34 Alexandre Aja Movies
Are you in search of pulse-pounding and nerve-wracking movies? Then you’ve got to delve into the work of Alexandre Aja, a talented auteur renowned for his one-of-a-kind storytelling and spine-chilling ambiance. In this article, we’re going to take a closer look at his remarkable filmography, investigating his distinctive style and the indelible mark he’s left on the horror genre.
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1. The Big Pardon (1982)
“A Grand Forgiveness” is a gripping French crime drama from 1982. Directed by Alexandre Arcady, this film dives into the suspenseful depths of the murder investigation of a nude woman. Commissioner Duche, portrayed by Roger Hanin, engages in the intense drama from his parked car with the aid of his binoculars, meticulously observing the unfolding events at Raymond Bettoun’s villa.
2. Le grand carnaval (1983)
Le Grand Carnaval, a 1983 French drama directed by Alexandre Arcady, is set in Algeria during the Allied invasion of North Africa in 1942. The film follows a group of Americans who find themselves in the midst of the invasion, witnessing the struggles and complexities of warfare. With the backdrop of a time of upheaval and change, the narrative delves into the lives of these characters, highlighting their experiences and offering a glimpse into the complexities of human nature. The film stars Philippe Noiret, Roger Hanin, and Richard Berry, and has been likened to other dramas of the era, such as Le Grand Pardon II, The Big Pardon, and L’Union Sacrée. Despite its release date, Le Grand Carnaval still holds a certain level of relevance for contemporary audiences, presenting themes of war, survival, and the human condition in a compelling and dramatic manner.
3. L’union sacrée (1989)
In the thrilling crime drama, L’union sacrée, we follow the journey of Simon, a determined Jewish police inspector, and Karim, a courageous Muslim undercover agent. Caught up in a dangerous drug smuggling investigation, their paths cross unexpectedly. Unbeknownst to Simon, Karim is an undercover hero on a top-secret military mission.
4. Le grand pardon II (1992)
“Le grand pardon II” (1992), directed by Alexandre Arcady, is a gripping crime thriller that explores the high-stakes underbelly of drug lords. Set in the 90s, the plot follows a government agent tasked with defusing the all-out war between rival drug lords, resulting in an intense battle of power, deceit, and survival. With a talented cast including Roger Hanin, Richard Berry, and Gérard Darmon, this sequel is bound to enthrall fans of the original. The French production has received a well-deserved R content rating and boasts a runtime of 2 hours and 7 minutes. For those seeking a high-stakes action movie, “Le grand pardon II” is an engaging choice to satisfy the craving.
5. Furia (1999)
“Furia” is a gripping drama film set in a post-apocalyptic world where rebellion takes a dangerous turn. In this bleak landscape, Théo, a defiant young man, takes a stand against the oppressive regime by posting anti-government slogans. His courageous actions catch the attention of a mysterious woman, sparking a passionate and illicit love affair. As they navigate the tumultuous landscape, Théo and his lover must confront the harsh realities of their world. Directed by Alexandre Aja and written by Aja, Julio Cortázar, and Grégory Levasseur, this captivating French film stars Stanislas Merhar, Marion Cotillard, and Wadeck Stanczak. With a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes, “Furia” delves into themes of love, rebellion, and the human cost of freedom.
6. Là-bas… mon pays (2000)
“Là-bas. . mon pays” (2000) is a compelling drama set against the backdrop of turbulent times. It follows the life of Pierre Nivel, a popular French TV news host who hides his Algerian roots. The story unfolds when an urgent message from an Algerian delivers critical information about Leïla Jalal, a resident of the same apartment building where the Nivil’s and Jalal’s families lived.
7. Break of Dawn (2002)
In the shadows of Eastern Europe, two ex-legionnaires find themselves on a deadly mission of political assassination in the heart of Bucharest, Romania. “Break of Dawn” (2002) delves into the intriguing, often overlooked human side of these lethal professionals. The French-Romanian production, adapted from literature, offers an immersive action-drama experience that challenges typical perceptions of cold-blooded killers.
8. High Tension (2003)
“High Tension, “ or “Haute tension, “ is a thrilling and chilling French-Romania horror film released in 2005. Directed by Alexandre Aja with a runtime of 1 hour and 31 minutes, it combines suspense, violence, and psychological terror to deliver an unforgettable cinema experience.
9. Mariage mixte (2004)
“Mariage Mixte, “ directed by Alexandre Arcady, is a hilarious 2004 French comedy that offers a fresh twist on love, family, and the unpredictable nature of life. Set in France, the film delves into a heartwarming and humorous tale of a marriage that brings together two very different families.
