Horror movies aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. While some of us love the thrill of watching a horror flick, others prefer to hide behind the nearest pillow. But let’s admit it—horror has greatly influenced the film industry, delivering everything from haunting classics to modern masterpieces. Lately, the genre has become more popular than ever, with fans hungry for thrills and chills like never before. Of course, not all horror movies are created equal. There are genuinely good and scary ones, while others are more like scary disasters if you catch our drift! But fear not (or maybe do!)—we’ve put together a list of the 13 best horror movies that not only scare you senseless but also keep you thoroughly entertained. Ready to scream? Let’s get started!
13 Best Horror Movies for You If You’re Ready to Get Scared
Grave encounters (2011)
Directors: Colin Minihan, Stuart Ortiz
IMDb: 6.1/10
The found footage genre has a knack for taking familiar setups and turning them into nightmare-fueled experiences, and Grave Encounters is a prime example. Directed by The Vicious Brothers, this indie horror flick takes the concept of ghost-hunting reality shows and transforms it into a terrifying experience. Though it may not reinvent the genre, the film’s execution is solid and delivers a chilling experience that you can’t get out of your mind. What begins as a clever parody of reality TV ghost-hunting shows—complete with an over-the-top host, a questionable psychic, and a token occult expert—soon escalates into a fight for survival. The fictional crew enters a supposedly haunted asylum to film an episode of their show, but the night quickly turns into a desperate battle as the asylum’s evil forces make it clear that escape is not an option. The idea may not be groundbreaking, but it feels comfortingly familiar like watching those early YouTube exploration videos with a supernatural twist that goes tragically wrong.
Despite its low budget, Grave Encounters doesn’t feel cheap. The found footage style works in the film’s favor, masking any potential financial limitations and giving the story a sense of realism. Although not perfect, the acting is decent, and the actors’ realistic reactions enhance the immersion. While some performances may come across as amateurish, this serves to heighten the faux-documentary style’s authenticity. The film’s fast pace ensures the tension stays high throughout its runtime. While it may not be a flawless horror flick, Grave Encounters is undeniably entertaining and genuinely frightening. It stands as a testament to how creativity and atmosphere can overcome budgetary constraints. For fans of horror and the paranormal investigation genre, this film offers a fresh take on a classic concept. Its effective scares, immersive setting, and self-aware humor make it a noteworthy addition to the found footage canon.
Incantation (2022)
Director: Kevin Ko
IMDb: 6.2/10
Kevin Ko’s Incantation came along to show that the found-footage horror genre had not yet run out of ideas to scare us. In addition to revitalizing the genre, this 2022 Taiwanese horror movie haunts viewers with a terrifying tale based on true events. Drawing inspiration from a 2005 incident in the Gushan District of Kaohsiung, where a family of six claimed to have been possessed, Incantation raises the bar on horror and presents a story that is both unsettling and believable. Incantation’s utilization of the found-footage format to establish a realistic atmosphere is one of its key strengths. As is well known, found-footage horror offers an original and unsettling sense of reality. Kevin Ko uses this setup to his advantage by drawing audiences into the cursed reality of the movie and involving them as active participants in the plot—particularly in the beginning (if you know what we mean).
Compared to other horror movies that rely on stereotypical jump scares, Incantation adopts a more methodical approach. While there are a few jump scares, they are well-placed and effectively executed. The film’s exploration of psychological and societal fears, combined with its capacity to evoke visceral distress, is what truly makes it terrifying. By including elements like blood, gore, entomophobia, claustrophobia, and trypophobia, the movie taps into a range of phobias, ensuring that most viewers will find something deeply unsettling. These components are seamlessly integrated into the narrative, never feeling excessive or unnecessary. Kevin Ko’s Incantation is a masterclass in breathing new life into a familiar genre. By blending a unique storyline, emotionally charged performances, and real-life inspiration, it successfully creates a disturbing and captivating horror experience.
Devil (2010)
Director: John Erick Dowdle
IMDb: 6.3/10
M. Night Shyamalan, a horror icon best known for creating psychological thrillers that explore supernatural themes, contributes his creative skills to Devil (2010), a claustrophobic horror-thriller that examines the haunting intersections of fear, guilt, and the consequences of our choices. Despite being only 80 minutes long, Devil wastes no time setting its stakes. The story’s pace naturally builds to its dramatic finale, and every moment feels intentional. The film’s ability to maintain intensity without relying on excessive gore is a testament to both Shyamalan’s well-crafted script and John Erick Dowdle’s direction. Packed with suspense, tension, and surprising moral introspection, Devil serves as a terrifying morality tale. The plot centered on five strangers trapped in an elevator while an unseen force picks them off one by one—compels viewers to confront their own fears and past transgressions. By carefully integrating themes of sin, repentance, and cosmic justice into its gripping story, the film gradually reveals the secrets of each character.
