If you're fascinated by the complexities of human nature and the impact of societal structures, this curated list of social experiment dramas is just for you. These films delve into the depths of human psychology, exploring how individuals react when placed in unique, often unsettling, social scenarios. Each film in this collection offers a unique perspective on society, ethics, and the human condition, making them not just entertaining but also profoundly thought-provoking.

The Stanford Prison Experiment (2015)
Description: This film recreates the infamous 1971 experiment where college students played the roles of prisoners and guards, showing how quickly the situation deteriorated into psychological abuse.
Fact: The film was shot in the same building where the original experiment took place.


The Experiment (2010)
Description: An American remake of the German film, this version also explores the dynamics of power and control when participants in a psychological study are divided into prisoners and guards.
Fact: The film features Adrien Brody, who also starred in "The Pianist," showcasing his range as an actor.


The Wave (2008)
Description: Based on a true story, this German film shows how a teacher's experiment to demonstrate the dangers of fascism spirals out of control, highlighting the ease with which authoritarianism can take root.
Fact: The film was adapted from the novel by Morton Rhue, which was inspired by an actual classroom experiment in the U.S.


The Belko Experiment (2016)
Description: Employees of a company in Bogotá are locked in their office building and forced to kill each other or face dire consequences, testing human nature under extreme pressure.
Fact: The film was produced by James Gunn, known for his work on the Guardians of the Galaxy films.


The Lobster (2015)
Description: In this surreal drama, single people are given 45 days to find a romantic partner or be transformed into an animal of their choice, exploring themes of conformity and societal pressure.
Fact: The film won the Jury Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.


The Experimenter (2015)
Description: Focusing on Stanley Milgram's obedience experiments, this film explores the ethical dilemmas and psychological impacts of his work, questioning the nature of authority and obedience.
Fact: The film uses a mix of documentary style and narrative to portray Milgram's life and experiments.


The Square (2017)
Description: This Palme d'Or winner uses a social experiment in an art museum to critique contemporary society, exploring themes of altruism, empathy, and the art world's hypocrisy.
Fact: The film was Sweden's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars.


Compliance (2012)
Description: This film is based on true events where a prank call leads to a fast-food manager following the caller's instructions, resulting in a disturbing social experiment on obedience and authority.
Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of real events, sparking debates on the ethics of its portrayal.


The Experiment (2001)
Description: This German film, based on a real-life psychological experiment, examines the power dynamics and moral decay when volunteers are divided into prisoners and guards. It's a chilling look at how quickly societal norms can break down.
Fact: The film was inspired by the Stanford prison experiment, and it was remade in Hollywood in


The Circle (2017)
Description: While not a traditional social experiment, this film explores the implications of transparency and surveillance in a tech company, serving as a modern-day social experiment on privacy and control.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by Dave Eggers, which itself was inspired by real-life tech companies.
