Guardian Writers Reflect on Their Most Stressful Movie Experiences

The article features Guardian writers sharing their experiences watching some of the most anxiety-inducing and stressful films. It includes detailed descriptions of movies that caused intense emotional and physiological reactions, such as Scott Mann’s ‘Fall,’ a psychological thriller about climbing a towering structure that forces viewers into a state of high tension. Other films discussed include the classic psychological thriller ‘Gaslight,’ known for its portrayal of emotional manipulation; the Dutch thriller ‘The Vanishing,’ notable for its harrowing ending; and the Safdie brothers’ ‘Uncut Gems,’ infamous for its relentless anxiety-inducing pace. Additional movies like ‘Full Time,’ ‘Her Smell,’ and ‘Good Time’ convey everyday stress and personal struggles through intense cinematic storytelling. The article highlights not only the fear and discomfort these films evoke but also their artistic achievements in engaging audiences on such a deep psychological level. Many writers recount how these films left them needing breaks or coping mechanisms due to the overwhelming tension experienced during viewing.