In true Shyamalan fashion, the narrative is filled with unexpected twists that lead to a rewarding yet unsettling conclusion. Every actor delivers a compelling performance, grounding the supernatural elements in realism. Each member of the diverse cast adds emotional depth to their roles, and the characters’ reactions feel authentic, even as the tension escalates, drawing the viewer further into the mystery. Devil is a suspenseful, tense thriller that not only lives up to its premise but also exceeds expectations. Even seasoned horror enthusiasts will find themselves on edge with its twists and turns. A must-see for fans of thrilling rides with a touch of the supernatural, Devil serves as a concise yet powerful reminder that sometimes our inner demons are the most terrifying.
The Ritual (2017)
Director: David Bruckner
IMDb: 6.3/10
When it comes to horror, originality is often the hardest thing to find. However, David Bruckner’s The Ritual, a horror thriller rooted in Norse mythology, breathes new life into the genre. The film expertly combines psychological tension, mythological terror, and heartfelt human drama to deliver a story that’s as emotionally resonant as it is spine-chilling. The story follows a group of British friends who decide to go hiking in the Scandinavian wilderness to honor a lost friend. However, they soon find themselves haunted in the forest by an unknown presence. What truly makes The Ritual stand out is its realistic and solid portrayal of its main characters. Thanks to their natural conversations and well-constructed interactions, the friends’ chemistry feels surprisingly authentic, giving their relationships depth and genuineness. Additionally, the movie avoids unnecessary gore, proving that not every horror film needs it. This restraint allows the psychological terror and thematic depth to shine more clearly.
The Ritual is primarily a story about overcoming loss and emotional growth rather than just a traditional horror movie. Much like the mythical creature stalking the group in the forest, the film explores how pain and guilt can haunt us. By portraying the struggle to survive both internal and external threats, the terror feels deeply relatable and intimate. No analysis of The Ritual would be complete without mentioning its monster design. The antagonist, inspired by Norse mythology, is a terrifying and otherworldly entity that leaves a lasting impression. It is, without a doubt, one of the best creature designs in horror cinema. Considered one of the best horror movies in the folk horror genre, The Ritual stands out with its believable characters, deep emotional depth, and stunning setting. It delivers an intense and unsettling experience without relying on gore or cheap shock value. Its realism makes the horror all the more disturbing.
As Above, So Below (2014)
Director: John Erick Dowdle
IMDb: 6.3/10
As Above, So Below brings a fresh take on the found footage and shaky camera work of the horror genre, offering a much more compelling story. While many horror films rely on loud noises and cheesy jump scares, this film seeks to convey a deeper and more frightening tale, drawing viewers into an experience that is both terrifying and intriguing. The movie follows a group of adventurers venturing into Paris’s maze-like Catacombs in search of the philosopher’s stone. Filmed in the actual catacombs, the authentic setting heightens the sense of claustrophobia. One particularly striking aspect of the film is its portrayal of the catacombs as a constantly shifting network of terror. As the characters delve deeper, they encounter a horrifying, symbolic version of hell itself. The directors’ daring decision to combine psychological horror with eerie religious themes pays off spectacularly, evoking an immediate sense of existential dread. Carefully constructed, the plot keeps viewers engaged throughout.
The movie delivers spine-tingling jump scares—not the typical kind, but ones that feel truly earned and terrifying. These moments punctuate the film’s slower, more introspective pace, making them all the more impactful. The mind-bending twists and shocking revelations are designed to make viewers question reality, and they succeed brilliantly in doing so. Although it may not cater to everyone’s taste in horror, particularly those who prefer nonstop action or excessive gore, As Above, So Below is a refreshing choice for fans of subtlety and psychological suspense, making it a standout among the best horror movies. Its slower pace rewards viewers willing to explore its philosophical and symbolic layers, offering a thoughtful and chilling experience.
Session 9 (2001)
Director: Brad Anderson
IMDb: 6.4/10
In a genre often dominated by over-the-top gore and flashy visual effects, Session 9 stands out as a subtle, low-budget horror film that delivers a terrifying and lasting experience. Directed by Brad Anderson—who made a striking tonal departure from his earlier work in romantic comedies—this 2001 psychological thriller has earned its place as a cult favorite for good reason. The film’s straightforward premise follows a squad of asbestos removal workers tasked with cleaning out an abandoned mental asylum, but it quickly devolves into a maze of psychological horror. Anderson demonstrates his talent for building tension through atmosphere early on, using the asylum’s crumbling architecture and eerie silence to craft a setting that feels like a character in its own right.
