41 Best Movies like Cruella (2021)

The Devil Wears Prada earns its place on this list thanks to its exploration of rivalry and ambition within the fashion world. It offers a compelling character study set against high-stakes style, delivering sharp wit and memorable performances that make it an enduring favorite for those drawn to fashion-driven storytelling.

A young woman from the Midwest gets more than she bargained for when she moves to New York to become a writer and ends up as the assistant to the tyrannical, larger-than-life editor-in-chief of a major fashion magazine. The Devil Wears Prada is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 49m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 7.4 by 14,028 people. The movie made an estimated total of $326,588,371 in the box office.

Power dynamics and personal reinvention take center stage in The Favourite, where cunning women vie for influence in a stylish historical setting. Its darkly comedic tone and sharp manipulation contribute to a unique narrative, setting it apart with engrossing performances and unexpected twists.

England, early 18th century. The close relationship between Queen Anne and Sarah Churchill is threatened by the arrival of Sarah's cousin, Abigail Hill, resulting in a bitter rivalry between the two cousins to be the Queen's favourite. The Favourite is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 0m runtime, released in 2018 with an average rating of 7.5 by 5,977 people. The movie made an estimated total of $95,918,706 in the box office.

I, Tonya is included for its bold, transformative look at a notorious anti-heroine's tumultuous rise. The film stands out with its irreverent comedy, dramatic structure, and unreliable narrators, making for a dynamic and engaging portrait of ambition and notoriety.

Competitive ice skater Tonya Harding rises amongst the ranks at the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, but her future in the sport is thrown into doubt when her ex-husband intervenes. I, Tonya is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 0m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 7.5 by 6,247 people. The movie made an estimated total of $53,900,000 in the box office.

Within Phantom Thread, the tension between muse and designer offers a captivating view of creativity and obsession. This film draws audiences in with intricate character studies and a quietly intense atmosphere, flourishing as both a psychological drama and a feast of period detail.

In 1950s London, a renowned dressmaker's meticulous lifestyle begins drastically changing as his relationship with his young muse intensifies. Phantom Thread is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 10m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 7.3 by 3,820 people. The movie made an estimated total of $47,756,590 in the box office.

Gone Girl appears here due to its unflinching portrayal of cunning schemes and moral ambiguity within a dramatic narrative. Its ability to maintain suspense, deliver unexpected turns, and provoke questions about identity ensures an engrossing and impactful viewing experience.

With his wife's disappearance having become the focus of an intense media circus, a man sees the spotlight turned on him when it's suspected that he may not be innocent. Gone Girl is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 29m runtime, released in 2014 with an average rating of 7.9 by 20,182 people. The movie made an estimated total of $370,890,259 in the box office.

Marie Antoinette leverages opulent visuals and bold, rebellious characters to create an atmosphere of fashionable decadence. Its unique period style, combined with expressive storytelling, delivers a lush and immersive cinematic escape that stands apart from standard historical dramas.

A retelling of the story of France’s iconic but ill-fated queen, Marie Antoinette - from her betrothal and marriage to Louis XVI at fifteen to her reign as queen at nineteen and ultimately the fall of Versailles. Marie Antoinette is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 3m runtime, released in 2006 with an average rating of 6.7 by 2,986 people. The movie made an estimated total of $60,917,189 in the box office.

Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) is featured for its focus on a rule-breaking protagonist carving her own path amidst crime and chaos. The film's energetic pacing, vibrant visuals, and offbeat humor provide a fun and unconventional adventure.

Harley Quinn joins forces with a singer, an assassin and a police detective to help a young girl who had a hit placed on her after she stole a rare diamond from a crime lord. Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 49m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 6.9 by 10,906 people. The movie made an estimated total of $205,537,933 in the box office.

Maleficent is selected for its reinterpretation of a classic villain, delving into her complex motivations. The movie captivates with its imaginative fantasy world, lavish production, and a compelling central performance that redefines a familiar character for a new audience.

A beautiful, pure-hearted young woman, Maleficent has an idyllic life growing up in a peaceable forest kingdom, until one day when an invading army threatens the harmony of the land. She rises to be the land's fiercest protector, but she ultimately suffers a ruthless betrayal – an act that begins to turn her heart into stone. Bent on revenge, Maleficent faces an epic battle with the invading King's successor and, as a result, places a curse upon his newborn infant Aurora. As the child grows, Maleficent realizes that Aurora holds the key to peace in the kingdom – and to Maleficent's true happiness as well. Maleficent is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 37m runtime, released in 2014 with an average rating of 7.1 by 13,843 people. The movie made an estimated total of $758,539,785 in the box office.

