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One of the funniest movies of the early ‘90s, Death Becomes Her is full of some all-time great cinematic characters like Madeline Ashton (Meryl Streep), Helen Sharp (Goldie Hawn), and Ernest Menville (Bruce Willis). However, all three are intertwined in a messed-up love triangle full of pettiness, bitterness, death, and a miracle tonic that extends things way too much.
Today, let’s shift our focus from the typical, joyful movie couples where everything works out or lessons are learned. Instead, let’s delve into 32 films that showcase toxic relationships – partnerships that caused more damage than good, to both parties involved. Rest assured, we’ll discuss some of the most beloved romantic comedies ever made, but we’ll also explore the dark and troubled relationships at the heart of a few captivating psychological thrillers with tragic conclusions
Gone Girl (Amy And Nick Dunne)
David Fincher’s 2014 film adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s “Gone Girl” boasts one of the most poisonous relationships ever portrayed on screen. The tumultuous marriage between Amy (played by Rosamund Pike) and Nick Dunne (Ben Affleck), marked by infidelity, deception, and manipulation, is a relationship that will go down in history
Fatal Attraction (Dan Gallagher And Alex Forrest)
In the ’80s movie titled “Fatal Attraction”, the story unfolds about Dan Gallagher (played by Michael Douglas) and Alex Forrest (portrayed by Glenn Close). When their relationship originates as an extramarital affair, it escalates into a dangerous situation, culminating in a heated argument that leaves Alex threatening Dan with a gun. This kind of toxic dynamic is a clear sign that the relationship is harmful and destructive
Revolutionary Road (Frank And April Wheeler)
If you imagine that the characters portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet in Titanic are as lovey-dovey as the actors were in Revolutionary Road, it suggests a different story is unfolding. Sam Mendes’ take on Richard Yates’ 1961 novel is BRUTAL, implying that the focus of their stories centers on two people whose hatred for one another is something to behold
Inception (Cobb And Mal)
Delve past the captivating visual effects, high-octane scenes, and numerous interpretations, and you’ll uncover a deeply troubling marital relationship as the foundation of Christopher Nolan’s film, Inception. Despite death, the suffering that characterized Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Mal’s (Marion Cotillard) tumultuous union persisted
Sid And Nancy (Sid Vicious And Nancy Spungen)
Delving into one of the notorious, tumultuous romances that rocked the world of music, I found myself engrossed in the gripping narrative of “Sid and Nancy.” This film, directed by Alex Cox in 1986, is a powerful portrayal of destructive energy, focusing on the heart-wrenching final stages of Sid Vicious (played by Gary Oldman) and Nancy Spungen’s (Chloe Webb) tumultuous relationship. Witnessing their tragic tale serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences when a toxic relationship spirals out of control
Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind (Clementine And Joel)
Among the outstanding films of the 2000s, “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” undeniably stands out, yet it’s an emotionally heavy journey. The narrative revolves around two former lovers (portrayed by Jim Carrey and Kate Winslet) who resort to drastic measures to move past a broken relationship. This heart-wrenching tale is guaranteed to make you reconsider the power of love and perhaps even question its necessity in your life
A Star Is Born (Jackson And Ally Maine)
Each iteration of the movie “A Star is Born” showcases deeply troubled relationships at their heart, and Bradley Cooper’s 2018 adaptation stands out as particularly heart-wrenching. From the moment Jackson Maine (Cooper) encounters Ally (Lady Gaga) in a drag club, it’s clear that this story won’t have a happy ending. Unfortunately, things take a turn for the worst, making it a truly sad tale with multiple layers of tragedy
Blue Valentine (Dean And Cindy)
Derek Cianfrance’s film “Blue Valentine” is a powerful movie that you might only want to watch once due to its intense emotional content. While it may not be as brutally intense as some other films, the portrayal of the long-term relationship between characters Dean (played by Ryan Gosling) and Cindy Pereira (portrayed by Michelle Williams) is deeply distressing, poignant, and incredibly heartrending
Badlands (Kit And Holly)
Drawing inspiration from the tale of Charles Starkweather and Caril-Ann Fugate, Badlands is a must-see crime film that should be experienced at least once. However, it’s important to note that the character played by Martin Sheen, Kit, is a ruthless killer who exploits his young girlfriend Holly, portrayed by Sissy Spacek, and leads her into a life of crime and bloodshed across America’s desolate territories
You’ve Got Mail (Kathleen Kelly And Joe Fox)
From my perspective, there’s no denying that You’ve Got Mail boasts an unforgettable enemies-to-lovers narrative. However, it’s important to call a spade a spade. Tom Hanks’ character, Joe Fox, is a cunning charmer who skillfully maneuvers Kathleen Kelly’s feelings, drives her bookstore into the ground, and masterminds a situation that ultimately leads them to become a couple at the end
