Beau is Afraid | Movies Like

In this section of our Colossus Movie Guide for Beau is Afraid, we provide recommendations for movies with similar themes and vibes.

Cast

• Beau Wassermann – Joaquin Phoenix
• Mona Wassermann – Patti LuPone
• Therapist – Stephen McKinley Henderson
• Roger – Nathan Lane
• Grace – Amy Ryan
• Toni – Kylie Rogers
• Jeeves – Denis Ménochet 
• Elaine – Parker Posey
• Penelope – Hayley Squires
• Dr. Cohen – Richard Kind
• Written by – Ari Aster
• Directed by – Ari Aster

Movies like Beau is Afraid

Brazil (1985)

Set in a dystopian society, Brazil (1985) weaves a tale of bureaucracy and oppression under the direction of Terry Gilliam. Jonathan Pryce takes center stage as Sam Lowry, a low-level bureaucrat seeking to correct an administrative error that caused the wrongful arrest of an innocent individual. Kim Greist portrays Jill Layton, a woman who appears in Sam’s dreams, while Robert De Niro and Katherine Helmond offer strong supporting performances. Gilliam’s vision combines imaginative, dream-like visuals with dark humor and incisive social commentary, addressing themes such as individualism, state control, and unchecked technology. This cult classic captivates audiences with its unique blend of nightmarish futurism and satirical wit.

The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (1972)

Luis Buñuel’s The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (1972) is a surrealist masterpiece that follows a group of wealthy friends, portrayed by Fernando Rey, Delphine Seyrig, and Stéphane Audran, as they navigate increasingly bizarre and dreamlike interruptions during their attempts to dine together. Through these surreal encounters, Buñuel satirizes the social hypocrisy and absurdity prevalent among the upper class, exposing their pretentious and shallow values. Seamlessly blending reality and dreams, this exceptional film challenges viewers’ perceptions and solidifies its status as a landmark of surrealist cinema.

Inland Empire (2006)

David Lynch’s Inland Empire (2006) plunges viewers into a psychological thriller starring Laura Dern as Nikki Grace, an actress embroiled in a mysterious, potentially cursed film project. As the boundary between Nikki’s character and reality dissolves, a nightmarish, non-linear narrative emerges. Jeremy Irons and Justin Theroux contribute pivotal performances in this disorienting, dreamlike film. Shot in digital video, Lynch’s challenging work explores themes of identity, reality, and the nature of filmmaking. Inland Empire stands as a haunting, enigmatic, and unforgettable testament to the power of experimental cinema.

Synecdoche, NY (2008)

Charlie Kaufman’s Synecdoche, NY (2008) delves into the existential struggles of Caden Cotard, a theater director played by Philip Seymour Hoffman, who receives a large sum of money to create his ultimate masterpiece. As Caden confronts the complexities of life and mortality, his ambitious project spirals out of control. Featuring intricate narrative structure and themes of self-reflection, this cult classic also stars Catherine Keener, Samantha Morton, and Michelle Williams. Kaufman masterfully blurs the lines between fiction and reality, resulting in a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant exploration of the human condition.

O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000), helmed by Joel and Ethan Coen, adapts Homer’s Odyssey into a comedy centered on three escaped convicts, played by George Clooney, John Turturro, and Tim Blake Nelson, who search for hidden treasure in 1930s Mississippi. As the trio encounters colorful characters and obstacles, the Coen brothers’ signature wit, quirky humor, and memorable dialogue shine through. Enhanced by an award-winning bluegrass soundtrack produced by T-Bone Burnett, this imaginative and engaging film introduces a new generation to American roots music.

Weekend (1967)

In Weekend (1967), Jean-Luc Godard directs Mireille Darc and Jean Yanne as a bourgeois couple on a road trip to collect an inheritance. Along the way, they become entangled in bizarre, violent, and satirical encounters, reflecting Godard’s critique of consumerism and the decay of modern society. This landmark of the French New Wave is renowned for its experimental style, long tracking shots, and provocative themes.

The Truman Show (1997)

Peter Weir’s The Truman Show (1998) stars Jim Carrey as Truman Burbank, a man who discovers his entire life is a meticulously orchestrated reality television show broadcast to millions of viewers. Laura Linney, Ed Harris, and Noah Emmerich offer strong supporting performances. As Truman uncovers the truth, he grapples with existential questions and the nature of reality, seeking freedom and authenticity in a world built on deception. This poignant film comments on surveillance, media manipulation, and the erosion of privacy in contemporary society, with Weir’s direction and Carrey’s captivating performance combining to create a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience.

Sorry to Bother You (2018)

Boots Riley makes his directorial debut with Sorry to Bother You (2018), a dark comedy set in an alternate reality of present-day Oakland. Lakeith Stanfield stars as Cassius Green, a telemarketer who stumbles upon a magical key to success, propelling him into a nightmarish corporate world. Tessa Thompson, Jermaine Fowler, and Armie Hammer complete the ensemble cast. Confronted with the ethical implications of his newfound success, Cassius must decide whether to embrace or reject the company’s sinister agenda. Bold and imaginative, this genre-defying satire tackles issues of race, class, labor, and capitalism, blending humor, social commentary, and surrealism in a visually striking and thought-provoking manner. Riley’s unapologetic critique of contemporary society and creative storytelling approach have garnered critical acclaim and sparked conversation.

Share your thoughts

Are there more movie recommendations you’d make for the Colossus Movie Guide for Beau is Afraid? Leave your thoughts below and we’ll consider them for the guide.