12 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Rebecca

Notorious, released in 1946, is reminiscent of Rebecca in many ways. Both movies fall under the genres of Drama, Film-Noir, Romance, and Thriller, and are directed by the legendary Alfred Hitchcock. While Rebecca focuses on a woman adjusting to her new role as an aristocrat's wife and navigating the spectral presence of her husband's first wife, in Notorious we see a daughter of a convicted Nazi spy being asked by American agents to gather information on a ring of Nazi scientists in South America. Both films feature strong female leads, with Joan Fontaine delivering a remarkable performance in Rebecca and Ingrid Bergman shining in Notorious. Additionally, both films delve into themes of secrecy, deception, and the complexities of relationships. However, the two movies differ in their settings and plots. While Rebecca takes place in a grand English country estate, Notorious is set in South America.

Lured, released in 1947, is reminiscent of Rebecca. Both movies fall under the genres of Drama, Film-Noir, Mystery, Romance, and Thriller. While Rebecca tells the story of a self-conscious woman adjusting to her new role as an aristocrat's wife and dealing with the presence of his deceased first wife, Lured follows the British police as they try to catch a serial killer who lures his female victims through newspaper personal ads.
Lured shares some similarities with Rebecca, such as its film-noir style, captivating storyline, and talented cast. However, it stands out with its own unique plot, centered around a criminal investigation. Lured presents viewers with a good old-fashioned mystery yarn, featuring a killer who leaves cryptic poem clues for the police. It may not offer a lot of action, but it compensates with intriguing character studies and engaging dialogue.

Henry V is reminiscent of Rebecca in many ways. Both movies were released in the 1940s and showcase the exceptional talent of Laurence Olivier, who not only stars in both films but also directs Henry V. While Rebecca is a gripping drama with elements of mystery and romance, Henry V is a historical war film set during the Hundred Years' War. Despite their different genres, both movies share a strong focus on storytelling, with Rebecca exploring the complexities of relationships and Henry V delving into the conquest of France by King Henry V. Additionally, both films feature stunning cinematography, although Rebecca's use of technology stands out, considering it was made in 1940. However, the acting steals the show in both movies, with standout performances from Olivier in both films. Rebecca showcases the talents of Joan Fontaine and Judith Anderson, while Henry V features a strong supporting cast.

Hamlet is reminiscent of Rebecca because it features Laurence Olivier in a leading role. Olivier's performance in Rebecca was outstanding, and he continues to impress in Hamlet. Both films showcase his talent and charisma. However, while Rebecca is a thrilling drama with elements of mystery and romance, Hamlet is a tragedy that revolves around the internal struggles of Prince Hamlet. The plot of Hamlet centers on the prince's contemplation of whether to avenge his father's murder. In contrast, Rebecca focuses on a self-conscious woman adjusting to her new role as an aristocrat's wife while dealing with the presence of her husband's deceased first wife. Despite their differences, both films captivate audiences with their compelling storylines and exceptional acting. If you enjoyed Laurence Olivier's performance in Rebecca, you should definitely watch Hamlet to witness his brilliance in a completely different genre.

Rebecca, the 1940 classic, and its 2020 counterpart share more than just a title. Both films revolve around the story of a young woman who finds herself grappling with the lingering presence of her husband's deceased first wife. While the newer version may lack the same dark intensity and the sinister sexual undercurrents that made Hitchcock's adaptation so captivating, it compensates with its stunning costumes, picturesque scenery, and an attractive cast. Lily James shines in her role, with costumes to die for, while Armie Hammer's dashing looks make him seem more like a GQ model than a 1930s English Posho. Although it may not have the same level of Gothic thriller elements as its predecessor, this modern retelling still manages to engage viewers with its beautiful visuals and intriguing mystery. So, if you're a fan of the book, period pieces, and all things lovely, give this version of Rebecca a watch.

A Date with the Falcon reminds me of Rebecca in many ways. Both movies fall under the genres of Drama, Film-Noir, Mystery, and Romance. Even though A Date with the Falcon is not as well-known as Rebecca, it is still worth watching. The plot of A Date with the Falcon revolves around a scientist who has discovered how to make synthetic diamonds, and a criminal gang is trying to get their hands on the formula. This storyline, although different from Rebecca, captures the suspense and intrigue that made Rebecca so captivating. Additionally, both movies have a touch of romance, with relationships and engagements playing a significant role. However, while Rebecca is known for its outstanding cinematography and exceptional acting, A Date with the Falcon shines in its witty dialogue and humorous moments. The banter between the characters, especially George Sanders, adds a delightful charm to the film.

