Hello, hello lovelies!
Today, thanks to a little perusing of one of my stories planned for a future date, I have revenge on the brain. So, me being me, I thought that would make for a nice little theme for movies. Which brings me to this list I've put together for you.
We know revenge is usually a dish best served cold, but in reality, you'll find that platter at all kinds of temperatures. Sometimes, a meal is best when it's had time to simmer. So, here's a list of films for you to watch at different steps of the process. How do you like your revenge story? Immediate and piping hot, cooled, or freezing cold? Who knows, maybe a good revenge film is just what you need this week.
State of Play (2009). A journalist and conflicting friendship, politics, a murder and justice collide in this film. Sometimes revenge is tied to corporate strings. And in the case of this particular journalist, it seems revenge needs him to play the intermediary.
Kill (2024). What is it about grief and train scenes that make such good action? A revenge story served scorching hot. New Dehli bandits vs. an army commando on a train? This one is a killer.
I don't even know why you're still here. Aren't you convinced yet?
Doubt (2008). This movie is fairly revenge-adjacent, but I suggest you give it a go whenever you're feeling up to a story without the mess. Starring Merril Streep, a veiled secret and morality push a Godly woman to action. A word of caution to you lovelies out there: you'll never be able to enjoy this film if you don't have an appreciation for deep messages served through subtleties. In this film, the details matter. If that doesn't sound like your cup of tea, go ahead and skip this one. Don't worry, there's no judgement here.
I Saw the Devil (2010). If your future was stolen by a wanted serial killer, what would you do? Korean secret agent Soo-hyun knows his answer and it starts with a bloody letter V.
The Manchurian Candidate (2004). Starring Denzel Washington (and Merril Streep). Conspiracy or truth? That's what he's about to find out. If you're looking for a suspenseful film about diving down a rabbit hole, this one is for you. And, just in case you're interested, check out the 1962 film of the same name.
Black Phone (2021). I remember when this film first hit the screens. After seeing it in the theater, I made sure to add it to the DVD collection soon after. It was phenomenal then and the feels are just the same today. It's without one of my favorite from the list. To say that this one is only about a kidnapper getting what he deserves would be an insult.
The Fugitive (1993). How far will a man go to prove his innocence even when he presents guilty? In this movie, Dr. Richard is really cutting up. Well, what are you waiting for? Watch it and find out. If you've never seen this one, it's worth the watch.
Evil Eye (2020). While it's not everyone's cup of tea, this movie is a kind of story that dances on that 'what if' line. An Indian film about a mother, her daughter, an old and new love, and the possibility of things being "more than meets the eye."
Liverleaf (2018). If you're in the mood for revenge of the unhinged variety, give this story a try. It's a Japanese film about a girl who moves away from Tokyo, constantly subjected to bullying, with a few interesting twists up its sleeves. As for the bullied teen? Well, it seems to me that Haruka prefers the blood for blood approach.
Enemy of the State (1998). Keeping to the previous theme of the wrongfully accused, here's another one from the 90s. Will Smith is going to need some help for this one. Luckily, he's got a friend to give him a hand. The actor might be needing a few jabs with your pitchforks, but a good movie is a good movie.
Oldboy (2003). Specifically highlighting the original film not the remake. With 15 years behind bars, it's the longest wait for a chance at revenge on the list, and probably wouldn't be complete without it.
Note: This is part of The Vengeance Trilogy (Korean films).
Order of movies in the series:
Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance (2002).
Oldboy (2003).
Sympathy for Lady Vengeance (2005).
Fabricated City (2017). A unique indie film. A man accused of murder gets help from his online friends. Talk about ride or die. I think we all could use a few friends like that.
Misery (1990). Kathy Bates breaks the usual narrative of what it means to be "your biggest fan" and takes us along for every twist and turn. Is she a writer's greatest flattery or worst nightmare?
Ballerina (2023). What if your BFF had a- generally speaking- terrible wish? Forget the friends that help you when you are accused of murder. What about the friend that's willing to do it for you?
Lady McBeth (2016). A film that leaves a bigger impression, good or bad, than first apperances would lead you to believe. Katherine is a stiflied young woman sold off for marriage and the moment she tastes freedom it becomes apparent that she will do anything necessary to keep it. Sometimes revenge is a little psychotic?
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