Horror cinema is a film genre that has always enjoyed great success with the public, even in the most difficult periods. In the last ten years, the genre has experienced a period of great ferment, with the production of new horror movies, the emergence of new trends and the evolution of consolidated ones.
The Return to the Classic
One of the most obvious trends in new horror movies is the return to the classic. In the 2010s, we have seen the return of numerous horror sagas from the 70s and 80s, such as Halloween, Friday the 13th and Night of the Living Dead. These films have often received mixed reviews, but have nevertheless enjoyed great success with audiences.
The return to the classic has also manifested itself in other ways, such as in the success of new horror movies that are inspired by classic horror movies, such as The Babadook (2014) and Get Out (2017).
New Psychological Horror Movies
Another major trend in recent years is psychological horror in new horror movies. This genre focuses on human fears and insecurities, rather than monstrous creatures or supernatural events.
Some of the most popular new psychological horror movies of recent years are The Witch (2015), Hereditary (2018), and Midsommar (2019).
The Political Horror
In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in new political horror movies, a genre that focuses on real-world horror, such as war, violence, and discrimination.
Some of the most popular new political horror movies of recent years are The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017), Us (2019), and The Power of the Dog (2021).
New Feminist Horror Movies
Feminist horror is a genre that focuses on the fears and oppressions of women. This genre is often characterized by a female perspective and a critical analysis of patriarchy.
Some of the most popular new feminist horror movies of recent years are The Babadook (2014), Midsommar (2019), and The Night House (2021).
New Supernatural Horror Movies
Supernatural horror is a genre that focuses on monstrous creatures, supernatural events, and evil forces. This genre has always been popular, but in recent years it has seen a comeback.
Some of the most popular new supernatural horror movies of recent years are The Conjuring (2013), It (2017), and The Invisible Man (2020).
New Splatter Horror Movies
Splatter horror is a genre that focuses on violence and gore. This genre is often controversial, but it still has its own audience of enthusiasts.
Some of the most popular new splatter horror movies of recent years are The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (2013), Saw (2004), and Hostel (2005).
New Comedy Horror Movies
Comedy horror is a genre that combines elements of horror and comedy. This genre is often used to play down the fears and insecurities of human beings.
Some of the most popular new comedy horror movies of recent years are What We Do in the Shadows (2014), Scooby-Doo on Zombie Island (1998), and The Cabin in the Woods (2012).
The last ten years have been a period of great turmoil for horror cinema. The genre has seen the emergence of new trends, the evolution of established ones and the success of films of all genres.
New Horror Movies to Watch
Here’s a selection of the best new horror films released over the past decade, including some lesser-known and little-seen independent films outside their country of production.
Insidious (2011)
“Insidious” is a 2011 horror film directed by James Wan and written by Leigh Whannell. The film is known for introducing some new dynamics to the horror genre, revitalizing it.
In the case of “Insidious,” the film introduced a plot that focuses on possession and paranormal experiences in a family home. This approach differed from many previous horror films that had primarily focused on external threats like monsters or serial killers. The plot of “Insidious” emphasized the significance of the home as a place of safety and explored the fears associated with losing control over one’s domestic environment.
Additionally, the film popularized the concept of the “Astral” or “Spirit World” as a parallel dimension where malevolent spirits can trap souls. This concept added a new dimension to supernatural horror, taking viewers into a dark and unsettling world that lurks behind everyday reality.
Over the years, “Insidious” has also spawned several sequels, keeping its supernatural horror story alive. This film helped solidify James Wan as a significant director in the horror genre and inspired a new wave of new horror films that aim to bring innovation and originality to the horror genre, pushing boundaries and attempting to frighten and surprise the audience in ever-changing ways.
The Conjuring (2011)
“The Conjuring” is a 2013 horror film, not 2011. It was directed by James Wan and written by Chad and Carey Hayes. This film is known for being based on real-life paranormal events reported by the demonologist couple Ed and Lorraine Warren.
