Dark Academia Movies & TV Shows
Dark Academia movies and tv shows explore scholarship through the lens of a gorgeously moody instagram feed. Imagine edgy, unsettling themes, secret symbols, and and classic style that highlights eerie intellectualism with a touch of mystery and a sprinkle of danger.
Movies and TV shows in this genre typically revolve around elite schools or universities, where everything looks like a sepia-toned dream but underneath lies a labyrinth of dark, complex narratives. Think secret societies, hidden agendas, and moral dilemmas. It’s about the thrill of learning, but with high stakes and shadowy corners.
- Dagmara Mach
- April 23, 2024
Dark Academia Movies
Picture Hogwarts meets Sherlock Holmes, with a dash of Edgar Allan Poe’s moodiness. These films pack scenes wrapped in tweed, glittering with candlelight, and full of characters debating secrets hidden in dusty alcoves.
1945
THE PICTURE OF DORIAN GRAY
Based on Oscar Wilde's novel, this film follows the haunting transformation of a young man who sells his soul for eternal youth and beauty.
Enter a world of decadence and desire as Dorian Gray, played by the enchanting Hurd Hatfield, trades his soul for eternal youth and beauty. As his portrait ages while he remains untouched, a sinful life of pleasure and debauchery unfolds, revealing the darkest corners of the human soul. This provocative adaptation of Oscar Wilde's masterpiece invites you to explore the sinister allure of eternal temptation and its devastating consequences.
Enter a world of decadence and desire as Dorian Gray, played by the enchanting Hurd Hatfield, trades his soul for eternal youth and beauty. As his portrait ages while he remains untouched, a sinful life of pleasure and debauchery unfolds, revealing the darkest corners of the human soul. This provocative adaptation of Oscar Wilde's masterpiece invites you to explore the sinister allure of eternal temptation and its devastating consequences.
The Picture of Dorian Gray
1945 | CC
4.7/5
1,316 global ratings
Prime Video
From $2.99
to rent
1969
IF...
A British film exploring rebellion and power struggles in an oppressive boarding school, with Malcolm McDowell's brilliant performance as a student who questions the system.
In a strict and oppressive British boarding school, Malcolm McDowell delivers a captivating performance as Mick Travis, a young rebel with a burning desire to challenge authority. Amidst the hierarchy and discipline, Mick orchestrates a daring revolution, defying the status quo and igniting a passionate clash of ideologies. Brace yourself for a tale of empowerment and resistance, where intellect meets rebellion in a sizzling display of audacious desires.
In a strict and oppressive British boarding school, Malcolm McDowell delivers a captivating performance as Mick Travis, a young rebel with a burning desire to challenge authority. Amidst the hierarchy and discipline, Mick orchestrates a daring revolution, defying the status quo and igniting a passionate clash of ideologies. Brace yourself for a tale of empowerment and resistance, where intellect meets rebellion in a sizzling display of audacious desires.
1989
DEAD POETS SOCIETY
This classic film starring Robin Williams follows an English teacher who inspires his students to embrace the power of poetry and independent thinking in a strict all-boys prep school.
With a lesson plan full of unorthodox methods, maverick teacher John Keating emboldens his all-boys preparatory school students, inspiring them to break out of their shells, pursue their dreams and seize the day.
With a lesson plan full of unorthodox methods, maverick teacher John Keating emboldens his all-boys preparatory school students, inspiring them to break out of their shells, pursue their dreams and seize the day.
Dead Poets Society
1945 | CC
4.7/5
1,316 global ratings
Prime Video
From $3.99
to rent
2013
THE GREAT GATSBY
Baz Luhrmann's visually stunning adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel, set in the roaring '20s, showcases the dark underbelly of wealth, obsession, and decadence in high society.
Step into a dazzling world of lavish parties, enigmatic millionaires, and forbidden love affairs. Baz Luhrmann's visually stunning adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel brings to life the glitz and glamour of the roaring '20s. As secrets unfold and hearts break, you'll be drawn into a world of seduction, where desires and ambitions intertwine in a captivating dance of love, passion, and betrayal.
Step into a dazzling world of lavish parties, enigmatic millionaires, and forbidden love affairs. Baz Luhrmann's visually stunning adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel brings to life the glitz and glamour of the roaring '20s. As secrets unfold and hearts break, you'll be drawn into a world of seduction, where desires and ambitions intertwine in a captivating dance of love, passion, and betrayal.
