Introduction: Diet of Sex (2014), a Brazilian film directed by Bernardo Santi, is a visually provocative and thought-provoking exploration of human sexuality, identity, and the complexities of desire. The movie pushes boundaries, exploring unconventional relationships and the impact of social constructs on intimacy. If you’re drawn to movies like Diet of Sex—that delve into the depths of sexuality, human connection, and mental exploration—this list is for you. From mind-bending psychological dramas to sensual thrillers that blur the lines of reality and perception, these 15 movies will provide a similar emotional intensity and intellectual engagement.
1. Nymphomaniac (2013)
Directed by Lars von Trier, Nymphomaniac is a controversial and deeply psychological exploration of the life of Joe, a woman who recounts her sexually adventurous life to a man who finds her beaten in an alley. Divided into two volumes, the film explores her struggles with addiction, self-worth, and her search for meaning through sexual experiences.
Why You’ll Love It:
Like Diet of Sex, Nymphomaniac explores the complexities of sexuality and its intersection with identity. Both films challenge social norms and approach human desire from a raw, unfiltered perspective. If you enjoy films that probe the human psyche while examining the nuances of sexual behavior, this movie will resonate deeply.
2. Crash (1996)
David Cronenberg’s Crash is an adaptation of J.G. Ballard’s novel, exploring the eroticism of car crashes. The film follows a group of people who develop a sexual fetish for car accidents, resulting in a surreal, disturbing exploration of how trauma, technology, and desire intersect.
Why You’ll Love It:
Much like Diet of Sex, Crash challenges conventional ideas of intimacy and desire. Both films use unconventional sexual themes to explore human psychology and emotional vulnerability, pushing boundaries in ways that make the audience question their own perceptions of normalcy.
3. Eyes Wide Shut (1999)
Stanley Kubrick’s Eyes Wide Shut is a psychological drama that follows Dr. Bill Harford (Tom Cruise) as he delves into a world of sexual intrigue after discovering his wife’s fantasies. As he navigates through parties, secret societies, and hidden desires, the film presents a haunting exploration of sexual obsession, power, and secrecy.
Why You’ll Love It:
Both Eyes Wide Shut and Diet of Sex explore themes of desire and the hidden aspects of human sexuality. Kubrick’s meticulous direction and the film’s psychological tension create an atmosphere that questions the boundaries of intimacy. Fans of thought-provoking films that dig deep into human desire will find Eyes Wide Shut a fascinating exploration.
You May Also like:Top 20 Mind-Bending Movies Like Coherence | Similar-List
4. Secretary (2002)
Directed by Steven Shainberg, Secretary stars Maggie Gyllenhaal as Lee Holloway, a young woman who enters into a BDSM relationship with her boss (played by James Spader). The film explores themes of self-discovery, dominance, and submission, offering a unique perspective on sexual liberation and emotional connection.
Why You’ll Love It:
Much like Diet of Sex, Secretary delves into the darker, often unspoken aspects of desire. Both films explore unconventional sexual relationships and the complexity of power dynamics within intimacy. The psychological journey that both characters undergo adds depth to the otherwise sensual premise, making it a compelling watch for those interested in exploring human desire.
5. Blue Velvet (1986)
David Lynch’s Blue Velvet is a surreal crime thriller that explores the darkness beneath the surface of suburban life. The story follows a young man named Jeffrey (Kyle MacLachlan) who uncovers a web of violence, mystery, and sexual deviance after discovering a severed ear in his neighborhood.
Why You’ll Love It:
Both Blue Velvet and Diet of Sex examine the complex and often disturbing intersections between sexuality, violence, and human desire. Lynch’s exploration of the subconscious and Diet of Sex’s unflinching look at sexuality both delve into the hidden facets of human experience, offering a unique and unsettling take on intimacy.
6. The Duke of Burgundy (2014)
The Duke of Burgundy, directed by Peter Strickland, is an intimate and sensual exploration of a lesbian BDSM relationship between two women. The film is a beautiful, atmospheric take on desire, exploring themes of power, submission, and the emotional complexity of unconventional love.
Why You’ll Love It:
Like Diet of Sex, The Duke of Burgundy explores the nuances of power dynamics and emotional complexity in intimate relationships. The film’s lush visuals and slow-burning narrative create an atmosphere that invites reflection on the role of desire in human connections. Fans of erotic psychological dramas will enjoy this film’s deep exploration of intimacy.
7. The Handmaiden (2016)
Park Chan-wook’s The Handmaiden is a visually stunning thriller set in 1930s Korea. The film follows a young woman who is hired to serve as a maid to a wealthy heiress, but soon becomes embroiled in a complex plot involving deception, betrayal, and passionate love.