The Graduate (Benjamin Braddock And Mrs. Robinson)
A connection based on passion rather than affection might not inevitably lead to catastrophe, but it’s hardly a positive outcome. This was the predicament for Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Hoffman) and Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft) in The Graduate. While it spawned an iconic tune, this harmful and unwholesome relationship is truly unfortunate and detrimental
Nocturnal Animals (Edward Sheffield And Susa Morrow)
Imagine a scenario where your actions towards your partner were so severe that they eventually penned a book, featuring a character strongly resembling you, who met a brutal end in the barren West Texas wilderness. This is the plot of the movie “Nocturnal Animals“, where Jake Gyllenhaal’s character, Edward Sheffield, engages in intense mind games with his ex-wife, Susan Morrow (played by Amy Adams)
Gaslight (Gregory And Paula)
When a film carries a title such as “Gaslight”, it’s a strong hint that a deeply poisonous relationship lies at its heart. This 1944 movie, which centers around the disintegration of Paula Alquist (Ingrid Bergman) and Gregory Anton’s (Charles Boyer) marriage due to Gregory’s sinister manipulations towards his new wife, is quite intense, as you can imagine
Requiem For A Dream (Harry And Marion)
Harry Goldfarb (portrayed by Jared Leto) and Marion Silver (Jennifer Connelly) are deeply engrossed in seeking excitement and escapism amidst their chaotic lives, which blinds them to the destructive impact of their toxic relationship in the film “Requiem for a Dream“. This movie is one of Darren Aronofsky’s masterpieces, but also arguably his most disquieting, largely due to the powerful performances of these two characters
Natural Born Killers (Mickey And Mallory Knox)
In the movie “Natural Born Killers,” it’s clear that Mickey (played by Woody Harrelson) and Mallory Knox (portrayed by Juliette Lewis) share a deep affection for each other. However, their unconventional way of expressing love is through a series of brutal killings of numerous people. As they travel together on a macabre journey, they escalate the violence in a twisted celebration of their relationship
Renfield (R.M. Renfield And Dracula)
In the film “Renfield,” there’s no romantic bond between R.M. Renfield (portrayed by Nicholas Hoult) and Dracula (also played by Nicholas Cage). However, it’s hard not to notice their relationship is one of the most poisonous we’ve witnessed in a modern horror movie. Dracula, who exploits his servant mercilessly, breeds a monster – a creature that wreaks havoc and decapitates many, causing turmoil in the vibrant city of New Orleans in this gory comedy
Kramer Vs. Kramer (Ted And Joanna Kramer)
Watching the trailer for the 1979 film “Kramer vs. Kramer” might initially seem like it promises a lighthearted and entertaining romantic drama. However, be prepared for a stark contrast as Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep’s portrayal of their relationship on-screen is far from pleasant, bordering on destructive, toxic, and heartbreaking. You may even find yourself needing counseling after viewing it
Midsommar (Dani And Christian)
In a compelling blend of horror and drama, Ari Aster’s film “Midsommar” stands out as one of the most disquieting movies ever made, featuring a relationship between Dani (played by Florence Pugh) and Christian (Jack Reynor) that is not only toxic but deeply problematic. Throughout the movie, their connection deteriorates from being distant to downright harmful. At no point in the film does it appear that these two characters genuinely connect or care for each other, particularly towards the end
Passengers (Aurora Lane And Jim Preston)
The trailer for the 2016 sci-fi film “Passengers” suggests a heartwarming story of an unusual romance blooming in deep space. However, it’s important to note that the relationship between Aurora Jane (Jennifer Lawrence) and Jim Preson (Chris Pratt) is rooted in a deception – a deceit so severe and unforgivable, it forms the core of the film’s narrative
An Education (Jenny Mellor And David Goldman)
In Lone Scherfig’s film An Education, Jenny Mellor, played by Carey Mulligan, appears to have a typical, wholesome relationship with David Goldman, portrayed by Peter Sarsgaard, during the movie’s 100-minute duration. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that the situation is far from ordinary and one of the characters harbors a devastating, sorrowful secret
Beauty And The Beast (Belle And Beast)
A tale as old as time, Beauty and the Beast is regarded as one of the best Disney animated movies, but the relationship between Belle and Beast is pretty horrible. While it is noble of Beast to set Belle’s dad free, he essentially holds the young woman hostage in his desolate castle in exchange. Stockholm Syndrome, anyone?
Leaving Las Vegas (Ben And Sera)
“One of Nicholas Cage’s standout performances is found in ‘Leaving Las Vegas,’ a movie that showcases a deeply troubled relationship between his character, Ben, and Sera, portrayed by Elisabeth Shue. Despite their mutual affection, their self-destructive behaviors and contrasting personalities take a heavy toll on both of them.”