The plot of the film follows Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, as they investigate a case of paranormal activity in a countryside house in Rhode Island. The family living in the house, the Perrons, is tormented by malevolent entities and disturbing supernatural events. The Warrens try to help the family rid themselves of these dark forces and bring peace back to their home.
“The Conjuring” was well-received by critics and was a major box office success, revitalizing the supernatural horror genre. The film also inspired a series of sequels and spin-offs, creating a shared cinematic universe known as “The Conjuring Universe.” This universe includes films like “The Conjuring 2,” “Annabelle,” “The Nun,” “Annabelle: Creation,” and others, all interconnected through the world of the Warrens and the paranormal cases they encountered.
The Loved Ones (2011)
“The Loved Ones” is a 2009 Australian horror film written and directed by Sean Byrne. While the film was actually released in 2009, it did have limited international releases in 2010 and 2011, which may explain the reference to 2011.
The plot of “The Loved Ones” revolves around a troubled high school student named Brent, who becomes the target of a disturbed girl named Lola Stone after he rejects her invitation to the school dance. Lola and her equally twisted father kidnap Brent, leading to a nightmarish ordeal filled with torture and psychological horror.
The film received positive reviews for its disturbing and intense portrayal of horror, and it gained a cult following for its unsettling and unconventional take on the genre. “The Loved Ones” is known for its disturbing characters and gruesome sequences, making it a memorable entry in the horror genre.
The Troll Hunter (2011)
“The Troll Hunter” is a Norwegian film from 2010, not 2011, directed by André Øvredal. It is a found footage/mockumentary-style film that follows a group of film students as they attempt to make a documentary about troll hunting in Norway. The film is known for its combination of horror and comedic elements while exploring Norwegian troll folklore.
The plot follows the group of students as they follow a mysterious troll hunter named Hans. While exploring the wild Norwegian landscape, they encounter legendary creatures and uncover the truth behind the existence of trolls. The film uses the found footage format to create a sense of realism and suspense.
“The Troll Hunter” received critical acclaim and gained international popularity for its originality and unique blend of horror and humor. It has become a cult film among horror movie enthusiasts and helped bring attention to Norwegian cinema.
The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
“The Cabin in the Woods” is a 2012 horror-comedy film directed by Drew Goddard and written by Joss Whedon and Drew Goddard. This film satirizes and subverts many typical horror genre clichés.
The plot follows a group of friends who decide to spend a weekend at an isolated cabin in the woods. However, as they are there, strange and unsettling events begin to occur. They soon discover that there is something much more sinister going on behind the scenes and that their vacation has been manipulated by mysterious forces.
Without revealing too much of the plot, “The Cabin in the Woods” offers an unusual perspective on the horror genre and becomes a sort of critical analysis of cinematic horror tropes. The film combines elements of horror, comedy, and meta-narration, creating a unique experience for viewers.
“The Cabin in the Woods” is known for its innovative approach and genre satire, and it was well-received by both critics and audiences, becoming a cult favorite among horror enthusiasts.
Sinister (2012)
“Sinister” is a 2012 supernatural horror film directed by Scott Derrickson and written by C. Robert Cargill. The film stars Ethan Hawke as a true-crime writer who moves his family into a new home, hoping to find inspiration for his next book. However, he discovers a box of old home movies in the attic that reveal a series of gruesome murders connected to a pagan deity known as Bughuul. As he investigates the disturbing footage, he unwittingly puts his own family in grave danger.
“Sinister” is known for its eerie atmosphere, chilling soundtrack, and its use of found footage-style home movies that reveal the gruesome events tied to the supernatural entity. The film received positive reviews for its effective scares and Hawke’s performance. It spawned a sequel, “Sinister 2,” and contributed to the popularity of supernatural horror in the early 2010s.
The Woman in Black (2012)
“The Woman in Black” is a 2012 horror film directed by James Watkins, based on Susan Hill’s novel of the same name. The film is set in Edwardian England and is known for being a traditional gothic horror with a dark and eerie atmosphere.