10. 36 pasos (2006)
“36 pasos” (2006), a chilling Spanish horror film, plunges viewers into a world where following rules can mean life or death. Set in a mysterious house, the movie features a group of girls who must adhere to strict guidelines or face dire consequences. As the boundaries blur between reality and a malevolent force, tensions rise and horrific truths are revealed. This sinister tale, helmed by Adrián García Bogliano and co-written by Ramiro García Bogliano, Adrian Garcia Bogliano, and Honorio Galarza, stars Noelia Balbo, Ines Sbarra, and Melissa Fernández. “36 pasos” has been lauded for its atmospheric tension and visceral scares, earning an award at a prestigious film festival. Girls’ night turns deadly in this Latin American slasher filled with revenge, mayhem, and female nudity. The movie is a suspenseful roller coaster ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat. With a runtime of 1h 38min, “36 pasos” is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre. Don’t miss this chilling tale of terror when it was released on April 25, 2007.
11. The Hills Have Eyes (2006)
In the desolate, lawless territories of the American southwest, a naïve suburban family finds themselves trapped and hunted by the unthinkable — a grotesque band of mutated cannibals. When their car mysteriously flips over a steep hill, leaving them stranded miles from the nearest town, they become the chilling prey of a group of nightmarish outlaws. As they fight for their lives, the once-proud family must confront the brutality lurking at the very edges of civilization. A 2006 remake of the 1977 original, “The Hills Have Eyes” is a gripping tale of desperation and terror. It features graphic violence, shocking twists, and a chilling reminder that the worst horrors lie not in remote, foreboding locations, but in the unthinkable cruelties of our fellow man.
12. P2 (2007)
“P2” is a harrowing thriller where a businesswoman, played by Rachel Nichols, finds herself trapped in a terrifying game of cat and mouse. It all starts on Christmas Eve as she enters a parking garage and unknowingly locks herself in with a dangerous psychopath. The plot intensifies as the psychopath begins to obsess over her, pursuing her relentlessly and tying her to a chair. As the clock ticks away, she must use her wits to outsmart her tormentor and escape the confines of the parking garage. With a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes, the film delves deep into the realms of crime, horror, and suspense, earning it a rating of 5.9 on IMDb. Directed by Franck Khalfoun, “P2” stars Rachel Nichols, Wes Bentley, and Simon Reynolds, and features a chilling score that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.
13. Frontier(s) (2007)
Frontier(s) (2007) is a riveting and chilling horror film directed by Xavier Gens, set in the aftermath of a violent Parisian political election. The story follows a group of young criminals who, desperate to escape, find refuge in an isolated inn run by neo-Nazi sympathizers. As tensions rise and secrets emerge, they must confront not only their own dark instincts but also the deadly game of survival playing out around them. With a blend of suspense and terror, Frontier(s) leaves no room for escape, as the protagonists are pushed to their limits and beyond by their brutal captors. As the plot unfolds and the lines between right and wrong blur, the audience is left questioning their own morality and the price of survival. Set against the backdrop of a Paris torn apart by political turmoil, Frontier(s) is a film that offers a unique and powerful insight into the human experience. Packed with jaw-dropping performances and visceral moments, it’s a cinematic experience that is both challenging and unforgettable. Frontier(s) (2007) boasts an impressive cast of relatively unknown actors, including Karina Testa, Aurélien Wiik, and Patrick Ligardes. The film, produced by Cartel Productions, BR Films, and EuropaCorp, was released in 2008, and its impact is still felt in the horror genre today. With its dark and gritty atmosphere, Frontier(s) is a film that continues to garner attention and respect from both critics and audiences alike. If you’re a fan of the genre, this is one film you don’t want to miss. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey into the depths of human instinct and the lengths we will go to survive.
14. Mirrors (2008)
Mirrors is a chilling 2008 horror film that follows the story of an ex-cop and his family as they become the victims of an unsettling supernatural force. This force, using mirrors as a gateway, invades their home and wreaks havoc on their lives. Led by Kiefer Sutherland as the father, and supported by Paula Patton and Amy Smart as the mother and daughter duo, Mirrors is a tense thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. As the plot unfolds, the characters must unravel the mystery behind the mirrors’ malevolent presence and fight for their survival. The film’s horrifying blend of mirror-induced horror and psychological suspense makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
15. Piranha 3D (2010)
Get ready for a thrilling and hilarious ride as Piranha 3D (2010) plunges audiences into the depths of a deadly underwater world. When a mysterious earthquake releases a swarm of prehistoric, carnivorous fish, an unsuspecting group of tourists must join forces with a local sheriff to fight for their lives. Combining gut-wrenching horror with side-splitting comedy, Piranha 3D sees a star-studded cast, including Elisabeth Shue, Jerry O’Connell, and Richard Dreyfuss, battle the relentless razor-toothed creatures threatening their survival. Directed by Alexandre Aja, this adrenaline-fueled thriller has become a cult classic, with a total worldwide gross of $83,188,165 and an estimated budget of $24,000,000 (estimated). Get set for a wild, action-packed adventure that redefines the term “pool party” in Piranha 3D (2010).
