Netflix is one of the most popular streaming services in Brazil. As a result, the biggest films in its catalog tend to generate a lot of buzz and discussion.
However, among the options available in the service’s large collection, there are films that “tie the knot” for the vast majority of audiences. These works generally stand out for more artistic or daring proposals, complex plots, or require a high level of attention and cultural background on the part of the viewer.
With this in mind, we have listed 10 films available in the Netflix catalog that go beyond simple escapist distraction, requiring special attention from the audience.
Complex films on Netflix
White Noise (2021)
Considered a strange and crazy movie by some people who saw it on Netflix, “White Noise” is an adaptation of the famous novel by Don DeLillo.
Seeking to reflect the density of the source material, the film, directed by Noah Baumbach, presents a plot full of allegories and socio-cultural criticism. The cast includes Adam Driver, Greta Gerwig and Don Cheadle.
Set in the 1980s, the comedy-drama follows a university professor and his family as they face trials. When a chemical leak releases a black cloud over the region they reside in, strange things happen.
Paprika (2006)
Critically acclaimed, the Japanese animated film “Paprika” has an intricate plot and surreal elements that may be challenging for some viewers. Directed by the renowned Satoshi Kon, famous for his artistic, dense and complex works.
The film is set in the near future, where a psychotherapeutic device allows therapists to enter their patients’ dreams. However, when the car is stolen, a therapist goes in search of the thief to try to avoid the chaos.
I’m Thinking of Ending It All (2020)
Writer and director Charlie Kaufman is famous for his films with complex surrealist scripts. Works such as “Being John Malkovich” and “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind”, for example, were scripted by him.
An intimate psychological drama, the plot follows a young woman (Jessie Buckley) who embarks on a road trip with her boyfriend (Jesse Plemons) to visit her parents on an isolated farm. However, over the course of the film, the narrative unfolds as a journey through the character’s psyche, presenting surreal developments.
Hereditary (2018)
Directed by Ari Aster, “Hereditary” is labeled a “post-horror” film, a term recently coined to describe horror films that are supposed to be more serious and dense. This film is considered challenging by some due to its intricate nature and use of symbolism.
After their grandmother’s death, the Graham family experiences unexplained and evil events that reveal dark secrets about their lineage. Toni Collette and Gabriel Byrne star in the production.
Annihilation (2018)
Science fiction with an open and ambiguous ending, which leaves room for different interpretations, “Annihilation” seeks to explore complex scientific and philosophical concepts.
In the story, when her husband (Oscar Isaac) inexplicably returns after disappearing during a military mission, a biologist (Natalie Portman) decides to join a team of scientists and explorers, all women, to investigate a mysterious area.
The Well (2019)
With a dark and allegorical atmosphere, the Spanish film “The Well” presents an ending considered complex, undefined and open to interpretation.
The film is set in a vertical prison, where a food platform descends through the floors to feed the inmates. However, as you go down, the amount of food decreases. This creates a fight between the prisoners.
The cast includes Ivan Massagué, Antonia San Juan, Zorion Eguileor, Emilio Buale Coka and Alexandra Masangkay.
The End of Evangelion (1997)
Japanese animated film that serves as an alternative ending to the “Neon Genesis Evangelion” anime series.
Directed by Hideaki Anno and produced by the Gainax studio, “The End of Evangelion” was created to offer a definitive and complete approach to the conclusion of the animated series, which had a controversial ending considered difficult to understand.
However, the film has an experimental approach and addresses philosophical and metaphysical themes, which for some still leave the “Evangelion” universe incomprehensible.
Bard, false chronicle of some truths (2022)
From the award-winning Mexican director Alejandro González Iñárritu. “Bardo” is a personal film full of metaphors and has a symbolic ending that can confuse those who watch it.
Starring Daniel Giménez Cacho, the film explores the existential crisis and metaphorical visions of an acclaimed journalist returning to his homeland.
Paradise (2023)
This German dystopian film features an ending full of twists that may leave some people confused. The film is a fictional thriller directed by Boris Kunz, starring Kostja Ullmann, Corinna Kirchhoff, Marlene Tanczik and Iris Berben.
The plot takes place in a future where a biotechnology company performs a medical procedure that transfers years of life to people in exchange for money. A company representative, a fervent supporter of this practice, changes perspective when his wife gives up 40 years of her life to pay off a debt.
Attack of the Dogs (2021)
Demanding the audience’s attention by presenting a plot defined entirely in detail, “Attack of the Dogs” can leave the viewer confused.
The story is set in the 1920s and follows the life of a tough farmer (Benedict Cumberbatch), but with a complex personality. His relationship with his brother (Jesse Plemons) is shaken when he marries and brings his wife (Kirsten Dunst) and son (Kodi Smit-McPhee) to live on the ranch.
The post The 10 Most Difficult Movies to Understand on Netflix appeared first on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
