59 Disturbing Films Exploring Taboo Relationships
58 titles
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The RoomMovie · 2019 · 99m · Horror, Drama, MysteryKate and Matt find that a section of their home has the power to make wishes come true. Grieving the loss of two pregnancies, their deepest desire is for a child.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.4 - 2
This World, Then the FireworksMovie · 1997 · 100mSet in the 1950s, the story follows two siblings who are in a relationship with each other. A charming but morally corrupt journalist and his sister, a prostitute with similar flaws, devise a scheme to acquire wealth through seduction and murder.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.0 - 3
An Awfully Big AdventureMovie · 1995 · 113m · Romance, Drama, ComedyIn 1947 Liverpool, a young teenager aspires to be a star. She joins a struggling theater company working on a winter production of Peter Pan. The play mirrors the characters' own journeys into adulthood, reflecting the complexities of youth and lost innocence. The protagonist navigates the adult world of theater, encountering its complicated relationships and challenges. This drama explores the hidden world behind the scenes, where dreams and reality intertwine and profoundly affect those who pursue them.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.5 - 4
Timerider: The Adventure of Lyle SwannMovie · 1982 · 94m · Science Fiction, WesternLyle Swann, a skilled off-road racer, is suddenly transported back to the Old West. He finds himself stranded in a dangerous time, where motorcycles don't exist.
When a gang of outlaws steals his motorcycle, Lyle must use his intelligence and resourcefulness to survive in 19th-century America. He meets a local woman who complicates his efforts to find a way back to his own time.
Guided only by an old map, Lyle journeys through the harsh landscapes of the West, battling outlaws and adapting to the unfamiliar customs of the past. He learns that courage isn't about technology, but about overcoming challenges in an unknown world.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.3 - 5
ShamelessMovie · 2012 · 80m · Drama, RomanceThis is a passionate story about a brother and sister grappling with love, longing, and betrayal. Tadek, a restless young man, returns to his half-sister Anka's home seeking comfort and connection. Haunted by a difficult past they share, they must find a way to escape their circumstances and survive. This debut novel unflinchingly and gently examines a deeply sensitive subject.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.3 - 6
IncendiesMovie · 2010 · 131m · Drama, War, MysteryFollowing their mother's dying wish, twins Jeanne and Simon travel to the Middle East to uncover their family history. Adapted from Wajdi Mouawad's acclaimed play, Incendies is a powerful and moving story about two young adults exploring the origins of deep-seated hatred, ongoing conflicts, and enduring love.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.1 - 7
The DamnedMovie · 1969 · 158m · Drama, HistoryDuring the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany, this film explores an influential aristocratic family's experiences adapting to a totalitarian regime. It examines loyalty, power, and morality as they confront the harsh realities of life under Nazi control.
