Midsommar (2019) by Ari Aster is a masterpiece that redefined horror by blending bright, sunlit visuals with deeply unsettling themes of grief, cults, and human vulnerability. Its uniqueness lies in its ability to create a sense of dread in broad daylight while diving into complex emotional and psychological depths. If you’re looking for movies that capture similar vibes—whether it’s eerie atmospheres, psychological terror, or cult-related themes—this list has got you covered.
List of Movies Like Midsommar
If you’re looking for movies that capture similar vibes—whether it’s eerie atmospheres, psychological terror, or cult-related themes—this list has got you covered.
1. The Wicker Man (1973)
Widely regarded as one of the greatest folk horror films of all time, The Wicker Man is an essential watch for fans of Midsommar. It follows a police officer’s investigation into a missing girl on a remote Scottish island, only to uncover the sinister pagan practices of the islanders.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Both films revolve around rituals, cult-like communities, and the clash of belief systems.
- The sunny, rural setting contrasts with the darkness of the narrative.
- The shocking and unforgettable climax resonates with Midsommar’s themes of sacrifice.
Key Details:
- Director: Robin Hardy
- Cast: Edward Woodward, Christopher Lee, Britt Ekland
- Tone: Folk horror with unsettling twists
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2. Hereditary (2018)
Before Midsommar, Ari Aster directed Hereditary, a chilling exploration of familial trauma and supernatural horror. This film is a slow-burn masterpiece that unravels layers of darkness as it builds toward a horrifying conclusion.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Directed by Ari Aster, it shares his signature style of atmospheric dread and psychological complexity.
- Both films explore grief as a central theme, leading characters into increasingly disturbing situations.
- Cult and ritualistic elements play significant roles in the narrative.
Key Details:
- Director: Ari Aster
- Cast: Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Gabriel Byrne
- Vibes: Unrelenting tension, psychological torment
3. The Witch (2015)
A deeply unsettling period horror set in 17th-century New England, The Witch (or The VVitch) is a story of religious paranoia, isolation, and dark forces that slowly tear a family apart.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Both films excel in creating dread through isolation and deeply unsettling atmospheres.
- Themes of community dynamics, religious zealotry, and female empowerment parallel Midsommar.
- The rural setting plays a vital role in heightening the eerie tone.
Key Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Robert Eggers |
| Cast | Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson |
| Themes | Paranoia, faith, supernatural forces |
| Atmosphere | Hauntingly quiet and foreboding |
4. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Roman Polanski’s psychological horror classic is a gripping tale of manipulation and paranoia as a young woman unravels the sinister truth behind her seemingly perfect life.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Themes of control, manipulation, and betrayal by those closest to the protagonist.
- Focus on cult-like behaviour and its impact on individuals.
- A strong female lead grappling with her reality.
Key Details:
- Director: Roman Polanski
- Cast: Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon
- Tone: Suspenseful, eerie, and unsettling
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5. The Invitation (2015)
This modern-day psychological thriller follows a man who attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife, only to discover a disturbing and cult-like agenda.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- A slow-build narrative that crescendos into chaos.
- Themes of cults, grief, and manipulation within social dynamics.
- A modern setting that juxtaposes normalcy with horror.
Key Details:
- Director: Karyn Kusama
- Cast: Logan Marshall-Green, Tammy Blanchard
- Atmosphere: Intense, suspenseful, and claustrophobic
6. Suspiria (2018)
A reimagining of Dario Argento’s 1977 classic, Suspiria explores the dark underbelly of a prestigious dance academy in Berlin, which turns out to be run by a coven of witches.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Ritualistic and occult themes.
- A haunting visual style that blends surrealism with horror.
- Strong female-driven narratives.
Key Details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Luca Guadagnino |
| Cast | Dakota Johnson, Tilda Swinton |
| Themes | Power, control, and dark rituals |
| Cinematography | Bold and otherworldly visuals |
7. Apostle (2018)
This Netflix thriller follows a man’s journey to a secluded island to rescue his kidnapped sister, only to uncover the dark secrets of a mysterious cult.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Both films feature isolated communities with sinister secrets.
- Themes of sacrifice and control.
- A similar sense of foreboding, coupled with bursts of violence.
Key Details:
- Director: Gareth Evans
- Cast: Dan Stevens, Michael Sheen
- Tone: Gritty, suspenseful, and intense
8. The Others (2001)
Set in an isolated, fog-covered mansion, this supernatural thriller unravels the mysteries surrounding a family haunted by strange occurrences.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- A haunting atmosphere rooted in isolation.
- Themes of loss, grief, and secrets.
- An unpredictable and unforgettable ending.
Key Details:
- Director: Alejandro Amenábar
- Cast: Nicole Kidman, Christopher Eccleston
- Tone: Moody, mysterious, and gothic
9. A Cure for Wellness (2016)
This visually stunning horror-drama takes viewers to a remote wellness retreat where nothing is as it seems.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Both films feature protagonists uncovering horrifying truths in seemingly idyllic settings.
- Themes of manipulation, control, and human experiments.
- A slow-burn narrative with deeply unsettling moments.
Key Details:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Director | Gore Verbinski |
| Cast | Dane DeHaan, Mia Goth |
| Tone | Hauntingly beautiful, surreal |
10. Antichrist (2009)
Lars von Trier’s controversial film is an unsettling psychological horror that explores grief, nature, and human suffering.
Why It’s Similar to Midsommar:
- Themes of grief and emotional unravelling.
- Stunning yet disturbing visuals.
- A challenging exploration of human relationships.
Key Details:
- Director: Lars von Trier
- Cast: Willem Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg
- Tone: Disturbing, artistic, and thought-provoking
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11. Mother! (2017)
A metaphor-heavy thriller by Darren Aronofsky that explores chaos, creation, and destruction in a way that feels deeply unsettling.
12. The Lighthouse (2019)
A psychological horror-drama with themes of isolation, madness, and strained relationships.
13. Kill List (2011)
A dark, gritty thriller that merges hitman drama with cult horror, delivering an ending that stays with you.
Final Thoughts
These movies are not just about horror—they’re about creating an atmosphere that sticks with you long after the credits roll. Whether you’re drawn to the cult elements, the emotional depth, or the unsettling visuals, these films offer something special for fans of Midsommar.
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