17 Must-Watch Movies Similar to Vertigo

Rear Window is reminiscent of Vertigo in more ways than one. Both films are masterpieces by Alfred Hitchcock that explore themes of obsession and voyeurism. While Vertigo delves into the dark depths of romantic obsession, Rear Window takes a voyeuristic approach, as a photographer in a wheelchair spies on his neighbors and becomes convinced that one of them has committed murder. Hitchcock's love for voyeurism is evident in both films, as he expertly captures the illusion of seeing without being seen. In Rear Window, the audience becomes a participant in the act of voyeurism, just as Hitchcock himself did while making the film. His fascination with crime is also evident, as the story revolves around the seduction of discovering a murder, rather than committing it. Both films feature James Stewart in brilliant performances, but Rear Window also showcases the enchanting Grace Kelly and the talented Wendell Corey.

North by Northwest is a thrilling adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like Vertigo. Although not as artistically groundbreaking as Rear Window or Vertigo, North by Northwest is undeniably one of Hitchcock's most entertaining films. It's like a greatest hits package, borrowing elements from his earlier works and combining them with style and confidence. The film strikes a perfect balance between seriousness and silliness, managing to be both suspenseful and comical at the same time. The iconic crop dusting plane scene and the thrilling Mount Rushmore chase are just a taste of the excitement that awaits. But it's not just the action that makes North by Northwest memorable; the astonishingly frank seduction sequence on the train and the witty script filled with memorable lines elevate the film to another level. With Cary Grant's smooth performance, James Mason's charismatic villain, and Bernard Herrmann's vibrant score, North by Northwest is an endlessly enjoyable cinematic experience.

Psycho, released in 1960, is a movie that you simply can't miss. Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, it is a horror masterpiece that has stood the test of time. The film tells the story of a Phoenix secretary who embezzles money and ends up on the run, seeking refuge in a remote motel run by a man under the control of his mother. While Vertigo and Psycho differ in terms of plot, they share a common thread of obsession. In Vertigo, it's a romantic obsession, whereas in Psycho, it's a chilling and maniacal obsession. Both movies explore the depths of human psychology and the consequences of our obsessions. While Vertigo is a slow-burn thriller, Psycho is a pulse-pounding horror film that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The performances in both movies are exceptional, with James Stewart delivering a remarkable performance in Vertigo, and Anthony Perkins giving us an iconic portrayal of Norman Bates in Psycho.

Rope is a 1948 film by Alfred Hitchcock that shares some similarities with Vertigo. Both movies fall under the genres of Crime, Drama, Mystery, and Thriller. However, it is important to note that unlike Vertigo, Rope did not receive as much critical acclaim upon its release. Despite this, Rope stands out for its technical achievements, namely the innovative use of long takes. Hitchcock originally envisioned filming the entire movie as one continuous shot, but due to technical limitations, the film consists of several 8-minute continuous shots. This creates the illusion of a single take and showcases Hitchcock's mastery of suspense. Additionally, the lighting in Rope deserves recognition. The film takes place in an apartment with large windows, and as the story progresses, we see the lighting change to reflect the passing of time. This attention to detail adds to the realism of the film.

The Birds is reminiscent of Vertigo in its ability to create suspense and tension through its storytelling. Both movies are masterpieces directed by Alfred Hitchcock, who is known for his ability to captivate audiences with his unique style. While Vertigo focuses on romantic obsession and psychological complexity, The Birds takes a turn towards horror and mystery. The film follows a wealthy socialite who pursues a potential boyfriend to a small town, only to witness birds of all kinds attacking people. Hitchcock skillfully builds suspense by keeping the birds off-screen, creating a sense of tension and uncertainty. The complex relationships between the characters, reminiscent of Psycho, add depth to the story. The scene where the characters are trapped inside a house with the birds waiting outside is a perfect example of the use of suspense and character development. The Birds showcases Hitchcock's technical prowess, but it also highlights his ability to create compelling characters and explore their relationships.