Closer (Alice, Larry, Anna, And Dan)
Tracking the romantic entanglements and histories portrayed in the film “Closer” feels like it requires the skill of an Olympic athlete. Directed by Mike Nichols in 2004, this drama delves into the complex relationships among four characters – Alice (Natalie Portman), Larry (Clive Owen), Anna (Julia Roberts), and Dan (Jude Law). Spanning several years, these relationships are marked by heartbreak, tragedy, and toxicity. It’s a captivating movie, but it certainly provides a heavy dose of melancholy
The Godfather (Michael And Kay)
Michael Corleone, portrayed by Al Pacino, is renowned as one of cinema’s most notorious mobsters, yet he’s far from an admirable character. In “The Godfather” (and its subsequent films), his relationship with Kay Adams (played by Diane Keaton) is marked more by struggles than successes, filled with shifting loyalties, unpredictable rules, and a profound lack of trust. The closing scene in Francis Ford Coppola’s 1972 masterpiece encapsulates this dynamic perfectly
Interview With The Vampire (Lestat De Lioncourt And Louis De Pointe Du Lac)
In the film “Interview with the Vampire,” Lestat de Lioncourt (Tom Cruise) transforms Louis de Pointe du Lac (Brad Pitt) from a life of opulence into an eternal captive, and this transformation is both horrific and sorrowful. Despite their reliance on each other, they harbor intense hatred towards one another, which ultimately prevents a joyous resolution
Raging Bull (Jake And Vickie LaMotta)
In the movie “Raging Bull”, it’s not common to find likable or virtuous characters. However, Jake LaMotta (played by Robert De Niro) and Vickie LaMotta (portrayed by Cathy Moriarty) stand out as they are deeply entangled in a tumultuous and poisonous relationship. Their frequent fights, mind games, and harsh language suggest an unstable and potentially hazardous marriage
Death Becomes Her (Madeline Ashton, Helen Sharp, And Ernest Menville)
One of the most humorous films from the early ’90s, “Death Becomes Her“, boasts an array of unforgettable film characters such as Madeline Ashton (played by Meryl Streep), Helen Sharp (Goldie Hawn), and Ernest Menville (Bruce Willis). Yet, these three individuals find themselves entangled in a complicated love triangle marked by pettiness, resentment, death, and an extraordinary elixir that extends their lives beyond reasonable limits
Forrest Gump (Forrest And Jenny)
In the film “Forrest Gump,” is it clear that Forrest (Tom Hanks) has deep feelings for Jenny (Robin Wright)? Absolutely. However, the question of whether or not Jenny reciprocates these feelings with equal intensity throughout all those years remains uncertain. The movie suggests that Jenny often manipulates Forrest’s emotions across several decades, and at times, she behaves in ways that make her appear as the film’s antagonist
Marriage Story (Charlie And Nicole Barber)
In simpler terms, “Marriage Story” is an exceptional film that you should watch at least once. However, the characters Charlie (played by Adam Driver) and Nicole Barber (portrayed by Scarlett Johansson) make for a truly challenging and poisonous couple. Their jealousies, bitterness, and repressed anger create a ticking time bomb, so it’s likely that their separation is for the better
Phantom Thread (Reynolds Woodcock And Alma Elson)
In the film “Phantom Thread“, Alma Elson (Vicky Krieps) finds herself entangled in an unhealthy relationship with Reynolds Woodcock (Daniel Day-Lewis), who becomes increasingly possessive and controlling. As the story unfolds over a prolonged period, their bond proves to be highly toxic, hinting at underlying issues that should give Alma cause for concern
Nightcrawler (Lou Bloom And Nina Romina)
In the film “Nightcrawler,” the characters Lou Bloom (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) and Nina Romina (portrayed by Rene Russo) present a relationship that’s quite unsettling in today’s cinema. Lou exploits Nina, while Nina, in turn, manipulates the young news stringer. Both of them are selfish individuals who seem to be reaping what they sow
500 Days Of Summer (Tom And Summer)
In the movie “500 Days of Summer,” it’s hard not to empathize with Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), but it’s also important to note that neither Tom nor Summer (Zooey Deschanel) should be blamed for their failed relationship. They both have different desires and life goals, which would be manageable if they didn’t negatively affect each other and ultimately lead to the demise of their romance
Hey there, fellow gaming buddy! You know what’s interesting? Even in those classic rom-coms we all adore, the cinematic universe has its fair share of toxic love stories. It’s like some movie directors are secretly trying to teach us a lesson about unhealthy relationships without us even realizing it!
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2024-09-04 20:15