Joker claims a spot with its raw, unsettling portrait of transformation from outcast to infamous figure. The film's commitment to atmosphere and psychological intensity creates a deeply affecting narrative that lingers long after the credits roll.

During the 1980s, a failed stand-up comedian is driven insane and turns to a life of crime and chaos in Gotham City while becoming an infamous psychopathic crime figure. Joker is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 2m runtime, released in 2019 with an average rating of 8.1 by 28,024 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1,078,958,629 in the box office.

Matilda finds its place through a young protagonist defying societal expectations and forging her own identity. Its blend of whimsical tone and genuine heart delivers both delightful humor and an empowering message about courage and self-expression.

Matilda Wormwood is an brilliant and intelligent little girl. Unfortunately, her parents, Harry and Zinnia, fail to see that fact. As time passes, she finally starts school and has a kind teacher, loyal friends, and a terrifying, sadistic headmistress. As she becomes fed up with the constant cruelty, she discovers she has a special gift that she just might be able to use to outwit the unruly adults around her. Matilda is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 38m runtime, released in 1996 with an average rating of 7.2 by 4,875 people. The movie made an estimated total of $33,500,000 in the box office.

Cinderella stands apart by weaving a tale of aspiration and transformation within the world of elegance and adversity. It enchants viewers with timeless storytelling, lavish visuals, and an enduring message about the power of kindness and perseverance.

When her father unexpectedly passes away, young Ella finds herself at the mercy of her cruel stepmother and her daughters. Never one to give up hope, Ella's fortunes begin to change after meeting a dashing stranger in the woods. Cinderella is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 45m runtime, released in 2015 with an average rating of 6.8 by 7,471 people. The movie made an estimated total of $543,514,353 in the box office.

Mean Girls secures inclusion thanks to its sharp depiction of social maneuvering and ambition within a stylishly exaggerated high school hierarchy. Memorable characters, biting humor, and clever writing contribute to its lasting cultural impact and broad appeal.

Cady Heron is a hit with The Plastics, the A-list girl clique at her new school, until she makes the mistake of falling for Aaron Samuels, the ex-boyfriend of alpha Plastic Regina George. Mean Girls is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 37m runtime, released in 2004 with an average rating of 7.2 by 9,571 people. The movie made an estimated total of $130,195,052 in the box office.

The whimsy and individuality at the heart of Amu001elie make it a fitting addition. Its imaginative narrative and charming protagonist create a magical atmosphere, where creativity and optimism abound, resulting in a uniquely uplifting cinematic experience.

At a tiny Parisian café, the adorable yet painfully shy Amélie accidentally discovers a gift for helping others. Soon Amelie is spending her days as a matchmaker, guardian angel, and all-around do-gooder. But when she bumps into a handsome stranger, will she find the courage to become the star of her very own love story? Amélie is a movie from France in French, with a total 2h 2m runtime, released in 2001 with an average rating of 7.9 by 12,529 people. The movie made an estimated total of $173,921,954 in the box office.

Young Adult joins this list for its unflinching look at flawed ambition and self-delusion in adulthood. The film's nuanced characters and dark comedy allow it to stand out as both a brutally honest and surprisingly empathetic character study.

A divorced writer from the Midwest returns to her hometown to reconnect with an old flame, who's now married with a family. Young Adult is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 34m runtime, released in 2011 with an average rating of 5.8 by 1,373 people. The movie made an estimated total of $22,939,027 in the box office.

The Neon Demon finds relevance in its intense look at beauty, ambition, and competition within a stylized world. Its captivating visual style, unsettling atmosphere, and provocative storytelling make it a bold and memorable experience.

When aspiring model Jesse moves to Los Angeles, her youth and vitality are devoured by a group of beauty-obsessed women who will take any means necessary to get what she has. The Neon Demon is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 58m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 6.5 by 3,981 people. The movie made an estimated total of $3,400,000 in the box office.

A revenge-driven narrative interwoven with fashion and small-town intrigue makes The Dressmaker a compelling recommendation here. Its combination of drama, dark humor, and striking costumes creates a film that is both visually distinctive and emotionally charged.

In 1950s Australia, beautiful, talented dressmaker Tilly returns to her tiny hometown to right wrongs from her past. As she tries to reconcile with her mother, she starts to fall in love while transforming the fashion of the town. The Dressmaker is a movie from Australia in English, with a total 1h 58m runtime, released in 2015 with an average rating of 7.0 by 1,776 people. The movie made an estimated total of $25,003,426 in the box office.

