70 Best Horror Movies to watch in New Zealand
The movies range from old classics to the latest blockbusters. It is not easy to compile a list that suits everyone’s liking but we have compiled the list that will suit most people out there. These best horror movies are going to send chills down your body and keep you hooked to your screen.
Beware, you may not be able to sleep alone after watching them. Exquisite directions and production make all those supernatural/paranormal activities look as realistic as they can be OR ARE THESE ACTIVITIES REAL? Well, why don’t you find that out yourselves! When it comes to the best streaming platform to watch horror movies, HBO Max in NZ can be your destination.
70 Best Horror Movies to watch in New Zealand
The following is a list of some of the best horror movies Hollywood has churned out of its bucket. Also, find your favorite movie from the best movies of all time.
1. Antlers (2021)
Director: Scott Cooper
Writer: Nick Antosca, Scott Cooper, Henry Chaisson
Cast: Keri Russell, Jesse Plemons, Jeremy T. Thomas
IMDB Rating: 5.9/10
Watch Antlers (2021) Trailer on Youtube
Antlers is among the best new horror movies. Here, a guidance counselor at a small-town high school investigates the death of a student with a wild imagination and suspected of being a werewolf. This movie is one of the best horror movies to watch in 2022 as it has great anticipation leading up to its release. Antlers are set to be an exciting and spine-chilling movie. It is one of the best horror movies ever. You can also watch some of the best horror movies on Disney Plus NZ too.
2. Malignant (2021)
Director: James Wan
Writer: James Wan, Ingrid Bisu, Akela Cooper
Cast: Annabelle Wallis, George Young, Maddie Hasson
IMDB Rating: 6.3/10
Watch Malignant (2021) Trailer on Youtube
Malignant is among the best new horror movies that feature Madison, who wakes up in a medical Center 27 years later. He has a numbing vision, but he is determined to live a normal life. However, the past occurrences evade his mind once in a while, and he is left wondering if he’ll be well again.
The reality of the events makes him weaker and more worried. What happens next? This is among the best horror movies of all time you need to watch. It has got everything that a horror fan would love in a film. Moreover, Access American Netflix in New Zealand for more horror movies
3. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021)
Director: Michael Chaves
Writer: David Leslie Johnson, James Wan, Chad Hayes
Cast: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Taissa Farmiga
IMDB Rating: 6.3/10
Watch The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It (2021) Trailer on Youtube
The sequel to The Conjuring tells the story of a woman possessed by a demon. Her husband seeks the help of Ed and Lorraine Warren to save her. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It is sure to be a scary movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
It is among the best horror movies you need to watch before the end of time. Moreover, it has an interesting plot and amazing characters who will make you love the film. Finally, it is among the best horror movies on Amazon Prime in NZ.
4. The Night House (2020)
Director: David Bruckner
Writer: Ben Collins, Luke Piotrowski
Cast: Rebecca Hall, Sarah Goldberg, Vondie Curtis-Hall
IMDB Rating: 6.5/10
Watch The Night House (2020) Trailer on Youtube
When a young woman buries her husband, things start taking a nasty turn. Being scared, emotionally drained, and lonely, this high-school teacher returns to the mansion they used to live in with her husband. As soon as life starts becoming bearable again, Beth notices blood marks and mysterious shadows on the mansion windows, which start haunting her.
Moreover, her nightmares become stronger than ever, and things won’t be the same again. What happens next? You need to watch this movie in full to get the whole story. It is among the best horror movies of all time that will leave you even more scared, even for your house. Besides, Hulu in New Zealand offers a great collection of horror movies.
5. Countdown (2019)
Director: Justin Dec
Writer: Justin Dec
Cast: Elizabeth Lail, Jordan Calloway, Talitha Eliana Bateman
IMDB Rating: 5.5/10
Watch Countdown (2019) Trailer on Youtube
The countdown is a scary movie that features a nurse who gets caught by technology and downloads an app that will later haunt her life. The app she downloads predicts when people will die, and she is not spared.
However, when she learns that she will die in three days, she has to do all it takes to save her life before it is too late. What does she do? It would be best to watch this movie fully for the full story. It is a thriller horror movie that will leave you wanting more but scared.
6. Us (2019)
Director: Jordan Peele
Writer: Jordan Peele
Cast: Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke, Elisabeth Moss
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Watch Us (2019) Trailer on Youtube
Jordan Peele’s sophomore effort “Us” has been praised by audiences and critics alike, with many calling it one of the best horror movies in recent years. The film tells the story of a family terrorized by their own doppelgangers. The family must use all their ingenuity and courage to survive the night.
