Netflix is rolling out a fresh batch of best horror movies on netflix , both new originals and festival favorites. With horror consistently topping the charts as the most-watched genre on the platform, Netflix’s extensive catalog can make it tough to find the true gems. That’s where we come in. Updated for 2024, here are the best horror films on Netflix right now to keep you up all night.
This article is regularly updated as movies come and go on Netflix.
| Meet Brandon Miller, your horror movie connoisseur. Every month, he dives into Netflix’s vast catalog to unearth the scariest gems, using his expert taste and extensive cinema knowledge to guide him, rather than relying on the algorithm. He triple-checks to ensure each film’s availability, watches them, and then crafts his recommendations. This list of “The 20 Best Horror Movies on Netflix Right Now” isn’t just about popular picks; it’s about showcasing horror’s ability to create spine-chilling atmospheres, keep you on edge, and reflect societal themes. Dive in to discover your next terrifying watch. |
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Silent Hill
| YEAR | 2016 |
| Director | Christophe Gans |
| Stars Cast | Radha Mitchell, Sean Bean, Laurie Holden |
| Runtime | 126 mins |
When it comes to video game adaptations, horror-themed ones tend to fare better. Silent Hill, directed by Christophe Gans, is a prime example. This film, based on Konami’s eerie survival mystery game, nails what makes the franchise so terrifying. With its creepy figures, effective scares, and ever-present fog, Silent Hill delivers a haunting cinematic experience.
The story follows a mother, played by Radha Mitchell, who ventures into the eerie town of Silent Hill to save her daughter. Alongside strong performances from Sean Bean and Laurie Holden, the film effectively captures the game’s chilling atmosphere and relentless dread.
Why should you watch Silent Hill? Because it perfectly blends the spooky essence of the video game with a compelling storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a fan of the game or just love a good scare, Silent Hill is a horror movie that delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss it.
The Wailing
| YEAR | 2016 |
| Director | Na Hong-jin |
| Stars Cast | Kwak Do-won, Hwang Jung-min, Chun Woo-hee |
| Runtime | 156 mins |
A South Korean Horror Masterpiece Worth the Wait
The Wailing is a gripping South Korean horror film that demands patience but offers a significant payoff. The story centers on a police officer investigating mysterious deaths and illnesses in the secluded mountain village of Gokseong. Initially unfolding as a skeptical police procedural, the film gradually morphs into a complex thriller and culminates in an intense possession arc in the third act.
Director Na Hong-jin masterfully controls the film’s tone, seamlessly shifting the narrative and keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. As the story progresses, the stakes become personal when the policeman’s daughter faces life-threatening danger.
Why should you watch The Wailing? Because it’s a creepy, suspenseful journey that accelerates to an explosive conclusion. If you love horror movies that keep you guessing and build tension masterfully, The Wailing is a must-watch. Don’t miss this chilling cinematic experience!
A Nightmare on Elm Street
| YEAR | 1984 |
| Director | Wes Craven |
| Stars Cast | John Saxon, Ronee Blakley, Heather Langenkamp, Johnny Depp, Robert Englund |
| Runtime | 91 mins |
If it weren’t for the Child’s Play series, A Nightmare On Elm Street would top my list of evergreen horror franchises. It all begins with Wes Craven’s original film, where Robert Englund establishes himself as the sinister dreamland killer, Freddy Krueger. From the razor-sharp gloves to the unforgettable shot of Freddy stretching his arms to create a terrifying shadow effect, Englund is mesmerizing right from the start. His menacing laugh and chilling presence make Freddy an iconic figure in horror.
Nightmare On Elm Street goes beyond being a mere horror movie; it laid the groundwork for a monumental horror legacy. Freddy Krueger’s enduring influence on pop culture underscores the terror Craven created in this uniquely original slasher film. If you haven’t experienced the spine-tingling horror of A Nightmare On Elm Street, now is the perfect time to dive in and see why it’s a cornerstone of the genre.