Why You’ll Love It:
Like Diet of Sex, The Handmaiden explores themes of manipulation, power, and sexual liberation. Both films feature complex, emotionally charged relationships where desire plays a pivotal role in the narrative. The film’s use of visual storytelling and its psychological depth makes it a must-see for fans of sensual and mind-bending films.
8. Antichrist (2009)
Lars von Trier’s Antichrist is an intense psychological horror film about a grieving couple who retreat to a cabin in the woods to cope with their pain. As the film unravels, they explore themes of trauma, guilt, and sexuality in a disturbing and violent manner.
Why You’ll Love It:
Antichrist and Diet of Sex share a provocative approach to human sexuality and desire. Both films tackle dark, often uncomfortable themes, using graphic imagery and intense psychological drama to explore the boundaries of the human experience. Fans of films that challenge conventional sexual narratives will find Antichrist a compelling choice.
9. The Piano Teacher (2001)
Michael Haneke’s The Piano Teacher follows Erika Kohut (Isabelle Huppert), a repressed piano teacher who enters into a secret, sadomasochistic relationship with one of her students. The film explores the complexities of sexual repression, obsession, and the power dynamics in intimate relationships.
Why You’ll Love It:
Like Diet of Sex, The Piano Teacher delves into the darker sides of human desire and intimacy. Both films examine the psychological complexity of sexual relationships and explore themes of power and control. The film’s haunting atmosphere and intense performances make it an unforgettable exploration of desire.
10. Requiem for a Dream (2000)
Darren Aronofsky’s Requiem for a Dream is a harrowing exploration of addiction and its impact on human lives. While not directly focused on sexuality, the film explores the psychological effects of desire and obsession, both in the context of drugs and human relationships.
Why You’ll Love It:
While Requiem for a Dream explores addiction rather than sexuality directly, it shares Diet of Sex’s exploration of the destructive power of unchecked desire. Both films examine how obsession can alter perception and lead to devastating consequences. The film’s stark portrayal of human vulnerability makes it a thought-provoking watch.
11. Shame (2011)
Shame, directed by Steve McQueen, follows Brandon, a man living in New York City who struggles with sex addiction. The film explores the emotional consequences of a life driven by sexual desire, delving deep into the psychological toll that addiction takes on the individual.
Why You’ll Love It:
Like Diet of Sex, Shame examines the darker side of human sexuality. Both films focus on the psychological impact of unchecked desire and the alienation it can cause. The film’s raw, unflinching portrayal of addiction and intimacy makes it a compelling choice for fans of psychological dramas.
12. Teorema (1968)
Directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini, Teorema is a surreal and allegorical film about a mysterious stranger who seduces a family, disrupting their lives and altering their perceptions of reality, sexuality, and identity. The film explores themes of sexual liberation, social conformity, and emotional alienation.
Why You’ll Love It:
Teorema shares Diet of Sex’s exploration of desire and its ability to disrupt societal norms. Both films use sexuality as a vehicle to explore deeper themes of personal transformation, societal roles, and emotional alienation. Its experimental narrative style and provocative themes make it a fitting choice for fans of boundary-pushing cinema.
13. Irreversible (2002)
Gaspar Noé’s Irreversible is a disturbing French psychological thriller that explores the aftermath of a brutal crime. The film unfolds in reverse chronological order, depicting the devastating effects of violence, desire, and vengeance.
Why You’ll Love It:
Irreversible shares Diet of Sex‘s willingness to confront uncomfortable truths about human sexuality and violence. Both films push the boundaries of filmic expression, using unconventional storytelling techniques to explore the darker aspects of human desire and trauma.
14. Midnight Cowboy (1969)
John Schlesinger’s Midnight Cowboy follows Joe Buck, a naive Texan who moves to New York City to become a gigolo. The film explores themes of loneliness, desperation, and the complexities of human relationships, particularly in the context of sexuality.
Why You’ll Love It:
Like Diet of Sex, Midnight Cowboy delves into the exploration of human desires and the struggles individuals face in understanding their identity and place in the world. Both films focus on the intersection of loneliness, sexuality, and the human condition.
15. Love (2015)
Gaspar Noé’s Love is a visually explicit exploration of a young couple’s passionate relationship. The film delves into themes of love, lust, and the emotional impact of sexuality, offering an unfiltered view of human desire.
Why You’ll Love It:
Love shares Diet of Sex’s unflinching portrayal of intimacy and human connection. Both films present love and sex in raw, unapologetic terms, offering a bold exploration of the emotional and psychological effects of desire.
Conclusion: If you found Diet of Sex thought-provoking and intense, these 15 films will undoubtedly challenge your perceptions of intimacy, desire, and the human psyche. From disturbing psychological explorations to sensual dramas, each film offers a unique take on the complexities of human sexuality, making them a must-watch for anyone who enjoys films that push boundaries and explore the depths of desire. Whether you’re seeking more provocative cinema or films with a similarly psychological and emotional depth, this list has something for everyone.