Florence Foster Jenkins stands out through its focus on a woman pursuing artistic recognition against the odds. With uplifting energy and heartfelt performances, the film resonates as a celebration of determination, eccentricity, and the pursuit of dreams.

The story of Florence Foster Jenkins, a New York heiress, who dreamed of becoming an opera singer, despite having a terrible singing voice. Florence Foster Jenkins is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 1h 50m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 6.7 by 1,546 people. The movie made an estimated total of $48,902,953 in the box office.

The Edge of Seventeen explores coming-of-age challenges through a witty and emotionally resonant lens. Its engaging protagonist, authentic dialogue, and nuanced portrayal of adolescence make it a rewarding addition for viewers who appreciate dynamic character journeys.

Two high school girls are best friends until one dates the other's older brother, who is totally his sister's nemesis. The Edge of Seventeen is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 45m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.2 by 4,295 people. The movie made an estimated total of $18,803,648 in the box office.

Edith and Marcel is included due to its depiction of passionate, unconventional relationships set against a rich historical backdrop. The film remains memorable for its emotional depth and evocative portrayal of two memorable figures in French culture.

This tragic musical drama chronicles the star-crossed love between beloved French singer Edith Piaf and World Middleweight boxing champion Marcel Cerdan who died in a plane crash. The tumultuous affair is paralleled by the love affair of a French POW and his young pen pal who get engaged after writing to each other for four years and having never met. Their romances are framed by the sad, torchy songs of Piaf. Edith and Marcel is a movie from France in French, with a total runtime, released in 1983 with an average rating of 5.7 by 18 people.

Intense psychological tension and the pressures of creative ambition drive Black Swan. The film’s haunting visual style and gripping performances blend drama and surrealism, delivering an immersive, unsettling exploration of personal unraveling and artistic obsession.

A committed dancer struggles to maintain her sanity after winning the lead role in a production of Tchaikovsky's "Swan Lake." Black Swan is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 48m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 7.7 by 15,711 people. The movie made an estimated total of $329,398,046 in the box office.

Confessions of a Shopaholic lands on this list with its comedic take on fashion, identity, and personal reinvention. The film’s lively spirit, colorful aesthetic, and relatable journey through self-discovery ensure an enjoyable and upbeat viewing experience.

In the glamorous world of New York City, Rebecca Bloomwood is a fun-loving girl who is really good at shopping – a little too good, perhaps. She dreams of working for her favorite fashion magazine, but can't quite get her foot in the door – until ironically, she snags a job as an advice columnist for a financial magazine published by the same company. Confessions of a Shopaholic is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 44m runtime, released in 2009 with an average rating of 6.5 by 2,781 people. The movie made an estimated total of $108,394,089 in the box office.

Emma. offers a witty examination of social maneuvering and romantic entanglements in an ornate Regency setting. Its clever dialogue, charming cast, and exquisite visuals provide a lighthearted and visually pleasing adaptation of the classic tale.

In 1800s England, a well-meaning but selfish young woman meddles in the love lives of her friends. Emma. is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 5m runtime, released in 2020 with an average rating of 7.0 by 1,985 people. The movie made an estimated total of $25,200,000 in the box office.

In Clueless, the fashionable protagonist’s navigation of social politics delivers both humor and heart, grounding the movie’s iconic status. The inventive, modern twist on a literary classic ensures lasting popularity and rewatch appeal for audiences of all ages.

Shallow, rich and socially successful Cher is at the top of her Beverly Hills high school's pecking scale. Seeing herself as a matchmaker, Cher first coaxes two teachers into dating each other. Emboldened by her success, she decides to give hopelessly klutzy new student Tai a makeover. When Tai becomes more popular than she is, Cher realizes that her disapproving ex-stepbrother was right about how misguided she was -- and falls for him. Clueless is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 37m runtime, released in 1995 with an average rating of 7.3 by 4,859 people. The movie made an estimated total of $56,631,572 in the box office.

Set during a pivotal music revolution, The Runaways captures a spirit of rebellion and youthful ambition similar to the 1970s London atmosphere of Cruella. It stands out for its dynamic depiction of music history and empowering performances.

Joan Jett and Cherie Currie, two rebellious teenagers from Southern California, become the frontwomen for The Runaways -- the now-legendary group that paved the way for future generations of female rockers. Under the Svengali-like influence of impresario Kim Fowley, the band becomes a huge success. The Runaways is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 47m runtime, released in 2010 with an average rating of 6.5 by 854 people. The movie made an estimated total of $2,995,811 in the box office.

A Simple Favor distinguishes itself through its blend of dark humor and mystery, driven by complex and unpredictable female leads. The film’s stylish execution and playful narrative twists keep viewers engaged from start to finish.

