The Best Movies About Mind Control

Ranker Film
Updated May 1, 2024 19 items

Within the diverse landscape of film, the enigmatic world of mind control provides fertile ground for captivating narratives that challenge our understanding of freedom, influence, and personal sovereignty. From psychological thrillers to dystopian science fiction, these best mind control movies offer a captivating glimpse into the ways our minds can be influenced, controlled, or subjugated. Each film masterfully delves into complex themes, leaving viewers contemplating the extent of personal autonomy and the consequences of mental exploitation.

Mind control films masterfully showcase the numerous ways in which characters face altered realities, unseen forces, and moral challenges at the hands of manipulative adversaries. Protagonists must grapple with altered realities, external forces manipulating their thoughts or actions, and the ethical challenges presented by these scenarios. Expertly crafted, these films illuminate the pervasive allure of controlling others and the internal struggle to maintain free will in the face of unseen adversaries. 

Celebrated movies like The Matrix, Inception, and Oblivion epitomize the best of mind control films, traversing the intricate landscapes of mental exploitation, illusory realities, and shifting identities. Audiences must weave through the mind-bending twists and turns in titles such as The Matrix, where reality itself is an elaborate deception by sentient machines. Inception dives into the labyrinthine realm of dreams, exploring the power of implanting thoughts in another's subconscious. Oblivion paints a post-apocalyptic world where memories are manipulated, challenging identities and loyalties. These films, among many others, exemplify great movies about mind control, enthralling viewers with their compelling narratives, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes. 

With their captivating narratives and deeply resonant themes, these mind control films illuminate the intricacies of human consciousness, personal autonomy, and the complexities of control, leaving an indelible imprint on cinema history. Provoking insightful discussions about ethics, realities, and the human mind, these films serve as a captivating reminder of the ongoing battle between freedom and manipulation. 

  • Dark City
    1

    Dark City

    Rufus Sewell, Kiefer Sutherland, Jennifer Connelly
    14 votes

    Set in a surreal, dystopian world, Dark City unravels the mysterious power of sinister beings known as "The Strangers," who control the inhabitants by manipulating their memories and physical environment. This gripping and atmospheric film masterfully delves into themes of mind control and identity, providing viewers with a thought-provoking and unsettling experience. Dark City's distinct visual style and chilling exploration of memory manipulation solidify its status as an exceptional mind control movie.

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  • Inception
    2

    Inception

    Leonardo DiCaprio, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Elliot Page
    18 votes

    Directed by Christopher Nolan, Inception explores the captivating world of dream manipulation and subconscious heists. As one of the best movies about mind control, it skillfully combines intricate storytelling, suspenseful action, and groundbreaking visual effects to create an immersive cinematic experience. Undoubtedly, Inception's intense exploration of the human psyche and its complex layers makes it a standout film in the realm of mind control.

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  • They Live
    3

    They Live

    Roddy Piper, Keith David, Meg Foster
    16 votes

    John Carpenter's cult classic They Live offers a satirical and chilling look at a world controlled by malevolent aliens using subliminal messaging to suppress humanity. This iconic film masterfully blends elements of science fiction, horror, and social commentary, making it a standout entry in the mind control genre. They Live's enduring influence and memorable plot, anchored by its famous "obey" glasses, secure its position as an essential mind control movie.

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  • American Ultra
    4

    American Ultra

    Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Topher Grace
    24 votes

    Featuring Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart, American Ultra follows a seemingly normal stoner who discovers he is a government sleeper agent with lethal abilities. This movie ingeniously combines elements of mind control with a dose of humor and heart-pounding action, making it a unique and entertaining entry in the genre. American Ultra's creative approach to subconscious programming and its well-executed action sequences make it a standout film in the mind control category.

