20 Movies Like Fall (2022) That Will Hang You on the Cliff of Your Seat

Ever felt the dizzying thrill of peering over the edge of a precipice? The cold sweat beading on your brow as your stomach lurches? If “Fall” had you clutching your armrests and gasping for air, then prepare to plummet even further into cinematic adrenaline! This curated list of 20 movies like FAll takes you on a hair-raising journey beyond the treacherous slopes, into the heart of claustrophobic caves, unforgiving oceans, and even the vast emptiness of space.

Each film shares the same DNA as “Fall (2022)”: intense stakes, insane plot twists, and the raw human desire to keep climbing, even when the world seems determined to pull you down.

Free Solo (2018)

Witness the audacious feat of Alex Honnold, a free solo climber, as he attempts to scale the 3,000-foot wall of El Capitan without ropes or safety gear. This breathtaking documentary captures every edge-of-your-seat moment as Honnold confronts his fears, pushes human limits, and redefines what’s possible in the world of climbing.

Free Solo transcends the realm of sports and delves into the depths of human ambition, determination, and the relationship between fear and focus. It’s a testament to the power of the human spirit to achieve the seemingly impossible.

Like “Fall,” Free Solo places the audience in the heart of a high-stakes, life-or-death situation. Every handhold, every gust of wind, every moment of doubt becomes a nail-biting experience, mirroring the constant tension and vulnerability faced by Becky and Hunter in the Fall.

127 Hours (2010)

Trapped by a boulder in a remote Utah canyon, Aron Ralston faces a grueling 5 days of survival against all odds. With limited resources and dwindling hope, Ralston must rely on his ingenuity and determination and even resort to drastic measures to fight his way back to life.

127 Hours is a powerful story of resilience, resourcefulness, and the will to survive. It explores the depths of human strength and the unwavering spirit that allows us to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Both 127 Hours and Fall showcase the fight for survival against the elements and overwhelming physical limitations. Like Becky and Hunter’s struggle against the unforgiving terrain and altitude, Ralston’s battle against the clock and his own body creates a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Vertical Limit (2000)

Two estranged brothers, Peter and Annie Garrett, must overcome their demons and the unforgiving K2 peak to rescue their father, trapped after a disastrous expedition. This adrenaline-pumping action film blends breathtaking mountaineering sequences with emotional conflict and family drama, culminating in a heart-stopping final climb.

Vertical Limit explores themes of forgiveness, facing your fears, and the unbreakable bond of family. Similar to “Fall,” it emphasizes the importance of teamwork and resourcefulness under immense pressure, showcasing the lengths we go to protect those we love.

The high-stakes environment of K2 mirrored Fall’s treacherous mountain face, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with every precarious climb and potential avalanche. Both films depict the physical and mental strain of pushing human limits, testing characters’ resilience, and forcing them to confront their inner demons.

Open Water (2003)

A romantic diving trip takes a horrifying turn when Lisa and Daniel are accidentally left behind in shark-infested waters. With dwindling supplies and the constant threat of predators, they must rely on their wits and dwindling hope to survive against all odds.

Open Water delves into themes of desperation, resourcefulness, and the primal fear of the unknown. Similar to the movie Fall’s focus on isolation and vulnerability, this film amplifies the claustrophobic terror of being trapped in a hostile environment, forcing its characters to make impossible choices for survival.

The constant sense of danger and immediacy in Open Water mirrors Fall’s relentless tension. Both films place the audience directly in the protagonist’s shoes, making us feel every desperate gasp for air and every agonizing decision against the unforgiving forces of nature.

Memento (2000)

Leonard Shelby, a man suffering from short-term memory loss, hunts for his wife’s killer by leaving himself a trail of tattooed clues. The film’s non-linear narrative unfolds in reverse, slowly unraveling the mystery while blurring the lines between truth and deception.

Memento explores the nature of memory, identity, and the unreliable nature of perception. While not a traditional survival film like Fall, it shares the thematic depth of exploring desperation and the lengths one will go to for redemption. Like Becky and Hunter’s desperate struggle for survival, Leonard’s quest for vengeance pushes him to the edge of his sanity, making for a mind-bending and suspenseful ride.

