Movies like The Rum Diary

Almost Famous captures the highs and lows of rock and roll through the eyes of a young journalist writing for Rolling Stone. Its nostalgic exploration of life on the road and the colorful array of characters will resonate with viewers who giggle and gasp through The Rum Diary.

Starring Leonardo DiCaprio, The Beach tells the story of a young traveler's quest for a secluded and idyllic beach paradise, leading to a series of unexpected and dark events. The search for escapism and the palpable sense of adventure connect well with the themes of The Rum Diary.

Based on Hunter S. Thompson's novel, like The Rum Diary, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas is a psychedelic journey following journalist Raoul Duke and his attorney Dr. Gonzo. This cult classic dives deep into counterculture and substance-fueled escapades, providing a similar blend of humor and chaos that fans of The Rum Diary would appreciate.

Blow offers viewers a glimpse into the life of drug trafficker George Jung, and his journey through the world of narcotics in the 1970s. Much like The Rum Diary, it deals with tumultuous lifestyles and the consequences of high-risk choices in scenic, tropical settings.

This animated adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s novel offers an intriguing mix of sci-fi and gritty reality, exploring themes of substance abuse and identity. A Scanner Darkly’s vivid visual style and psychological depth will appeal to those intrigued by The Rum Diary's own reflection on the human condition.

Savages, a gritty drama about two friends running a successful marijuana business and their conflict with a Mexican drug cartel, captures the violence and moral ambiguity found in The Rum Diary. Its intense storytelling and sunny, yet dangerous settings, provide a similar feel.

Wonderland revolves around the true-life Wonderland murders, involving legendary porn star John Holmes. The movie’s dive into the hedonistic underworld of Los Angeles in the early 1980s has echoes of the reckless abandon and the darker side of paradise portrayed in The Rum Diary.

As a semi-biographical comedy about Hunter S. Thompson, Where the Buffalo Roam showcases the gonzo journalist's wild antics and brushes with the law. The whimsical portrayal by Bill Murray will entertain those who enjoy the eccentricity of Johnny Depp's character in The Rum Diary.