What sets Session 9 apart from conventional horror films is its restraint. Rather than relying on jump scares or gratuitous gore, the film offers just enough—a shadow here, a chilling voice there—to let your imagination fill in the gaps. The audio recordings of patient sessions are particularly effective, providing mortifying snippets that build an almost unbearable tension. The strength of Session 9 lies in its slow burn. It is a fantastically atmospheric experience that demonstrates how terror can be more impactful when it engages the mind rather than assaulting the senses. Anderson’s depiction of fear and insanity is a clever and deeply disturbing exploration within a genre often filled with stories about teenagers making bad choices and facing gruesome outcomes. It’s no wonder this movie has become a cult favorite over the years, solidifying its place among the best horror movies that continue to haunt viewers long after its release.
The Night House 2020
Director: David Bruckner
IMDb: 6.4/10
What happens when your spouse tragically commits suicide? And what if, after their death, their presence continues to haunt you? The Night House explores these harrowing questions in one of the most chilling and unsettling ways possible. This David Bruckner-directed psychological horror expertly combines a classic haunting tale with fresh, original twists that set it apart from other works in the genre. The film follows Beth (Rebecca Hall), a grieving widow still in shock over her husband Owen’s (Evan Jonigkeit) mysterious demise. As she delves deeper, Beth uncovers horrifying truths about her husband’s secret life. Hall’s portrayal of Beth is truly remarkable, bringing depth and empathy to a character navigating fear, loss, and determination. Her depiction feels genuine, realistic, and incredibly human. Beth’s journey is just as captivating in the quiet, reflective moments as it is in the terrifying ones, with Hall masterfully balancing strength and vulnerability.
The movie embraces the classic, cinematic horror of creaking floors and shadowy figures, yet it never feels outdated. Instead, it reinvents the paranormal tale by weaving in emotional and psychological elements. The pervasive sense of dread lingers long after the final credits roll. The Night House‘s greatest strength lie in its ability to balance supernatural horror with psychological thrills, ensuring neither overshadows the other. As fascinating as its eerie ghost story is the film’s exploration of loss, grief, and the secrets we hide even from those closest to us. The supernatural elements serve as both a metaphor and a mystery, enhancing the narrative without feeling forced or out of place. What more can we say? This is a must-watch for both horror enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.
Host (2020)
Director: Rob Savage
IMDb: 6.5/10
When the world was in lockdown during the Covid-19 pandemic, director Rob Savage seized the opportunity to create something truly spine-chilling. Enter Host, a horror film shot entirely over Zoom, blending the real circumstances of quarantine with supernatural terror. The narrative centers on a group of friends who meet for their weekly Zoom chats while under quarantine. They decide to hold an online seance to spice things up. However, when one of them takes the ritual as a joke, they unknowingly summon malevolent spirits. Host brings something fresh to the genre with its brilliant execution, outstanding performances, and powerful scares, even though the premise—dabbling with found footage and webcam horror—is not entirely new. Its cast, composed mostly of unknown actors, delivers remarkably realistic performances, making the film stand out. Thanks to their improvised lines, the dialogue feels natural, and the characters’ relationships lend the film an authenticity many found-footage movies lack.
The fact that the actors shot their scenes themselves while improvising within the confines of their homes is a testament to their skill and dedication. At a brisk runtime of just under an hour, Host wastes no time in building tension and delivering scares, Earning its place among the best horror movies of the COVID era. The pacing keeps audiences on edge throughout. Jump scares are sparingly used, but when they do appear, they’re executed with precision and leave a lasting impact. Yes, comparisons to Unfriended (2014) are inevitable since both films fall under the “screenlife” subgenre. However, Host surpasses its predecessor with a tighter, more believable storyline and performances that feel authentically grounded. The film stands out among pandemic-era productions because of its unique blend of creativity, originality, and genuine fear.
