Top 5 Movies that Explore the Theme of Incest

Movies often delve into challenging and controversial subjects to provoke thought and discussion. Incest is one such theme that, while deeply unsettling, has been explored in various films. Here’s a list of five notable movies that include incest as part of their narrative, exploring the psychological, social, and emotional complexities involved.

1. Oldboy (2003)

Directed by: Park Chan-wook

Oldboy is a South Korean film that follows Oh Dae-su, a man who is inexplicably imprisoned for 15 years and then released just as mysteriously. As he seeks revenge, he uncovers a horrifying truth about his captor’s motives and his own family. The film is known for its shocking twist and intense exploration of vengeance and identity.

2. The Dreamers (2003)

Directed by: Bernardo Bertolucci

Set against the backdrop of the 1968 Paris student riots, The Dreamers tells the story of an American student who becomes entangled in the lives of a French brother and sister. The film explores their complex and intimate relationship, which blurs the lines between familial and sexual boundaries. Bertolucci’s film is a provocative meditation on youth, politics, and personal liberation.

3. Crimes of the Future (2022)

Directed by: David Cronenberg

David Cronenberg’s Crimes of the Future is a body horror film that delves into the future of human evolution. While not focused solely on incest, the movie includes a subplot that involves a father and his daughter in a deeply unsettling relationship. Cronenberg's film is a thought-provoking exploration of human desire, transformation, and the boundaries of taboo.

4. The House of Yes (1997)

Directed by: Mark Waters

Based on Wendy MacLeod’s play, The House of Yes is a dark comedy-drama that centers around a mentally unstable woman who believes she is Jackie Kennedy. When her brother visits with his fiancée, their past incestuous relationship comes to light, creating a tense and bizarre family reunion. The film explores themes of mental illness, obsession, and the complexities of family dynamics.

5. Chinatown (1974)

Directed by: Roman Polanski

While not primarily about incest, Chinatown features this theme as a crucial element of its plot. The film follows private investigator J.J. Gittes as he unravels a complex web of corruption, murder, and family secrets in 1930s Los Angeles. The revelation of an incestuous relationship is a pivotal moment that underscores the film’s dark and tragic tone.