A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge
| YEAR | 1985 |
| Director | Jack Sholder |
| Stars Cast | Mark Patton, Kim Myers, Clu Gulager, Robert Englund |
| Runtime | 87 mins |
When it comes to Elm Street sequels, Freddy’s Revenge stands out as an underrated gem. The kills are intense, Robert Englund continues to excel as Freddy Krueger, and director Jack Sholder masterfully maintains the eerie tone established by Wes Craven. Despite its strengths, the film has gained notoriety over the years for unexpected reasons.
Mark Patton’s portrayal of Jesse Walsh brings a unique, homoerotic subtext that was groundbreaking for horror films in 1985. This aspect of the movie has sparked much discussion and analysis, culminating in the documentary Scream, Queen! My Nightmare on Elm Street. In the documentary, the now-openly gay Patton shares how the film’s reception impacted his career and personal life, offering a poignant and insightful look into the intersection of horror and LGBTQ+ representation.
For fans of horror and film history alike, Freddy’s Revenge is a must-watch, along with the compelling documentary that sheds light on its cultural significance.
Thanksgiving
| YEAR | 2023 |
| Director | Eli Roth |
| Stars Cast | Patrick Dempsey, Addison Rae, Nell Verlaque, Gina Gershon |
| Runtime | 106 mins |
If I’m being honest, I never thought we’d get a full-length version of Eli Roth’s Thanksgiving. Kudos to the slasher filmmaker for persistently pushing studios until Spyglass Media Group finally brought it to life. The result is a Massachusetts massacre that stands tall among the best of holiday horror films.
Roth masterfully integrates every delicious Thanksgiving detail, indulging in holiday horror accents with everything from pilgrim costumes and corn cob holders to parade floats at ramming speed. Thanksgiving is a hybrid slasher that updates the subgenre for modern tastes while staying true to the splattery golden age of horror violence. It strikes the perfect balance between engaging storytelling and graphic grotesqueries.
For horror aficionados, Thanksgiving is a must-watch. Its dedication to blending classic slasher elements with modern twists makes it a standout. I’ll be in line for seconds, thirds, and more if allowed.
Backcountry
| YEAR | 2014 |
| Director | Adam MacDonald |
| Stars Cast | Missy Peregrym, Jeff Roop, Eric Balfour |
| Runtime | 92 mins |
Adam MacDonald’s Backcountry does for hiking what Jaws did for beaches. Loosely based on a harrowing true story of a 2005 bear attack, this film is a masterclass in delivering raw, primal fear.
Jeff Roop and Missy Peregrym star as an urban couple who venture into the wilderness for a camping trip. What starts with bickering about directions soon spirals into a survival nightmare when a man-eating bear disrupts their adventure.
MacDonald keeps the plot straightforward but executes it with chilling precision, creating an animal attack film that’s intensely gripping. Backcountry taps into our deepest fears of nature, showcasing one of the most terrifying bear encounters ever depicted on screen. If you thought the great outdoors were safe, think again.
X
| YEAR | 2022 |
| Director | Ti West |
| Stars Cast | Mia Goth, Jenna Ortega, Martin Henderson, Brittany Snow, Scott Mescudi |
| Runtime | 106 mins |
Ti West’s X might have driven a stake through the heart of the “Trauma Horror” trend that gained popularity with films like Hereditary. This film is not only a fantastic original slasher but also a bold departure from typical studio horror approaches.
The spotlight is on Mia Goth, who brilliantly portrays both the aspiring adult film star Maxine and the eerie elderly farm owner Pearl. Her dual roles as protagonist and antagonist add a unique twist to the narrative. X pays homage to classic slashers while incorporating contemporary themes of bodily autonomy and sex work, proving that the slasher genre can thrive in today’s socially conscious landscape.
Set against the scorching Texas heat, X offers a refreshing take on the genre. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of slashers that don’t rely on established franchises. Without X, we might not have seen the success of recent films like Thanksgiving, which shows that mainstream audiences are still hungry for innovative slasher films.