The Babadook (2014)
Director: Jennifer Kent
IMDb: 6.8/10
One of the best horror movies of 2014, Jennifer Kent’s The Babadook is a psychological masterpiece rather than a conventional horror film. By seamlessly blending the supernatural with deeply personal elements, Kent crafts a haunting tale that lingers in the mind. The story follows Amelia (Essie Davis), a single mother grappling with the grief of losing her husband seven years earlier. She struggles to raise her troubled son, Samuel, but their lives are turned upside down when a sinister force is unleashed one night after reading a children’s book titled Mister Babadook. However, this is not a typical horror story filled with cheesy jump scares; it is a deeply unsettling exploration of mental health, loss, and the extent to which grief can distort reality. The Babadook stands out for avoiding overused horror clichés. Instead, it skillfully creates tension through a persistent sense of dread, eerie sound effects, and disturbing visuals. The atmosphere becomes suffocating as soon as Amelia opens the cursed book.
Kent’s direction expertly captures Amelia’s increasing paranoia, portraying her spiraling descent into madness. Essie Davis’s outstanding performance anchors the film. Her raw and emotional portrayal of Amelia’s decline into hopelessness and desperation is painfully authentic. Davis embodies a woman whose grief and fear are causing her to unravel. While The Babadook may not scare you in the same way as other horror monsters, it distinguishes itself through its psychological depth and creative execution. The monster serves as both a source of terror and a symbol of unresolved grief, presenting audiences with hard truths about loss and motherhood. Working with a modest budget, Jennifer Kent created a film that surpasses many big-budget horrors in ambition and artistry. The result is a hidden gem that every horror fan should experience.
Under the Shadow (2016)
Director: Babak Anvari
IMDb: 6.8/10
A remarkable and historically significant movie, Under the Shadow expertly combines elements of suspense and thriller with the religious folklore of Jinn. The film explores universal themes of terror, survival, and maternal love while capturing an important period in history: the 1980s in war-torn Tehran. A unique addition to the genre, Babak Anvari’s feature debut features a complex connection between supernatural horror and psychological tension. In the midst of post-revolution Iran, Shideh (Narges Rashidi), a mother fighting to protect her young daughter Dorsa, encounters not only the atrocities of war but also an unexplained evil force that haunts their home. The film’s skillful use of Jinn folklore functions as both a physical representation of the characters’ anxieties and a metaphor for the tense atmosphere of the era. This dual interpretation allows the supernatural to be seen as either real or symbolic, inviting the audience to determine the nature of the terror based on their subjective experiences.
Regional superstitions and cultural beliefs are carefully woven throughout the story. This incorporation of local folklore not only enhances the narrative but also provides insight into the fears and cultural dynamics of the era. This blend of mysterious themes and war-torn realities creates a story that is both realistic and supernatural. Under the Shadow stands out as one of the best horror movies, delivering a truly terrifying experience despite its limited budget. You might initially think, “Who would be scared of a cloak-wearing entity flying in the air?” Yet, even something as seemingly simple as that becomes utterly horrifying due to the precise execution of the scares and the steady build-up of tension. The maternal themes of protection and security are deeply moving, particularly when contrasted with the surrounding chaos of war. Shideh’s struggle to shield her daughter from both physical and spiritual harm resonates powerfully, adding emotional weight to the story. By intertwining the horrors of war with the supernatural, Babak Anvari creates a deeply layered narrative that is undeniably worth watching.
The Descent (2005)
Director: Neil Marshall
IMDb: 7.2/10
Neil Marshall’s The Descent is widely regarded as one of the greatest British horror films of all time, and for good reason. This horror masterpiece combines a harrowing survival story with gut-wrenching terror, making it Neil Marshall’s crowning achievement in a career filled with standout genre films. By crafting an unrelentingly claustrophobic and anxiety-inducing experience, Marshall pulls viewers deep into a slimy, dark cave where the tension is so suffocating that you’ll need a breather by the time the movie ends. The story revolves around a group of friends embarking on a cave-diving adventure in the North Carolina mountains. When they stumble upon a species of flesh-eating, humanoid creatures lurking in the depths, what starts as a thrilling adventure swiftly turns into a battle for survival. The plot thrives on its simplicity—the horrific idea of being stranded in a vast network of caves miles below the surface with no way out is enough to terrify even the most seasoned audience. Combine that with the constant threat of cannibalistic monsters, and you have a horror setup that far exceeds expectations.
Few movies make better use of their location than The Descent, making it one of the best horror movies ever made. The claustrophobic underground cave system serves as more than just a backdrop—it intensifies the characters’ feelings of claustrophobia and disorientation. Marshall uses tight, cramped spaces that leave viewers gasping for air, while the oppressive darkness makes the tension unbearable. The all-female cast is one of the film’s standout features; it’s a unique addition that adds depth and authenticity to the story. The group’s disagreements and camaraderie feel natural, heightening both the tragedy and the relatability of their situation. The Descent is a must-see for horror fans. It’s an intense, nerve-racking descent into the depths that will leave you wondering how far you’d go to survive—and whether you’d make it out at all.