Will they survive? Does something terrible happen? This is one of the best horror movies to watch as it is both well written and acted. It is also one of the best-rated horror movies in 2019, so find and watch it. You can also unblock Amazon Prime Video in New Zealand to stream more horror movies.
7. Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City (2021)
Director: Johannes Roberts
Writer: Johannes Roberts
Cast: Kaya Scodelario, Robbie Amell, Hannah John-Kamen
IMDB Rating: 5.2/10
Watch Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City (2021) Trailer on Youtube
Raccoon City has been overrun by zombies, and the Umbrella Corporation is to blame. The company has sent in its best operatives to clean up the mess, but they’re quickly discovering that the city is a lost cause. As the team gets closer and closer to the truth, they find themselves in the middle of a conspiracy that could destroy humanity.
Moreover, this movie is based on the popular video game franchise “Resident Evil” and is one of the best horror movies to watch if you’re a fan of the games. It is also among the best new horror movies you need to watch. Also, explore Paramount plus in New Zealand for the latest horror movies.
8. The Possession of Hannah Grace (2018)
Director: Diederik Van Rooijen
Writer: Brian Sieve
Cast: Stana Katic, Shay Mitchell, Grey Damon
IMDB Rating: 5.2/10
Watch The Possession of Hannah Grace (2018) Trailer on Youtube
This is a thriller, horror, and mystery movie that features a cop who has just been released from rehab. She then takes his shift in a graveyard belonging to a city hospital morgue, but things are not as expected. Here, she faces violent and bizarre events caused by one of the corpses.
To make matters worse, it is something she has never experienced, and now things are getting thick on her. She then has to take on the powers of the demon to save her own life and those of others around her. This movie is perfect for those who are looking for a good scare.
Finally, the actor’s Possession will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time. It is among the best horror movies ever. If you are a movie freak then you would like our collection of best movies on Netflix in NZ.
9. Ready or Not (2019)
Director: Tyler Gillett, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin
Writer: Guy Busick, Ryan Murphy
Cast: Samara Weaving, Adam Brody, Henry Czerny
IMDB Rating: 6.9/10
Watch Ready or Not (2019) Trailer on Youtube
When Grace and her new husband Alex invite their families over for dinner to celebrate their marriage, they’re not prepared for the night that’s about to unfold. Alex’s parents are overly critical, and Grace’s family is filled with eccentrics. But the real trouble starts when Grace is asked to play a game of hide and seek with her new in-laws.
However, she soon discovers that the game isn’t as innocent as it seems and that she’s in for the fight of her life. This movie is a horror-comedy, and it’s one of the best scary movies out there. Moreover, you can check out Peacock TV in New Zealand for the great horror movies ever.
10. #Alive (2020)
Director: II Cho
Writer: II Cho
Cast: Yoo-Ah-in, Park Shin-Hye, Jeon Bae-Soo
IMDB Rating: 6.3/10
Watch #Alive (2020) Trailer on Youtube
#Alive is a movie that highlights the narration of a survivor who remains after everyone is wiped out after a pandemic hits the entire city. He was spared because he was in isolation when everyone went on a killing spree.
This movie is also about his story of what he witnessed and what made him alive. If you are a fan of horror movies, you will not want to miss this movie. It is among the best horror movies released in 2020 and is still popular among horror-movies fans.
11. Midsommar (2019)
Director: Ari Aster
Writer: Ari Aster
Cast: Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, Will Poulter
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
Watch Midsommar (2019) Trailer on Youtube
A young couple travels to Sweden to visit their friend’s rural hometown. They’re quickly drawn in by the town’s strange customs and soon find themselves in the middle of a deadly ritual. This movie is one of the most disturbing horror movies out there, and it’s definitely not for the faint of heart.
If you’re looking for a movie that will make you scared to leave your house, then this is the one for you. Besides, Midsommar is among the best-rated horror movies of all time.
12. The New Mutants (2020)
Director: Josh Boone
Writer: Josh Boone, Knate Lee
Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Maisie Williams, Charlie Heaton
IMDB Rating: 5.3/10
Watch The New Mutants (2020) Trailer on Youtube
Five young mutants, held in a secret facility against their will, learn to harness their powers and fight back against the people who want to control them. Do they manage to do what they want, or will it be an uphill task? This movie is based on the X-Men comics, and it’s one of the most anticipated horror movies of 2020. If you’re a fan of the comics, you need to see this movie.
