Films and TV shows that feel like Blinding Lights by The Weeknd
A neon-lit midnight race through an empty city, where desperate longing for someone drives every mile and the euphoria hides a sense of panic.
- Drive (2011): Neon LA night drives and a synth-heavy score capture the same cool, aching romanticism.
- Uncut Gems (2019): Abel Tesfaye himself appears in this frantic, anxious spiral of compulsion and nocturnal chaos.
- Stranger Things (2016): Its synth-driven 80s nostalgia matches the song's retro sound and urgent emotion.
- Blade Runner 2049 (2017): Lonely neon cityscapes and synth textures evoke yearning in a hollow, glowing world.
- The Neon Demon (2016): Pulsing electronic score and glossy neon visuals turn desire into something dangerous.
- The Idol (2023): Co-created by The Weeknd, it explores a seductive, toxic LA nightlife of fame and obsession.
- Collateral (2004): A long night driving through LA, with city lights streaking by and tension building.
- Euphoria (2019): Neon-soaked nights and raw emotional craving give the same high-intensity, fragile feeling.
- Nightcrawler (2014): Empty LA streets at night and a feverish, obsessive drive match the song's restless energy.
