49 Films About The Obsessed Artist
48 titles
- 1
The Great Ecstasy of Woodcarver SteinerMovie · 1974 · 45m · DocumentaryThis film is about an extraordinary person who excels at ski-flying while also working as a carpenter. It looks beyond the excitement of ski-flying to explore the character's reasons and how he balances these two demanding passions. The story combines psychological insight with stunning footage of ski-flying, showing both its beauty and risks. Ultimately, it's a story about perseverance and following your dreams despite challenges.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 2
The WrestlerMovie · 2008 · 109m · Drama, RomanceRandy "The Ram" Robinson, an aging wrestler past his prime, is eager to return to the pro-wrestling circuit. Following a severe injury, Randy retires, begins a relationship with a fellow stripper, and attempts to reconcile with his daughter. However, he ultimately finds himself drawn back to the ring and prepares for a comeback.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 3
The King of ComedyMovie · 1982 · 109m · Drama, ComedyThis dark comedy tells the story of Rupert Pupkin, an ambitious comedian determined to achieve stardom. He becomes fixated on a successful talk-show host who craves a quiet life. Driven by his obsession, Rupert's relentless pursuit of his hero leads him down a troubling path as he tries to launch his career at any cost. The film explores ambition, mental health, and celebrity culture, examining the lengths people will go for fame and the darker side of our pursuit of success in entertainment.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 4
The AviatorMovie · 2004 · 170m · DramaThis film chronicles the life of Howard Hughes from 1927 to 1947. It follows his rise to prominence as a successful film producer and aviation innovator, alongside the increasing effects of severe obsessive-compulsive disorder on his mental state.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 5
FugaMovie · 2006 · 110mA gifted composer begins to suspect his music might be linked to the deaths of those he loves. Following the tragic death of his sister, and then the sudden passing of his pianist, Georgina, while playing the piano, Eliseo is devastated. Plagued by trauma, he's admitted to a mental institution where he finds solace only in composing.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.9 - 6
Perfume: The Story of a MurdererMovie · 2006 · 147m · Crime, Fantasy, DramaIn 18th century Paris, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille is born with an extraordinary sense of smell. He becomes a master perfumer, crafting unparalleled fragrances. But driven by an obsessive quest for the perfect scent, his pursuit leads him down a dark and dangerous path as he seeks to capture and preserve the very essence of life.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 7
Black BearMovie · 2020 · 106m · Drama, ThrillerIn a secluded lake house in the Adirondacks, a couple hosts a visitor hoping to find inspiration for her film. Their gathering quickly escalates into a complex interplay of longing, control, and envy, with unforeseen and potentially devastating consequences for everyone involved.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4 - 8
NightcrawlerMovie · 2014 · 118m · Crime, Drama, ThrillerSeeking a job, Lou Bloom enters the world of crime journalism in Los Angeles, gradually becoming involved in the stories he covers. He and Nina, a seasoned TV news professional, work together.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 9
I, TonyaMovie · 2017 · 120m · Drama, ComedyTonya Harding is a rising star in U.S. competitive ice skating. However, her career faces a crisis when her former husband becomes involved.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 10
AmadeusMovie · 1984 · 160m · History, Music, DramaThe film explores the complicated relationship between Antonio Salieri, a disciplined composer known for his precise work, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a wildly talented artist who lived a carefree life. As Mozart's fame grows, Salieri becomes increasingly jealous of the young composer's apparent ease in creating masterpieces and his disregard for tradition. The story unfolds through music, ambition, and emotion, examining rivalry, artistic honesty, and how ambition can lead people to make difficult choices.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.0 - 11