  • Total Recall
    5

    Total Recall

    Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rachel Ticotin, Sharon Stone
    15 votes

    In Paul Verhoeven's action-packed sci-fi thriller Total Recall, Arnold Schwarzenegger stars as a construction worker who uncovers that his life and memories are a fabrication implanted by a mysterious organization. As an iconic film in the mind control genre, this movie expertly blends action, mystery, and science fiction, creating an immersive and unforgettable experience for viewers. Total Recall's innovative storytelling and exhilarating action sequences make it an enduring classic in the realm of mind control cinema.

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  • The Matrix
    6

    The Matrix

    Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss
    27 votes

    With its groundbreaking blend of science fiction, action, and philosophy, The Matrix digs into the captivating concept of a simulated reality controlled by intelligent machines. As a mind control masterpiece, this film effectively challenges its viewers' perception of reality and self-determination, leaving audiences questioning the nature of existence. The Matrix has undeniably earned its place as a classic among mind control movies due to its profound impact on popular culture and interesting narrative.

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  • Videodrome
    7

    Videodrome

    James Woods, Deborah Harry, Sonja Smits
    6 votes

    David Cronenberg's cult classic Videodrome explores the sinister potential of mass media as a tool for mind manipulation and subliminal control. This provocative film delves into themes of technology, obsession, and the blurring of reality, making it an unsettling yet fascinating examination of mind control. Videodrome's innovative storytelling and disturbing visuals ensure its enduring legacy as a groundbreaking and influential movie within the genre.

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  • Incredibles 2
    8

    Incredibles 2

    Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Sarah Vowell
    10 votes

    In the highly anticipated sequel to Pixar's beloved superhero film, Incredibles 2 sees the Parr family battling a new villain with mind-controlling abilities. This animated adventure masterfully incorporates mind control themes into its action-packed and emotionally resonant story, appealing to audiences of all ages. Incredibles 2's artful blend of humor, heart, and thrilling action firmly establishes it as a standout entry in the pantheon of mind control cinema.

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  • Oblivion
    9

    Oblivion

    Tom Cruise, Morgan Freeman, Olga Kurylenko
    10 votes

    In Tom Cruise's sci-fi action film Oblivion, a drone repairman stationed on a post-apocalyptic Earth discovers a hidden truth that forces him to question his reality and purpose. With mind control intricately woven into its engaging storyline, this visually stunning film leaves viewers contemplating the nature of memory and the power of manipulation. Oblivion's impressive visuals and intriguing twists cement its place among the best movies about mind control.

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  • Possessor
    10

    Possessor

    Andrea Riseborough, Christopher Abbott, Tuppence Middleton
    5 votes

    Directed by Brandon Cronenberg, Possessor is a chilling sci-fi horror film that follows an assassin who uses brain-implant technology to inhabit others' bodies and execute high-profile targets. As a masterful example of mind control cinema, this movie digs deep into the disturbing consequences of invasive technology and the loss of self. Possessor's gripping narrative, haunting visuals, and thought-provoking themes undoubtedly make it a memorable and powerful addition to the realm of mind control movies.

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  • Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind
    11

    Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

    Jim Carrey, Kate Winslet, Kirsten Dunst
    14 votes

    Michel Gondry's Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind takes viewers on a poignant and surreal journey through the memories of a couple undergoing a memory-erasing procedure. As one of the most unique films about mind control, it deftly combines romance, drama, and sci-fi elements to create an emotionally resonant experience. The film's inventive storytelling and exploration of the consequences of memory manipulation solidify its place as a classic within the genre.

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  • Scanners
    12

    Scanners

    Stephen Lack, Jennifer O'Neill, Patrick McGoohan
    15 votes

    David Cronenberg's sci-fi horror classic Scanners follows a group of telepathic individuals gifted with powerful psychokinetic abilities, whose talents are both coveted and feared by those seeking to control them. This cult favorite digs into themes of power, corruption, and the human potential for mind control, resulting in a suspenseful and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Scanners' lasting influence and memorable special effects solidify its place among the best movies about mind control.