13. The Silence (2019)
Director: John R. Leonetti
Writer: Carey Van Dyke, Shane Van Dyke, Tim Lebbon
Cast: Stanley Tucci, Kiernan Shipka, Miranda Otto
IMDB Rating: 5.3/10
Watch The Silence (2019) Trailer on Youtube
When the world is infected with a deadly creature, a family must isolate themselves to avoid the creatures ignited by the human sound. Within the family, one person (Ally Andrews) lost her hearing. As the days go on, the fear of being the last ones alive starts to take its toll on the family.
This movie is a also great example of how horror can be more about psychological terror than about gore and violence. The Silence is a slow-burning thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
14. Underwater (2020)
Director: William Eubank
Writer: Brian Duffield, Adam Cozad
Cast: Kristen Stewart, T.J. Miller, Vincent Cassel
IMDB Rating: 5.9/10
Watch Underwater (2020) Trailer on Youtube
When an earthquake destroys the underwater station where a team of scientists studies the ocean’s depths, they must find a way to survive and escape. Do they find a way? Do they survive? This movie is a great example of how horror can be more about suspense and thrilling action than about gore and violence.
Underwater is a fast-paced thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is among the best scary movies out there. Also, check out our list of the best action movies to stream in 2022.
15. Velvet Buzzsaw (2019)
Director: Dan Gilroy
Writer: Dan Gilroy
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Rene Russo, Zawe Ashton
IMDB Rating: 5.7/10
Watch Velvet Buzzsaw (2019) Trailer on Youtube
When a series of paintings by an unknown artist are discovered, a ruthless art critic decides to buy them up and exhibit them for profit. But as the paintings start to come to life, the critic finds that he is not the only one interested in them.
You will be astonished to see paintings coming to life in this movie that will leave you at the edge of your sofa. Velvet Buzzsaw is a dark and satirical horror movie that will leave you thinking about it long after you’ve watched it.
16. Gretel & Hansel (2020)
Director: Oz Perkins
Writer: Rob Hayes, Jacob Grimm, Wilhelm Grimm
Cast: Sophia Lillis, Sam Leakey, Alice Krige
IMDB Rating: 5.4/10
Watch Gretel & Hansel (2020) Trailer on Youtube
A young girl and her brother follow a trail of breadcrumbs into the forest to find their way home. But the forest is full of dark secrets, and the siblings soon find themselves in danger. What happens next? Do they find their way home or get stranded further?
Gretel & Hansel is a dark and twisted retelling of the classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale. If you’re looking for a horror movie with a bit of a twist, then this is the one for you.
17. The Bad Batch (2016)
Director: Ana Lily Amirpour
Writer: Ana Lily Amirpour
Cast: Suki Waterhouse, Jason Momoa, Jayda Fink
IMDB Rating: 5.3/10
Watch The Bad Batch (2016) Trailer on Youtube
In a dystopian future, a group of outcasts is forced to live in a desert wasteland. But when they stumble upon a fortified compound, they soon realize that they are not the only ones in danger. You will watch how a woman is kidnapped by dreaded cannibals and how she fights for her freedom.
The Bad Batch is a dark and violent post-apocalyptic movie that will leave you feeling uneasy from the start to the end. It is regarded as one of the best horror movies ever made.
18. Bird Box (2018)
Director: Susanne Bier
Writer: Eric Heisserer, Josh Malerma
Cast: Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes, John Malkovich
IMDB Rating: 6.6/10
Watch Bird Box (2018) Trailer on Youtube
Bird Box is one of the horror movies you need to watch as soon. Five years after the invasion, survivors live in a world of fear and mistrust. But when a girl named Jessica discovers a secret about the creatures that have tormented her since childhood, she must risk everything to warn the others. This thrilling and suspenseful horror film is perfect for those who love a good scare.
19. Host (2020)
Director: Rob Savage
Writer: Rob Savage, Jed Shepherd, Gemma Hurley
Cast: Haley Bishop, Jemma Moore, Emma Louise Webb
IMDB Rating: 6.5/10
Watch Host (2020) Trailer on Youtube
In this technological era, invaded by a pandemic, the country is at lockdown. This restricts loved ones from meeting each other until the situation is contained. When this happens, six friends find a medium to communicate through video calls.
When they connect on Zoom, they find more than what they anticipated. Their calls get intercepted by spirits, which then start invading their homes. What do they do next? This is among the best horror movies of all time you need to watch as soon as you get time.
20. Saw (2004)
Director: James Wan
Writer: Leigh Whannell, James Wan
Cast: Cary Elwes, Danny Glover, Monica Potter
IMDB Rating: 7.6/10
Watch Saw (2004) Trailer on Youtube
In this psychological horror film, two men wake up in a room with little memory of how they got there and must find a way to escape. They quickly realize that they are not alone and must use their ingenuity and courage to survive.