2013
KILL YOUR DARLINGS
This biographical drama revolves around the Beat Generation, focusing on the meeting of Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and William S. Burroughs during their college years.
Set in the backdrop of the Beat Generation, this magnetic film follows the lives of Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and William S. Burroughs as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and creative rebellion. Amidst the intoxicating allure of counterculture, forbidden desires emerge, fueling a tale of passion and intellectual awakening that will leave you breathless.
Set in the backdrop of the Beat Generation, this magnetic film follows the lives of Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and William S. Burroughs as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and creative rebellion. Amidst the intoxicating allure of counterculture, forbidden desires emerge, fueling a tale of passion and intellectual awakening that will leave you breathless.
Kill Your Darlings
2013 | CC
4.7/5
1,316 global ratings
Prime Video
From $3.99
to rent
1988
CRACKS
A Dark Academia girls' boarding school drama centered around enigmatic femme fatale archetype, Miss G. Her allure draws admiration from students, showcasing the blurred lines between admiration and obsession. Through moody cinematography and exploration of hidden desires, the movie delves into power dynamics, female relationships, and the complexities of human nature, ultimately celebrating the pursuit of knowledge and the transformative power of education.
The film's atmospheric setting, Gothic architecture, and muted tones add to its allure. Amidst a backdrop of secrecy and hidden desires, "Cracks" inspires exploration of mentorship, the pursuit of knowledge, and the impact of human connections in an intellectually stimulating and restrictive environment.
The film's atmospheric setting, Gothic architecture, and muted tones add to its allure. Amidst a backdrop of secrecy and hidden desires, "Cracks" inspires exploration of mentorship, the pursuit of knowledge, and the impact of human connections in an intellectually stimulating and restrictive environment.
2011
HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE
"Harry Potter" enchants with timeless Dark Academia fantasy. Set in the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the movies follow the journey of Harry Potter, a young wizard with a mysterious past and a destiny intertwined with the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort.
As Harry embarks on a quest to defeat the forces of darkness, he forms unbreakable bonds with his loyal friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, embracing the essence of true friendship and the pursuit of knowledge. The "Harry Potter" series weaves a spellbinding tapestry of magic, mythology, and personal growth, inviting viewers into a world of wonder, making it an inspiring and irresistible masterpiece of the Dark Academia genre.
As Harry embarks on a quest to defeat the forces of darkness, he forms unbreakable bonds with his loyal friends, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley, embracing the essence of true friendship and the pursuit of knowledge. The "Harry Potter" series weaves a spellbinding tapestry of magic, mythology, and personal growth, inviting viewers into a world of wonder, making it an inspiring and irresistible masterpiece of the Dark Academia genre.
Harry Potter And The Sorcerer's Stone
2001 | CC
4.8/5
87,178 global ratings
Prime Video
From $3.99
to rent
1999
CRUEL INTENTIONS
"Cruel Intentions" is a seductive and alluring Dark Academia drama that navigates the complex web of power, manipulation, and forbidden desires. Set in the privileged world of Manhattan's elite, the film follows step-siblings Kathryn and Sebastian as they engage in a dangerous game of seduction and manipulation. With their intellectual prowess and devious intentions, they use their charm to manipulate those around them, particularly targeting the innocent Annette. The movie's intoxicating blend of intellect, sensuality, and moral ambiguity draws viewers into a world of moral dilemmas and hidden agendas. "Cruel Intentions" skillfully intertwines the allure of intellect with the exploration of forbidden passions, creating a mesmerizing and provocative narrative that embodies the essence of Dark Academia.
Cruel Intentions
1999 | R | CC
4.6/5
5,141 global ratings
Prime Video
From $1.99
to rent
2000
THE SKULLS
"The Skulls" is a tantalizing Dark Academia thriller that delves into the secretive world of elite societies and moral dilemmas.
Set within the hallowed halls of Yale University, the film follows the ambitious and intellectually gifted student Luke McNamara as he is invited to join the prestigious and enigmatic Skulls fraternity. As Luke becomes entangled in a web of power, secrecy, and dangerous loyalty, he finds himself questioning his values and ethics.
The movie's intricate plot, combined with its intellectual intrigue and exploration of the price of success, crafts a captivating narrative that embodies the essence of Dark Academia. "The Skulls" is a provocative exploration of ambition, secrecy, and the allure of intellectual belonging, making it a riveting addition to the Dark Academia genre.
