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Hulu has become a go-to streaming platform for fans seeking diverse content, from original TV series to an extensive library of movies. Among its vast collection, stories of infidelity and betrayal hold a particular fascination, offering intense emotions, thrilling twists, and heart-pounding moments. Whether you’re looking for a psychological thriller, a steamy drama, or a lighthearted rom-com with a twist, Hulu has plenty of cheating spouse movies that will keep you captivated in 2024. In this list, we’ve rounded up ten compelling films that explore the darker side of relationships, from obsessive affairs to emotionally devastating betrayals.
American Beauty (1999)
This Oscar-winning film portrays the unraveling of a suburban family. Lester Burnham (Kevin Spacey) becomes infatuated with his daughter’s friend, while his wife, Carolyn (Annette Bening), also embarks on her own extramarital affair. American Beauty
is a complex exploration of discontent, infidelity, and the pursuit of happiness in modern life.
Sleeping with Other People (2015)
This romantic comedy focuses on two individuals who cheat regularly and reconnect after 12 years. They decide to maintain a platonic friendship, but their emotional complexities lead to deeper feelings. Their chaotic romantic lives offer an insightful exploration of emotional infidelity and self-discovery. The portrayal of both emotional and physical betrayal makes it a relatable and engaging film on infidelity.
Unfaithful (2002)
In this gripping drama, a suburban wife, Connie, begins an illicit affair with a stranger. Her passion-fueled betrayal turns into a nightmare when her husband discovers the affair, leading to tragedy. Unfaithful is a steamy, emotional exploration of lust, deception, and the consequences of cheating in marriage, making it a perfect pick for those looking for a story about a cheating wife.
Deep Water (2022)
In Deep Water, directed by Adrian Lyne, Vic Van Allen (Ben Affleck) and Melinda (Ana de Armas) are trapped in a loveless marriage. Melinda flaunts her affairs, while Vic pretends to accept them to avoid divorce. However, things turn sinister when Vic’s jealousy leads to murder. This psychological thriller dives into the complexity of trust, manipulation, and betrayal, making it one of the most suspenseful cheating-wife films on Hulu. It explores infidelity’s dangerous consequences, creating tension from start to finish.
God Forbid: The Scandal That Brought Down a Dynasty (2022)
This documentary delves into the shocking affair between Becki Falwell, wife of prominent evangelical leader Jerry Falwell Jr., and a much younger man, Giancarlo Granda. The story unfolds with revelations of how Granda and Becki began a relationship, all while her husband knew and allegedly participated by watching. God Forbid provides an inside look at betrayal, public scandal, and the downfall of one of America’s most powerful religious families. It’s an explosive and real-life account of infidelity and scandal.
The Beta Test (2021)
The Beta Test follows a Hollywood agent named Jordan who receives a mysterious invitation for a secretive sexual encounter. After indulging, his life begins to spiral out of control as his relationship and career unravel. As Jordan tries to uncover the identity of the stranger, he becomes increasingly paranoid and unstable. This movie uses dark humor and thriller elements to portray the psychological impacts of infidelity, where betrayal leads to obsession and destruction. It’s a biting satire of power and secrecy.
Both Sides of the Blade (2022)
A romantic drama directed by Claire Denis, Both Sides of the Blade explores a love triangle where Sara (Juliette Binoche) is caught between her current partner, Jean (Vincent Lindon), and her former lover, François. When François reappears in her life, Sara’s rekindled passion for him throws her relationship into chaos. The film carefully examines themes of love, betrayal, and emotional conflict. Sara’s inner struggle and betrayal are depicted through nuanced performances and intimate storytelling.
I Am Love (2009)
In I Am Love, Emma (Tilda Swinton), a Russian-Italian woman married to a wealthy industrialist, embarks on an affair with a much younger chef, Antonio. Set in Milan, the film showcases Emma’s growing discontent with her upper-class life and her desire for passion. The affair has far-reaching effects on her family, leading to devastating consequences. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, the movie is a visually stunning exploration of love, lust, and societal expectations, with betrayal as its emotional core.
Anaïs in Love (2021)
‘Anas in Love’ is a holiday film as well as a comedy about infidelity with a lot of “falls for” in it. The film, directed by Charline Bourgeois-Tacquet, depicts the story of Anas (Anas Demoustier), 30, who is in an unpleasant relationship with her boyfriend, Raoul (Christophe Montenez), when a much older married man, Daniel (Denis Podalydès), falls for her. The unusual combination tries to get things going, with Anas looking for a way out. But this isn’t the point of the film. It tells the story of Anas falling in love with Daniel’s live-in partner Emilie (Valeria Bruni Tedeschi), a prominent writer. Anas spends time with Emilie on the beautiful Brittany peninsula, and we get a sense of unvarnished longing and belonging that the two women are secretly developing for each other.
Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)
‘Portrait of a Lady on Fire’ transports us to 18th-century France, where we meet painter Marianne (Noémie Merlant) and her subject, bride-to-be Hélose (Adèle Haenel). Before they may marry, the groom must approve of Hélose’s portrait. Hélose, who is hesitant to marry, is not ready to commission the painting. Marianne’s sole option is to keep her company during the day as a companion, learning about her physically and emotionally, and painting her portrait at night. This is the process that leads to a painful, exhilarating, and wonderful romance. Céline Sciamma’s masterwork is “Portrait of a Lady on Fire.”
Infidelity and betrayal have always been powerful themes in cinema, exploring the complexities of human relationships, desires, and the consequences of broken trust. Hulu’s wide selection of films offers a captivating range of stories, from emotionally charged dramas to psychological thrillers, each depicting the devastating effects of affairs and betrayals. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic like American Beauty or a more recent release like The Wife, these films delve deep into the emotions and motivations behind cheating, making them compelling watches. As you browse Hulu’s vast library, these movies will not only entertain but also offer a thought-provoking look at the fragility of trust and relationships in modern society.