“Eat the rich” films have been around for decades, but it seems more prevalent in today’s society than ever before. These films generally critique wealth, class disparities, sometimes a commentary on race, and the excesses of the rich – who are often portrayed as corrupt, out of touch, or exploitative. These films almost always explore themes of class struggle leading to a literal (or metaphorical) revolution which is a comeuppance for the elite. Here are my top 6 films in this niche that you need to watch!
The Menu (2022)
Wealthy guests gather for an exclusive dinner at a high-end restaurant. Only to find out they aren’t just served food — they’re targets in a twisted game. Directed by: Mark Mylod / Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Nicholas Hoult, Ralph Fiennes
Where to stream: Prime Video
Knives Out (2019)
A wealthy patriarch dies, leaving his inheritance to his caretaker. This leads to a battle over said inheritance — including many secrets among the rich. Directed by: Rian Johnson / Starring (ensemble cast): Ana de Armas, Chris Evans, Taylor-Joy, Toni Collette, Daniel Craig, Christopher Plummer
Where to stream: Prime Video
Saltburn (2023)
A boy, who is struggling with his unfortunate living situation, is invited by a wealthy Oxford student to stay at his estate. A series of horrifying events soon engulf his eccentric family. Directed by: Emerald Fennell / Starring: Barry Keoghan, Jacob Elordi, Rosamund Pike
Where to stream: Prime Video
Parasite (2019)
The financially destitute Kim clan clashes with the wealthy Park family. Through greed and class discrimination, this symbiotic relationship between the families soon becomes parasitic. Directed by: Bong Joon Ho / Starring: Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, Cho Yeo-jeong
Where to stream: Netflix
Us (2019)
A woman and her family return to the home where she grew up as a child. Haunted by a traumatic experience from the past, her worst fears become a reality when four masked strangers descend upon the house. Directed by: Jordan Peele / Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke
Where to stream: Netflix
The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2019)
A doctor becomes aquatinted with a teenager who insinuates himself into the doctor’s life in gradually unsettling ways. Soon the teen confronts the doctor with a long-forgotten transgression that will shatter his bliss forever. Directed by: Yorgos Lanthimos / Starring: Colin Farrell, Nicole Kidman, Barry Keoghan
Where to stream: Hulu
