Movies You Should Definitely Watch Alone

I love how movies let me completely escape from everything. They transport me to different worlds and just give me a break from my everyday life. No matter what I’m in the mood for – action, a good laugh, something dramatic, a sweet romance, or even a scary thriller – there’s always a movie out there for me. While I often enjoy watching them with friends or family, sometimes I really prefer the experience of watching a movie all by myself.

Watching a movie alone can be a really special experience. You don’t have to worry about distractions like people talking or phones ringing, letting you completely lose yourself in the story and truly escape into another world. This is particularly enjoyable with movies that demand your full focus.

Watching movies by yourself can be a really special experience – you get completely lost in the film in a way that’s hard to do with others. Some movies are simply better enjoyed when you’re alone. So, let’s get started with a list of films perfect for solo viewing!

‘Bad Lieutenant’ (1992)

Aries Films

Harvey Keitel plays a troubled New York City police lieutenant battling drug addiction and corruption. The film follows him as he investigates a brutal attack on a nun, but it’s more focused on his personal struggles than the crime itself. Religious elements highlight the tragedy of his downward spiral and his desperate search for redemption. The movie shows how he becomes a frightening figure to everyone around him, going beyond a simple story of drug abuse.

Bad Lieutenant is a relentlessly harsh and shocking film, filled with disturbing scenes that are difficult to watch. It’s best experienced alone, as it’s nearly impossible to warn someone about the content without ruining the experience. Despite its intensity, the film is worthwhile, thanks to Harvey Keitel’s powerful performance and its compelling, if unsettling, exploration of a deeply corrupt character.

‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ (2019)

Pyramide Films

Looking for a unique and beautiful love story? Check out Portrait of a Lady on Fire. This visually gorgeous film, set in the 1700s, tells the story of a painter who’s hired to create a portrait of a young woman about to get married. As they work together, a strong connection forms, and a passionate, secret romance develops between them. The film stars Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel.

This film is visually beautiful and deeply moving, with gorgeous visuals, a lovely soundtrack, and heartfelt acting. However, it’s best experienced alone, as the close relationship between the two main characters might be intense for some. When watched in private, the film’s expansive story truly shines, especially with the skilled direction of Céline Sciamma, known for films like Girlhood and Water Lillies.

‘El Topo’ (1970)

ABKCO Films

For movie lovers, El Topo is a must-see film. It’s famous for launching the ‘midnight movie’ trend, paving the way for directors like David Lynch and John Waters, and for essentially defining the acid Western genre. While the story isn’t the main focus—it’s about a gunslinger who leaves his son, grows up, and goes on a spiritual journey by seeking out different enemies—the overall experience is what truly matters. Ultimately, he finds new life as a performer among a group of societal outcasts.

El Topo is a visually striking film, deeply inspired by works like Thus Spoke Zarathustra and Zen Flesh, Zen Bones, and the director’s personal beliefs. It’s a movie that demands your full attention and requires careful consideration from beginning to end. While quiet contemplation is helpful, be warned that the film contains disturbing imagery that may be upsetting to many, particularly those unfamiliar with the cultural context of its creation. Despite its importance, El Topo isn’t for all viewers, and recommending it to others isn’t always a good idea.

‘Her’ (2013)

Warner Bros. Pictures

The movie Her centers around Theodore Twombly, a writer going through a difficult divorce and feeling isolated. To cope, he gets a new virtual assistant, and unexpectedly begins to fall in love with the intelligent operating system that powers it, which names itself Samantha. Joaquin Phoenix and Scarlett Johansson star as Theodore and Samantha, respectively, and the film also features Amy Adams, Rooney Mara, and Olivia Wilde.

As AI companions become more common and people increasingly feel disconnected, the movie Her feels remarkably timely. It’s a deeply moving and unusual exploration of love and connection, prompting viewers to consider how technology blurs the lines between what’s real and what isn’t. The film’s intimate and emotional scenes between Theodore and Samantha are especially powerful, and it’s best experienced in solitude to fully appreciate the themes of loneliness and connection it explores.

‘The House That Jack Built’ (2018)

IFC Films

Lars von Trier, the director known for challenging films, created The House That Jack Built, which is best watched alone or with someone who appreciates his often-disturbing work. The film delves into the twisted mind of Jack, a serial killer portrayed by Matt Dillon, as he looks back on decades of carefully planned and brutal crimes. His years of cruelty eventually lead to the unveiling of a truly shocking and long-planned project.