16. Maniac (2012)
Experience a twisted take on the psychological thriller in “Maniac” (2012), directed by Franck Khalfoun and starring Elijah Wood and Nora Arnezeder. When Frank Zito, the owner of a mannequin shop, finds himself assisting a young artist in the preparation of her upcoming exhibition, his dark, hidden desires surface, revealing an unsettling side of his nature.
17. Horns (2013)
Horns, a 2013 thriller directed by Alexandre Aja, follows the intriguing journey of a young man as he navigates the aftermath of his girlfriend’s mysterious death. Upon awakening, he discovers a shocking new reality: strange horns sprouting from his forehead. With a gripping plot and a talented cast, including Daniel Radcliffe, Juno Temple, and Max Minghella, this unnerving and unexpected film delves into the realm of dark fantasy and uncovers the hidden truths surrounding the man’s girlfriend’s untimely demise. A captivating blend of mystery, suspense, and horror, Horns challenges our perceptions and keeps us on the edge of our seats.
18. Rock the Casbah (2013)
“Rock the Casbah” is a heartwarming comedy-drama that brings a family together during a challenging time. In Morocco, Sofia returns to her patriarch’s funeral, reuniting with her three sisters and their housekeeper. As the family grieves, long-buried conflicts start to surface, revealing unexpected secrets. Directed by Laïla Marrakchi, this film features an ensemble cast of acclaimed actresses, including Morjana Alaoui, Nadine Labaki, and Hiam Abbass. “Rock the Casbah” takes viewers on an emotional journey through the interwoven lives of a diverse family, set against the backdrop of Morocco’s rich cultural tapestry. With its unique blend of humor and drama, this touching film offers an authentic look at love, family, and the complexities of human relationships. “Rock the Casbah” is a must-see for fans of international cinema who appreciate stories that challenge and inspire.
19. 24 Days (2014)
“24 Days” is a gripping French drama and thriller film, released in 2015, directed by Alexandre Arcady, which is based on the true story of Ilan Halimi’s kidnapping. Set in 2006, Ilan is captured by a vicious gang who demand a ransom because of his perceived wealth and Jewish heritage. The movie takes us through the nail-biting 24-day ordeal that Ilan’s desperate family and the police undergo as they attempt to save Ilan from the horrifying torture inflicted by his attackers, who proudly identify as “the gang of barbarians. “
20. The Pyramid (2014)
Unleash the terror of an ancient evil in “The Pyramid” (2014)! When a dedicated archaeological team sets out to unearth the secrets of a long-lost Egyptian pyramid, they are unprepared for the wrath that ensues. This thrilling horror mystery unfolds as the team, led by the resourceful Nora (Ashley Hinshaw) and enigmatic curator Sean O’Hara (Denis O’Hare), encounters a relentless, ghastly force. As they fight to survive, dark rituals and cryptic artifacts resurrect the malevolent spirit of Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of death.
21. Why Horror? (2014)
Experience the intriguing journey of “Why Horror? “ (2014), an insightful feature documentary that delves into the enigmatic world of horror fans around the globe. Through the lens of horror enthusiast Tal Zimerman, the film explores the psychological depths of our fascination with horror. Witness Zimerman’s personal quest to unravel the secrets behind this intense genre and the chilling stories that make it unforgettable. Featuring interviews with renowned horror icons and thought-provoking insights, “Why Horror? “ offers a unique perspective on our collective love for the macabre and terrifying. With a captivating narrative backed by stunning visuals, this documentary sheds new light on the dark and mysterious allure of horror.
22. The 9th Life of Louis Drax (2016)
The 9th Life of Louis Drax is a captivating cinematic experience that combines elements of drama, mystery, and thriller. The film, released in 2016, tells the story of a young boy named Louis Drax who faces a near-fatal fall, leading to a series of life-threatening events. The boy’s encounters with these incidents create a perplexing mystery that transcends the borders of reality and imagination. Set in a world of fantasy and intrigue, the movie delves into the mind of Louis Drax, who finds himself in a web of mysteries that push even the most skeptical psychologist he encounters. As the psychologist works closely with the young boy, he discovers the unsettling truth behind a seemingly unlikely narrative. The tale combines real-world situations, such as food poisoning and electrocution, with elements of fantasy and supernatural occurrences that leave the audience questioning the limits of their own reality. Directed by Alexandre Aja, The 9th Life of Louis Drax is a suspense-filled masterpiece, with a 1 hour 48-minute runtime and an IMDb rating of 6.3. The movie stars Jamie Dornan, Aiden Longworth, and Sarah Gadon, ensuring a stellar performance from the cast. With a budget of $11 million, the film has managed to gross $584,723, illustrating its impact on cinema-goers and box office success alike. Overall, The 9th Life of Louis Drax is a thought-provoking and enthralling experience that explores the boundaries of life and death, leaving viewers questioning their perceptions of reality. This gripping film is a must-watch for fans of mysterious narratives and psychological thrillers alike.