Double Door is reminiscent of Rebecca in several ways. Both movies have a strong female character who manipulates those around her to maintain control and power. In Rebecca, we have the sinister Mrs. Danvers, while in Double Door, it's the iron-willed Victoria Van Brett. These women use deceit, lies, and psychological tactics to achieve their goals. Additionally, both films take place in grand, imposing settings - a castle in Rebecca and a lavish mansion in Double Door. The settings serve as a metaphor for the characters' emotional states and add to the overall atmosphere of mystery and suspense. However, there are also notable differences between the two movies. While Rebecca is a romantic thriller with elements of film-noir, Double Door leans more towards drama and horror. The plot of Double Door revolves around family dynamics and the destructive power of obsession, while Rebecca focuses on secrets, love, and identity.

A Strange Adventure takes us on a thrilling journey with a police lieutenant and a daring female reporter as they uncover a series of murders committed by a hooded killer in an eerie old house. While the setting and plot of A Strange Adventure may seem vastly different from Rebecca, the two movies share some intriguing similarities. Both films fall under the genres of Drama, Film-Noir, Mystery, Romance, and Thriller, creating an atmosphere of suspense and intrigue that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Additionally, they both explore themes of secrets, hidden motives, and deceit, making for captivating storytelling. However, where Rebecca shines with its outstanding cinematography and exceptional performances, A Strange Adventure showcases its pre-code touches and a slow-burn mystery that gradually escalates into a thrilling climax. So, if you enjoyed the gripping suspense and captivating storyline of Rebecca, A Strange Adventure offers a unique and thrilling experience that will keep you guessing until the very end.

The Amazing Mr. Williams is reminiscent of Rebecca in its portrayal of a protagonist torn between love and duty. In Rebecca, the main character struggles with adjusting to her new role as an aristocrat's wife while being haunted by the presence of her husband's deceased first wife. Similarly, in The Amazing Mr. Williams, Kenny Williams, a police detective, is constantly torn between his dedication to his job and his longing to marry his fiancée, Maxine Carroll. Every time they plan a date or consider getting married, a case comes up, preventing them from moving forward. The comedic element of the film arises from Maxine's desperate attempts to bring Kenny to the altar, pitting her curves against his fight against crime. While Rebecca explores the dark and mysterious themes of an unhappy marriage and a spectral presence, The Amazing Mr. Williams brings humor to the battle of the sexes and the protagonist's struggle to balance work and love.

Shadows on the Stairs is reminiscent of Rebecca in its genre and plot elements. Like Rebecca, Shadows on the Stairs falls under the genres of Drama, Film-Noir, Mystery, Romance, and Thriller, creating a similar suspenseful atmosphere. Both movies revolve around a string of mysterious murders and a group of suspects, making the audience question each character's motives and actions. However, Shadows on the Stairs differentiates itself with a lighter tone and a touch of humor, making it an enjoyable and engaging murder mystery. The film's solid mystery elements, including the spooky figure in the black shawl, add an extra layer of intrigue. Although some of the acting, particularly from the female cast members, may be a bit overdone at times, Shadows on the Stairs still manages to deliver a satisfying denouement and keep viewers glued to the screen.

Fly-By-Night: After being charged with the murder of a scientist, a young doctor must track down a Nazi spy ring to clear his name. More than "the thirty-nine steps," Siodmak's movie will remind you of another Hitchcock's work, "saboteur," released the same year, starring Robert Cummings and Priscilla Lane whose characters are close to those of Richard Carlson and Nancy Kelly; he's a fugitive, chased by the strong arm of the law, and she's dragged (reluctantly) into the plot by him because "she can sketch a portrait of him, which would help the police." The chase movie is not Siodmak's field: his is the gangsters saga or the psychological thriller, but he pulls it off efficiently. There's a lot of humor (the burning cigarettes, the fake wedding), plenty of suspense (the loony bin), and never a dull moment in this exciting man/woman hunt.