It (2017)
Director: Andrés Muschietti
IMDb: 7.3/10
Do You Fear Clowns? If the answer is no, brace yourself because It (2017) might change your mind. Widely regarded as one of the best horror movies, this rendition of Stephen King’s horror classic is nothing short of a nightmare-inducing masterpiece, even though the 1990 miniseries adaptation had its share of horrors. The film immediately establishes itself as unforgettable with its horrifying opening scene. Directed by Andrés Muschietti, it breathes new life into King’s iconic novel, delivering a story that’s both terrifying and surprisingly heartfelt. For those unfamiliar (if that’s even possible), the story revolves around a group of misfit kids who come together to face their worst fears: a trans-dimensional, shape-shifting entity named Pennywise the Dancing Clown, who preys on Derry’s children by exploiting their deepest fears before torturing and consuming them. The young cast including Jaeden Martell, Sophia Lillis, and Finn Wolfhard—delivers genuine and emotional performances. Their relationships serve as the film’s emotional core, and their banter provides much-needed humor to balance the plot.
But without a doubt, the star of the show is Bill Skarsgård’s Pennywise: a wickedly feral and otherworldly figure who is guaranteed to fuel your nightmares. Tim Curry’s famous performance in the 1990 adaptation contrasts sharply with Skarsgård’s version. While Curry’s portrayal leaned toward a creepy yet almost comical approach, Skarsgård’s Pennywise is primal, relentless, and far scarier. Every element of Pennywise’s appearance—from the creepy makeup to the menacing smile—is designed to chill you to the bone. His unsettling blend of childish mischief and monstrous transformations is enough to make anyone reconsider their feelings about clowns. The movie’s ability to incorporate real-world issues into its supernatural plot sets it apart from many horror films. Themes of bullying and domestic violence are explored with raw honesty, giving the story a depth that viewers find incredibly compelling. By updating the story for a modern audience while staying true to its source material, Andy Muschietti and his team created a film that’s as much about friendship and resilience as it is about fear. So, if you haven’t watched it yet and are ready to face your fears, It is waiting.
Hereditary (2018)
Director: Ari Aster
IMDb: 7.3/10
Ari Aster’s Hereditary is a film so horrifying that it leaves you questioning whether you ever want to see it again, even as you find yourself unable to look away while watching it. Widely regarded as one of the best horror movies of the modern era, the movie marks Aster’s feature-length directorial debut, made before his venture to Sweden, and pays homage to genre classics like The Exorcist and The Shining while carving out its own identity. This is achieved through an exceptional blend of intergenerational trauma, family drama, and mental illness. Hereditary isn’t just about the fear of death or evil; rather, it delves into the deeply human fear of not being an adequate brother, sister, spouse, parent, son, or daughter within a family. Its thematic exploration of inadequacy taps into our most profound anxieties—that we might be inherently flawed or unlovable, shaped by our imperfections or irreparable mistakes. The uncertainty of one’s position in this spectrum, combined with the notion that free will might influence one’s fate, amplifies the film’s existential dread.
The reason Hereditary resonates so deeply is its tragedy. At its core, it’s a searing family drama that portrays the harsh realities of those from abusive or dysfunctional families. The raw performances—particularly Toni Collette’s phenomenal portrayal of Annie—imbue the story with an authenticity that is as tragic as it is terrifying. Collette delivers a career-defining performance as the film’s emotional anchor, cementing her character as one of the most iconic in horror history. The rest of the cast also excels, delivering performances so realistic that they heighten the film’s unsettling tone. Each character has distinct qualities that make them uniquely memorable, adding layers to the narrative. Aster’s direction is nothing short of masterful. From the unsettling dollhouse aesthetics to jaw-dropping moments of violence, his ability to create haunting visuals solidifies his reputation as a visionary filmmaker who truly understands horror. Hereditary sets a new benchmark for modern horror, delivering a film that will haunt viewers for years to come.
And there you have it—13 best horror movies you absolutely need to watch, whether you’re looking to scare yourself or give someone else a fright they’ll never forget. If you’ve already seen them all, congratulations—you’re a true horror fanatic! But if not, oh boy, are you in for a haunted treat. And one last thing, just don’t forget to check under the bed before you go to sleep tonight. You’re welcome!
For more detailed reviews and ratings, check out Rotten Tomatoes or IMDb.com.