Insidious
| YEAR | 2010 |
| Director | James Wan |
| Stars Cast | Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye, Leigh Whannell |
| Runtime | 101 mins |
While The Conjuring might be James Wan’s best haunted house film, Insidious could be his scariest. Wan expertly transforms the familiar comforts of home into a nightmarish realm, filled with chilling entities from The Further and the haunting melody of “Tiptoe through the Tulips.”
The film boasts an impressive cast, including Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Lin Shaye, and Leigh Whannell, who bring depth and authenticity to their roles. Insidious excels in taking familiar horror elements and elevating them to exceptional heights.
Iconic scenes, like the red-faced demon lurking behind Wilson, remain etched in our minds because of their sheer impact. These moments are just a taste of the film’s consistent intensity and terror. Insidious keeps you on edge from start to finish, making it a standout in the horror genre and a must-watch for anyone looking to be truly frightened.
It Follows
| YEAR | 2010 |
| Director | David Robert Mitchell |
| Stars Cast | Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist, Olivia Luccardi, Lili Sepe, Daniel Zovatto, Jake Weary |
It Follows is more than just a horror movie; it’s a chilling homage to the eerie atmosphere of Old Detroit. The film’s setting—rundown ice cream stands on 12 Mile, ’60s-style ranch homes in Ferndale or Berkley, and the nasally accents of teenagers playing Parcheesi—captures the decaying nostalgia of Metro Detroit in every frame. Director David Robert Mitchell masterfully uses this backdrop to create a unique sense of dread that permeates the entire movie.
Unlike typical horror flicks that rely on jump scares, It Follows excels in building a deeper, more unsettling anxiety. The film thrives in the shadows, where the true terror is the constant, creeping fear that something ominous is always on the horizon. This isn’t just about the perils of teenage sex; it’s a profound metaphor for the inevitable process of growing up, reminding us that our time is finite and safety is an illusion.
It Follows stands out for its ability to make the familiar hauntingly unfamiliar, drawing viewers into a world where the horror is always just out of reach, waiting to strike.
The Babadook
| YEAR | 2014 |
| Director | The Babadook |
| Stars Cast | Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman |
Classifying Jennifer Kent’s feature debut, The Babadook, is tricky. On the surface, it fits neatly into the horror genre with its escalating freaky happenings, but calling it just a horror film feels overly simplistic. Kent’s tale of a single mother’s tumultuous relationship with her young son is layered and complex, making it much more than your average horror flick.
The Babadook masterfully blends psychological depth with supernatural terror, ensuring you’ll sleep with the lights on for a week after watching it. But beyond the scares, it’s a film that enriches and provokes, exploring themes of childhood, adulthood, and the fears that plague us at every stage of life. The monster in the film lurks not only in the closet or under the bed but also in the emotional turmoil of its characters.
Australian actress-turned-filmmaker Kent has crafted a story where personal trauma intertwines with supernatural dread. The human concerns at the heart of The Babadook are deeply emotional, made even more intense by the ever-present bogeyman. This film isn’t just about the fear of the unknown; it’s about the haunting nature of unresolved grief and the monsters that live within us all.
His House
| YEAR | 2020 |
| Director | Remi Weekes |
| Stars Cast | Wunmi Mosaku, Sope Dirisu, Matt Smith |
Nothing deflates the energy of a horror film more than one that skimps on scares. While movies can terrify audiences in various ways, the bare minimum a horror movie should do is be genuinely frightening. Remi Weekes’ His House definitely delivers on this front. The film opens with a tragic event and within the first 10 minutes, it outdoes The Grudge, littering its scenes with ghosts that haunt every corner, ready to trip up the protagonists.
His House is not just a horror film; it’s a poignant exploration of the profound and inescapable grief embedded in immigrant stories. It stands alongside contemporary indie films like Jonas Carpignano’s Mediterranea, capturing the perilous journey and harsh realities faced by immigrants with brutal neorealist clarity. Weekes delves deeply into the lives of Bol and Rial, exploring their origins, the reasons behind their flight, and the harrowing sacrifices they made to escape.
