Psychological horror and social thrillers explore community paranoia and extremism

Recent releases in the psychological horror and social thriller genres explore themes of community paranoia and extremist control.

The Netflix miniseries ‘Delusion’ (Ilusão Mortal) is set in the Chiang Khan district of Thailand. The plot follows the disappearance of a child, which triggers local panic and the revival of the Phii Pong folklore. The story uses the dementia of an elderly man, Narong, as a metaphor for how collective fear and secrets can consume a community. The series features Taew Natapohn Tameeruks as Wan, a high school teacher navigating personal struggles amidst the village's growing hysteria.

In the film ‘Virtuosas’, directed by Cíntia Domit Bittar, the narrative focuses on social horror through an exclusive retreat for women. Led by a manipulative coach played by Bruna Linzmeyer, the group pursues perfection through ultra-conservative and submissive ideals. The film examines how sectarian environments and the desire for belonging can lead to repression and extreme control.