What happens next? You’ll have to watch the film to find out. This intense and spine-tingling horror movie is perfect for those who love a good scare. The saw is among the best-rated horror movies of all time.
21. The Birds (1963)
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Writer: Evan Hunter, Daphne Du Maurier
Cast: Tippi Hedren, Rod Taylor, Jessica Tandy
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Watch The Birds (1963) Trailer on Youtube
In this one of the best classic horror movies, a small town is terrorized by a swarm of birds that seem to be attacking people for no reason. As the attacks increase, the townspeople must find a way to stop the birds before they destroy everything.
One of the affected people is a socialite who is pursuing a boyfriend. This suspenseful and terrifying film is perfect for those who love a good scare. The Birds is among the scariest movies you’ll ever watch.
22. Dawn of the Dead (1978)
Director: George A. Romero
Writer: George A. Romero
Cast: Ken Foree, Scott Reiniger, Gaylen Ross
IMDB Rating: 7.9/10
Watch Dawn of the Dead (1978) Trailer on Youtube
In this one of the best classic horror movies, a small group of survivors must barricade themselves in a shopping mall to stay safe from the undead hordes outside. As supplies run low and the zombies get closer, the group must decide whether to stay and fight or try to escape.
Do they survive? What happens next? You need to watch this movie for the full story. This intense and gory film is perfect for those who love a good scare.
23. Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Director: Edgar Wright
Writer: Simon Pegg, Edgar Wright
Cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Kate Ashfield
IMDB Rating: 7.9/10
Watch Shaun of the Dead (2004) Trailer on Youtube
In this hilarious and zany horror-comedy, a group of friends must team up to survive an outbreak of zombies. As the undead hordes close in, the group must use all their skills to stay alive. What happens next? You’ll have to watch the film to find out. This hilarious and suspenseful horror movie is perfect for those who love a good scare. Also, check out the best comedy movies to watch in 2022.
24. Evil Dead II (1987)
Director: Sam Raimi
Writer: Sam Raimi, Scott Spiegel
Cast: Bruce Campbell, Sarah Berry, Dan Hicks
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Watch Evil Dead II (1987) Trailer on Youtube
In this one of the best classic horror movies, a group of friends must fight off the undead after possessing an evil spirit. As the group is picked off one by one, they must use all their skills to stay alive. What happens next?
Do they win over the spirits? You will need to watch this movie in full for the whole story. This intense and gory film is perfect for those who love a good scare.
25. The Cabin in the Woods (2011)
Director: Drew Goddard
Writer: Joss Whedon, Drew Goddard
Cast: Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison
IMDB Rating: 7.0/10
Watch The Cabin in the Woods (2011) Trailer on Youtube
In this mind-bending horror film, a group of friends goes to a cabin in the woods for a weekend getaway. But they quickly realize that they are not alone and must fight for their lives. What happens next? Do they survive this ordeal? You’ll have to watch the film to find out. This suspenseful and thrilling horror movie is perfect for those who love a good scare.
26. Paranormal Activity (2007)
Director: Oren Peli
Writer: Oren Peli
Cast: Katie Featherston, Micah Sloat, Mark Fredrichs
IMDB Rating: 6.3/10
Watch Paranormal Activity (2007) Trailer on Youtube
In this groundbreaking horror film, a young couple is terrorized by a series of strange and unexplainable events in their home. After moving into their suburban home, there is no one to rescue them. As the events become more violent, the couple must find a way to stop them before it’s too late. This intense and spine-tingling horror movie is perfect for those who love a good scare.
27. The Descent (2005)
Director: Neil Marshall
Writer: Neil Marshall
Cast: Shauna Macdonald, Natalie Mendoza, Alex Reid
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
Watch The Descent (2005) Trailer on Youtube
In this intense and spooky horror film, a group of friends go on a caving expedition and quickly find themselves in trouble. The caves are dark and dangerous, and the group must find a way to escape before they are killed. This suspenseful and frightening film is perfect for those who love a good scare.
28. It Follows (2015)
Director: David Robert Mitchell
Writer: David Robert Mitchell
Cast: Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist, Olivia Luccardi
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Watch It Follows (2015) Trailer on Youtube
In this chilling horror film, a young woman is pursued by an unknown entity after being seduced by a stranger. As the entity gets closer, the woman must find a way to get rid of it before it destroys her life. This suspenseful and terrifying film is perfect for those who love a good scare.
