Movies about narcissists have a way of getting under your skin. You start watching for the suspense, and then halfway through, you realize you know someone who acts exactly like the character on screen.
The charm, the manipulation, the constant need to stay in control – it all feels a little too familiar. That is what makes these some of the best movies about narcissism.
They are entertaining, yes, but they also put a name to behaviors many people have experienced in real life.
If you are searching for the best narcissist movies on Netflix, this list includes thrillers and dramas that are as eye-opening as they are impossible to stop watching.
Related: The Self Aware Narcissist: Are Narcissists Aware Of Their Behavior?
Who Is A Narcissist?
A narcissist is someone who has a personality disorder characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy for others, and a constant need for admiration and attention.
Narcissists often have an exaggerated sense of their own abilities and accomplishments, and may believe they are entitled to special treatment and privileges. They may also have difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships, as their behavior often revolves around their own needs and desires.
Movies about narcissistic abuse show that narcissism refers to someone with narcissistic personality disorder. It is a complex and often destructive psychiatric condition that can have a profound impact on the people around the narcissist.
This personality disorder is characterized by:
- An exaggerated sense of self-importance
- A need for excessive admiration
- An inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others
- An unreasonable expectation of favors and compliance
- Preoccupation with fantasies of success, power, beauty, intelligence or ideal love
- Taking advantage of others to achieve their own ends
- Requiring constant attention and positive reinforcement from others
- Envy of others and a belief that others envy them
- Arrogant and haughty behaviors or attitudes
Narcissism typically exists on a spectrum. Not everyone who exhibits some narcissistic traits has a disorder. Narcissists often lack insight into their behavior and have difficulty changing. Therapy can help some people with narcissistic personality disorder.
Now that we have some idea about narcissism, let’s explore some of the best narcissist movies on Netflix.
16 Movies About Narcissists on Netflix That Will Mess With Your Mind
1. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
This is that one film about narcissism that people still talk about today.
The Wolf of Wall Street is one of the must-watch movies about narcissists. It is a biographical crime, black comedy movie that delves into the world of narcissism with its portrayal of Jordan Belfort, a real-life stockbroker who made a fortune through fraudulent practices.
The movie shows how Belfort’s narcissistic personality traits, such as his inflated sense of self-importance, grandiosity, and lack of empathy, contributed to his success and downfall.
Belfort is shown as a charismatic figure who uses his charm and manipulative tactics to achieve his goals, while disregarding the consequences of his actions on others. The movie also highlights the way Belfort’s desire for wealth, power, and admiration led him to a life of excess, including drug addiction and extramarital affairs.
It serves as a cautionary tale of the destructive consequences of unchecked narcissism. The movie features a talented cast, led by Leonardo DiCaprio in the role of Jordan Belfort.
DiCaprio delivers a captivating performance, capturing the character’s charisma, arrogance, and downward spiral. Jonah Hill, Margot Robbie, and Matthew McConaughey also give standout performances in their respective roles.
The ensemble cast brings the story to life with their energetic and jaw-dropping performances.
2. Nightcrawler (2014)
Nightcrawler is a thriller film that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of the main character, Lou Bloom, played by Jake Gyllenhaal.
Lou is a freelance crime journalist who becomes increasingly obsessed with capturing graphic footage of violent crimes, blurring the lines between journalism and exploitation. The movie highlights Lou’s narcissistic behavior, including his lack of empathy, his manipulation of others, and his obsession with success and recognition.
The film is directed by Dan Gilroy and features strong performances from the entire cast, including Rene Russo and Riz Ahmed.
Nightcrawler is a chilling exploration of the dangers of uncontrolled narcissism and the lengths that some individuals will go to in pursuit of their own desires and ambitions.
It is a thought-provoking and disturbing film that examines the dark side of human nature. This is definitely one of the most best narcissist movies on Netflix.
3. I Care a Lot (2020)
I Care a Lot is a black comedy thriller movie that explores the theme of narcissism through its main character, Marla Grayson, played by Rosamund Pike.