Set within the hallowed halls of Yale University, the film follows the ambitious and intellectually gifted student Luke McNamara as he is invited to join the prestigious and enigmatic Skulls fraternity. As Luke becomes entangled in a web of power, secrecy, and dangerous loyalty, he finds himself questioning his values and ethics.
The movie's intricate plot, combined with its intellectual intrigue and exploration of the price of success, crafts a captivating narrative that embodies the essence of Dark Academia. "The Skulls" is a provocative exploration of ambition, secrecy, and the allure of intellectual belonging, making it a riveting addition to the Dark Academia genre.
The Skulls
2000 | PG-13 | CC
4.6/5
1,730 global ratings
Prime Video
From $3.99
to rent
2018
MARY SHELLEY
A literary Dark Academia drama that illuminates the life of Mary Shelley, the iconic author behind the creation of "Frankenstein."
Set in the 19th century (1800s), this biographical film follows the spirited and intellectual Mary as she navigates a world dominated by men, societal norms and artistic ambitions. As she falls in love with the charismatic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and grapples with personal tragedies, Mary's creative genius is ignited, leading her to write her groundbreaking novel.
The movie's blend of intellectual passion, artistic inspiration, and emotional turmoil paints a vivid portrait of Mary's journey as she challenges convention and pioneers a literary masterpiece. "Mary Shelley" is an inspiring tale of intellectual rebellion, artistic creation, and the enduring power of literary imagination, embodying the spirit of Dark Academia.
Set in the 19th century (1800s), this biographical film follows the spirited and intellectual Mary as she navigates a world dominated by men, societal norms and artistic ambitions. As she falls in love with the charismatic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley and grapples with personal tragedies, Mary's creative genius is ignited, leading her to write her groundbreaking novel.
The movie's blend of intellectual passion, artistic inspiration, and emotional turmoil paints a vivid portrait of Mary's journey as she challenges convention and pioneers a literary masterpiece. "Mary Shelley" is an inspiring tale of intellectual rebellion, artistic creation, and the enduring power of literary imagination, embodying the spirit of Dark Academia.
Mary Shelley
2018 |. PG-13 | CC
4.4/5
1,700 global ratings
Prime Video
From $3.99
to rent
1987
MAURICE
A poignant Dark Academia romance, Maurice delicately explores love and identity in a repressive society. Based on a novel of the same name by E.M. Forster.
Set at Cambridge University in early 20th-century England, the film follows undergraduate Maurice Hall, as he grapples with suppressed homosexual desires.
Navigating the societal expectations of his class and era, Maurice forms a profound connection with his Cambridge classmate Clive Durham. Their ensuing passionate affair unfolds against a backdrop of classic architecture and British aristocracy.
Forbidden love, intellectual exploration, and the struggle for self-acceptance create an emotional narrative that resonates with authenticity.
Set at Cambridge University in early 20th-century England, the film follows undergraduate Maurice Hall, as he grapples with suppressed homosexual desires.
Navigating the societal expectations of his class and era, Maurice forms a profound connection with his Cambridge classmate Clive Durham. Their ensuing passionate affair unfolds against a backdrop of classic architecture and British aristocracy.
Forbidden love, intellectual exploration, and the struggle for self-acceptance create an emotional narrative that resonates with authenticity.
2015
THE RIOT CLUB
"The Riot Club" is a riveting Dark Academia drama that delves into the intoxicating world of privilege, power, and moral decay.
Set within the prestigious Oxford University, the film follows the members of the Riot Club, an exclusive and hedonistic secret society. As the members indulge in extravagant debauchery and intellectual banter, their actions spiral into a night of recklessness that exposes the darker facets of their characters.
The movie's exploration of class dynamics, intellectual arrogance, and the allure of forbidden excess paints a chilling portrait of the consequences of unchecked privilege. "The Riot Club" skillfully captures the tension between intellectual prowess and moral downfall, making it a thought-provoking addition to the Dark Academia genre.
Set within the prestigious Oxford University, the film follows the members of the Riot Club, an exclusive and hedonistic secret society. As the members indulge in extravagant debauchery and intellectual banter, their actions spiral into a night of recklessness that exposes the darker facets of their characters.
The movie's exploration of class dynamics, intellectual arrogance, and the allure of forbidden excess paints a chilling portrait of the consequences of unchecked privilege. "The Riot Club" skillfully captures the tension between intellectual prowess and moral downfall, making it a thought-provoking addition to the Dark Academia genre.