The movie portrays how political ideologies affect everyday lives and how the family’s privileged position creates both advantages and difficulties. It centers on the conflict between tradition and modernity, as the characters struggle with their beliefs and societal expectations. With moving moments and insightful conversations, the film offers a compelling look at the human experience during a pivotal moment in history.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 8
The Devil's AdvocateMovie · 1997 · 144m · Drama, Mystery, HorrorKevin Lomax, a driven young lawyer from Florida, joins a top New York law firm. He's eager to grow professionally, but soon discovers the firm hides a dark secret. As Kevin handles difficult cases, he uncovers a disturbing truth about his powerful boss – a mentor with dangerous plans for him. This suspenseful story explores ambition, betrayal, and hidden darkness, as Kevin faces a perilous situation and fights to stay true to himself.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 9
Caligula and MessalinaMovie · 1981 · 101m · Romance, History, DramaThis historical drama explores the disturbing reign of Roman Emperor Caligula, focusing on his intense obsession with a gladiatrix. Their relationship descends into a world of extreme indulgence, where sensual desires lead to brutal cruelty. The film examines power, lust, and the fragility of sanity as the emperor's darkest fantasies manifest in a series of torturous events, forbidden relationships, and shocking acts involving both people and animals. It offers a grim depiction of the Roman Empire, where even the most forbidden desires are indulged under the rule of a deeply disturbed leader.IMDb 3.6TMDB 4.3 - 10
House on the RocksMovie · 1974 · 97mElena, married to a wealthy man, spends her summer on an Aegean island conducting archaeological research. Her son visits her from a previous marriage. The island offers sea, sun, shepherds performing ancient rituals, and a handsome young man. Yet, no one recalls the events of Ancient Greece.IMDb 4.3TMDB 3.4 - 11
Satan's Baby DollMovie · 1982 · 75m · HorrorInside the Aguilars' isolated castle, Maria's body rests in the crypt. Her husband Antonio, a jealous and controlling man, is there with Ignazio, his mute brother who uses a wheelchair, both watching their caretaker, Sol, a mysterious novice. The situation is complicated by Miria, the couple’s daughter; Isidro, a man afraid of Satan; and Juan Suarez, a doctor who seems overly interested in Miria's health. As strange things happen, the characters become caught in a plot of lies and possible supernatural influence. With deaths occurring and questions about Maria’s death and who is working for Satan, a dangerous struggle for survival begins within the castle.IMDb 4.0TMDB 5.1 - 12
Urban TaleMovie · 2012 · 103mAfter their mother's death, a brother and sister wake up one morning to find themselves unexpectedly naked in bed. Before passing away, their mother asked them to find their birth father, who abandoned them as infants. Their search takes them to hospitals, nursing homes, and even jail cells. Along the way, the siblings encounter individuals who offer glimpses into potential futures for them, as if from different versions of reality.IMDb 4.9TMDB 4.0 - 13
The House That VanishedMovie · 1973 · 103mValerie, a young model, and her boyfriend, a small-time thief, are present during a murder at a secluded mansion. Valerie flees the scene, but soon discovers she is being hunted by the killer.IMDb 5.0TMDB 4.9 - 14
SleepwalkersMovie · 1992 · 89m · Horror, Fantasy, ThrillerIn the quiet town of Travis, Indiana, a mother and son, Charles Brady and Mary, are sleepwalkers – part of an ancient group who need to draw life-force from people to live. They move constantly, hiding their true nature while searching for what they need.
When they arrive in Travis, they focus on Tanya Robertson, a local student whose life feels like it could sustain them. Unaware, Tanya becomes involved in Charles and Mary's dangerous struggle to survive, disrupting her normal life. The town faces a terrifying conflict between these ancient beings and ordinary people, revealing hidden fears and strengths.
This supernatural thriller examines how far people will go to survive, questioning what it means to exist and the ongoing battle between good and evil. As Charles and Mary's desperate search for sustenance brings them into contact with Tanya and her community, an unusual story unfolds that changes how we see life.IMDb 5.4TMDB 6.0 - 15
Love Actually... Sucks!Movie · 2012 · 83mThe film explores different kinds of failed love. It follows a brother and sister involved in a forbidden romance, a married painter who develops feelings for his young male model, a dance teacher obsessed with his older student, and a lesbian couple complicated by paranoia and a difficult love triangle.IMDb 4.3TMDB 4.5 - 16
Killer Body CountMovie · 2024 · 109m · Horror, ThrillerCami is sent to a remote rehabilitation center by her father, who believes she has a sex addiction. However, when a killer starts targeting the teens there, Cami discovers her own survival is connected to gaining her independence in unexpected ways.IMDb 4.7TMDB 5.0 - 17
The Ages of LuluMovie · 1990 · 95m · DramaAt fifteen, Lulu has grown up feeling unloved by her family, leaving her with a deep sense of emptiness. Meeting Pablo, an older family friend, at a rock concert leads to her first sexual experience, and they soon marry. Pablo creates a sheltered world for Lulu, protecting her from the difficulties of life.