At the same time, Weekes is committed to making his viewers jump out of their seats. The combination of heartfelt storytelling and relentless scares ensures that His House is both emotionally impactful and terrifying, proving that horror can be both meaningful and bone-chilling.
The Haunting of Hill House
| YEAR | 2018 |
| Director | Mike Flanagan |
| Stars Cast | Henry Thomas, Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Elizabeth Reaser, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Kate Siegel, Victoria Pedretti |
The aesthetic of The Haunting of Hill House elevates it beyond a mere horror TV show, making it a masterful adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s classic novel. The series is remarkable for its subtle horror elements: monsters and ghosts are often off-screen, barely visible, or hidden in shadows. This approach, along with the deliberate camera movements and shot design inspired by the original film adaptation, creates a sense of unease and tension.
The show’s real genius lies in its ability to manipulate your mind. You’re always on edge, wary of being tricked, yet the scenes are crafted so well that they catch you off guard every time. The Haunting of Hill House excels at building discomfort and fear, not through cheap jump scares but by making you squirm and letting you simmer in that tension. It’s a slow burn that keeps you deeply unsettled, proving that horror can be both intelligent and profoundly disturbing.
The Fall of the House of Usher
| YEAR | 2023 |
| Director | Mike Flanagan |
| Stars Cast | Bruce Greenwood, Mary McDonnell, Carla Gugino, Kate Siegel, Henry Thomas, Zach Gilford, Carl Lumbly, Mark Hamill |
Mike Flanagan stands alone in his ability to tap into our deepest emotional fears and desires, creating real-life nightmare fuel that’s more terrifying than any monster under the bed. Through stories that grapple with faith, love, and mortality, Flanagan’s human-centered horror universe is truly captivating.
In The Fall of the House of Usher, Flanagan masterfully weaves elements from Edgar Allan Poe’s iconic works, including “The Tell-Tale Heart” and “The Masque of the Red Death.” Poe’s themes of guilt, death, and obsession are artfully explored, with references peppered throughout the series. Blending horror with dark comedy and social commentary, the show delves into the dysfunction of a wealthy family unraveling before our eyes, creating a mesmerizing and unsettling experience.
Midnight Mass
| YEAR | 2021 |
| Director | Mike Flanagan |
| Stars Cast | Zach Gilford, Kate Siegel, Kristin Lehman, Samantha Sloyan, Henry Thomas, Hamish Linklater |
Everything beyond that for this seven-episode series is a true spoiler, but what can be said is that even with its dabblings in the supernatural, Midnight Mass (created by The Haunting’s Mike Flanagan, in his most recent collaboration with Netflix), is a show that burrows inwards instead of outwards. With both the physical claustrophobia of Crockett’s setting and the internal suffering of characters placed in center stage, Midnight Mass concerns itself with horrors within: addictive tendencies, secret histories, and questions of forgiveness and belief. At one glance, it’s a series that’s mined Catholic guilt for gold. In another, it’s a measured, yet spooky take on group psychology, the need for faith in sorrow, and the ethics of leadership with such vulnerable followers, weighing whether these impulses represent human goodness, evil, or simply nothing at all.
“Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” Midnight Mass offers a chance for anyone to be doubting Thomas or true believer. What difference is a miracle from a supernatural event, anyway?
The Autopsy of Jane Doe
| YEAR | 2016 |
| Director | André Øvredal |
| Stars Cast | Emile Hirsch, Brian Cox, Olwen Catherine Kelly |
In The Autopsy of Jane Doe, director André Øvredal explores the age-old notion that men have difficulty understanding women. Through a forensic examination, he illustrates how women’s hidden suffering often eludes the perception of men. While the film’s title suggests graphic autopsy scenes, its true power lies in unraveling the mystery of Jane’s anguish. As the story unfolds, viewers are drawn into a chilling narrative that probes the depths of Jane’s torment, revealing layers of trauma hidden beneath her exterior.