Unbreakable (2000)

Elijah Price, a man with brittle bones convinced he’s the world’s only “unbreakable” person, encounters David Dunn, a security guard seemingly immune to harm. M. Night Shyamalan’s signature twist ending and exploration of fate, resilience, and the blurry line between hero and villain keep you guessing until the very last frame.

Unbreakable delves into themes of extraordinary abilities, questioning what defines a hero and confronting the consequences of seemingly miraculous powers. Similar to “Fall,” it explores the struggle against seemingly insurmountable odds, whether physical or personal and ultimately questions what makes us human in the face of the extraordinary.

Similar to in Fall, Like Becky and Hunter clinging to survival by sheer determination, both Elijah and David grapple with their unique limitations and push their boundaries to incredible lengths. The film’s suspenseful atmosphere and constant questioning of reality parallel the heart-pounding tension and unexpected twists in “Fall,” making it a thought-provoking thrill ride.

The Invisible Man (2020)

Cecilia Kass escapes an abusive relationship only to be haunted by her seemingly invisible ex-boyfriend. This modern take on the classic tale uses psychological terror and technological twists to keep you constantly questioning what you see. Elisabeth Moss delivers a powerful performance as Cecilia, battling not only her fear but also the very fabric of reality.

The Invisible Man explores themes of gaslighting, manipulation, and the insidious nature of control. Similar to “Fall,” it plays with perceptions, blurring the lines between reality and danger. Cecilia’s fight for survival isn’t just physical, but also a psychological battle against a seemingly unbeatable opponent, creating a chilling and suspenseful atmosphere.

Like Becky and Hunter relying on their senses and resourcefulness to overcome their perilous situation, Cecilia must use her intuition and wit to outsmart her unseen enemy. The film’s constant sense of unease and claustrophobia, even in seemingly safe spaces, mirrors the unrelenting tension faced by the characters in “Fall,” making it a gripping watch for anyone seeking a chilling thrill.

I Saw the Devil (2010)

Jang San-wool embarks on a brutal and bloodthirsty quest to avenge the brutal murder of his fiancée. This South Korean revenge thriller isn’t for the faint of heart, as it delves into the darkest corners of human rage and desperation.

I Saw the Devil explores themes of vengeance, morality, and the cyclical nature of violence. Similar to “Fall,” it showcases the lengths to which someone will go for survival and revenge, blurring the lines between victim and perpetrator. The film’s unflinching portrayal of violence and psychological trauma may not be for everyone, but for those seeking a raw and visceral experience, it’s a powerful and disturbing masterpiece.

While not a literal fight for survival in the same way as “Fall,” I Saw the Devil shares the film’s relentless intensity and psychological depth. Jang San-wool’s descent into darkness mirrors the desperation and emotional turmoil faced by Becky and Hunter, making it a gripping and morally ambiguous exploration of the human psyche under extreme pressure.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)

Steven Murphy, a successful surgeon, and his seemingly perfect family find their lives unraveling with the arrival of a mysterious teenager, Martin. Yorgos Lanthimos’ unsettling masterpiece creates a suffocating atmosphere of dread as secrets and lies surface, blurring the boundaries between guilt and retribution.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer delves into themes of family dynamics, retribution, and the consequences of past transgressions. Like “Fall,” it explores the emotional and psychological collapse of a seemingly stable foundation, highlighting the fragile nature of control and the unexpected ways the past can come back to haunt us.

While not a literal fight for survival, the film’s constant sense of unease and escalating tension mirrors the claustrophobic atmosphere and ever-present danger faced by Becky and Hunter in “Fall.” The psychological unraveling of Steven and his family, driven by an unseen and manipulative force, creates a similar edge-of-your-seat experience, albeit within the walls of their seemingly idyllic home.

Burning (2018)

Jong-su reconnects with childhood friend Haemi, only to be drawn into a dangerous web of manipulation and obsession when their wealthy benefactor, Ben, enters the picture. This South Korean neo-noir mystery smolders with slow-burning tension and ambiguity, leaving you questioning everything you think you know.