Stephanie, a dedicated mother and popular vlogger, befriends Emily, a mysterious upper-class woman whose son Nicky attends the same school as Miles, Stephanie's son. When Emily asks her to pick Nicky up from school and then disappears, Stephanie undertakes an investigation that will dive deep into Emily's cloudy past. A Simple Favor is a movie from Canada in English, with a total 1h 57m runtime, released in 2018 with an average rating of 6.6 by 4,642 people. The movie made an estimated total of $97,644,617 in the box office.

Lady Macbeth is chosen for its portrait of an ambitious protagonist challenging the constraints of her environment. Tense atmosphere and striking character development combine to make this period drama a memorable and haunting experience.

Rural England, 1865. Katherine, suffocated by her loveless marriage to a bitter man and restrained by his father's tyranny, unleashes an irresistible force within her, so powerful that she will stop at nothing to get what she wants. Lady Macbeth is a movie from Ireland in English, with a total 1h 26m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 6.6 by 825 people. The movie made an estimated total of $5,245,263 in the box office.

Belle earns its recommendation with its story of personal strength and social boundaries in a refined historical world. The film’s elegant presentation and committed performances yield an inspiring tale of resilience and grace.

Dido Elizabeth Bell, the illegitimate, mixed-race daughter of a Royal Navy admiral, plays an important role in the campaign to abolish slavery in England. Belle is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 1h 45m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 7.1 by 736 people. The movie made an estimated total of $16,500,000 in the box office.

The Intern brings together generational perspectives within a modern office environment, offering a fresh take on mentorship and ambition. Its warm humor and engaging character relationships make it a feel-good choice for those who appreciate character-driven stories.

70-year-old widower Ben Whittaker has discovered that retirement isn't all it's cracked up to be. Seizing an opportunity to get back in the game, he becomes a senior intern at an online fashion site, founded and run by Jules Ostin. The Intern is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 1m runtime, released in 2015 with an average rating of 7.2 by 7,421 people. The movie made an estimated total of $194,564,672 in the box office.

Legally Blonde sets itself apart through a protagonist who redefines expectations in a glamorous setting. The film’s mix of clever humor, spirited energy, and uplifting message make it a crowd-pleasing story about perseverance and individuality.

Fashionable sorority queen Elle Woods has it all, but, she wants nothing more than to be Mrs. Warner Huntington III. But he dumps her before heading to Harvard Law School. Elle rallies all of her resources and gets into Harvard, determined to win him back. While there, she figures out that there is more to herself than just good looks. Legally Blonde is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 36m runtime, released in 2001 with an average rating of 6.8 by 4,639 people. The movie made an estimated total of $141,778,365 in the box office.

Frankie makes the list for its reflective approach to family, relationships, and self-discovery within an international setting. Its gentle pacing and intimate performances evoke a contemplative mood that resonates long after viewing.

When a terminally ill French actress decides to spend her last vacation with her large family in Sintra, her relatives grapple with their own insecurities. Frankie is a movie from France in French, with a total 1h 38m runtime, released in 2019 with an average rating of 4.8 by 61 people.

A sealed-off, tension-filled setting fuels The Beguiled, creating a potent atmosphere of suspicion and shifting loyalties. With its deliberate pace and evocative visuals, the film crafts an absorbing story that lingers in the mind.

During the Civil War, at a Southern girls’ boarding school, young women take in an injured enemy soldier. As they provide refuge and tend to his wounds, the house is taken over with sexual tension and dangerous rivalries, and taboos are broken in an unexpected turn of events. The Beguiled is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 33m runtime, released in 2017 with an average rating of 5.9 by 2,256 people. The movie made an estimated total of $27,869,129 in the box office.

Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day combines fast-paced misadventures with an exploration of identity and second chances. Charming characters and an effervescent tone ensure a joyful experience filled with heart and wit.

London, England, on the eve of World War II. Guinevere Pettigrew, a strict governess who is unable to keep a job, is fired again. Lost in the hostile city, a series of fortunate circumstances lead her to meet Delysia LaFosse, a glamorous and dazzling American jazz singer whose life is a chaos ruled by indecision, a continuous battle between love and fame. Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 32m runtime, released in 2008 with an average rating of 6.8 by 424 people. The movie made an estimated total of $16,724,933 in the box office.

Moana stands out by following a determined young heroine as she embraces her destiny and forges her own path. The film enchants with vibrant animation, original music, and a powerful message of courage and self-discovery.