If you haven’t watched this movie yet, you need to as it contains everything you might need in a horror movie. It is among the scariest movies you will come across.
29. Rec (2007)
Director: Jaume Balaguero, Paco Plaza
Writer: Jaume Balaguero, Luis Berdejo
Cast: Manuela Velasco, Ferran Terraza, Jorge-Yamam Serrano
IMDB Rating: 7.4/10
Watch Rec (2007) Trailer on Youtube
In this intense and scary horror film, a group of friends are trapped in a building and must fight for their lives against an unknown entity. As the friends are picked off one by one, they must use all their skills to stay alive. Other people involved here include a TV reporter and a Cameraman, and the equipment keeps recording what happens inside the dark apartment. If you are into horror movies, you shouldn’t miss watching this.
30. I am Legend (2007)
Director: Francis Lawrence
Writer: Mark Protosevich, Akiva Goldsman
Cast: Will Smith, Alice Braga, Salli Richardson-Whitfield
IMDB Rating: 7.2/10
Watch I am Legend (2007) Trailer on Youtube
In this post-apocalyptic horror film, a scientist must find a way to survive in a world that has been overrun by zombies. As he struggles to stay alive, the scientist must also find a way to save the human race. Does the scientist succeed? This intense and thrilling film is perfect for those who love a good scare. I am Legend is among the scariest movies ever made.
31. The Empty Man (2020)
Director: David Prior
Writer: David Prior, Cullen Bunn
Cast: James Badge Dale, James Lasombra,
IMDB Rating: 6.1/10
Watch The Empty Man (2020) Trailer on Youtube
An ex-cop is on the lookout for a missing girl when he stumbles across a mysterious group attempting to call a deadly supernatural entity.
The camera hangs on a painting in the corridor when James first enters the Pontifex Institute. The painting depicts the hut where the four hikers take refuge at the beginning of the film. Overall, it is one of the best horror films.
32. Don’t Breathe 2 (2021)
Director: Rodo Sayagues
Writer: Fede Alvarez Rodo Sayagues
Cast: Stephen Lang, Madelyn Grace,
IMDB Rating: 6.1/10
Watch Don’t Breathe 2 (2021) Trailer on Youtube
This great movie revolves around Norman Nordstrom, a blind soldier who has been hiding out in a remote cottage for some years. He now lives with a young girl and has rebuilt the family taken from him by a drunk driver.
When a gang of evil criminals kidnaps her, their peaceful life together is destroyed. To save her, Norman will have to dig into even deeper and more imaginative instincts.
33. Candyman (2021)
Director: Nia DaCosta
Writer: Jordan Peele & Win Rosenfeld
Cast: Yahya Abdul-Mateen, Teyonah Parris
IMDB Rating: 5.9/10
Watch Candyman (2021) Trailer on Youtube
A ghost story revolves around a supernatural, hook-handed killer who tormented Chicago’s Cabrini-Green housing developments for decades. In the current day, an artist decides to research Candyman’s macabre past.
However, he was unaware that it would unravel his sanity and unleash a horrific wave of violence, putting him on a collision course with fate. It is among the best ghost stories. If you love watching the best horror films, go for it!
34. Army of the Dead (2021)
Director: Zack Snyder
Writer: Zack Snyder & Shay Hatten
Cast: Dave Bautista, Ella Purnel
IMDB Rating: 5.8/10
Watch Army of the Dead (2021) Trailer on Youtube
Following a zombie apocalypse in Las Vegas, a crew of mercenaries decides to take the ultimate risk and enter the quarantine zone in the hopes of pulling off a seemingly impossible heist. Scott cannot ignore such a life-changing gift.
Nevertheless, the laws have changed, and the horde of the walking undead appears to be more organized than they would have thought. However, the clock is ticking. Will they be able to make it out of Vegas alive and well? if you like watching psychological thriller movies, it is the best option for you.
35. The Invisible Man (2020)
Director: Leigh Whannel
Writer: Leigh Whannel, H.G. Wells
Cast: Elisabeth Moss, Oliver Jackson-Cohen
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
Watch The Invisible Way (2020) Trailer on Youtube
Cecilia is the protagonist of the film, who was told about the suicide of her boyfriend. After that, she starts to make positive changes in her life. Finally, however, her sense of reality is questioned as she suspects her deceased lover isn’t dead.
Her ex-boyfriend pretends to die and then stalks and torments her. Then, she starts having unusual experiences and decides to investigate on her own. This modern classic film is also among the best scary films of all time.