Dark Academia TV Series
If you’re into moody lighting, intense dialogues, and sweater weather aesthetics with a side of intellectual chill, dark academia tv shows are your go-to genre. They’re perfect for cozy nights in or for fueling your own curiosity with a mysterious twist!
2020
THE GREAT
"The Great" is an audacious and darkly comedic series that offers a satirical twist on the historical drama genre. The show reimagines the life of Catherine the Great, the Empress of Russia, with a fresh and irreverent approach.
Set in the 18th century, "The Great" combines opulent period settings with witty dialogue, exploring Catherine's journey from an innocent outsider to a powerful ruler. With its blend of humor, political intrigue, and exploration of power dynamics, "The Great" provides a unique and entertaining take on the Dark Academia aesthetic, subverting expectations and offering a fresh perspective on history and intellectual pursuits.
Set in the 18th century, "The Great" combines opulent period settings with witty dialogue, exploring Catherine's journey from an innocent outsider to a powerful ruler. With its blend of humor, political intrigue, and exploration of power dynamics, "The Great" provides a unique and entertaining take on the Dark Academia aesthetic, subverting expectations and offering a fresh perspective on history and intellectual pursuits.
2007
GOSSIP GIRL
"Gossip Girl," the original series, offers a compelling blend of Dark Academia with an upper-class New York City backdrop. Set within the privileged world of Manhattan's elite private school students, the show follows the lives, scandals, and secrets of a group of wealthy teenagers.
With its exploration of social hierarchies, complex relationships, and the allure of wealth and power, "Gossip Girl" captures the essence of Dark Academia through its portrayal of intellectual banter, hidden agendas, and the intertwining of personal and academic lives. The show's glamorous aesthetic and examination of the darker aspects of privilege make it a unique and alluring contribution to the Dark Academia genre.
With its exploration of social hierarchies, complex relationships, and the allure of wealth and power, "Gossip Girl" captures the essence of Dark Academia through its portrayal of intellectual banter, hidden agendas, and the intertwining of personal and academic lives. The show's glamorous aesthetic and examination of the darker aspects of privilege make it a unique and alluring contribution to the Dark Academia genre.
Gossip Girl
2007 | TV-14 | CC
4.8/5
1,107 global ratings
Prime Video
From $0.00
to buy episode
2018
A DISCOVERY OF WITCHES
"A Discovery of Witches" is a captivating Dark Academia TV series that seamlessly blends supernatural intrigue with intellectual pursuits. Set in a world where witches, vampires, and daemons coexist, the show follows Diana Bishop, a historian and reluctant witch, as she stumbles upon a bewitched manuscript at Oxford's Bodleian Library.
As she delves into the mysteries of the magical world, she forms a forbidden alliance with vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont. With its rich historical settings, intellectual exploration of magic, and forbidden romance, "A Discovery of Witches" embodies the essence of Dark Academia, inviting viewers into a world of ancient secrets, powerful knowledge, and the complexities of supernatural relationships.
As she delves into the mysteries of the magical world, she forms a forbidden alliance with vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont. With its rich historical settings, intellectual exploration of magic, and forbidden romance, "A Discovery of Witches" embodies the essence of Dark Academia, inviting viewers into a world of ancient secrets, powerful knowledge, and the complexities of supernatural relationships.
A Discovery of Witches
2018 | CC
4.7/5
13,575 global ratings
Prime Video
From $1.99
to buy episode
2010
SHERLOCK
"Sherlock" is a modern and intellectually captivating TV series that offers a fresh take on the Dark Academia aesthetic. Set in contemporary London, the show follows the brilliant but eccentric detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson as they solve intricate mysteries.
With its blend of deductive reasoning, intellectual challenges, and intricate plot lines, "Sherlock" captures the essence of Dark Academia by showcasing the characters' sharp minds and complex relationships. The series' atmospheric settings, intricate puzzles, and exploration of the intricacies of human nature make it a compelling addition to the Dark Academia genre, appealing to those who appreciate intellectual depth and mysterious allure.
With its blend of deductive reasoning, intellectual challenges, and intricate plot lines, "Sherlock" captures the essence of Dark Academia by showcasing the characters' sharp minds and complex relationships. The series' atmospheric settings, intricate puzzles, and exploration of the intricacies of human nature make it a compelling addition to the Dark Academia genre, appealing to those who appreciate intellectual depth and mysterious allure.
Sherlock
2010 | TV-14 | CC
4.9/5
9,540 global ratings
Prime Video
From $1.99
to buy episode