But as time goes on, this protected life becomes stifling for Lulu, who craves excitement and risk beyond their isolated existence. She begins visiting dimly lit bars, seeking the emotions she's been missing. Her choices challenge her relationship with Pablo, forcing them both to confront the complexities of love, desire, and the need for connection.IMDb 5.5TMDB 6.4 - 18
HomesickMovie · 2015 · 106m · DramaCharlotte, 27, and her brother Henrik, 35, meet for the first time as adults, forging a connection unbound by typical family expectations. They navigate the uncharted territory of sibling love, having grown up without a traditional family structure. *Homesick* is a poignant family drama about the search for belonging and the unconventional ways people create family.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.3 - 19
Gestapo's Last OrgyMovie · 1977 · 81m · Horror, War, DramaDuring a time of intense war, Lise Cohen is held in a unique prisoner-of-war camp for Jewish women. The camp also functions as a brothel for German soldiers before they go to war. Commandant Starker and Alma rule the camp harshly, but their control is challenged by Lise's strength.
Starker becomes increasingly frustrated as he tries to break Lise's will with cruel experiments. Instead of giving in to fear, Lise begins to outsmart Starker and find a degree of safety within the camp. However, this doesn’t erase the painful memories of her ordeal.
This story explores how people survive in terrible situations, examining power, guilt, and resistance during a dark period in history.IMDb 4.4TMDB 4.5 - 20
The Sweet Charm of SinMovie · 1987 · 104mWidowed Arianna (Alexandra Delli Colli) marries businessman Aurelio (Vito Fornari), bringing her children, Carlotta (Claudia Cavalcanti) and Gustavo (Alfredo Galloto), into the new family. Carlotta develops a relationship with Henry but is drawn to her stepfather and initiates an affair. Meanwhile, Gustavo explores a romantic relationship with Mario. Arianna then takes it upon herself to introduce her son to sexual intimacy, while Mario does the same to Gustavo in front of him. Two young blackmailers, Mario and Enrico, exploit the unfolding situation.IMDb 4.3TMDB 3.5 - 21
No Way to LiveMovie · 2016 · 84mIn the 1950s South, a teenage interracial couple resorts to robbery to escape the pervasive racism of their community. However, when their actions escalate to violence, they are compelled to face difficult truths about themselves.IMDb 5.6TMDB 4.8 - 22
Ana's DesireMovie · 2021 · 72mAna and her son Mateo live a comfortable life in Mexico City. Their routine is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of Juan, who is visiting after many years away. His presence stirs up memories and hidden truths from their shared history, forcing Ana to face her past in pursuit of long-sought peace.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.6 - 23
Young LucreziaMovie · 1974 · 80mEarly 16th century Italy is dominated by the formidable Borgia family, headed by Cesare Borgia and his sister, Lucrezia. Cesare orchestrates a calculated scheme to eliminate his sister's husband as part of a ruthless pursuit of power.IMDb 4.7TMDB 3.3 - 24
Innocence and DesireMovie · 1974 · 105mWhile briefly back from seminary, a young man develops feelings for his father's new, younger wife.IMDb 4.7TMDB 4.6 - 25
The KingMovie · 2006 · 105mElvis, adrift and without a clear purpose, leaves the Navy and travels to Texas. There, he reaches out to his father, a pastor at a Christian church he's never known. The pastor, Dave, warns Elvis to stay away and instructs his family to avoid him, concealing Elvis's true identity as their son from a past relationship. However, Elvis has already formed a connection with Malerie, Dave’s 16-year-old daughter, and begins to pursue her. As Dave grapples with his conscience, the film questions redemption and whether anyone can find forgiveness.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.0 - 26
