Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Exploring Control: Top Cult Films from Horror to Psychology

10/7/2025

40 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

A list highlights cultist films that explore influence and control, spanning from The Black Cat to Hereditary.
The selection covers subgenres from supernatural cults to psychological manipulation, showing diverse storytelling in cultist cinema.
Suspiria (1977) and the 2018 remake are noted for control and autonomy, set in a witch-run dance conservatory, illustrating the collection's range from horror to seasonal options.

History

Historical Context

The cult film movement began in the 1960s, reflecting societal anxieties about authority and manipulation, as seen in "Rosemary's Baby" (1968). This era, marked by the counterculture and the decline of the Hays Code, fostered experimental narratives. Modern cult films like "Hereditary" and "Suspiria" continue this exploration of psychological and supernatural themes, highlighting ongoing cultural fears surrounding control and autonomy.

1 of 2

Story summary

A list highlights cultist films that explore influence and control, spanning from The Black Cat to Hereditary.
The selection covers subgenres from supernatural cults to psychological manipulation, showing diverse storytelling in cultist cinema.
Suspiria (1977) and the 2018 remake are noted for control and autonomy, set in a witch-run dance conservatory, illustrating the collection's range from horror to seasonal options.

1 / 2