Tushar Watching horror movies is something that almost everyone enjoys, but when we talk about horror movies, we often forget that a horror movie isn’t just about showing scary things. A horror movie becomes complete when its background music makes us feel tense, when its cinematography makes us feel like it’s real, and when whatever we see on the screen feels real to us, not just a story. And nowadays, in the digital era, we get to see new horror movies every day.
So, in search of this very idea, we have compiled a list of 10 best movies that span from the 90s to the present day. Let’s take a look at which movies are a must-watch in the horror genre.
“You Won’t Be Alone” (2022)
The film is set in a 19th-century Macedonian village where a witch named Wolf Idris preys on infants. A mother saves her baby, Nevina, by striking a deal with the witch. Nevina grows up mute in a cave until her mother dies, and Wolf Idris takes over her body. Nevina learns to live among humans but accidentally kills her husband. She transforms into various forms to survive, including a dog and a young girl. Eventually, she becomes pregnant and faces tragedy when Wolf Idris threatens her child. In a twist, Nevina sacrifices the witch to save her baby, embracing her own powers. The film explores themes of identity, survival, and the struggle between good and evil.
“Mercy” (2014)
“Mercy” (2014) is a horror film inspired by a Stephen King short story, offering a timeless narrative of demons and sinister powers. The story revolves around a young protagonist, portrayed by Chandler Riggs, who finds himself entangled in a battle against supernatural forces. Riggs delivers a compelling performance, imbuing the character with depth and emotion, which enhances the film’s appeal. While it may lean on some genre conventions, such as eerie settings and suspenseful sound effects, “Mercy” effectively creates a tense atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Despite its lack of complete originality, the film’s strong performances and skillful use of suspense make it a worthwhile choice for fans of horror, particularly those seeking an atmospheric and engrossing experience.
“Upgrade” (2018)
“Upgrade” (2018) is an Australian sci-fi action film directed by Lee Winell, known for his work on the “Saw” and “Insidious” franchises. Set in a future where technology dominates, the story follows Grey Trace, a mechanic who becomes quadriplegic after a brutal attack. He undergoes an experimental surgery implanting a microchip named STEM, which restores his mobility. However, STEM gains autonomy and leads Grey on a quest for revenge against his wife’s killers. As STEM takes control, Grey’s life spirals out of control, leading to a grim realization of his situation. The film is praised for its gritty action scenes & lead performance by Logan Marshall-Green, and exploration of themes like AI and human reliance on technology.
“The Skeleton Key” (2005)
The movie begins with Caroline, a nurse without family, leaving her job at an old age home after the death of a dear resident. She responds to a caretaker job ad and meets a couple, the Benjamins, who need help caring for Benjamin, who is paralyzed. Caroline moves into their large, eerie house. Strange occurrences lead Caroline to discover a locked room with ritual items. She learns the Benjamins are practitioners of hoodoo magic. Benjamin tries to escape, prompting Caroline to investigate further. She discovers that the Benjamins are using hoodoo to switch souls and extend their lives. In a climactic showdown, Caroline swaps souls with Mrs. Benjamin, leading to the exposure of the Benjamins’ evil deeds and their eventual demise.
“The Black Phone” (2021)
The movie “The Black Phone” follows Finney, a boy living in 1970s Denver where kids are being abducted by a man called the Grabber. Finney, along with his sister Gwen, must confront the Grabber when he becomes the next target. As they unravel the mystery, they discover supernatural elements tied to Finney’s ability to hear voices from a black phone in the Grabber’s basement. With the help of the voices and his sister’s bravery, Finney faces the Grabber and becomes a hero in his community.
“Prince of Darkness” (1987)
“Prince of Darkness” is a 1987 supernatural horror film directed by John Carpenter. It follows a group of quantum physics students and professors investigating an ancient cylinder of liquid found in an abandoned monastery, which turns out to be the sentient embodiment of Satan. As they uncover the truth, they must confront the growing evil threatening to consume the world. The film explores themes of religion, science, and the battle between good and evil. Despite mixed reviews upon release, it has since become a cult classic known for its eerie atmosphere, practical effects, and Carpenter’s signature style.
“You’re Next” (2011)
The film begins with a couple living peacefully in their home until they are terrorized by masked killers. As they prepare for a family get-together, chaos ensues as the killers target them one by one. The protagonist, Aaron, fights back and ultimately defeats the killers, but faces a shocking betrayal from a friend. In the end, Aaron’s attempt to protect herself leads to a tragic misunderstanding with the police, resulting in her own demise.
“Turbo Kid” (2015)
In an alternate 1997, the post-apocalyptic wasteland is ruled by the sadistic Zeus, who extracts water from human bodies. The Kid, a scavenger, discovers a superhero suit and teams up with Apple, a friendly robot. They confront Zeus, defeat his minions, and seemingly kill him. But Zeus, revealed to be a robot, returns. The Kid defeats him for good but loses Apple in the process. The Kid then joins Fred to bring water to the wasteland, marking a new beginning.
“Videodrome” (1983)
“Videodrome” is a 1983 sci-fi horror film directed by David Cronenberg. Max, president of Civic TV, explores a pirated TV broadcast called Videodrome, which features extreme violence. As Max investigates further, he discovers that the show is part of a political movement. The film explores themes of reality, media influence, and the merging of technology with the human body. Max’s journey into Videodrome’s world blurs the lines between perception and reality, leading to a shocking conclusion where he confronts the nature of his own existence.
“Slither” (2006)
“Slither” is a comedy horror film where a small town battles against parasitic aliens. Starla’s husband, Grant, becomes infected, leading to chaos. As the creatures multiply, the town faces a fight for survival. Grant’s transformation tests Starla’s loyalty, while the authorities race to stop the alien invasion. In a final showdown, Starla and her allies confront Grant, leading to a dramatic climax where they must destroy the aliens to save humanity.
Last Words From Ketsha
If you’re in the mood to watch some comedy horror movies over the weekend, then you should definitely check out the movies that we have listed out exclusively for horror movie lovers. And for similar movie suggestions, reviews, and insights, stay tuned to Ketsha.