The plot follows Arthur Kipps, portrayed by Daniel Radcliffe, a young lawyer sent to a remote village to sort out the papers of a deceased client. As he investigates the mysterious house of the deceased and the secrets surrounding the village, he begins to encounter paranormal presences and uncover a story of tragedy and revenge linked to a woman in black.
The film is known for its effective use of classic horror elements, including a haunted house, spectral presences, and a gloomy atmosphere. “The Woman in Black” was well-received by critics and performed well at the box office. It helped establish Daniel Radcliffe’s film career beyond his iconic role as Harry Potter and has become a cult classic in the gothic horror genre.
The Babadook (2012)
“The Babadook” is a 2014 Australian-Canadian psychological horror film written and directed by Jennifer Kent, not 2012 as you mentioned. The film is known for its psychological depth and exploration of grief and motherhood within the context of a supernatural horror story.
The plot centers around a single mother, Amelia, who is struggling to raise her troubled son, Samuel, following the death of her husband. Samuel becomes convinced that a sinister and otherworldly creature called “The Babadook” is haunting their home after they discover a mysterious children’s book by the same name. As Amelia’s mental state deteriorates, she must confront the reality of the creature’s existence and the impact of her unresolved grief.
“The Babadook” received critical acclaim for its compelling characters, atmospheric tension, and its ability to use horror elements as a metaphor for the protagonist’s inner turmoil. It became a critical darling in the horror genre and is often cited as one of the best horror films of the 21st century.
The Orphanage (2012)
“The Orphanage” (in Spanish, “El Orfanato”) is a Spanish horror film from 2007 directed by Juan Antonio Bayona, not from 2012 as you mentioned. This film is known for its eerie atmosphere and its emotional approach to the horror genre.
The plot follows Laura, portrayed by Belén Rueda, who returns with her husband and son to her old childhood home, which used to be an orphanage. Laura hopes to transform the house into a residence for disabled children, but when her son begins to make friends with an imaginary companion and paranormal events start to occur, Laura starts to investigate the dark history of the house and the fate of the children who were once housed there.
“The Orphanage” is known for its emotionally charged storytelling and how it combines elements of suspense and psychological scares. The film received critical acclaim for its engaging plot and the performances of the cast. It is considered one of the best Spanish horror films and has helped renew interest in Spanish horror cinema.
House at the End of the Street (2012)
“The House at the End of the Street” is a 2012 horror/thriller film directed by Mark Tonderai. The film is known for its blend of suspense and psychological horror.
The plot follows a mother, portrayed by Elisabeth Shue, and her teenage daughter, played by Jennifer Lawrence, who move to a new house in a small town. They discover that the house next door was the site of a murder, and the only survivor, a young man named Ryan, portrayed by Max Thieriot, still lives there. As the daughter befriends Ryan, unsettling secrets related to the murder begin to surface.
“The House at the End of the Street” unfolds a series of eerie events and mysteries as the mother and daughter try to uncover the truth about their new home. The film combines elements of suspense and psychological horror and received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances of the actors, particularly Jennifer Lawrence.
Mama (2013)
“Mama” is a 2013 supernatural horror film directed by Andrés Muschietti. The film is known for its eerie and atmospheric approach to horror.
The plot revolves around two young girls, Victoria and Lily, who are found living in a decrepit cabin in the woods after being missing for five years. Their uncle and his girlfriend take them in, but it becomes clear that the girls have been raised by a mysterious entity they call “Mama.” As strange and frightening events unfold, it becomes evident that “Mama” has followed them from the cabin, and it harbors dark and supernatural secrets.
“Mama” is noted for its effective use of suspense and atmospheric tension. The film explores themes of motherhood, family, and the supernatural. While it received mixed reviews from critics, it was commercially successful and has garnered a cult following among horror fans.