This is one of the movies about narcissistic love where Marla is a court-appointed guardian who uses her position to exploit elderly wards for financial gain. She is shown as a manipulative and ruthless character who has no empathy for her victims, putting her own interests above everything else.
However, she later discovers that the elderly woman has ties to a powerful gangster who will stop at nothing to protect her. Throughout the movie, Marla’s narcissistic behavior leads her to clash with a dangerous gangster who also has a narcissistic personality.
The movie’s cast also includes Peter Dinklage, Eiza González, and Dianne Wiest, who deliver strong performances in their respective roles. Pike’s portrayal of Marla is particularly noteworthy, as she captures the character’s cunning and cold-heartedness with precision.
One of the best movies about narcissism for sure.
4. The Invisible Man (2020)
Want to watch one of the best movies about narcissists on Netflix? Then don’t miss this movie. If you are searching for movies about narcissistic husband or a movie about narcissistic abuse, then this is the movie you must watch.
The Invisible Man is a horror-thriller movie that explores the themes of narcissism and abuse through its portrayal of the main character, Adrian Griffin, played by Oliver Jackson-Cohen.
In this movie about narcissistic abuse, Adrian is a wealthy and abusive scientist who uses his technology to become invisible and torment his ex-girlfriend, Cecilia Kass, played by Elisabeth Moss.
The movie highlights the narcissistic behavior of Adrian, including his desire for control and his lack of empathy for others. It also explores the impact of his abusive behavior on Cecilia’s mental and emotional well-being.
The film, which is one of the latest movies about narcissistic husband, is directed by Leigh Whannell and features a standout performance by Moss, who captures the character’s fear and trauma with precision.
The Invisible Man is a chilling and thought-provoking examination of the threats that narcissism can pose and the devastating impact of abuse on individuals and relationships.
5. Don Jon (2013)
Don Jon is a romantic comedy-drama movie that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of the main character, Jon Martello, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
Jon is a young man from New Jersey who is obsessed with porn and hooking up with women. He exhibits narcissistic behavior in his constant pursuit of sexual gratification, his focus on physical appearance, and his lack of empathy for the women he objectifies.
The movie also features Scarlett Johansson as Barbara Sugarman, a woman who Jon becomes infatuated with and who exhibits her own narcissistic tendencies. The film explores how Jon’s obsession with porn and his own appearance affects his relationships, including his relationship with Barbara.
Gordon-Levitt, who also wrote and directed the film, delivers a strong performance as Jon, capturing the character’s self-centeredness and eventual realization of the impact of his behavior on others.
Johansson also shines in her role as Barbara, portraying a character whose own narcissism ultimately leads to the downfall of her relationship with Jon.
Overall, Don Jon is one of the best movies about narcissism which is a thought-provoking exploration of the dangers of unchecked narcissism and the impact it can have on personal relationships.
While this is not really one of the movies about narcissistic husbands, it does explore toxic relationships and how we can find love even with our drawbacks.
Related: The Complex Mind Of An Empathic Narcissist: Understanding The Paradoxical Personality
6. The Devil All the Time (2020)
The Devil All the Time is a psychological thriller that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of several characters in a small town in Ohio in the 1950s and 1960s.
The movie highlights the narcissistic behavior of these characters, including a corrupt sheriff, a manipulative preacher, and a serial killer couple, and is definitely one of the most underrated movies about narcissists.
The film is directed by Antonio Campos and features a star-studded cast, including Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, and Bill Skarsgård, who deliver powerful performances in their respective roles.
The Devil All the Time is a unique look at narcissism and the impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole. It is a haunting and intense film that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll.
7. The Social Dilemma (2020)
The Social Dilemma is one of the best documentaries on narcissism that explores the theme of narcissism through its examination of the impact of social media on individuals and society.
The movie features a mix of interviews with tech insiders and dramatized scenes that illustrate the ways in which social media platforms use algorithms to manipulate user behavior and amplify narcissistic tendencies.
The documentary highlights how social media platforms exploit users’ desire for validation and attention, creating an environment that fuels narcissistic behavior. It also explores the impact of social media on mental health, political polarization, and the spread of misinformation.