The Lady Takes a Flyer is reminiscent of Vertigo in its exploration of complex relationships and the challenges they bring. While Vertigo delves into the theme of romantic obsession, The Lady Takes a Flyer focuses on the balancing act between work and family life. Both movies captivate the audience with their intriguing plotlines. Vertigo, a masterpiece by Alfred Hitchcock, showcases Jimmy Stewart's remarkable performance as a former detective haunted by a beautiful woman. On the other hand, The Lady Takes a Flyer, starring Lana Turner and Jeff Chandler, tells the story of a married couple who are both pilots and struggle to find a balance between their personal and professional lives. Despite their differences in genre and critical acclaim, both movies provide a captivating viewing experience. So, if you enjoyed Vertigo's exploration of the complexities of human relationships, you should definitely give The Lady Takes a Flyer a watch.

Bell Book and Candle:
In "Bell Book and Candle," Kim Novak and James Stewart reunite after their iconic pairing in "Vertigo." While "Bell Book and Candle" lacks the psychological depth and suspense of "Vertigo," it compensates with its light-hearted and enchanting storyline. Novak portrays Gillian, a modern-day witch who falls in love with her neighbor, played by Stewart. The film is a delightful mix of comedy, romance, and fantasy, with Jack Lemmon providing comedic relief as Gillian's mischievous brother. The chemistry between Novak and Stewart is once again evident, although this time their roles are more lighthearted and charming. While "Vertigo" explores themes of obsession and the darker side of human nature, "Bell Book and Candle" offers a whimsical and magical tale that is perfect for a Sunday afternoon or a festive Christmas watch.

Shirley Temple's Storybook, released in 1958, is a delightful American children's series hosted and narrated by the beloved Shirley Temple. Although quite different from Vertigo, this series shares a common thread with the Hitchcock masterpiece. Both evoke a sense of enchantment and transport viewers to captivating worlds. While Vertigo explores the complexities of romantic obsession and acrophobia in 1950s San Francisco, Shirley Temple's Storybook presents a collection of timeless fairy tales and stories for children. Despite their divergent genres, both movies captivate audiences with their immersive storytelling and unforgettable performances. So, if you're in the mood for a charming and magical experience after watching Vertigo, Shirley Temple's Storybook is the perfect choice.

The Avengers is reminiscent of Vertigo in its exploration of mystery and obsession. While Vertigo delves into the haunting beauty of a disturbed woman and a detective's personal demons, The Avengers takes a quirky spin on the spy genre. Both movies captivate audiences with their intriguing plotlines and memorable characters. Vertigo, hailed as a masterpiece, showcases Jimmy Stewart's remarkable performance and Kim Novak's unforgettable role. On the other hand, The Avengers, known for its high production values, introduces us to the eccentrically suave British Agent John Steed and his predominantly female partners. While Vertigo tackles sexual obsession and deep psychological themes, The Avengers provides a more light-hearted and humorous take on crime-solving. Whether you're a fan of intense dramas or enjoy the charm of spy shows, The Avengers is a delightful watch that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

Dark Shadows is reminiscent of Vertigo in its ability to captivate and intrigue viewers. While Vertigo delves into the realm of romantic obsession and personal demons, Dark Shadows explores the supernatural and torments the Collins family with strange occurrences. Both films showcase the talents of their cast, with James Stewart delivering a remarkable performance in Vertigo and the actors in Dark Shadows displaying exceptional interplay. Despite their differences in genre, these movies share a common thread of keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. If you enjoyed the haunting beauty and multi-layered storytelling of Vertigo, you'll find Dark Shadows equally compelling, with its mix of drama, fantasy, horror, romance, and thrilling plotlines. So, grab some popcorn, turn down the lights, and prepare to be mesmerized by the intriguing world of Dark Shadows.

The Fast and the Furious: Released in 1954, The Fast and the Furious (not to be confused with the modern-day blockbuster franchise) is a far cry from the adrenaline-fueled, action-packed spectacles we've come to expect. Clocking in at a mere 72 minutes, it's a compact and concise story about a trucker named Frank Webster, who finds himself wrongfully convicted of murder. Desperate to escape to Mexico before the authorities catch up with him, Frank takes a young woman named Connie Adair hostage, using her sports car to compete in a cross-border road race. While it may lack the grandeur and high-octane thrills of its modern counterpart, The Fast and the Furious holds its own as a piece of cinematic history. Despite its shortcomings, the film offers a glimpse into a bygone era when car chases were less flashy and special effects were more practical.