This film is intensely difficult to watch – it’s brutal, sad, thought-provoking, and likely to spark debate. It’s not something you’d casually enjoy with company. The story of Jack is portrayed with a stark realism that stays with you long after the credits roll. Some scenes, like the one depicting Jack harming a mother and her children, are deeply disturbing and will likely shock even seasoned moviegoers, let alone those who prefer lighter fare.

‘Sound of Metal’ (2019)

Amazon Studios

Sound of Metal is a powerful and moving film about a heavy metal drummer named Ruben Stone (played by Riz Ahmed) who unexpectedly loses his hearing. The story follows his struggle to adjust to this life-changing event, questioning whether he’ll be able to continue his music career. With a supporting cast including Olivia Cooke, Paul Raci, Lauren Ridloff, and Mathieu Amalric, the film explores his journey of acceptance and adaptation, even as he initially resists further medical evaluation.

This film is a deeply touching story about finding acceptance and belonging. It received Academy Award nominations for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay, and won awards for Best Sound and Best Film Editing. The movie is especially impactful during scenes where the main character begins to lose his hearing. The incredible sound design truly immerses you in his experience, making you feel what he feels – so you’ll want to give it your full attention and avoid distractions.

‘Cha Cha Real Smooth’ (2022)

Apple TV+

Cooper Raiff’s new film, Cha Cha Real Smooth, tells the story of Andrew, a young man who unexpectedly finds himself working as a bar mitzvah party host. The movie is both funny and heartwarming, and follows Andrew as he connects with Domino, played by Dakota Johnson, and her daughter. Raiff not only stars in the film, but also wrote and directed it, with supporting performances from Odeya Rush, Raúl Castillo, Brad Garrett, and Leslie Mann.

Unlike many coming-of-age stories focused solely on self-discovery, Cooper Raiff’s film centers on a genuinely kind character. He prioritizes his brother, goes above and beyond for Domino’s daughter, and has a close, loving relationship with his mother. The film, Cha Cha Real Smooth, manages to be both funny and thought-provoking while maintaining a relaxed and heartfelt tone, making it a truly captivating and easy watch.

‘Luz’ (2018)

Yellow Veil Pictures

Luz is a fragmented story that unfolds through conversations and flashbacks. It centers around a taxi driver, injured and being interviewed by a police psychologist, and the psychologist herself, who has a conversation with a woman before the interview. As the story progresses, it becomes clear the taxi driver may be connected to a serious accident, and that this accident is linked to a dark secret from her past.

Tilman Singer’s film, Luz, is best experienced alone, and we highly recommend using headphones. The story is intentionally abstract and needs your complete attention, but the sound design is outstanding – the electronic score ranges from eerie to surprisingly upbeat. Though the film unfolds slowly, it builds to a visually stunning and unsettling climax that truly captivates.

‘Lost in Translation’ (2003)

Focus Features

Have you ever felt completely adrift in a new country? The film Lost in Translation captures that feeling of isolation – being alone in an unfamiliar place and questioning your place in the world. It centers on Bob Harris, an American movie star, who goes to Japan to film a commercial. He connects with Charlotte, a recent college grad who also feels lost and unsure of her future. Together, they navigate the vibrant city of Tokyo, experiencing a different culture and the sense of not quite fitting in. Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson star as Bob and Charlotte.

This film beautifully depicts the unexpected friendship between two people who find comfort in each other. The characters feel real and the story is captivating. However, it’s the small, personal scenes between Bob and Charlotte that truly make the movie special, enhanced by Sofia Coppola’s award-winning screenplay. To fully appreciate its beauty, it’s best to watch this film when you can give it your complete attention and lose yourself in its world.

‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ (2015)

Universal Pictures

Fifty Shades of Grey is a film that delves into themes of power and control within a romantic relationship. It centers around Anastasia Steele, a naive college graduate, and Christian Grey, a wealthy and enigmatic businessman. Their connection evolves into a unique agreement where they both confront their personal desires and boundaries. The movie stars Dakota Johnson and Jamie Dornan, with supporting roles played by Jennifer Ehle and Marcia Harden.

This movie is a passionate and visually striking experience that will keep you engaged. The relationship between Anastasia and Christian is intensely intimate and features explicit scenes, which caused quite a stir when the film came out in 2015. If you’re in the mood for something daring, this is a film you won’t want to miss. It’s best enjoyed privately, allowing you to fully connect with the characters and their story. So, if you’re feeling bold, settle in with a drink and prepare to explore some intense themes.

2026-02-24 20:06