36. The Lighthouse (2019)
Director: Robert Eggers
Writer: Max Eggers, Rober Eggers (Co-writer)
Cast: Willem Dafoe, Robert Pattinson, Valeria Karaman
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
Image Credit: What’s the Motive
Watch The Lighthouse (2019) Trailer on Youtube
Description: This scary story tells about England in the 1890s, Ephraime Winslow gets a job contract as a lighthouse keeper “Wickie” for a month. The movie revolves around him and his demanding supervisor “Wake”, who makes Winslow do some serious hard work.
Finally, in this short story Winslow deals with hallucinations and horrors of being on the seaside, and they both deal with shortages of food and ruthlessness of the lighthouse and the sea. It is also included in the list of the best scary movies.
37. Nosferatu – A Symphony of Horror (1922)
Director: F.M. Murnau
Writer: Bram Stoker (Dracula)
Cast: Max Schrek, Gustav von Wangenheim
IMDB Rating: 7.9/10
Image Credit: Ian Farrington
Watch Nosferatu – A Symphony of Horror (1922) Trailer on Youtube
Description: In Wisborg, a German town in 1838 Thomas Hutter is sent to Transylvania by his employer to meet a client “Count Orlok” who is interested in purchasing a house in Hutter’s town. When Hutter went into an inn, he found out the locals would be frightened even hearing the name of Orlok and began suspecting why?
His suspicions become reality when he finds out that Orlok is a Vampire. Hutter and his wife “Ellen” look for ways to kill the vampire. One of the best scariest movies on IMDB ratings. Overall, it is a great option for horror cinema lovers.
38. The Cabin in the Woods (2011)
Director: Drew Goddard
Writer: Joss Whedon, Drew Goddard
Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Kristen Connolly, Anna Hutchison
IMDB Rating: 7/10
Image Credit: Mubi
Watch The Cabin in the Woods (2011) Trailer on Youtube
Description: A group of five friends goes out to a remote cabin in the woods for adventure and fun. They get more than they bargained for, as they find a cellar door and without any doubt want to investigate (because you know that is what everyone would do).
Once down they find relics and stuff. One of the girls starts to read from some book and somehow manages to awaken zombies inside (not on purpose though) and the adventure turns into a nightmare.
The frightening stuff keeps on piling one over the other to keep the audience interested. Overall, it is among the greatest horror films.
39. Halloween (2018)
Director: David Gordon Green
Writer: Jeff Fradley, David Gordon Green, Danny McBride
Cast: Judy Greer, Andi Matichak, Jamie Lee Curtis
IMDB Rating: 6.6/10
Image Credit: Empire
Watch Halloween (2018) Trailer on Youtube
Description: The sequels of the Halloween series have not been up to the mark but this one is making up for it. The last confrontation between Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis) and the masked figure who has been haunting her for over forty years since that killing spree on Halloween keeps the viewer on their toes.
The movie’s ending shows the series is all but over. If you love streaming horror world, don’t miss it.
40. The WITCH (2015)
Director: Robert Eggers
Writer: Robert Eggers
Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie
IMDB Rating: 6.9/10
Image Credit: Variety
Watch The Witch (2015) Trailer on Youtube
Description: One of the best horror films, it takes the audience back to New England in the 1600s where a family had to move and live on the edge of a forest owing to religious disputes from the puritans.
The family of five has their lives turn around when the newborn goes missing. The family starts turning on each other and believing that their situation is due to their sins. Finally, it is for the cult classic scary genre fans. If you enjoy streaming pure horror, go for it.
41. Sinister (2012)
Director: Scott Derrickson
Writer: C. Robert Cargill, Scott Derrickson
Cast: Juliet Rylance, Ethan Hawke, Fred Dalton Thompson
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Image Credit: Roger Ebert
Watch Sinister (2012) Trailer on Youtube
Description: In this one of the best scary movies, a writer who writes crime stories gets his family to move into a house where a crime took place in the past. The family didn’t know.
He found a video to help him research for the book but soon finds out that he has got himself into trouble with things he never thought he would encounter. The film had a sequel in 2015 but wasn’t up to the mark of the original story. If you like the horror genre, this movie deserves your time.
42. The Conjuring (2013)
Director: James Wan
Writer: Chad Hayes, Carey W. Hayes
Cast: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Ron Livingstone
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
Image Credit: Medium
Watch The Conjuring (2013) Trailer on Youtube
Description: In 1971, the Perron family moved into a farmhouse in dilapidated condition. Soon after moving into the house, they start to notice paranormal activities going around up to the point that the activities started terrorizing them.
