Crime/Thrillers
Se7en (1995)
Directed by David Fincher | Starring Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman
A psychological thriller following detectives Somerset and Mills investigating “Seven Deadly Sins” murders. Won 1996 MTV Movie Award for Best Film.
Angels & Demons (2009)
Directed by Ron Howard | Starring Tom Hanks
Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon races against time to prevent Vatican City’s destruction during papal conclave. Based on Dan Brown’s novel.
Incendies (2010)
Directed by Denis Villeneuve
Twins uncover shocking family secrets while fulfilling their mother’s Middle Eastern will. Adapted from Wajdi Mouawad’s play.
Mumbai Hotel (2018)
Directed by Anthony Maras | Starring Dev Patel
Dramatizes 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks at Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, highlighting human resilience.
Religious/Philosophical Themes
The Decalogue (1989)
Directed by Krzysztof Kieślowski
Ten modern Polish stories reimagining biblical commandments through moral dilemmas.
The Passion of the Christ (2004)
Directed by Mel Gibson | Starring Jim Caviezel
Graphically depicts Jesus’ final 12 hours. Noted for visceral portrayal and artistic ambition.
The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965)
Directed by George Stevens | Starring Max von Sydow
Epic 4-hour biopic of Jesus Christ with grand biblical recreations.
Survival/Drama
Life of Pi (2012)
Directed by Ang Lee | Oscar-winning
A boy survives 227 days adrift with Bengal tiger. Explores truth vs storytelling.
A Separation (2011)
Directed by Asghar Farhadi | Oscar/Golden Globe winner
Iranian couple’s divorce escalates into legal/moral crisis involving caregiver conflict.
Satire/Fantasy
PK (2014)
Directed by Rajkumar Hirani | Starring Aamir Khan
Alien’s humorous quest through India satirizes religious dogma and cultural practices.