The movie features interviews with tech experts and former executives from major tech companies, including Tristan Harris, Aza Raskin, and Tim Kendall, who provide insights into the inner workings of the tech industry and its impact on society.
The dramatized scenes feature actors such as Skyler Gisondo, Kara Hayward, and Vincent Kartheiser, who depict the negative consequences of social media use on individuals and relationships.
Overall, The Social Dilemma is a thought-provoking exploration of the dangers of unchecked narcissism in the digital age. It is one of the must-watch movies about narcissists on Netflix.
8. American Psycho (2000)
If we are talking about best movies about narcissism, then of course, American Psycho has to be on the list.
This is that one film about narcissism that has achieved cult status not just on Netflix, but everywhere. It is a psychological horror film that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of the main character, Patrick Bateman, played by Christian Bale.
Bateman is a wealthy and successful investment banker in New York City who exhibits extreme narcissistic behavior, including his obsession with his appearance, status, and material possessions.
The movie highlights Bateman’s descent into madness as his narcissism spirals out of control, leading him to commit heinous acts of violence.
The film is directed by Mary Harron and features a standout performance by Bale, who captures the character’s psychopathic tendencies and delusions of grandeur with chilling precision.
American Psycho explores how the potential for narcissistic behavior can lead to violence and destruction. It is a compelling and unforgettable film that leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
9. Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened (2019)
Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened is a documentary about the infamous Fyre Festival, a failed luxury music festival in the Bahamas that was promoted by a young entrepreneur with a history of narcissistic behavior.
While there are many documentaries on narcissism, this film explores the toxic culture of social media and the way it can fuel narcissism and other forms of self-destructive behavior.
The documentary highlights the narcissistic behavior of the festival’s organizers, including Billy McFarland, who used social media to create a false image of the festival as a glamorous and exclusive event.
The film features interviews with attendees and insiders, as well as behind-the-scenes footage that exposes the festival’s many failures. “Fyre” is a cautionary tale about the dangers of narcissism and the power of social media to manipulate and deceive.
10. The Social Network (2010)
The Social Network is a biographical drama that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Facebook.
The movie highlights Zuckerberg’s narcissistic behavior, including his desire for recognition, his lack of empathy, and his manipulation of those around him.
The film is directed by David Fincher and features a standout performance by Jesse Eisenberg, who captures the character’s intense drive and social awkwardness with precision.
Overall, The Social Network is among the best movies about narcissists on Netflix as it is a powerful and highly acclaimed film that continues to resonate with audiences.
Related: 30+ Telltale Signs Of A Narcissistic Wife And How To Protect Your Mental Health
11. The Great Hack (2019)
The Great Hack is a documentary film that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of the Cambridge Analytica scandal, a global political scandal involving the illegal harvesting of millions of Facebook users’ personal data.
The is one of the documentaries on narcissism that highlights the narcissistic behavior of the individuals involved in the scandal, including Cambridge Analytica CEO Alexander Nix and Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg.
The documentary features interviews with former Cambridge Analytica employees, journalists, and privacy advocates, as well as undercover footage of the company’s operations.
The Great Hack is a chilling reminder of the power of data to manipulate individuals and shape political outcomes.
12. The Laundromat (2019)
The Laundromat is a satirical film that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of the Panama Papers scandal, a leak of confidential documents that revealed the offshore financial activities of many wealthy and powerful individuals.
If you are looking for best narcissist movies on Netflix, then please don’t sleep on this one. Trust me, you don’t be disappointed.
The film highlights the narcissistic behavior of the individuals involved in the scandal, including lawyers, bankers, and politicians who use offshore accounts to evade taxes and launder money.
The movie features an ensemble cast that includes Meryl Streep, Gary Oldman, and Antonio Banderas, who deliver strong performances in their respective roles.
The film, which is one of the best movies about narcissists on Netflix, is directed by Steven Soderbergh and uses a variety of storytelling techniques, including fourth-wall breaks and multiple storylines, to expose the corruption and hypocrisy of the global financial system.
13. The Two Popes (2019)
The Two Popes is a biographical drama that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of the relationship between Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who would later become Pope Francis.