The family decided to call experts to figure out the situation. The experts find out that the whole area is under satanic powers’ control and now they are after the perron family. The family needs to find a spiritual way to get themselves off the hook.
43. Friday the 13th (1980)
Director: Sean S. Cunningham
Writer: Victor Miller
Cast: Betsy Palmer, Adrienne King, Harry Crosby
IMDB Rating: 6.4/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch Friday the 13th (1980) Trailer on Youtube
Description: In the year 1957, a young man named Jason drowns in a lake near Camp Crystal. One year later two counsellors get murdered. Some 20 years later, the owners of the lake reopened it with the help of some counsellors. Their fate is the same as the previous two. The mystery remains as to why is it all happening or who is doing it?
44. Carrie (1976)
Director: Brian De Palma
Writer: Stephen King
Cast: Sissy Spacek, Amy Irving, William Katt
IMDB Rating: 5.9/10
Image Credit: Showbiz Cheatsheet
Watch Carrie (1976) Trailer on Youtube
Description: An ostracized teenage girl Carrie is bullied at school by her classmates. Her mother is a very pious/religious woman to the point of self-punishment for sinful acts.
When she has her first period, she is not able to cope with what is happening to her and a spiteful boy makes a video of her to show around everyone. Carrie finds out she has the power of telekinesis and uses that to her advantage.
45. Saw (2014)
Director: James Wan
Writer: James Wan, Leigh Whannell
Cast: Cary Elwess, Danny Glover, Monica Potter
IMDB Rating: 7.6/10
Image Credit: The Hollywood Reporter
Watch Saw (2014) Trailer on Youtube
Description: The movie is about a jigsaw killer who ruthlessly kills everyone coming his way. Two men wake up in a bathroom “Adam” and “Dr. Lawrence Gordon”, they find out that the jigsaw killer has captured them and they must break free before time runs out on their lives.
46. IT (2017)
Director: Andy Muschietti
Writer: Stephen King
Cast: Jaeden Lieberher, Bill Skarsgard
IMDB Rating: 7.3/10
Image Credit: The New York Times
Watch IT (2017) Trailer on Youtube
Description: Kids in the town of Derry are disappearing one after the other. Seven of the kids unite in the barren who have been traumatized by the clown-like thing. The kids who have dealt with the horrifying experiences with the clown get together with the stern determination of killing it. The movie is definitely up there to give you some chills.
47. Frankenstein (1931)
Director: James Whale
Writer: John L. Balderstone, Mary Shelley, Peggy Webling
Cast: Colin Clive, Mae Clark, Boris Karloff
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
Image Credit: Time Out
Watch Frankenstein (1931) Trailer on Youtube
Description: Frankenstein is a doctor who is devoting time to making the dead walk. He succeeds in doing so and yells in delight “It’s alive, it’s alive, it’s alive, IT’S ALIVE” and when retorted with “Henry! In the name of God” he retorts back “In the name of God? Now, I know! what it feels like to be God!”. An iconic movie in which the dead then have to live among the living again.
48. Don’t Breathe (2016)
Director: Fede Alvarez
Writer: Fede Alvarez, Rodo Sayageus
Cast: Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, Daniel Zovatto
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch Don’t Breathe (2016) Trailer on Youtube
Description: A woman named Rocky who wants to live a better life along with his sister plans to rob the house of a wealthy blind man with the help of her boyfriend and his friend Alex. When they get inside, they find out that the blind man is more capable than they ever anticipated and they must get out of the house before he kills them.
49. A Quiet Place (2018)
Director: John Krasinski
Writer: Bryan Woods, Scott Beck, John Krasinski
Cast: Emily Blunt, John Krasinski
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch A Quiet Place (2018) Trailer on Youtube
Description: The movie is one on the list of the best scariest movies. The earth is devastated by possibly an extraterrestrial creature that is attracted to sound. Even the slightest sound can make it trigger and it will not spare the life of one who made that sound.
The story revolves around a family that somehow finds a way to live among all this insanity and they must find a way out.
50. The Strangers (2008)
Director: Bryan Bertino
Writer: Bryan Bertino
Cast: Liv Tyler, Scott Speedman
IMDB Rating: 6.2/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch The Strangers (2008) Trailer on Youtube
Description: Three masked men knocked on the door of a couple who was returning from the reception of a wedding. The couple gets overpowered and taken under custody. What ensues is a violent struggle to break free from them.
