For many horror fans, the scariest movies are often hidden gems that don’t get the attention they deserve. If you’re looking for something beyond the usual horror hits, it’s time to dive into some top underrated horror movies that deserve a spot on your watchlist. These films may not have made big waves at the box office, but they’re packed with eerie moments, suspense, and unforgettable scares. Check out these must-watch horror movies you might have missed this year!
1. The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
This supernatural thriller creeps under the radar, but it’s a must-see for horror fans. The Autopsy of Jane Doe takes you into the lives of two coroners who uncover increasingly terrifying secrets while examining a mysterious corpse. As they dig deeper into the cause of death, the tension ramps up, and you’ll be glued to the screen as the terror unfolds. It’s filled with unexpected twists and eerie moments that will keep you guessing until the end.
2. Lake Mungo (2008)
If you love psychological horror, Lake Mungo should be on your list. This mockumentary-style film follows a family dealing with the sudden and tragic death of their daughter. As they try to piece together what happened, strange and haunting events begin to unravel. The movie’s slow build adds to the unease, creating an atmosphere that feels disturbingly real. It’s a quiet, chilling experience that will linger with you long after the credits roll.
3. The Invitation (2015)
The Invitation is the perfect mix of psychological horror and thriller, offering a subtle yet gripping experience. The movie revolves around a seemingly ordinary dinner party that slowly takes a dark turn. With tension building in every scene, this slow-burn horror keeps you on edge as you question the characters’ motives and their unsettling behavior. It’s a nerve-wracking journey that will leave you feeling disturbed by the film’s eerie conclusion.
4. Terrified (2017)
This Argentine horror film is one of the most spine-chilling movies you might never have heard of. Terrified takes place in a quiet neighborhood in Buenos Aires where paranormal events begin terrorizing the residents. With a mix of jump scares, eerie visuals, and a relentless sense of dread, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s one of the most terrifying films to come out in recent years but remains criminally underappreciated outside of hardcore horror circles.
5. Under the Shadow (2016)
Set in 1980s Tehran during the Iran-Iraq war, Under the Shadow masterfully blends real-life conflict with supernatural horror. The story follows a mother and her daughter who are haunted by a malevolent presence in their home. The film uses the backdrop of war to amplify the tension, delivering a haunting narrative that’s both thought-provoking and terrifying. It’s an emotional and chilling ride that’s unlike anything you’ve seen before.
6. Hush (2016)
For fans of intense thrillers, Hush is an underrated gem that will keep your heart racing. The movie follows a deaf-mute woman living in isolation who must fight for her life when a masked killer invades her home. With limited dialogue and plenty of suspense, Hush proves that you don’t need jump scares or gore to create a tense, terrifying atmosphere. It’s pure survival horror at its best.
7. The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015)
If you’re into slow-burn psychological horror, The Blackcoat’s Daughter will not disappoint. The movie is set in a boarding school where two girls are left alone during winter break, and soon after, strange and sinister occurrences begin to unfold. With an unsettling score and eerie atmosphere, this movie builds dread slowly but surely, leaving viewers with a sense of unease that lingers long after it ends.
8. The Wailing (2016)
This South Korean horror film is a haunting mix of supernatural horror and mystery. The Wailing takes place in a rural village where a series of unexplained deaths and illnesses occur after the arrival of a mysterious stranger. The film’s intricate plot, dark humor, and terrifying supernatural elements make it a standout in modern horror. It’s a lengthy movie, but every minute is worth the ride as the tension escalates towards an unforgettable climax.
9. Mandy (2018)
Nicolas Cage delivers one of his most intense performances in Mandy, a visually stunning and wildly unique horror-thriller. The movie follows Cage’s character as he seeks brutal revenge against a deranged cult that destroys his peaceful life. It’s a visceral, psychedelic horror experience filled with disturbing visuals and a haunting soundtrack. Mandy is one of those rare films that’s both beautiful and horrifying at the same time.
10. A Dark Song (2016)
If you’re into occult horror, A Dark Song is a hidden treasure that deserves your attention. The movie focuses on two characters performing a dangerous and complex ritual in a remote house. As the ritual progresses, tension and unease build, leading to a terrifying and thought-provoking conclusion. It’s a slow-paced, atmospheric film that keeps you captivated with its sense of realism and dread.
Conclusion
There you have it, gan! These underrated horror movies might not have received the attention they deserve, but they’re packed with heart-pounding scares and unforgettable moments. If you’re looking for something fresh and creepy to watch this year, these hidden gems will deliver the chills you crave. So, dim the lights, grab your favorite snack, and get ready for a thrilling horror marathon!