The movie highlights the struggles of both men with their own egos and the ways in which their narcissistic behavior affects their roles within the Catholic Church.
The film features powerful performances from Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce, who play Pope Benedict and Cardinal Bergoglio, respectively. The movie is directed by Fernando Meirelles and written by Anthony McCarten, who also wrote the screenplay for The Theory of Everything.
14. Marriage Story (2019)
Want some more movies about narcissistic husbands? Then this is the movie to watch.
When looking for movies about narcissists on Netflix, this one is unmissable. Marriage Story is a drama film that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of a divorce between a couple, Charlie and Nicole Barber, played by Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson, respectively.
This is one of the most interesting movies about narcissists that highlights the narcissistic behavior of both characters, as they struggle to come to terms with the end of their marriage and the impact it has on their personal and professional lives.
The film is directed by Noah Baumbach and features strong performances from the entire cast, including Laura Dern, Alan Alda, and Ray Liotta. The movie is a poignant exploration of the complexities of relationships and the effects of narcissism in a marriage.
Overall, Marriage Story, a movie about narcissistic abuse, is a powerful and emotional portrayal of the devastating effects of divorce on individuals and families.
15. The King (2019)
The King is a historical drama that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of King Henry V of England, played by Timothée Chalamet.
The movie highlights Henry’s narcissistic behavior, including his desire for power and glory, his lack of empathy for his enemies, and his belief in his own divine right to rule.
The film is directed by David Michôd and features strong performances from the entire cast, including Joel Edgerton, Sean Harris, and Robert Pattinson.
The King is a compelling exploration of narcissists in positions of power and how their toxic behavior can lead to violence and conflict.
Overall, it is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that delves deep into the complexities of leadership and the human condition.
16. Wild, Wild Country (2018)
Looking for more documentaries on narcissism? Wild Wild Country is a documentary series that explores the theme of narcissism through its portrayal of Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh, the spiritual leader of a controversial commune in rural Oregon in the 1980s.
The movie highlights Rajneesh’s narcissistic behavior, including his desire for power and control, his manipulation of his followers, and his willingness to engage in criminal activity.
The series is directed by Maclain and Chapman Way and features interviews with former members of the commune, law enforcement officials, and journalists who covered the story.
Overall, Wild Wild Country is a fascinating study examination of narcissistic, charismatic leaders. Definitely one of the best movies about narcissistic abuse.
Related: The Curse Of Binge Watching: Why “Netflix And Chill” Is Ruining Your Life
Takeaway
Documentaries on narcissism and movies about narcissists on Netflix offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of self-absorption and the destructive impact it can have on individuals and society at large.
From psychological thrillers to true crime documentaries, these films explore the challenges of being human in a world where self-promotion and self-interest are often valued above all else.
Whether you are interested in psychology, true crime, or just great storytelling, there’s sure to be a movie about narcissists on Netflix that will capture your attention and leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
Have you watched any of these movies about narcissists on Netflix? Let us know your thoughts in the comments down below!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Is there a movie based on narcissism?
Yes, there are quite a few movies that deal with narcissism, even if they do not use the word directly. Gone Girl is a strong example, showing manipulation and obsession with image. American Psycho takes a darker approach, focusing on extreme self-importance. The Devil Wears Prada also reflects narcissistic behavior through control and lack of empathy. Each film explores how self-centered personalities affect the people around them.
2. What is the Netflix series about narcissists?
A lot of people point to You when talking about narcissistic behavior. The main character is charming on the surface, but everything revolves around his own needs, fantasies, and sense of control. Dirty John is another good example. It shows how a manipulative partner can slowly take over someone’s life. Both series feel unsettling because the behavior is often disturbingly realistic.
3. What is the famous movie about gaslighting?
The most famous movie about gaslighting is Gaslight. In fact, the term “gaslighting” comes from this classic thriller. The story follows a husband who manipulates his wife into doubting her own memory and sanity. Even decades later, the film feels surprisingly relevant. If you want a clear picture of what emotional manipulation looks like, this is the movie almost everyone references first when discussing gaslighting and psychological abuse in relationships.
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