In Ancient Polynesia, when a terrible curse incurred by Maui reaches an impetuous Chieftain's daughter's island, she answers the Ocean's call to seek out the demigod to set things right. Moana is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 47m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.6 by 13,894 people. The movie made an estimated total of $690,860,472 in the box office.

As a documentary about the energy and ethos of punk rock, The Punk Singer amplifies the rebellious spirit reminiscent of Cruella’s 1970s London. Its focus on music and activism makes it a vibrant and vital viewing experience.

A look at the life of activist, musician, and cultural icon Kathleen Hanna, who formed the punk band Bikini Kill and pioneered the "riot grrrl" movement of the 1990s. The Punk Singer is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 20m runtime, released in 2013 with an average rating of 7.1 by 90 people.

In Miss Sloane, the drive for success and willingness to manipulate give rise to a gripping tale of power. The film’s compelling lead and brisk narrative keep the tension high, making for an enthralling dive into professional intrigue.

An ambitious lobbyist faces off against the powerful gun lobby in an attempt to pass gun control legislation. Miss Sloane is a movie from Canada in English, with a total 2h 13m runtime, released in 2016 with an average rating of 7.4 by 2,006 people. The movie made an estimated total of $9,101,546 in the box office.

Heathers is defined by its dark comedy and subversive look at social climbing gone awry. Clever dialogue, iconic performances, and a daring storytelling approach ensure that it remains both entertaining and sharply relevant.

A girl who halfheartedly tries to be part of the "in crowd" of her school meets a rebel who teaches her a more devious way to play social politics: by killing the popular kids. Heathers is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 43m runtime, released in 1989 with an average rating of 7.3 by 1,907 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1,166,207 in the box office.

Thoroughbreds uses chilling calm and carefully constructed tension to unravel the story of two young women plotting a morally ambiguous course. Its unusual atmosphere and precise performances create a quietly mesmerizing film experience.

Lily and Amanda, two high school students living in suburban Connecticut, rekindle their unlikely friendship after years of drifting apart. Together, they devise a plan to kill Lily's abusive stepfather by hiring a lowlife drug dealer. Thoroughbreds is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 1h 32m runtime, released in 2018 with an average rating of 6.4 by 1,271 people. The movie made an estimated total of $2,830,775 in the box office.

Sleeping Beauty presents an enigmatic and stylized narrative grounded in psychological tension. Its haunting simplicity, atmospheric visuals, and understated performances set it apart as an intriguing and provocative watch.

A haunting erotic fairytale about Lucy, a young University student drawn into a mysterious hidden world of beauty and desire. Sleeping Beauty is a movie from Australia in English, with a total 1h 42m runtime, released in 2011 with an average rating of 5.4 by 691 people. The movie made an estimated total of $408,680 in the box office.

Lolita is included for its exploration of desire and boundary-pushing relationships within a taboo context. Its provocative subject matter and evocative atmosphere challenge viewers and provide lasting cinematic impact.

Humbert Humbert is a middle-aged British novelist who is both appalled by and attracted to the vulgarity of American culture. When he comes to stay at the boarding house run by Charlotte Haze, he soon becomes obsessed with Lolita, the woman's teenaged daughter. Lolita is a movie from United States of America in English, with a total 2h 17m runtime, released in 1997 with an average rating of 7.1 by 1,999 people. The movie made an estimated total of $1,100,000 in the box office.

Heavenly Creatures makes its mark with its depiction of an intense, transgressive friendship that leads to unforeseen consequences. The film’s dreamy visuals and emotional depth deliver both an immersive and unsettling look at adolescent imagination.

Precocious teenager Juliet moves to New Zealand with her family and soon befriends the quiet, brooding Pauline through their shared love of fantasy and literature. This friendship gradually develops into an intense and obsessive bond. Heavenly Creatures is a movie from New Zealand in English, with a total 1h 49m runtime, released in 1994 with an average rating of 7.0 by 1,047 people. The movie made an estimated total of $3,049,135 in the box office.

My Summer of Love earns a spot through its intimate portrait of a transformative relationship simmering beneath a rural surface. The movie’s evocative moods and nuanced character work set it apart as an elegantly told coming-of-age drama.

In the Yorkshire countryside, working-class tomboy Mona meets the exotic, pampered Tamsin. To seal their friendship, Mona introduces Tamsin to her born-again Christian brother and helps her spy on her adulterous father. Bound together by their secrets, the two girls see their friendship deepen and enter into dangerous waters. My Summer of Love is a movie from United Kingdom in English, with a total 1h 27m runtime, released in 2005 with an average rating of 6.1 by 327 people. The movie made an estimated total of $2,766,094 in the box office.