Sound of ViolenceMovie · 2021 · 94mAlexis experienced a traumatic event as a child – the brutal murder of her family – which also restored her hearing and gave her synesthesia. As an adult, she finds comfort in the sounds of violence. When she learns she might lose her hearing again, she intensifies her disturbing experiments with sound, determined to create her ultimate work.IMDb 4.7TMDB 5.0 - 12
Peeping TomMovie · 1960 · 101m · Horror, Thriller, DramaMark Lewis is a quiet man who works at a busy film studio but finds solace in the solitude of the night. He has a disturbing hobby: secretly photographing women and recording their fear during murders. His latest project takes an unexpected turn when he befriends Helen, the daughter of the family living below him. Mark shares cryptic details about his film work with her, creating a dangerous and intricate situation as his dark obsession spirals out of control.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 13
FitzcarraldoMovie · 1982 · 157mFitzcarraldo, a visionary, aims to construct an opera house in Iquitos, deep in the Peruvian Amazon. To fund this ambitious undertaking, he sets out on a grand expedition to gather rubber in a remote and largely uncharted part of the rainforest.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.6 - 14
EmaMovie · 2019 · 107m · DramaEma is a captivating and spontaneous dancer with a reggaeton group. Her marriage to choreographer Gastón has broken down completely after they decided to relinquish their adopted son, Polo. Determined to reclaim him, Ema is willing to do whatever it takes – fight, seduce, or ruin – to achieve her goal.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 15
8½Movie · 1963 · 139mFilm director Guido Anselmi, at the height of his success, experiences a complete creative block. Doctors advise him to take a break, so he retreats to a lavish resort. However, his entourage – including his producer, staff, actors, wife, mistress, and family – follow, each desperately wanting him to resume work. Isolated from them, Anselmi becomes lost in memories of past relationships and childhood fantasies.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.1 - 16
The PerfectionMovie · 2018 · 90m · Horror, Thriller, DramaHaunted by her past, gifted musician Charlotte reconnects with Elizabeth, the school's promising new music student. Their reunion unexpectedly leads them both toward a dark and dangerous course, resulting in devastating outcomes.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.5 - 17
Raging BullMovie · 1980 · 129m · Drama, History"Raging Bull" is a powerful biographical film about Jake LaMotta, a celebrated boxer whose career was destroyed by his inner turmoil. The film presents an unflinching look at LaMotta's life, exploring how his relentless ambition to win led him to be consumed by violence and rage, both in the ring and in his personal life.
Director Martin Scorsese portrays LaMotta’s triumphs and failures, showing how his volatile personality damaged his relationships. It’s a story about ambition and its destructive effects, prompting viewers to consider the price of success when one's own integrity is compromised.
"Raging Bull" showcases Scorsese’s skill in storytelling, blending strong performances, realistic details, and a deeply emotional narrative into a memorable film that is both engaging and thought-provoking.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9 - 18
WhiplashMovie · 2014 · 107m · Drama, MusicA gifted young drummer pushes himself relentlessly under the strict guidance of a demanding instructor. His pursuit of flawless performance leads him down a dangerous path, blurring the line between artistry and self-destruction.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.4 - 19
Nothing Changes: Art for Hank's SakeMovie · 2018 · 74mAt 87, Hank Virgona continues to pursue his passion for art, commuting to his Union Square studio six days a week. Facing health problems, cancer, financial struggles, and little recognition, he remains determined to explore the connection between life and art.IMDb 7.6 - 20
The DiscipleMovie · 2020 · 128m · Drama, MusicA dedicated classical singer faces a profound personal crisis as his pursuit of vocal perfection yields no results. He grapples with self-doubt, difficult choices, and persistent hardship in his quest for mastery.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.7 - 21
The Neon DemonMovie · 2016 · 118m · Horror, ThrillerJesse, an eager young woman hoping to become a model, relocates to Los Angeles. There, she finds herself targeted by a clique of women consumed by beauty, who are willing to do anything to achieve the same success she possesses.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.5 - 22