Housebound (2013)
“Housebound” is a 2014 New Zealand horror-comedy film written and directed by Gerard Johnstone, not 2013 as mentioned. The film is known for its mix of horror, comedy, and supernatural elements.
The plot follows a troubled young woman named Kylie, played by Morgana O’Reilly, who is placed under house arrest in her childhood home after a failed robbery attempt. While confined to the house, she begins to suspect that the old house may be haunted. As she investigates the supernatural occurrences, she uncovers dark secrets about her family’s past.
“Housebound” is praised for its witty humor and clever blend of horror and comedy. It received positive reviews for its unique approach to the haunted house genre and its memorable characters. The film has gained a cult following among horror and comedy enthusiasts.
It Follows (2014)
“It Follows” is a 2014 American supernatural horror film written and directed by David Robert Mitchell. The film is known for its unique and unsettling premise.
The plot follows a young woman named Jay, portrayed by Maika Monroe, who becomes the target of a supernatural entity after a sexual encounter. She learns that the entity, which can take on various human forms, will relentlessly follow her until she passes it on to someone else through a sexual encounter. Jay and her friends must find a way to escape or deal with this mysterious and deadly curse.
“It Follows” received critical acclaim for its originality, atmospheric tension, and its exploration of themes related to sexuality and mortality. The film is often praised for its deliberate pacing and eerie score. It has become a notable entry in the horror genre and has gained a devoted fanbase.
The Guest (2014)
“The Guest” is a 2014 American thriller/horror film directed by Adam Wingard. While it includes elements of suspense and action, it is often categorized as a thriller rather than a horror film.
The plot revolves around a soldier named David Collins, played by Dan Stevens, who visits the Peterson family claiming to be a friend of their deceased son, who died in combat. Initially welcomed into their home, David’s presence soon raises suspicions, and a series of mysterious and violent events begin to occur.
“The Guest” received positive reviews for its stylish direction, suspenseful atmosphere, and Dan Stevens’ charismatic performance. It pays homage to 1980s action and thriller films and has gained a cult following for its blend of suspense and dark humor.
The Taking of Deborah Logan (2014)
“The Taking of Deborah Logan,” also known as “The Possession of Deborah Logan,” is a 2014 psychological horror film directed by Adam Robitel. The film is known for its eerie and psychological approach to horror.
The plot follows a documentary crew that is filming Deborah Logan, an elderly woman struggling with Alzheimer’s disease. As they document her life, unsettling events and increasingly bizarre behavior by Deborah begin to emerge. As the situation deteriorates, the crew begins to suspect that something dark may be involved in her illness.
“The Taking of Deborah Logan” uses the documentary format to create a sense of realism and immersion in psychological horror. The film is notable for Jill Larson’s performance in the role of Deborah Logan and its ability to blend horror with themes of illness and cognitive decline. It received positive reviews for its originality and unsettling atmosphere.
The Witch (2015)
“The Witch” is a 2015 period horror film written and directed by Robert Eggers. The film is known for its meticulous attention to historical accuracy and its slow-building, atmospheric horror.
Set in the 1630s, the story follows a Puritan family in New England who are banished from their community due to religious differences. They establish a farm on the edge of a dark and foreboding forest. Strange and unsettling events begin to occur, and the family becomes convinced that a malevolent witch is responsible.
“The Witch” received critical acclaim for its historical authenticity, cinematography, and its ability to create a sense of dread and unease. It’s often praised for its period-accurate language and costumes. The film explores themes of religious extremism, isolation, and paranoia. It has become a notable entry in the genre of psychological horror and has garnered a cult following.
The Invitation (2015)
“The Invitation” is a 2015 psychological horror-thriller film directed by Karyn Kusama. The film is known for its suspenseful and tense atmosphere.
The plot follows a man named Will, portrayed by Logan Marshall-Green, who attends a dinner party at the home of his ex-wife, Eden, and her new husband. As the evening progresses, Will becomes increasingly suspicious of the hosts’ intentions and the strange behavior of the other guests. He begins to believe that there is a hidden agenda behind the dinner party, and he must uncover the truth before it’s too late.
