Films about emotional abuse delve into the complex and often hidden dynamics of physically non-violent but psychologically damaging relationships. These narratives usually explore the intricate emotional states and the survival mechanisms of victims, along with the manipulative tactics of abusers. Such films often serve not only as a mirror reflecting real-life issues but also as a form of catharsis and a means to spread awareness about the subtleties of emotional abuse, which can occur in romantic relationships, families, friendships, and workplaces. Below is a list of films that poignantly depict themes of emotional abuse:
“Gaslight”, 1944
Director: George Cukor
This classic psychological thriller, from which the term “gaslighting” originated, showcases a woman whose husband slowly manipulates her into believing she is going insane.
Starring: Ingrid Bergman, Charles Boyer, Joseph Cotten, May Whitty, Angela Lansbury, Barbara Everest, Emil Rameau, Edmund Breon, Halliwell Hobbes, Tom Stevenson;
Production year: 1944;
Genre: film noir, drama, detective, thriller, crime;
Age: 16+;
Duration: 114 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Gaslight” on the website imdb.com
“Precious”, 2009
Director: Lee Daniels
Set in Harlem in 1987, it tells the story of Claireece “Precious” Jones, a sixteen-year-old girl suffering from various forms of abuse, including emotional abuse, at the hands of her parents.
Starring: Gabourey Sidibe, Mo'Nique, Paula Patton, Mariah Carey, Sherri Shepherd, Lenny Kravitz, Stephanie Andujar, Chyna Layne, Amina Robinson, Xosha Roquemore;
Production year: 2009;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 110 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Precious” on the website imdb.com
“Mommie Dearest”, 1981
Director: Frank Perry
Based on the autobiography of Christina Crawford, this film chronicles her upbringing by her adoptive mother, Hollywood star Joan Crawford, and highlights severe emotional and physical abuse.
Starring: Faye Dunaway, Diana Scarwid, Steve Forrest, Howard Da Silva, Mara Hobel, Rutanya Alda, Harry Goz, Michael Edwards, Jocelyn Brando, Priscilla Pointer;
Production year: 1981;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 129 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,6;
More information about the film “Mommie Dearest” on the website imdb.com
“Revolutionary Road”, 2008
Director: Sam Mendes
Depicting a young couple in the 1950s struggling with personal problems and societal pressures, this film includes layers of emotional abuse that contribute to the deteriorating relationship.
Starring: Kate Winslet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kathy Bates, Michael Shannon, Jay O. Sanders, David Harbour, Kathryn Hahn, Richard Easton, Dylan Baker, Keith Reddin;
Production year: 2008;
Genre: drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 119 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Revolutionary Road” on the website imdb.com
“Dolores Claiborne”, 1995
Director: Taylor Hackford
Adapted from Stephen King's novel, the film explores the complex relationship between a mother and her daughter, unveiling past traumas and emotional abuse.
Starring: Kathy Bates, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Judy Parfitt, Christopher Plummer, David Strathairn, Eric Bogosian, John C. Reilly, Ellen Muth, Bob Gunton, Roy Cooper;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: detective, drama, crime, thriller;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 132 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “Dolores Claiborne” on the website imdb.com
“The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo”, 2011
Director: David Fincher
This thriller details the collaboration between a journalist and a young female hacker as they uncover family secrets, including various forms of abuse.
Starring: Daniel Craig, Rooney Mara, Christopher Plummer, Stellan Skarsgård, Steven Berkoff, Robin Wright, Yorick van Wageningen, Joely Richardson, Geraldine James, Goran Višnjić;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: detective, thriller, drama, crime;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 158 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” on the website imdb.com
“Room”, 2015
Director: Lenny Abrahamson
Telling the story of a young woman and her son held captive for years, the film explores the aftermath of physical and emotional abuse and their journey towards healing.
Starring: Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay, Sean Bridgers, Joan Allen, Tom McCamus, William H. Macy, Cas Anvar, Randal Edwards, Amanda Brugel, Joe Pingue;
Production year: 2015;
Genre: thriller, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 118 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,1;
“Boy Erased”, 2018
Director: Joel Edgerton
Based on a memoir, it follows a young man's experience with a gay conversion therapy program, highlighting emotional and psychological abuse in the context of sexual identity.
Starring: Lucas Hedges, Nicole Kidman, Russell Crowe, Joel Edgerton, Madelyn Cline, Victor McCay, David Joseph Craig, Troye Sivan, Emily Hinkler, Devin Michael;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, biography;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 115 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,9;
More information about the film “Boy Erased” on the website imdb.com
“Hereditary”, 2018
Director: Ari Aster
A horror film that, among other themes, explores the legacy of emotional abuse within a family dealing with grief and dark secrets.
Starring: Toni Collette, Gabriel Byrne, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro, Ann Dowd, Mallory Bechtel, Christy Summerhays, Morgan Lund, Jake Brown, Harrison Nell;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: horror, drama, detective;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
Each of these films approaches the subject of emotional abuse from different angles, providing viewers with a broader understanding of its impact on the human psyche and spirit. Whether portrayed within the family, romantic relationships, or other social settings, the emotional depth and psychological nuance offered in these stories contribute significantly to the discourse on abuse and recovery.
In examining the complex and often harrowing subject of emotional abuse through cinema, it becomes evident that filmmakers possess a profound ability to navigate the nuances of psychological manipulation and the deep, lingering impacts it has on victims. These films not only serve as a mirror reflecting the dark facets of human relationships but also as a beacon of hope for those ensnared in such toxic dynamics, offering them a sense of understanding and solidarity. By artfully combining narrative depth, character development, and emotional resonance, these works transcend mere storytelling; they foster a critical dialogue about the significance of recognizing, confronting, and overcoming emotional abuse. In doing so, they contribute significantly to our collective awareness and empathy, underscoring cinema's power not just to entertain, but to heal and enlighten.