Black SwanMovie · 2010 · 108m · Drama, Thriller, HorrorA dedicated dancer finds herself battling to stay grounded after landing the principal role in a performance of Tchaikovsky’s "Swan Lake."IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7 - 23
The Disaster ArtistMovie · 2017 · 104m · Comedy, DramaA hopeful actor in Hollywood encounters the mysterious Tommy Wiseau. This chance meeting sets the actor on an unexpected journey, ultimately resulting in the creation of what is widely considered the worst film ever produced.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 24
Mishima: A Life in Four ChaptersMovie · 1985 · 121m · DramaThis film explores the life and work of Japanese author Yukio Mishima, combining biographical elements with adaptations of three of his famous novels: 'Confessions of a Mask,' 'Runaway Horses,' and 'The Sailor Who Fell from Grace with the Sea.' It offers an intimate look into Mishima's creative process. The story also recounts the events of November 25th, 1970, when Mishima led a protest and committed seppuku. Through detailed storytelling, the film examines the complexities of Mishima’s life and explores themes of art, rebellion, and humanity.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.8 - 25
The NoviceMovie · 2021 · 97m · DramaA new college student joins the university rowing team and embarks on a relentless physical and mental challenge to earn a spot in the top varsity boat, pushing herself to the limit.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4 - 26
The Piano TeacherMovie · 2001 · 131m · Drama, RomanceErika Kohut, a piano teacher who suppresses her sexuality and lives under the control of her mother, begins to attract the attention of a young man who pursues her romantically.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 27
A Brixton TaleMovie · 2021 · 76mThe film opens with a whirlwind of teenage infatuation when Leah, a white middle-class girl, begins a relationship with Benji, a Black boy from a poor background. Leah starts filming Benji's life and posting the videos online, showcasing his captivating blend of charm and reserve. However, as the videos fail to gain traction, their relationship takes a dark turn, escalating into violence and mounting dread, ultimately spiraling out of their control.IMDb 4.8TMDB 6.4 - 28
To Die ForMovie · 1995 · 106m · Drama, Comedy, Crime"The Ascent of Suzanne Stone" chronicles the relentless climb of a woman determined to become a world-famous news anchor. Driven by ambition and sharp-wittedness, Suzanne overcomes any challenges to reach the top of the competitive broadcasting world. She ruthlessly removes obstacles in her path, disregarding the consequences for others and the personal cost of her success. The film is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the lengths people will go to achieve their goals.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 29
Adaptation.Movie · 2002 · 115m · Comedy, Crime, DramaCharlie Kaufman, a screenwriter in Los Angeles, is plagued by self-doubt and a complicated relationship with his twin brother Donald, who lives off him. As Kaufman works on adapting Susan Orlean's book, "The Orchid Thief," his already unstable life takes a turn into the strange. The stories of Kaufman and Orlean's book become unexpectedly connected, as both characters pursue passion in ways that intertwine their fates.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 30
SuspiriaMovie · 2018 · 152m · Horror, Mystery, DramaA growing darkness threatens a prestigious dance company, impacting its artistic director, a driven young dancer, and a therapist dealing with loss. Some individuals will be consumed by the unfolding nightmare, while others may find a path to awakening.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9 - 31
The Skin I Live InMovie · 2011 · 120m · Drama, Horror, MysteryA gifted plastic surgeon develops a revolutionary synthetic skin capable of withstanding extreme damage. He tests it on a captivating yet unpredictable woman who is central to his intense fixation.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 32
La Belle NoiseuseMovie · 1991 · 238m · DramaIn a character-driven drama set in the French countryside, we meet Frenhofer, a once-famous painter whose reputation has faded. Living with his wife in their beautiful Provence home, Frenhofer's quiet life is disrupted when the young artist Nicolas and his girlfriend Marianne visit. Their discussions about art and creation reignite Frenhofer's passion, leading him to begin working again on a painting he abandoned years ago, titled "La Belle Noiseuse."