Burning explores themes of social class, desire, and the seductive nature of mystery. Similar to “Fall,” it plays with perception and reality, keeping the audience guessing and questioning the motives of every character. The simmering tension and ambiguous ending provide a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

While not a physical fight for survival, the film’s emotional intensity and sense of unease mirror the constant feeling of vulnerability and uncertainty faced by Becky and Hunter. The blurring of lines between reality and fiction, and the exploration of hidden agendas, creates a captivating mystery that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, hungry for answers.

The Shallows (2016)

A surfer gets stranded on a secluded reef after being attacked by a great white shark. This edge-of-your-seat survival thriller forces her to use her resourcefulness and wits to stay alive against all odds.

The Shallows explores themes of fear, isolation, and the will to survive. Like “Fall,” it places the audience directly in the protagonist’s shoes, making every encounter with the shark and the unforgiving environment a nail-biting experience. The physical and psychological fight for survival creates a raw and intense journey that will leave viewers breathless.

While the setting and threat differ, the constant sense of danger and vulnerability shared by both films create a similar adrenaline rush. The Shallows’ protagonist, like Becky and Hunter, must rely on her ingenuity and determination to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, making it a thrilling addition to your high-stakes survival movie list.

Frozen (2010)

Three skiers get stuck on a chairlift in a remote mountain location, facing freezing temperatures and dwindling hope. This psychological thriller blends the physical challenge of survival with the emotional claustrophobia of isolation, creating a tense and unpredictable journey.

Frozen delves into themes of desperation, resourcefulness, and the fragility of human connection. Like “Fall,” it explores the psychological toll of being stranded and the lengths people will go to for survival. While not as high-altitude as Fall, the film amplifies the claustrophobia of confinement and the chilling effects of the elements, making it a gripping watch.

Both films explore the desperation and emotional turmoil of individuals trapped in an unforgiving environment. The characters in Frozen, like Becky and Hunter, must rely on their wits and teamwork to overcome physical and emotional challenges, creating a suspenseful and character-driven survival story.

Gravity (2013)

Sandra Bullock soars through space after disaster strikes, in this visually stunning and emotionally powerful survival tale. Alone and adrift, she must fight for her life against the vast emptiness of space and the unforgiving laws of physics.

Gravity explores themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. Like “Fall,” it places the audience in the heart of a life-or-death situation, creating a visceral and emotionally resonant experience. While not featuring the same physical obstacles as Fall, the film amplifies the sense of vulnerability and isolation by setting it against the breathtaking and unforgiving backdrop of space.

Both films showcase the raw determination and fight for survival in the face of overwhelming odds. Bullock’s astronauts, like Becky and Hunter, must tap into their inner strength and resourcefulness to navigate a hostile environment and overcome seemingly impossible challenges.

Don’t Breathe (2016)

Three thieves target a blind man’s mansion, only to find themselves trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse. This home invasion thriller amps up the tension with claustrophobic settings, unpredictable twists, and a relentless sense of danger.

Don’t Breathe explores themes of trust, deception, and the consequences of greed. Like “Fall,” it plays with the audience’s perceptions and keeps them guessing, creating a suspenseful and unpredictable experience. While not a literal battle against the elements, the film’s confined setting and constant threat of the blind homeowner create a similar sense of vulnerability and desperation.

Both films rely on building tension through tight pacing, unexpected twists, and the constant threat of unseen danger. Like Becky and Hunter facing the harsh environment and their psychological fears, the thieves in Don’t Breathe must navigate a physical and emotional labyrinth to survive.

Hush (2016)

A deaf writer living alone in a secluded cabin becomes the target of a masked killer. Forced to rely on her senses and wits, she must outsmart and outmaneuver the intruder in a silent game of survival.

Hush delves into themes of vulnerability, resourcefulness, and the power of perception. Like “Fall,” it places the audience directly in the protagonist’s shoes, experiencing the world through her limited senses and amplifying the fear of isolation and unseen danger.

