The 25 Best Movies Like 'Nymphomaniac', Ranked By Fans
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The 25 Best Movies Like 'Nymphomaniac', Ranked By Fans

Jason Bancroft
Updated April 15, 2025 25 items
Voting Rules
Vote on the movies that fans of 'Nymphomaniac' are sure to love.

When it comes to exploring the complexities of human sexuality and desire, few films do it as unflinchingly as Nymphomaniac. Lars von Trier's provocative and raw portrayal of one woman’s erotic journey is intense and challenging, making it a standout in the genre. But if you're looking for more films that push boundaries and delve into the intricacies of sexual obsession, there are several titles that capture similar themes.

Take Shame, for example. Directed by Steve McQueen and starring Michael Fassbender, this film offers a harrowing look at a man grappling with sex addiction and the impact it has on his life and relationships. On a more mainstream note, Fifty Shades of Grey dives into the world of BDSM and complex power dynamics, though with a more romanticized lens. For those seeking another Lars von Trier creation, Antichrist provides a disturbing and visually striking exploration of grief, pain, and twisted desire, making it yet another compelling watch for fans of Nymphomaniac.

We’ve curated a list of these thought-provoking films, and now we want your input. Vote on the movies similar to Nymphomaniac and let us know which ones you think deserve the spotlight. Your votes will help highlight the films that successfully navigate the dark and intricate facets of human sexuality.

Most divisive: Melancholia
Over 90 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 25 Best Movies Like 'Nymphomaniac', Ranked By Fans

  • Melancholia

    Melancholia is a visually stunning science fiction drama directed by Lars von Trier. The film follows two sisters as they navigate their strained relationship amidst the impending doom of a planet heading toward Earth. Starring Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, and Kiefer Sutherland, Melancholia explores themes of depression, family dynamics, and existential dread.

    Similar to Nymphomaniac, Melancholia showcases von Trier's unique directorial style, known for his use of captivating visuals and thought-provoking storytelling. The film delves into complex emotional landscapes and challenges societal norms, much like Nymphomaniac does. Both films push boundaries and provoke deep introspection from their audiences.

    • Actors: Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Alexander Skarsgård, Brady Corbet, Cameron Spurr
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Lars von Trier
    32 votes
    Similar to 'Nymphomaniac'?
  • 28 Hotel Rooms

    In the romance drama 28 Hotel Rooms, audiences follow the evolving relationship between a writer and a corporate accountant who meet in hotel rooms over the course of several years. Starring Chris Messina and Marin Ireland, the film showcases the passionate encounters and emotional complexities that arise as the characters struggle with their growing feelings. Themes of desire, longing, and the transient nature of love are prominent throughout the story.

    Much like Nymphomaniac, 28 Hotel Rooms explores the intricacies of sexual experiences and the impact they have on the characters' lives. The film delves into the emotional depth of intimate relationships and the complexities of human desire. Both 28 Hotel Rooms and Nymphomaniac offer a raw and unfiltered look at the nature of the connections forged through physical intimacy.

    • Actors: Chris Messina, Marin Ireland, Robert Deamer, Brett Collier, Anne H. Wilson
    • Released: 2012
    • Directed by: Matt Ross
    28 votes
    Similar to 'Nymphomaniac'?
  • Adore

    In the drama film Adore, a unique and complex relationship unfolds between two lifelong friends and their respective sons in a seaside Australian town. Starring Robin Wright, Naomi Watts, and Xavier Samuel, the movie explores themes of desire, intimacy, and the boundaries of love. As the characters navigate their unconventional relationships, tensions arise and consequences unfold.

    Similar to Nymphomaniac, Adore delves into the exploration of sexual experiences and the complex emotions that accompany them. The film challenges societal norms and delves into the intricacies of human connection. Like Nymphomaniac, Adore offers a provocative and thought-provoking look at the nature of intimacy and relationships.

    • Actors: Robin Wright, Naomi Watts, Ben Mendelsohn, Xavier Samuel, Sophie Lowe
    • Released: 2013
    • Directed by: Anne Fontaine
    27 votes
    Similar to 'Nymphomaniac'?
  • Fifty Shades of Grey

    In the erotic drama Fifty Shades of Grey, Dakota Johnson portrays Anastasia Steele, a college student who enters into a complex and intense relationship with wealthy businessman Christian Grey. The movie delves into themes of power dynamics and the exploration of BDSM as the characters navigate their romance.

    Much like Nymphomaniac, Fifty Shades of Grey centers around a female protagonist, Anastasia, whose exploration of her needs leads her into a complex and intense relationship that challenges societal norms. The film explores the psychological and emotional complexities of Anastasia's desires, presenting a provocative and intense portrayal of female sexuality.

    • Actors: Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Jennifer Ehle, Eloise Mumford, Victor Rasuk
    • Released: 2015
    • Directed by: Sam Taylor-Johnson
    27 votes
    Similar to 'Nymphomaniac'?
  • Shame

    In the drama film Shame, viewers follow the life of Brandon, a successful businessman in New York City who struggles with sex addiction. Starring Michael Fassbender and Carey Mulligan, the movie explores Brandon's destructive behaviors and the impact it has on his relationships and mental health. Themes of addiction, intimacy, and isolation are central to the narrative.

    Similarly to Nymphomaniac, Shame focuses on characters who engage in compulsive behaviors, specifically in the realm of sexual addiction. The film delves into the psychological complexities of addiction and how it consumes the characters' lives. Shame and Nymphomaniac offer a raw and unflinching look at the consequences of compulsive behaviors and the struggle for control.

    • Actors: Michael Fassbender, Carey Mulligan, James Badge Dale, Nicole Beharie, Alex Manette
    • Released: 2011
    • Directed by: Steve McQueen
    35 votes
    Similar to 'Nymphomaniac'?
  • Secretary

    Secretary is a romantic comedy-drama that follows the unconventional relationship between a demanding lawyer and his submissive secretary. Starring Maggie Gyllenhaal and James Spader, the film delves into themes of power dynamics, self-discovery, and unconventional forms of intimacy. Through their relationship, the characters navigate their desires and boundaries in a world of control and submission.

    Similar to Nymphomaniac, Secretary revolves around characters who engage in compulsive behaviors related to their relationships. The film challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of power dynamics and unconventional forms of intimacy. Much like Nymphomaniac, Secretary offers a unique and provocative look at characters who struggle to find balance in their compulsions.

    • Actors: James Spader, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Jeremy Davies, Patrick Bauchau, Stephen McHattie
    • Released: 2002
    • Directed by: Steven Shainberg
    13 votes
    Similar to 'Nymphomaniac'?