“The Invitation” is praised for its slow-building tension and psychological depth. It explores themes of grief, trauma, and paranoia, making it a thought-provoking addition to the thriller genre. The film received positive reviews for its storytelling and the performances of its cast.
The Monster (2016)
“The Monster” is a 2016 American-Canadian horror film directed by Bryan Bertino. The film is known for its creature feature and suspenseful elements.
The story revolves around a troubled mother and her young daughter who are driving through a deserted road late at night, but their car breaks down in the middle of nowhere. As they wait for help, they realize that they are not alone, and they are being stalked by a terrifying and mysterious creature.
“The Monster” is praised for its tension-building and the performances of its lead actresses, Zoe Kazan and Ella Ballentine. It combines elements of horror with a mother-daughter relationship drama. The film explores themes of survival and the bond between a parent and child in the face of a deadly threat.
Under the Shadow (2016)
“Under the Shadow” è un film iraniano del 2016 scritto e diretto da Babak Anvari.
Set in Tehran during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, the film follows the story of a mother and daughter who must cope with both the horrors of war and supernatural forces. After an unexploded missile crashes into their apartment building, strange and terrifying occurrences begin to happen, leading the mother to believe that an evil presence has taken hold of their home.
“Under the Shadow” is known for its atmospheric tension, its exploration of the psychological effects of war, and its blend of real-world horrors with supernatural elements. It has received critical acclaim and is often praised for its unique and thought-provoking approach to the horror genre.
Get Out (2017)
“Get Out” is a 2017 horror and psychological thriller film written and directed by Jordan Peele, although you mentioned 2016. The film was released in the United States in February 2017.
The movie follows the story of Chris, played by Daniel Kaluuya, a young African American man who visits the family of his white girlfriend, Rose, for the weekend. Initially, it seems that the family welcomes Chris with open arms, but soon, strange and unsettling behavior emerges. Chris begins to investigate the family’s dark secrets and uncovers a terrible reality that threatens his life.
“Get Out” is known for addressing themes of racism and discrimination through the horror and psychological thriller genres. The film received critical acclaim for its originality, intelligent storytelling, and the performances of the cast. Jordan Peele won the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay for the film, becoming the first African American director to win in this category. The film is considered a landmark in contemporary horror cinema.
Mother! (2017)
“Mother!” is a 2017 film written and directed by Darren Aronofsky. The film is known for its surreal and disturbing narrative.
The plot follows a couple, portrayed by Jennifer Lawrence and Javier Bardem, who live in an isolated house. Their quiet life is disrupted when a stranger, played by Ed Harris, and his wife, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, show up at their door. Over time, strange and unsettling events begin to occur, and the house becomes a place of chaos and madness.
“Mother!” received praise from critics for its cinematography and the performances of its actors but also generated polarized reactions due to its surreal nature and disturbing content. The film has been interpreted as an allegorical representation of various themes, including creation, fame, religion, and ecology. It is known for its provocative approach and has sparked intense discussions among audiences and critics.
A Dark Song (2017)
“A Dark Song” is a 2016 Irish-British independent horror film directed by Liam Gavin. While it was completed in 2016, it had its world premiere at the 2016 Fantastic Fest and was released in various countries, including the United Kingdom, in 2017. The film is known for its slow-building and atmospheric horror.
The story follows a grief-stricken mother, played by Catherine Walker, who hires an occultist, portrayed by Steve Oram, to help her perform a complex and dangerous ritual. The ritual is intended to summon her guardian angel so she can communicate with her deceased son, but it quickly becomes clear that the ritual may have unintended and malevolent consequences.
“A Dark Song” is praised for its intense and psychological approach to horror, as well as its focus on character development. It explores themes of grief, guilt, and the supernatural. The film has received positive reviews from critics for its unique take on the occult and its haunting atmosphere.
