Top 5 Dark Academia Thriller Movies

Dark academia, with its merging of scholastic settings, architectural grandeur, and twisted journeys of self-discovery, has long captivated audiences through literature and film.

The genre thrives on the intersection of intellectual pursuit and darkness, where the thirst for knowledge often leads to dangerous obsessions. While popularized by books like Donna Tart’s The Secret History, its presence in cinema has created some of the most atmospheric and intellectually stimulating thrillers.

Here are some of the best of this sub-genre from today to the 1970s. For even more cinema in this area, check out my full analysis here.

The Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)

During a St. Valentine’s day outing to the scenic and ancient Hanging Rock, a few girls inexplicably vanish along with one of their teachers after venturing into the volcanic formation’s maze-like tunnels. Peter Weir’s timeless masterpiece creates a meditation on nature, repression, and sexuality, while exploring themes of colonialism.

Why you should watch it: The film’s dreamlike quality and unsolved mysteries will haunt you in the most beautiful way possible.

Suspiria (1977)

An American ballet student arrives at the prestigious Tanz Akademie in Germany only to discover it’s a front for a coven of witches. Dario Argento’s classic challenges convention, refusing to be defined by any single genre.

Why you should watch it: A fever dream of color, dance, and dark magic that proves even the most prestigious institutions can hide the darkest secrets.

Like Minds (2006)

Set in an English boarding school, two students’ unhealthy obsession with each other leads down an unhinged path when their connection to the Knights Templar is revealed. Starring Eddie Redmayne and Tom Sturridge, the film uses Gestalt psychology and Templar lore to create an intricate mystery.

Why you should watch it: This psychological maze of obsession and ancient secrets reveals new layers with each viewing.

Master (2022)

Regina Hall stars as the first Black Master at prestigious Ancaster College, where a freshman becomes increasingly obsessed with the tragic story of the school’s first Black student while experiencing terrifying attacks.

Why you should watch it: It brilliantly weaves supernatural horror with institutional racism, making for a great hybrid of horror and deep political critique.

Saltburn (2023)

At Oxford University, scholarship student Oliver Quick finds himself drawn into the orbit of the charismatic Felix Catton, leading to a summer invitation to his family’s estate that will change everything.

Why you should watch it: A deliciously fun exploration of privilege and obsession that might make you want to go a little crazy after watching it.