Films about abusive relationships on Netflix shed light on the complexities and impact of such relationships on individuals. These films delve into the psychological and emotional toll that abuse can have, portraying the dynamics of power and control within relationships.
“Secret Obsession”, 2019
Director: Peter Sullivan
After a traumatic incident, a woman wakes up with amnesia and must piece together her past, uncovering the truth about her abusive husband.
Starring: Brenda Song, Mike Vogel, Dennis Haysbert, Ashley Scott, Paul Sloan, Daniel Booko, Scott Peat, Blair Hickey, Michael Patrick McGill, Casey Leach;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: thriller, drama, crime, detective;
Duration: 97 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 4,5;
More information about the film “Secret Obsession” on the website imdb.com
“Sleeping with the Enemy”, 1991
Director: Joseph Ruben
A classic film that showcases the story of a woman who fakes her own death to escape her abusive husband, only to realize that he is determined to find her.
Starring: Julia Roberts, Patrick Bergin, Kevin Anderson, Elizabeth Lawrence, Kyle Secor, Claudette Nevins, Tony Abatemarco, Marita Geraghty, Harley Venton, Nancy Fish;
Production year: 1991;
Genre: thriller, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 99 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,3;
More information about the film “Sleeping with the Enemy” on the website imdb.com
“The Invisible Man”, 2020
Director: Leigh Whannell
While not directly about a romantic relationship, this film explores the theme of psychological abuse and control as a woman tries to escape her abusive ex-partner who has found a way to torment her invisibly.
Starring: Elisabeth Moss, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Harriet Dyer, Aldis Hodge, Storm Reid, Michael Dorman, Benedict Hardie, Renee Lim, Brian Meegan, Nick Kici;
Production year: 2020;
Genre: science fiction, thriller, detective;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 124 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “The Invisible Man” on the website imdb.com
“Acrimony”, 2017
Director: Tyler Perry
This film portrays the destructive nature of a relationship filled with betrayal and emotional abuse, leading to a woman's descent into obsession and revenge.
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Lyriq Bent, Crystle Stewart, Jazmyn Simon, Ptosha Storey, Danielle Nicolet, Nelson Estevez, Kendrick Cross, Jay Hunter, Ajiona Alexus;
Production year: 2017;
Genre: horror, thriller, melodrama, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 120 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,9;
More information about the film “Acrimony” on the website imdb.com
These films offer a glimpse into the harrowing reality of abusive relationships and the journey towards empowerment and liberation.
In examining the selection of films about abusive relationships on Netflix, it is clear that these powerful and often gut-wrenching portrayals shed light on the complexities and devastating effects of such toxic dynamics. Each film brings a unique perspective and narrative that serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognizing and addressing abuse in all its forms. Through compelling storytelling and impactful performances, these films offer viewers a chance to empathize with victims, confront uncomfortable truths, and perhaps even spark important conversations about the prevalence and repercussions of abusive relationships in society. Ultimately, the lineup of films on Netflix serves as a poignant and necessary showcase of the harsh realities faced by those trapped in abusive situations, urging audiences to take a stand against such insidious behavior.