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  • The Manchurian Candidate
    13

    The Manchurian Candidate

    Denzel Washington, Meryl Streep, Liev Schreiber
    15 votes

    In this political thriller, The Manchurian Candidate unravels the chilling tale of a former prisoner of war brainwashed into becoming an assassin for a communist conspiracy. This timeless classic expertly weaves elements of mind control and suspense, challenging viewers' perceptions of patriotism and free will. The tense narrative and unsettling themes of The Manchurian Candidate make it an indelible force in the realm of mind control cinema.

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  • The Manchurian Candidate
    14

    The Manchurian Candidate

    Frank Sinatra, Laurence Harvey, Janet Leigh
    12 votes

    Debuting in 1962, The Manchurian Candidate masterfully highlights the manipulation and control of a soldier's mind to create an unwitting political assassin. The film, directed by John Frankenheimer, boasts exceptional acting performances and a suspenseful storyline that delves into the dark world of brainwashing, conspiracy theories, and political intrigue. With its unforgettable portrayal of mind control at the hands of a ruthless foreign government, The Manchurian Candidate is a seminal work that continues to captivate audiences and spark discussions on the limits of psychological manipulation. This cinematic masterpiece is undoubtedly an essential watch for aficionados of the mind control genre, solidifying its place in film history as an iconic thriller.

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  • Brainstorm
    15

    Brainstorm

    Christopher Walken, Natalie Wood, Louise Fletcher
    8 votes

    Douglas Trumbull's visionary sci-fi film Brainstorm explores the ethical and moral implications of a groundbreaking device that can record and playback human experiences. Through its engaging plot and interesting themes, this movie offers a captivating look at mind control and manipulation through technology. Brainstorm's distinctive visuals and compelling story make it an unforgettable gem in the landscape of mind control movies.

  • The Avengers
    16

    The Avengers

    Robert Downey, Chris Evans, Mark Ruffalo
    8 votes

    Marvel's The Avengers showcases an ensemble cast of superheroes fighting against the devious Loki, whose powerful scepter manipulates their minds and emotions. This action-packed blockbuster successfully incorporates elements of mind control into its thrilling plot, generating both excitement and intrigue for audiences. The Avengers stands out as a remarkable movie about mind control due to its seamless integration of the theme into an entertaining comic book universe.

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  • Jacob's Ladder
    17

    Jacob's Ladder

    Tim Robbins, Elizabeth Peña, Danny Aiello
    14 votes

    Adrian Lyne's psychological horror film Jacob's Ladder digs into the troubled mind of a Vietnam War veteran plagued by terrifying hallucinations and memories. This suspenseful movie skillfully explores the dark side of mind control experiments, leaving audiences questioning their own perceptions and experiences. Jacob's Ladder's intensely haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking themes make it an unforgettable addition to the mind control movie canon.

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  • Control Factor
    18

    Control Factor

    Adam Baldwin, Elizabeth Berkley Lauren, Tony Todd
    6 votes

    In the thrilling sci-fi film Control Factor, an ordinary man discovers that his life is being controlled by a sinister organization using mind control technology. This intense movie expertly weaves together suspense, action, and interesting themes, resulting in a captivating exploration of the dark side of manipulation and power. Control Factor's engaging narrative and timely exploration of technology-driven mind control make it a compelling entry in the genre.

  • A Clockwork Orange
    19

    A Clockwork Orange

    Malcolm McDowell, Patrick Magee, Michael Bates
    9 votes

    Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Anthony Burgess' dystopian novel, A Clockwork Orange, delves deep into the human psyche and the controversial concept of forced rehabilitation through psychological conditioning. This disturbing and thought-provoking film skillfully explores themes of mind control, free will, and morality, challenging viewers to confront their own beliefs. A Clockwork Orange's groundbreaking visual style and provocative subject matter have earned it a lasting legacy as a classic in the mind control movie genre.

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