Jug FaceMovie · 2013 · 81m · Horror, Thriller, DramaIn a secluded forest community, an ancient, supernatural pit requires a fresh blood sacrifice. A young woman fights for survival as the pit unleashes its fury.IMDb 5.3TMDB 5.2 - 27
Human AnimalsMovie · 1983 · 97mFollowing a series of nuclear blasts, two men and a woman awaken in a desert. They embark on a journey focused on survival and finding themselves.IMDb 5.0TMDB 3.9 - 28
AnonymousMovie · 2011 · 130m · Drama, History, ThrillerAgainst the backdrop of Queen Elizabeth I's reign and the Essex Rebellion, the story explores the theory that Edward De Vere, Earl of Oxford, was the true author of Shakespeare's plays.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4 - 29
ClimaxMovie · 2018 · 97m · Horror, DramaA dance company accepts a job rehearsing in an abandoned school, but their excitement turns to terror when someone poisons their sangria. What begins as a celebratory rehearsal quickly becomes a desperate fight for survival as they try to uncover the identity of the person who wants them dead – before nightfall.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 30
Confessions of a Frustrated HousewifeMovie · 1976 · 92mA wealthy man experiences impotence whenever he attempts intimacy with his wife. Lacking modern treatments, his open-minded doctor suggests he find satisfaction elsewhere. He soon begins an affair with a young woman, and his problem is resolved. His wife, however, feels hurt and decides to have an affair of her own. The title reveals her choice of partner.IMDb 4.6TMDB 6.1 - 31
Savage GraceMovie · 2007 · 97m · DramaThe film examines the infamous scandal of the 1970s, focusing on the complex relationship between Barbara Baekeland and her son, Antony. Barbara, a lonely woman married to the wealthy but emotionally distant plastics heir Brooks Baekeland, is deeply devoted to Antony, who is gay. As Barbara attempts to change Antony's sexuality, even by pursuing a romantic relationship with him, she unknowingly sets in motion a tragic series of events.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.6 - 32
Torn ApartMovie · 2006 · 84mThis is a story about a romantic relationship between siblings and their subsequent separation, which profoundly alters the course of their lives.IMDb 4.8TMDB 3.5 - 33
The Seduction of IngaMovie · 1968 · 85mAbandoned by her boyfriend and left with nothing, Inga desires a man who will fulfill her emotional and physical needs. Rolf, a pop singer, attempts to seduce her, but she becomes drawn to Stig, a charming older writer with a villa. She becomes his secretary and lover. When Stig travels for work, Inga's loneliness and longing lead her to Rolf. As their passion grows, Inga discovers a shocking secret and must reconcile her emotional pain with her physical desires.IMDb 4.8TMDB 3.9 - 34
DeseoMovie · 2013 · 97m · DramaThis collection of eight short stories explores the allure of forbidden love through humorous and sensual encounters. Set in a vibrant Mexican colonial city, the stories unfold with a cyclical structure, charting the paths of lovers as they navigate desire and intimacy.IMDb 4.4TMDB 6.6 - 35
An Affair to ForgetMovie · 2022 · 96mA wife hires a younger woman to investigate her husband's fidelity. The situation becomes complicated when the investigator develops feelings for the husband.IMDb 4.5TMDB 3.6 - 36
OldboyMovie · 2013 · 104m · Drama, Thriller, MysteryA man with just three and a half days and few resources must uncover the truth behind his unexplained 20-year imprisonment in a plain, featureless room.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.9 - 37
The Witch Who Came from the SeaMovie · 1976 · 88m · Drama, HorrorThis film explores a woman struggling with intense anger stemming from a difficult childhood. The daughter of an alcoholic who experienced abuse, she carries a heavy burden that leads her toward a tragic fate.
The movie examines the complex emotions and psychological wounds that have shaped her life. Her anger is overwhelming and destructive as she battles past traumas and their lasting effects, teetering between survival and self-destruction.
