Movies Like Lumberjack the Monster: Netflix’s latest release seems to clearly reference a lot of shows we know, such as Dexter. However, there are so many movies with the same essence as this Japanese release that need to be talked about. Well, we are here to make that thought a reality!
怪物の木こり aka Lumberjack the Monster is based on a novel and stars Kazuya Kamenashi as Akira Ninomiya, Nanao as Arashiko Toshiro, Riho Yoshioka as Emi Kagemi and several others. Directed by Takashi Miike, the film is certainly a compelling watch, making us draw the following list up!
7 Movies Like Lumberjack the Monster
American Psycho (2000)
This cult classic is a psychological thriller directed by Mary Harron, based on the novel by Bret Easton Ellis. The film follows Patrick Bateman, a wealthy investment banker who leads a double life as a serial killer. The most attractive thing about the film is how it explores themes of violence, revenge, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. The dark humour, satire, and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche only add on to make it a crazy-good watch. Additionally, Christian Bale leads the film which in itself is a world-class reason to stream it right away on Amazon Prime.
Midnight/ 미드나이트 (2021)
If you are a fan of Lumberjack the Monster, you sure as hell love the complex plot and atmospheric tension. Well this psychological thriller directed by Kwon Oh-seung, is right up that alley. The film follows the life-threatening hide-and-seek being played between a psychopathic killer and a deaf woman. The film features Jin Ki-joo, Wi Ha-joon and Kim Hye-yoon in leading roles. This is a gripping thriller that explores themes of violence, morality, and the darker aspects of human nature. You can stream on Amazon Prime Video.
Unlocked/ 스마트폰을 떨어뜨렸을 뿐인데 (2023)
This gripping South Korean thriller directed by Kim Tae-joon stars Chun Woo-hee, Yim Si-wan, and Kim Hee-won. The film delves into the dark and dangerous side of our digital lives, following the story of a young woman whose life spirals out of control after losing her smartphone. The device ends up in the hands of a sociopathic stalker, unravelling a tense and chilling cat-and-mouse game.
The film masterfully explores the vulnerability of our digital lives, creating a suspenseful and realistic narrative that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It highlights contemporary issues related to privacy, technology, and personal security, making it highly relevant in today’s digital age. Watch this critically acclaimed film now on Netflix.
The Hypnotist (2012)
A Swedish crime thriller unlike any other you have ever seen, this one is directed by Lasse Hallström and is based on the best-selling novel by Lars Kepler. The film stars Tobias Zilliacus, Mikael Persbrandt, and Lena Olin. It follows detective Joona Linna, who enlists the help of a famous hypnotist, Erik Maria Bark, to solve a gruesome murder case involving a traumatized survivor who may hold the key to catching the killer. The trauma and ethical talks in this film make it captivating along with so many twists that you never see them coming
The Devil All The Time (2020)
A psychological thriller directed by Antonio Campos, the film follows a series of characters in a small Ohio town who are all connected by their dark pasts and their struggles with violence and morality (pretty much like those last connecting dots between the Monster and Akira in Lumberjack the Monster). The themes of violence, morality, and the darker aspects of human nature make it an interesting watch along with the cast that features Tom Holland, Bill Skarsgård, Sebastian Stan, Robert Pattinson, Riley Keough, Haley Bennett, Eliza Scanlen, Mia Wasikowska, and Jason Clarke. You can stream it on Netflix.
Freddy vs Jason (2003)
Ronny Yu’s horror film follows Freddy Krueger, the villain from the A Nightmare on Elm Street series, as he battles Jason Voorhees, the villain from the Friday the 13th series. Like Lumberjack the Monster, it features a mix of horror and action elements. The film brings together two iconic villains from different franchises which is remarkable! The cast for the film includes Monica Keena, Kelly Rowland, Jason Ritter, Chris Marquette, Lochlyn Munro and Robert Englund. You can rent it on Amazon Prime Video.
1922 (2017)
1922, a 2017 film directed by Zak Hilditch and based on Stephen King’s novella, shares thematic similarities with Lumberjack the Monster in its exploration of guilt, psychological torment, and the descent into madness following a heinous act. The film stars Thomas Jane as Wilfred James, a farmer who conspires to murder his wife, played by Molly Parker, to gain control of their land. We see the protagonists from both movies being haunted by the consequences of their actions, facing supernatural/sci-fi occurrences and mental deterioration, illustrating the devastating impact of guilt and moral corruption. The film is available on Netflix.
Are there more movies you would like to add to the list? Let us know in the comments down below!
Also Read: Adrishyam Episode 16 Review: The Bureau Unites Amidst Escalating Threats and Personal Turmoil