The Big Bluff is reminiscent of Vertigo in its exploration of obsession and deceit. While Vertigo delves into the depths of romantic obsession and psychological turmoil, The Big Bluff presents a tale of greed and manipulation. Both movies captivate the audience with their intriguing plotlines and unexpected twists. However, they differ in terms of critical acclaim and execution. Vertigo, considered a masterpiece, showcases Jimmy Stewart's exceptional performance and Kim Novak's unforgettable role. On the other hand, The Big Bluff, although lacking in strong dialogue and wooden in its acting, surprises viewers with an ironic ending worthy of the master of suspense. While Vertigo is hailed as one of the greatest American movies, The Big Bluff offers a lighthearted and mildly entertaining experience. Despite their differences, both films provide an engaging cinematic experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Female on the Beach is reminiscent of Vertigo in its exploration of mystery, danger, and romance. Both movies captivate the audience with their intriguing plotlines and keep them on the edge of their seats. While Vertigo is hailed as a masterpiece and one of the greatest American movies, Female on the Beach showcases the transition in Joan Crawford's career, with the actress delivering a tough performance. The movies differ in their critical acclaim, with Vertigo receiving numerous nominations and wins, while Female on the Beach didn't receive any. Despite these differences, Female on the Beach is worth watching for fans of Crawford, as she brings her screen appeal and charisma to the film, making it an entertaining and engaging experience.

The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing is reminiscent of Vertigo in its exploration of romantic obsession and the dark side of desire. While Vertigo takes place in 1950s San Francisco, The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing transports us to the early 1900s and the scandalous love triangle involving Evelyn Nesbit, Stanford White, and Harry K. Thaw. Both movies delve into the complexities of relationships and the destructive power of unchecked passion. However, while Vertigo is a psychological thriller that delves into the depths of the human psyche, The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing is a period drama that offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. With its captivating plot and stellar performances by Joan Collins, Ray Milland, and Farley Granger, The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing is a must-watch for fans of Vertigo seeking a different yet equally enthralling cinematic experience.

Secret Venture, released in 1955, is reminiscent of Vertigo in its exploration of mystery and romantic obsession. While Vertigo, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, takes place in San Francisco and revolves around a former detective's obsession with a mysterious woman, Secret Venture follows an American visitor to Britain who becomes entangled in a spy plot. Both films delve into themes of intrigue and suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. However, while Vertigo is hailed as a masterpiece and received numerous accolades, Secret Venture, with its convoluted plot and lack of star power, falls short of reaching the same level of critical acclaim. Nonetheless, if you enjoyed the captivating twists and turns of Vertigo, Secret Venture offers a thrilling escapade that will keep you guessing until the end.

To Catch a Thief takes you on a delightful trip to the French Riviera, where a retired jewel thief, played by the charming Cary Grant, finds himself suspected of returning to his former occupation. The movie, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, is a light and breezy affair, offering a dose of romance, comedy, and travelogue. The plot revolves around Grant's character trying to prove his innocence by unmasking the real thief while being tantalized by the icy beauty of Grace Kelly. Unlike some of Hitchcock's darker and more suspenseful films, To Catch a Thief is a romantic fantasia, a vacation from his usual material. Although it may not reach the same heights as Vertigo or Rear Window, it is still extremely well done and a great deal of fun to watch. So, if you're in the mood for an enjoyable film with a touch of romance, To Catch a Thief is the perfect choice.

Foreign Intrigue is reminiscent of Vertigo because both movies fall within the genres of Mystery, Romance, and Thriller. However, they have their own unique charm. While Vertigo is considered a masterpiece and one of the greatest American movies, Foreign Intrigue is more of an entertaining film that showcases the beautiful landscapes of the Riviera, Sweden, and Vienna. Robert Mitchum's performance in Foreign Intrigue is intriguing, as he plays his character with a sense of disbelief and whispers to the audience that he knows the plot is all nonsense. This unconventional approach adds a certain charm to the movie. Overall, if you enjoyed the suspense and romantic obsession in Vertigo, you should give Foreign Intrigue a watch for its entertaining storyline and Robert Mitchum's captivating performance.