23. The Other Side of the Door (2016)
In “The Other Side of the Door”, a heartbroken woman, played by Sarah Wayne Callies, is shattered by her young son’s tragic death. Desperate for closure, she discovers a ritual that could bring him back to life long enough to say goodbye. Traveling to India and enlisting the help of a shaman and a local temple, she enters the forbidden realm of death to unravel the mystery of her child’s fate.
24. Amityville: The Awakening (2017)
“Amityville: The Awakening” is a hair-raising horror-thriller that takes a fresh spin on the infamous Amityville House. When a single mother desperate to cure her comatose son, played by Bella Thorne, moves her family into the haunted dwelling, they unwittingly open the door to a terrifying nightmare. As they settle in, it becomes clear the dark powers of the house are not going to make things easy for them. With Jennifer Jason Leigh as the mother and Mckenna Grace playing her daughter, this thrilling film delves deep into the fear of the unknown, taking viewers on a heart-stopping ride. Don’t miss this new chapter in the Amityville saga.
25. 47 Meters Down (2017)
“47 Meters Down” is a chilling horror film set in Mexico that follows two sisters as they unwittingly find themselves trapped in a shark cage at the ocean bottom. With time running out and hungry great white sharks circling above, they must devise a desperate escape plan while fighting to stay alive. Directed by Johannes Roberts and starring Mandy Moore and Claire Holt, this thrilling mystery will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.
26. Beyond Blood (2018)
“Beyond Blood” is a documentary that takes you on a journey into the world of the New Wave of French Horror, a movement that gripped the world from 2003 to 2008. This innovative, blood-soaked chapter in cinematic history is brought to life through the directors, writers, and stars that made it possible.
27. Crawl (2019)
Crawl, directed by Alexandre Aja, follows the story of a young woman trying to save her father during a category 5 hurricane. Amidst the chaos and danger of the storm, the pair becomes trapped in their flooding house. Struggling to stay afloat and escape the treacherous floodwaters, the all-too-familiar creatures lurking beneath the surface now pose a deadly threat.
28. 47 Meters Down: Uncaged (2019)
“47 Meters Down: Uncaged” sees two sisters embarking on a daring adventure in the depths of the ocean, diving into a mysterious, submerged city filled with deadly sharks. As they navigate the claustrophobic labyrinth of underwater caves, these brave sisters face the ultimate test of survival as they encounter the deadliest shark species known to man.
29. Kandisha (2020)
Kandisha is an exhilarating 2020 Moroccan horror movie directed by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury. This chilling tale follows three friends who delve into an ancient legend, inadvertently unleashing an unrelenting female spirit seeking revenge.
30. Oxygen (2021)
“Oxygen, “ a thrilling 2021 French-American film, follows a woman as she wakes up in a cryogenic chamber, with no memory of how she got there. In a race against time, with her oxygen supply dwindling, she must retrace her past in order to escape her chilling reality.
31. The Deep House (2021)
A chilling journey through terror awaits as “The Deep House” (2021), an unsettling horror mystery, submerges viewers in a labyrinth of sinister secrets. Directed by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury, the film features a couple of urban explorers, Camille Rowe and James Jagger, who stumble upon an eerie, house-turned-watery tomb in the heart of a remote French lake.
32. Hellraiser (2022)
“Hellraiser” is a chilling horror, mystery, and thriller film from David Bruckner, released in 2022. The movie centers around a young woman who is struggling with addiction.
33. Le petit blond de la casbah (2023)
“Le petit blond de la casbah” is a moving and intimate biographical film from the renowned director, Alexandre Arcady. The movie chronicles the life of its filmmaker, Antoine Lisner, giving viewers a glimpse into his early life in Algeria. In what seems like a poignant homecoming, Antoine returns to Algiers to present his latest film, accompanied by his son, who was the same age as him when he left the country in 1962.
34. Night of the Hunted (2023)
Night of the Hunted, released in 2023, is a gripping crime drama and horror thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Directed by Franck Khalfoun, the film stars Jeremy Scippio, J. John Bieler, and Monaia Abdelrahim. Set in a desolate gas station, a woman is targeted by a sociopathic sniper with a vendetta to seek revenge for past actions. As she fights for survival, she must confront her darkest fears while attempting to outsmart the deadly forces closing in around her.