolqa, James and Em Foster’s idyllic vacation takes a dark turn when a tragic accident unveils the country’s disturbing underbelly of hedonistic tourism, unbridled violence, and surreal horrors.

Why It’s Disturbing: “Infinity Pool” is disturbing due to its surreal and disconcerting atmosphere, as well as its exploration of the consequences of unchecked desires. The film will definitely leave you with a sense of unease.

25. Deadgirl (2008)

• Director: Marcel Sarmiento, Gadi Harel 
• Cast: Shiloh Fernandez, Noah Segan, Candice Accola 
• Genre: Horror 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Deadgirl’ on IMDb

Summary: “Deadgirl” follows two high school boys who discover a mysterious, undead woman in an abandoned mental asylum. The film explores themes of morality, consent, and the dark side of human nature as the boys make disturbing decisions.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Deadgirl” stems from its exploration of taboo subjects, including necrophilia and the dehumanization of the titular character. The film raises uncomfortable questions about morality and the consequences of unchecked desires.

26. The Platform (2019)

• Director: Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia 
• Cast: Ivan Massagué, Zorion Eguileor, Antonia San Juan 
• Genre: Horror, Sci-Fi, Thriller 
• Rating: TV-MA 
• IMDb: ‘The Platform’ on IMDb

Summary: “The Platform” is a Spanish science fiction horror film set in a vertical prison where inmates on higher levels eat better than those below. The story follows a man navigating the brutal hierarchy and confronting the ethical dilemmas of survival in this dystopian setting.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “The Platform” arises from its stark portrayal of societal inequality, cannibalism, and the dehumanizing effects of desperation. The film serves as a chilling allegory that lingers in the mind.

27. Come and See (1985)

• Director: Elem Klimov 
• Cast: Aleksey Kravchenko, Olga Mironova, Liubomiras Laucevicius 
• Genre: Drama, War 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Come and See’ on IMDb

Summary: “Come and See” is a Soviet war drama set during World War II, following a young boy who experiences the horrors of war as he joins the Soviet resistance against the German invaders. The film is known for its realistic portrayal of the devastating impact of conflict on civilians.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Come and See” stems from its unflinching depiction of the brutality of war and its psychological toll on the characters. The film’s harrowing scenes and emotional intensity leave a lasting impact.

28. Antichrist (2009)

• Director: Lars von Trier 
• Cast: Willem Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg 
• Genre: Drama, Horror 
• Rating: Not Rated 
• IMDb: ‘Antichrist’ on IMDb

Summary: “Antichrist” explores the psychological unraveling of a grieving couple who retreat to a cabin in the woods. As they confront their inner demons and the sinister forces around them, the film descends into a nightmarish exploration of fear and despair.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Antichrist” lies in its graphic and surreal depictions of violence, sexuality, and psychological torment. Director Lars von Trier’s provocative approach challenges viewers, creating an unsettling and divisive cinematic experience.

29. Se7en (1995)

• Director: David Fincher 
• Cast: Morgan Freeman, Brad Pitt, Kevin Spacey 
• Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Se7en’ on IMDb

Summary: “Se7en” follows detectives as they investigate a series of grisly murders inspired by the seven deadly sins. The film delves into the darkness of the human psyche and the moral complexities faced by those seeking justice.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Se7en” is rooted in its grim and atmospheric portrayal of human depravity. The film’s gritty visuals, psychological tension, and shocking revelations contribute to its reputation as a chilling thriller.

30. Deliverance (1972)

• Director: John Boorman 
• Cast: Jon Voight, Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty 
• Genre: Adventure, Drama, Thriller 
• Rating: R 
• IMDb: ‘Deliverance’ on IMDb

Summary: “Deliverance” follows a group of friends on a canoe trip in the Georgia wilderness that takes a nightmarish turn when they encounter violent locals. The film explores themes of survival, masculinity, and the primal instincts that emerge in extreme situations.

Why It’s Disturbing: The disturbing nature of “Deliverance” comes from its intense scenes of violence and the psychological impact of the characters’ harrowing experiences. The film’s exploration of human nature and the thin veneer of civilization adds to its unsettling impact.

BONUS Disturbing Movies Streaming FREE on Tubi

High Tension (2002)
The Devil’s Rejects (2005)
American Mary (2013)
Excision (2012)
Hard Candy (2005)
The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
I Spit on Your Grave (2010)
Cannibal Ferox (1981)
The Hills Have Eyes (1977)

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