The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2017)
“The Blackcoat’s Daughter,” also known as “February,” is a 2015 Canadian-American psychological horror film written and directed by Oz Perkins. It was completed in 2015 but had its official release in 2017.
The film follows the story of two young girls, played by Kiernan Shipka and Lucy Boynton, who are left behind at their boarding school during winter break when their parents fail to pick them up. Strange and unsettling events begin to occur as a malevolent force takes hold of the school.
“The Blackcoat’s Daughter” is known for its slow-paced and atmospheric horror, as well as its focus on psychological tension. It explores themes of isolation and possession. The film received praise for its mood and performances but also divided opinions due to its unconventional storytelling style.
A Quiet Place (2018)
“A Quiet Place” is a science fiction horror film from 2018. The film was written and directed by John Krasinski and is known for its unique premise and tense atmosphere.
The plot is set in a post-apocalyptic future where Earth has been invaded by deadly blind creatures that hunt through sound. A family, consisting of a mother and father, portrayed by Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, and their children, live in silence to avoid attracting the creatures’ attention. They must communicate only through sign language and strive to survive in a world where even the slightest noise could mean death.
“A Quiet Place” was praised for its constant tension and its ability to immerse viewers in the characters’ experience, forced to live in silence to survive. The film was a box office success and received critical acclaim for its originality in the horror genre and the performances of the cast. It also spawned a sequel in 2020 titled “A Quiet Place Part II.”
Hereditary (2018)
“Hereditary” is a 2018 American supernatural horror film written and directed by Ari Aster. The film is known for its disturbing and psychological horror elements.
The story follows the Graham family, who, after the death of their secretive grandmother, start experiencing increasingly terrifying and supernatural occurrences. As the family unravels dark secrets about their ancestry, they become entangled in a sinister and malevolent force that threatens their lives.
“Hereditary” received critical acclaim for its unsettling atmosphere, strong performances, and its willingness to explore complex and disturbing themes. It is often praised for its slow-burning tension and its ability to shock and disturb the audience. The film has gained a reputation as a modern classic in the horror genre.
L’infinito – The Endless (2018)
“The Endless” is a 2017 American science fiction horror film directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead. Although the film premiered in 2017, it had a wider release in 2018. The film is known for its blend of science fiction and horror elements.
The story centers around two brothers, played by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead themselves, who receive a mysterious video message that leads them back to a cult they escaped from years earlier. As they return to the cult’s rural commune, they encounter strange and unexplainable phenomena that challenge their understanding of reality.
“The Endless” is praised for its mind-bending narrative, atmosphere, and the creative ways it explores the concept of a cult and the unknown. It has received positive reviews for its unique approach to the genre and its thought-provoking themes.
Midsommar (2019)
“Midsommar” is a 2019 folk horror film written and directed by Ari Aster, known for his previous work on “Hereditary.” The film is notable for its unique and disturbing take on the folk horror genre.
The story follows a group of friends who travel to a remote Swedish village to attend a midsummer festival that only occurs once every ninety years. Initially, they are welcomed with open arms, but as the festival’s rituals become increasingly bizarre and unsettling, the group realizes that they have become part of something much more sinister.
“Midsommar” is known for its stunning cinematography, unsettling atmosphere, and exploration of themes such as grief, relationships, and the nature of cultural traditions. It’s a film that blends horror with folkloric elements and has generated significant discussion and analysis within the horror film community. Ari Aster’s directorial style, which includes long takes and intense emotional sequences, is a hallmark of the film.
The Lighthouse (2019)
“The Lighthouse” is a 2019 psychological horror film directed by Robert Eggers. The film is known for its distinctive black-and-white cinematography and its intense and surreal atmosphere.
The story is set in the late 19th century and revolves around two lighthouse keepers, played by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, who are isolated on a remote and mysterious New England island for a four-week assignment. As their time on the island progresses, their sanity begins to unravel, and they are plagued by visions, paranoia, and supernatural occurrences.