With powerful performances and honest storytelling, the film addresses themes of abuse, addiction, and the repeating patterns of violence. It challenges viewers to consider morality and empathy when confronted with profound suffering. It’s a compelling story of a woman fighting her inner demons and the question of whether forgiveness can truly heal old wounds.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.9 - 38
The Mephisto WaltzMovie · 1971 · 115m · HorrorMusic journalist Myles Clarkson interviews piano virtuoso Duncan Ely, who is terminally ill. Their first meeting is unremarkable, but Duncan becomes fascinated by Myles' piano-playing hands. Their relationship deepens unexpectedly.
Myles' wife, Paula, grows wary of their friendship, especially after Duncan's death and Myles' sudden, remarkable musical talent. The film explores talent, friendship, and the power of music through this surprising transformation.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.9 - 39
Sister of MineMovie · 2017 · 94m · Drama, ThrillerOliver, a young film director, finds out on a pornographic website that the actress in one of the videos is his younger half-sister, Aurora. As he investigates how she ended up there, Oliver becomes increasingly drawn to her.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.2 - 40
Suburban SecretsMovie · 2004 · 153mLaura, a well-known nude model, goes back to her hometown after discovering her former boyfriend is involved with her aunt.IMDb 4.2TMDB 3.8 - 41
FrustrationMovie · 1971 · 90mA woman struggling with sexual frustration lives with her sister and brother-in-law. She is plagued by disturbing nightmares and intense, violent erotic fantasies.IMDb 5.1TMDB 4.6 - 42
Summer's BloodMovie · 2009 · 91m · Horror, ThrillerA disturbed handyman helps a young woman, only to subsequently hold her captive in his basement.IMDb 4.4TMDB 5.5 - 43
The Sex MerchantsMovie · 2011 · 65mPeter, a self-absorbed photographer with a taste for expensive drugs and attractive women, captures images of beautiful models and sells them to his publisher. His extravagant lifestyle becomes unsustainable when his latest work is rejected. Facing financial ruin, Peter is forced to seek help from his estranged mother.IMDb 4.5TMDB 1.3 - 44
Grand JeteMovie · 2022 · 105mNadja, a dance teacher and mother, left her son Mario with her mother as a child. She has now returned to his life, wanting a closeness that blurs boundaries. This film explores complex family connections.IMDb 4.6TMDB 4.9 - 45
PamasaheMovie · 2022 · 104m · DramaA poor mother and her baby embark on a difficult journey by land and sea to find her husband in Manila. To finance the trip, she is forced to rely on her body for support.IMDb 5.1TMDB 6.2 - 46
Island of DeathMovie · 1976 · 106m · Horror, ThrillerOn a peaceful Greek island, a British couple unleashes a brutal and sexually violent attack. Their horrifying actions spread fear throughout the island community as they commit senseless acts against people and animals. A London inspector arrives to investigate the escalating murders, and as the death toll rises, he battles his own personal struggles while trying to stop the couple's killing spree. This disturbing story examines moral corruption, monstrous behavior, and the fight to preserve decency amidst extreme evil.IMDb 5.1TMDB 4.7 - 47
CreatureMovie · 2011 · 93m · HorrorA former Navy SEAL, his girlfriend, and friends embark on a road trip to New Orleans. They stop at a roadside convenience store run by Chopper, who recounts the legend of Lockjaw, a mythical being said to be part man, part alligator.IMDb 3.7TMDB 5.2 - 48
CaligulaMovie · 1979 · 156m · Drama, HistoryThis historical drama follows Caligula, who ruthlessly takes the throne after Emperor Tiberius's death. As he gains control of the Roman Empire, Caligula unleashes a brutal reign marked by violence, excess, and corruption.
The film explores the dark side of power, examining themes of ambition, corruption, and the destructive effects of unchecked desire. Set against the opulent backdrop of ancient Rome, Caligula's rule spirals into madness and indulgence, threatening to destroy society.
