Searching for movies like Boogie Nights (1997)? Paul Thomas Anderson’s iconic film dives into the rise and fall of a young star in the 1970s adult film industry, blending humor, heartbreak, and dazzling ensemble performances. If you’re craving similar movies to Boogie Nights, this list captures stories of ambition, excess, and the raw, unfiltered pursuit of fame. Perfect for those who appreciate deep character studies, vibrant settings, and narratives that explore the human cost of chasing the American Dream.
1. Magnolia (1999)
Also directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, this sweeping ensemble drama explores interconnected lives filled with regret, ambition, and redemption. Its emotional depth and powerhouse performances make it a must-watch for fans of Boogie Nights.
2. Blow (2001)
This biographical drama follows the life of George Jung, a key player in the 1970s cocaine trade. Starring Johnny Depp, Blow captures the seductive highs and devastating lows of a life fueled by ambition and excess.
3. The People vs. Larry Flynt (1996)
This provocative biopic chronicles the life of Larry Flynt, the controversial publisher of Hustler magazine. It shares Boogie Nights’ themes of navigating fame, scandal, and the blurred lines of morality in the adult entertainment industry.
4. The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Martin Scorsese’s tale of excess, corruption, and downfall mirrors the energy and style of Boogie Nights. Leonardo DiCaprio’s electrifying performance captures the seductive pull and destructive cost of living on the edge.
5. American Hustle (2013)
David O. Russell’s stylish crime drama brings together an ensemble cast to tell a story of ambition, deceit, and survival in the 1970s. Its vibrant period setting and complex characters feel right at home with the vibe of Boogie Nights.
6. Casino (1995)
Martin Scorsese’s exploration of greed and betrayal in the Las Vegas casino world shares the grandeur and moral complexity of Boogie Nights. Its sprawling narrative and flawed characters make it an unforgettable experience.
7. The Last Days of Disco (1998)
Whit Stillman’s drama-comedy follows the intertwining lives of young adults navigating New York’s nightclub scene in the early 1980s. Its nostalgic charm and focus on ambition and relationships echo the emotional resonance of Boogie Nights.
8. Climax (2018)
Gaspar Noé’s hypnotic descent into a nightmarish dance party captures a raw, chaotic energy. Its focus on human vulnerability and the fragility of ambition offers a dark, visceral connection to Boogie Nights.
9. The Florida Project (2017)
This poignant indie film focuses on the lives of marginalized individuals living near Disney World. Its exploration of the American Dream and flawed humanity mirrors the emotional undertones of Anderson’s work.
10. Scarface (1983)
Brian De Palma’s classic tale of Tony Montana’s rise and fall in the drug world captures the same intoxicating allure and inevitable tragedy that defines Boogie Nights. Its unforgettable characters and intense narrative leave a lasting impression.
Didn’t like our choices?
Explore more ambitious and character-driven dramas on Amazon with the button below. And if you haven’t seen Boogie Nights yet, don’t miss out. Order your copy today. Thank you for reading!