The movie serves as a potent metaphor for the unseen struggles faced by women, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding. Despite its grisly subject matter, The Autopsy of Jane Doe offers a thought-provoking exploration of gender dynamics and the complexities of human suffering.
Through Øvredal’s masterful direction and compelling storytelling, the film delivers a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll. It challenges audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about societal perceptions of women and the need for greater awareness of their internal struggles. With its gripping narrative and unsettling atmosphere, The Autopsy of Jane Doe is a standout psychological horror film that leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.
Creep
| YEAR | 2014 |
| Director | Patrick Brice |
| Stars Cast | Mark Duplass, Patrick Brice |
“Creep” is a chilling indie debut by director Patrick Brice, starring Mark Duplass. The film follows a videographer hired by a recluse to document his life in a remote cabin. Duplass delivers a mesmerizing performance as the unhinged antagonist, creating palpable tension. While the plot may be predictable, the chemistry between the leads keeps viewers engaged. The film’s eerie atmosphere and psychological depth make it a compelling watch, reminiscent of tense exchanges in “Ex Machina.” Despite its familiarity, “Creep” stands out as a well-crafted thriller driven by strong performances and an unsettling narrative.
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors
| YEAR | 1987 |
| Director | Chuck Russell |
| Stars Cast | Robert Englund, Heather Langenkamp, Patricia Arquette, Priscilla Pointer, Craig Wasson, Lawrence Fishburne |
“Dream Warriors” is the best sequel in the “Nightmare on Elm Street” series. It brings back Heather Langenkamp as Nancy Thompson, who helps new kids fight Freddy Krueger. The movie has a great cast, with each character dealing with their own problems. Robert Englund is amazing as Freddy, mixing scary moments with funny lines.
The dream scenes are really creative, with memorable deaths and lots of imagination. While the first movie was scarier, “Dream Warriors” adds fun to the mix. It’s both scary and entertaining.
The film shows Nancy growing from a survivor to a mentor. It’s about more than just scares; it has deeper meanings too. Overall, it’s a great movie that adds to Freddy Krueger’s legacy as a horror icon.
Cabinet of Curiosities
| YEAR | 2022 |
| Director | Guillermo Navarro, David Prior, Jennifer Kent, others |
| Stars Cast | Tim Blake Nelson, Andrew Lincoln, Essie Davis, F. Murray Abraham, others |
Netflix’s new “Cabinet of Curiosities,” hosted by Guillermo del Toro, offers a mix of scary stories. While it’s natural to wonder how much del Toro is involved, the series features visually stunning tales. Del Toro introduces each story from his cabinet of curiosities. Despite initial doubts, the show impresses with its visuals and storytelling. Some episodes are more traditional, but all showcase top-notch filmmaking. It’s clear that del Toro’s influence extends beyond his direct involvement. The series is a testament to the talent of its creators and the approval of its host. “Cabinet of Curiosities” proves to be a delightful and visually captivating addition to Netflix’s lineup.
Creep 2
| YEAR | 2017 |
| Director | Patrick Brice |
| Stars Cast | Mark Duplass, Desiree Akhavan, Karan Soni |
Creep 2 defies the conventional expectations of a sequel, opting instead to delve deeper into the psyche of its central character, Aaron, portrayed by Mark Duplass. Unlike many horror sequels that aim to replicate the scares of their predecessors, Creep 2 focuses more on interpersonal drama and character exploration. The 2014 original introduced viewers to Aaron, a unique serial killer who forms close personal bonds with his victims before ultimately dispatching them. However, Creep 2 takes a bold step forward by examining Aaron’s internal struggles in ways that are unexpected and shockingly sincere.