The movie depicts the downfall of an empire driven by one man's hunger for control, raising questions about greed and its devastating consequences for individuals and the nation. With its compelling story and complex portrayal of human nature, this film will resonate with audiences long after viewing.IMDb 5.4TMDB 6.0 - 49
His Mother's HouseMovie · 1974 · 84mDuring a holiday break, a college student returns home to visit his widowed mother and meets a woman he connects with. She accepts his invitation to stay at his mother's house for the duration of his visit. However, his mother is unhappy about this unexpected guest, harboring strong feelings for her son and wanting him to remain solely with her.IMDb 4.9TMDB 4.6 - 50
Beyond the SkyMovie · 2022 · 112mA writer struggling with marital problems finds himself drawn to his neighbor, a literary figure he deeply admires. He begins an affair with the neighbor's daughter. The affair's discovery unleashes a series of further secrets.IMDb 4.9TMDB 4.4 - 51
The Dark Side of LoveMovie · 1984 · 91mA successful woman develops a sexual relationship with her brother, a shy and anxious young man prone to worrying about his health and who also enjoys pornography.IMDb 4.7TMDB 5.5 - 52
BloodknotMovie · 1995 · 98mFollowing the death of a loved one, a family welcomes a stranger into their home. The woman asserts she was a romantic partner to the deceased.IMDb 4.6TMDB 4.9 - 53
Immoral TalesMovie · 1974 · 125m · Drama, RomanceThis anthology film explores erotic themes through four stories set in different time periods. "The Tide" tells of a student and his cousin stranded on a beach, finding intimacy in seclusion as the tide rises. "Therese Philosophe" takes place in the 19th century, depicting a young girl exploring erotic thoughts about everyday objects while confined to her room.
The film then focuses on 16th-century Countess Erzsebet Bathory, portraying the infamous figure and the legend of her bathing in virgin's blood for beauty. Finally, "Lucrezia Borgia" depicts a scandalous orgy in the 15th century involving Lucrezia, her brother, and their father, the Pope, revealing the corruption of power and lust.IMDb 5.6TMDB 5.8 - 54
Daniel & AnaMovie · 2009 · 90m · Thriller, DramaA kidnapping throws a brother and sister's relationship into turmoil, compelling them to examine their own wants.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.7 - 55
A Man and Two WomenMovie · 1991 · 90mThe film presents three interconnected stories, woven together by original dialogue and scenes written by Martha, Anne, Freda, and Judith (Valérie Stroh) and René Feret. The narratives follow a "Golden Notebook" style, centered on a woman who is "writing" these stories and has a psychiatrist boyfriend named Paul.
The first story, "A Man and Two Women," features Anne, a young painter who, after the birth of her child, leaves her husband. Her best friend Isabelle becomes increasingly drawn to him, evolving into a rival for Anne's affections.
"Each Other" tells of Fréda, who secretly meets her brother every morning, leading to a relationship that blurs the lines between friendship and something more.
Finally, "Our Friend Judith" portrays Judith, an intelligent and complex intellectual who carefully guards her beauty and avoids societal expectations.IMDb 6.2TMDB 3.8 - 56
Senza vergognaMovie · 1986 · 94mA teenager with partial paralysis struggles with his first sexual experience. He's eager but physically awkward, and his attempts at intimacy are repeatedly rebuffed by local girls. He begins to understand that his only source of genuine affection is his mother.IMDb 4.8TMDB 4.6 - 57
Angel HeartMovie · 1987 · 113m · Horror, MysteryA jaded private investigator from Brooklyn takes on a difficult case: finding a missing singer. His search leads him through the tough streets of Harlem, where he meets people facing hardship. The investigation then takes him to the jazz clubs of New Orleans, each with its own distinct vibe. He follows clues into the Louisiana swamps, navigating dangerous landscapes and the world of voodoo. Throughout the journey, the detective battles his own inner struggles while trying to solve the singer's disappearance in a suspenseful and emotionally intense story.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 58
Sex with LoveMovie · 2003 · 108m · Comedy, RomanceIn Santiago, Chile, a schoolteacher named Luisa suggests a discussion about sex with her students' parents, hoping to gain permission to teach sex education classes to the children.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.5