He asks Marianne to be his model, sparking an examination of inspiration, passion, and self-doubt. As Frenhofer encourages her to overcome her insecurities in the pursuit of beauty, the film explores the intricate connection between artist and muse. It’s a deeply immersive and thoughtful look at art, the human experience, and the bonds of love and devotion within both artistic creation and personal relationships.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 33
The Red ShoesMovie · 1948 · 133m · Drama, RomanceThis drama follows Vicky Page, a gifted ballerina struggling to balance her intense love for dance with her growing feelings for composer Julian Craster. Her demanding mentor, Boris Lermontov, insists ballet is her only priority. As Vicky’s emotions deepen, she must choose between pursuing her career and risking heartbreak. The film explores ambition, love, and sacrifice within the world of ballet, ending with a bittersweet resolution about the price of pursuing one's dreams.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.0 - 34
Sunset BoulevardMovie · 1950 · 110m · DramaA struggling screenwriter decides to help a former silent film star revive her career. He explores her past, uncovering the emotional reasons for her withdrawal from Hollywood, and writes a script to bring her back. This offers him a chance to finally succeed. Their collaboration becomes a heartfelt journey as they both confront their personal problems, rediscover their passions, and navigate the challenges of Hollywood with humor and humanity. They must embrace second chances and explore the power of art in a changing world.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.3 - 35
Jiro Dreams of SushiMovie · 2011 · 82m · DocumentaryMaster sushi chef Jiro Ono relentlessly pursues perfection in his craft. His eldest son, Yoshikazu, struggles to measure up to his father's renowned legacy.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 36
PiMovie · 1998 · 84m · Mystery, Drama, ThrillerA brilliant mathematician discovers hidden patterns in the universe, giving him an uncanny ability to predict the future. Driven by a desire to understand reality, he immerses himself in the world of numbers, seeking to solve its deepest mysteries. But as his exploration deepens, the distinction between reality and illusion fades, and his understanding of cause and effect becomes distorted. Will his gift allow him to control destiny, or will it lead him to madness?IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 37
All That JazzMovie · 1979 · 123m · DramaJoe Gideon is a celebrated director in musical theatre, known for his brilliant work. But beneath his success, he's struggling to hold on. Driven by his career, Joe’s personal life is falling apart, leaving him isolated from those he cares about. To manage the pressure, he takes medication, which dulls his feelings and blurs the line between reality and fantasy. The film explores the cost of ambition, mental health, and the sacrifices made in pursuit of excellence in a demanding world.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 38
The House That Jack BuiltMovie · 2018 · 152m · Drama, Horror, CrimeJack, a failed architect and engineer, recounts his most meticulously planned crimes. Each murder is a complex, artistic endeavor, representing a lifetime of work for the serial killer who has operated for twelve years.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.1 - 39
NocturneMovie · 2020 · 90m · Horror, Mystery, ThrillerAt a prestigious arts academy, a shy music student starts to surpass her talented and popular twin sister after finding a strange notebook left behind by a deceased classmate.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.9 - 40
The Devil Wears PradaMovie · 2006 · 109m · Drama, ComedyAndy relocates to New York for a job in fashion. Her boss is relentlessly demanding and unforgiving, consistently blocking her progress if she doesn't conform to the magazine's strict standards of high-class elegance.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.4 - 41
Synecdoche, New YorkMovie · 2008 · 124m · DramaA theater director grapples with his artistic vision and personal relationships while working on a new play: a full-scale recreation of New York City built inside a warehouse.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 42
The PrestigeMovie · 2006 · 130m · Drama, Mystery, Science FictionThis is the story of two magicians locked in a relentless rivalry that defines their lives. Their intense competition fuels obsession, deception, and jealousy, leading them down a path of dangerous and deadly choices.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.2 - 43
Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)Movie · 2014 · 120m · Drama, ComedyA once-famous actor, now past his prime and known for playing a beloved superhero, tries to revive his career with a Broadway show. As the play's opening night nears, his efforts to appear more selfless, regain his standing in the industry, and repair relationships with old friends and family face unexpected challenges.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 44
Her SmellMovie · 2019 · 136m · Drama, MusicA punk rocker battling addiction tries to find her spark again as she attempts to reignite the creativity that once fueled her band's rise to fame.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.8 - 45
Phantom ThreadMovie · 2017 · 130m · Drama, RomanceLondon, 1950s. A celebrated dressmaker's carefully ordered life is disrupted as his connection with a young woman he's inspiring deepens.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 46
Shadow of the VampireMovie · 2000 · 95m · Drama, HorrorIn 1922, director F.W. Murnau strikes a deal with a vampire to cast him in the film "Nosferatu."IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 47
Perfect BlueMovie · 1998 · 82m · Animation, ThrillerMima, a rising pop star, is encouraged by her management to star in a popular TV show. Balancing her music career with this new challenge, she begins to notice a disturbing pattern. Her managers and collaborators are being murdered, one by one, making her increasingly fearful of the repercussions. The film explores identity, fame, and the merging of reality and fiction as Mima tries to uncover the truth behind these unsettling events while trying to keep her career going.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.3 - 48
Madeline's MadelineMovie · 2018 · 94m · DramaMadeline is deeply involved with a renowned physical theater company. The troupe's driven director encourages the teenager to incorporate her personal experiences and her complicated relationship with her mother into their performances. As a result, the distinction between acting and reality becomes increasingly unclear, leading to a conflict between imagination and taking from others that affects all three women.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.9