“The Lighthouse” is praised for its atmospheric storytelling, strong performances, and its exploration of themes related to isolation, madness, and power dynamics. The film’s unique visual style and use of black-and-white photography contribute to its unsettling and dreamlike quality. It has been hailed as a modern masterpiece of psychological horror.
The Hole in the Ground (2019)
“The Hole in the Ground” is a 2019 Irish horror film directed by Lee Cronin. The film is known for its eerie atmosphere and psychological horror elements.
The story follows a mother, played by Seána Kerslake, and her young son who move to a rural town in Ireland to start a new life. However, their lives take a sinister turn when the boy goes missing in the nearby forest, and his mother begins to suspect that something unnatural and malevolent has taken his place.
“The Hole in the Ground” is praised for its tension-building, strong performances, and its ability to create an unsettling and suspenseful atmosphere. It combines elements of psychological horror with supernatural elements, making it a notable addition to the horror genre.
The Lodge (2019)
“The Lodge” is a 2019 psychological horror-thriller film directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala. The film is known for its chilling atmosphere and psychological tension.
The story centers around a family that becomes trapped in a remote winter cabin during a snowstorm. The family consists of a father, his girlfriend, and his two children. As they try to spend time together, disturbing and unexplainable events begin to occur, and it becomes clear that someone or something wants to terrorize them. Dark secrets and traumatic pasts come to light, leading to a nightmarish ordeal.
“The Lodge” is praised for its slow-burning tension, unsettling imagery, and the psychological depth of its characters. It explores themes of grief, trauma, and the impact of religious beliefs on individuals’ lives. The film has received positive reviews for its eerie and unsettling atmosphere.
The Night House (2020)
“The Night House” is a 2020 American supernatural psychological horror film directed by David Bruckner. The film is known for its eerie atmosphere and its exploration of grief and the supernatural.
The story follows a widow, played by Rebecca Hall, who begins to experience disturbing and unexplainable events in her lakeside home. As she delves deeper into the mysteries surrounding her late husband, she uncovers unsettling secrets and a connection to the supernatural that threatens her sanity and safety.
“The Night House” received positive reviews for its atmospheric tension, Rebecca Hall’s performance, and its ability to blend psychological horror with supernatural elements. It is often praised for its thought-provoking themes and its unsettling and suspenseful storytelling.
The Vigil (2020)
“The Vigil” is a 2019 supernatural horror film written and directed by Keith Thomas. The film was released in 2020 and is known for its eerie and suspenseful atmosphere.
The story centers around a young man, played by Dave Davis, who is hired to be a “shomer,” a person who watches over a deceased body in accordance with Jewish tradition for one night. He takes on this responsibility for an elderly Holocaust survivor in a run-down Brooklyn house. However, as the night progresses, he begins to experience disturbing and malevolent supernatural phenomena, leading him to confront a malevolent entity from the past.
“The Vigil” is praised for its tension-building, unique premise, and exploration of Jewish folklore and superstition. It combines psychological horror with supernatural elements and has been noted for its effective scares and unsettling atmosphere.
Men (2022)
“Men” is a 2022 British folk horror film written and directed by Alex Garland. The lead role is portrayed by Jessie Buckley as Harper, a woman who goes on vacation alone in the English countryside after the death of her husband, James. However, her vacation quickly turns into a nightmare when she is confronted by a series of increasingly unsettling men.
The film is a complex and allegorical exploration of grief, trauma, and misogyny. It is also visually stunning, with Garland using the lush landscapes and ancient folklore of England to create a truly eerie atmosphere.
Buckley delivers a tour de force performance as Harper, capturing her character’s vulnerability, resilience, and anger with equal skill. She is supported by a strong cast that includes Rory Kinnear, Paapa Essiedu, and Gayle Rankin.
“Men” has been praised by critics for its bold and original direction, powerful performances, and its timely exploration of important social issues.