In this installment, we witness Aaron grappling with a crisis of purpose as he finds himself losing his passion for murder, and subsequently, his zest for life. The film presents Aaron not just as a cold-blooded killer, but as a complex and multi-dimensional character with human emotions and vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, Desiree Akhavan delivers a stunning performance as Sara, the film’s only other principal lead. Sara’s character forms an unexpected connection with Aaron, challenging viewers’ preconceived notions and adding layers of depth to the narrative.
Bodies Bodies Bodies
| YEAR | 2022 |
| Director | Halina Reijn |
| Stars Cast | Maria Bakalova, Amandla Stenberg, Rachel Sennott, Pete Davidson, Lee Pace, Chase Sui Wonders, Myha’la Herrold |
In Halina Reijn’s Bodies Bodies Bodies, the bloodbath begins long before anyone actually dies. The story kicks off with Sophie and Bee heading to a wild house-party during a hurricane. Among the party guests are Emma, her energetic boyfriend David (played by Pete Davidson), Alice and her older Tinder date Greg, and the skeptical Jordan. Right from the start, tensions simmer among the friends, leading to dramatic confrontations. To lighten the mood, they play a game where they pretend to kill each other. What could possibly go wrong?
Bodies Bodies Bodies delivers on its promise, offering a thrilling ride filled with bold title cards and a pumping soundtrack. It cleverly combines elements of a murder mystery with the chaotic energy of a party, creating a unique cinematic experience. While its lasting impact remains to be seen, it’s undeniably a milestone in films capturing the essence of this generation.
Verónica
| YEAR | 2017 |
| Director | Paco Plaza |
| Stars Cast | Sandra Escacena |
Paco Plaza, known for the horror hit R.E.C., ventures into new territory with Verónica. Set in 1991 Spain, it follows a 15-year-old girl who unwittingly unleashes evil while playing with a ouija board with her friends. While the film boasts impressive visuals and charismatic performances, particularly from its young cast, its story feels all too familiar. Recycling elements from other possession movies like Ouija and The Last Exorcism, Verónica treads on well-worn ground. Despite this, it remains competent, if not groundbreaking. Plaza’s departure from the R.E.C. series is welcomed, but Verónica falls short of offering the same level of excitement and innovation. While it doesn’t quite reach the heights of its predecessor, it still manages to entertain, making it worth a watch for fans of the genre.
The Pope’s Exorcist
| YEAR | 2023 |
| Director | Julius Avery |
| Stars Cast | Russell Crowe, Alexandra Essoe, Daniel Zovatto |
The Pope’s Exorcist is a classic horror flick tailored for casual viewers, blending familiar supernatural tropes with a captivating lead performance. Inspired by the real-life exorcist Father Gabriele Amorth, the film transports audiences to the 1980s, painting Amorth as a maverick detective combating evil forces under the Pope’s command. While the possession plot follows a predictable path, Russell Crowe’s portrayal of Amorth injects energy into the film, reminiscent of a fearless action hero. However, Alexandra Essoe’s talent feels underutilized, lacking the depth seen in her previous roles. Nevertheless, Crowe’s charismatic presence elevates the movie, offering entertaining moments reminiscent of classic horror cinema. If you’re in the mood for a fun, albeit cheesy, horror experience, The Pope’s Exorcist delivers just that.
Ouija: Origin of Evil
| YEAR | 2016 |
| Director | Mike Flanagan |
| Stars Cast | Elizabeth Reaser, Lulu Wilson, Annalise Basso, Henry Thomas |
The first Ouija movie was nothing special, just a typical money grab. But its prequel, directed by Mike Flanagan, has a cool ’60s horror vibe. Flanagan plays around with the style, using old-fashioned logos and colors. What’s really cool is that it’s not just about the looks – the acting and tone fit perfectly with Flanagan’s vision. It’s a PG-13 horror movie, so not too scary, but it mixes modern scares with classic style, and it works surprisingly well. It’s like taking a trip back in time to old-school horror movies, but with a modern twist. If you’re into spooky stuff but don’t want nightmares, this one’s for you.
Read Also: Official Trailer Out Today By Netflix: Trailer Review, Release Date