Both films capitalize on the vulnerability of their protagonists, creating a constant sense of tension and uncertainty. Similar to the movie Fall’s (2022) precarious situation, the silent and isolated setting in Hush forces the viewer to share the protagonist’s heightened awareness and fear, making it a nerve-wracking and suspenseful experience.

Crawl (2019)

A young woman trapped in a flooded basement during a hurricane finds herself face-to-face with hungry alligators. This creature feature blends claustrophobic horror with elements of survival, creating a fast-paced and terrifying journey.

Crawl explores themes of resilience, overcoming fear, and facing the primal instinct of survival. Like “Fall,” it throws the protagonist into a hostile environment, forcing them to confront their limitations and fight for their lives against seemingly unstoppable predators.

Both films pit their protagonists against overwhelming physical forces, in this case, the unforgiving elements and territorial alligators. The confined space and constant threat of unseen danger in Crawl mirror the feeling of vulnerability and pressure faced by Becky and Hunter, making it a thrilling and action-packed addition to your list.

Get Out (2017)

Get Out delves into themes of racism, social commentary, and the insidious nature of deception. While not a traditional survival film like “Fall,” it captures the same sense of unease and constant questioning through its blend of horror and satire. The protagonist’s journey into a dark and unsettling world shares aspects of “Fall’s” exploration of unexpected danger and the unraveling of seemingly secure realities.

Both films utilize elements of suspense and mystery to keep the audience guessing. The constant sense of unease and the blurring of lines between reality and danger in Get Out create a similar edge-of-your-seat experience, albeit through a different lens.

Parasite (2019)

A poor family infiltrates the lives of a wealthy household, leading to a series of dark and unexpected twists. While not a traditional survival story, Parasite masterfully builds tension and suspense through its exploration of class disparity and the lengths people will go to for survival.

Parasite delves into themes of class struggle, family dynamics, and the desperate search for a better life. Similar to “Fall,” it explores the vulnerability and desperation of those pushed to their limits, creating a gripping narrative that keeps the audience guessing until the very end.

Both films masterfully build tension through a sense of constant unease and the potential for disaster lurking just around the corner. The characters in Parasite, like Becky and Hunter, must navigate treacherous situations and face unforeseen dangers, albeit in a more psychological and social context.

The Descent (2005)

A group of female spelunkers get trapped in a cave system inhabited by monstrous creatures. This claustrophobic horror film combines psychological terror with elements of survival, creating a truly unsettling experience.

Movies like The Descent explore themes of fear, claustrophobia, and the primal struggle for survival. Like “Fall,” The descent places the audience in the heart of a terrifying and isolated environment, forcing them to confront their deepest fears alongside the characters.

Both films showcase the characters’ resilience and resourcefulness in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. The Descent’s claustrophobic setting and constant threat of unseen danger mirror the vulnerability and pressure faced by Becky and Hunter, making it a terrifying and suspenseful addition to your list.

Cliffhanger (1993)

A rescue team must save a group of climbers from a deadly mountain accident, only to discover themselves in a perilous game of cat and mouse with a vengeful ex-FBI agent. This action-packed thriller combines breathtaking stunts with a thrilling plot, making it a pulse-pounding ride.

Cliffhanger explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the fight for survival against seemingly impossible odds. Like “Fall,” it throws the characters into a dangerous and unpredictable situation, forcing them to rely on their skills and trust each other to survive.

Both films feature exhilarating high-altitude action sequences and the constant threat of falling. Cliffhanger’s relentless pace and emphasis on physical skills add a layer of adrenaline-pumping excitement to your list, while still exploring the vulnerability and desperation of characters trapped in a life-or-death situation.

Roger Ebert

Roger Ebert, a prominent figure in the world of movie criticism, is not just a film enthusiast but a dedicated blogger as well. With a profound passion for cinema, he indulges in a diverse range of films spanning various genres and eras. The prime objective is to offer readers a window into his perceptive analyses through insightful and thoughtful reviews. He loves discovering new favorite movies, from classics to the latest releases.