51. Scream (1996)
Director: Wes Craven
Writer: Kevin Williamson
Cast: David Arquette, Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox
IMDB Rating: 7.3/10
Image Credit: Regal
Watch Scream (1996) Trailer on Youtube
Description: A year after Sydney Prescott’s mother’s death, she and her friends start receiving very disturbing phone calls from a serial killer, who wears a white mask and black clothes have different questions like What are your favorite scary movie and a lot of trivia regarding scary movies. What ends is in a bloodbath. Overall, it is among the best scary movies.
52. Hereditary (2018)
Director: Ari Aster
Writer: Ari Aster
Cast: Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro
IMDB Rating: 7.3/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch Hereditary (2018) Trailer on Youtube
Description: The film begins when a mentally challenged mother of Annie (Toni Collete) dies, her family of one husband, a son, and a daughter all mourn the loss. Each of them finds their own way of dealing with the loss.
Annie and her daughter find a very different way and start to get involved in otherworldly/supernatural things. The sinister secrets that have been through the generations of their family keep haunting them. Overall, this movie is a good option for real-world horror fans.
53. Train to Busan (2016)
Director: Yeon Sang-ho
Writer: Park Joo-suk
Cast: Gong Yoo, Ma Dong-seok, Jung yu-mi
IMDB Rating: 7.6/10
Image Credit: Roger Ebert
Watch Train to Busan (2016) Trailer on Youtube
Description: In the first half of the film, A father who doesn’t have much time for his daughter boards a train travelling from Seoul to Busan. During the journey, the apocalypse happens in the world and the population starts to turn into zombies.
The people in the train start protecting themselves and in doing so are turning against each other and in the whole chaotic situation, every man is for himself. It is among the slasher movies for the biggest fans of horror.
54. The Invisible Man (2020)
Director: Leigh Whannell
Writer: Leigh Whannell
Cast: Elisabeth Moss, Aldis Hodge, Storm Reid
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
Image Credit: The Guardian
Watch The Invisible Man (2020) Trailer on Youtube
Description: The movie follows a girl named Cecilia who receives the news of the death of her ex-boyfriend. She starts to build her life fresh, however, the turn of events is such that she starts wondering if the ex-boyfriend has actually died or not? The abusive ex may be out there plotting revenge for some unresolved issues.
The Invisible Man represents a horror icon of conventional style and transforms it into the 21st Century. Overall, it is similar to The Fear Street Trilogy and among the greatest horror movies.
55. Insidious (2010)
Director: James Wan
Writer: Leigh Whannell
Cast: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Ty Simpkins
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Image Credit: Mubi
Watch Insidious (2010) Trailer on Youtube
Description: This contemporary horror and an intriguing story of a family who has a son who mysteriously fell into a coma while being in the attic. Little did the family know that the boy is not in an endless sleep for any other reason than some supernatural happenings.
In order to get their boy back, they must find the history and work it out. Finally, its scary story brings it to the list of the best horror films.
56. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Director: Wes Craven
Writer: Wes Craven
Cast: John Saxon, Ronie Blakely, Heather Lagenkamp
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
Image Credit: MoMA
Watch A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) Trailer on Youtube
Description: Nancy Thompson along with a group of her friends is living on Elm Street. A dangerous killer is on the spree thirsty for their blood as he is looking to kill them all. Whenever they are asleep he will come for them one by one and who is going to be there to save them? Or how can they save themselves? This film is a great example of true terror.
57. Trick ’r Treat (2007)
Director: Michael Dougherty
Writer: Michael Dougherty
Cast: Dylan Baker, Rochelle Aytes, Anna Pacquin
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Image Credit: Letter Boxd
Watch Trick ’r Treat (2007) Trailer on Youtube
Description: This movie is an amalgamation of five different but intertwined stories. A school principal who is secretly a serial killer, a lovely couple who find out what happens to them when they put out the lantern before it is midnight.
A bunch of teens who play a mean prank that they take way too far, a young virgin girl who may have found the right guy for her, and a hermit who is paid a special visit by a trick ‘r treater. If you are a fan of the best horror films, it is for you!
58. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)
Director: Marcus Nispel
Writer: Kim Henkel, Tobe Hooper
Cast: Jessica Biel, Jonathan Tucker, Erica Leerhsen
IMDB Rating: 6.2/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003) Trailer on Youtube
Description: A group of five people driving through the forest picks up a traumatized hitchhiker, the hitchhiker killed herself in their van. Stunned by this, the group starts looking for a place where they can find people to tell them what happened.
To their dismay, they find a lone home in the middle of nowhere which is housed by mentally handicapped people who had become so different through inbreeding. The problems continue to pile up. Finally, it is one of the best terror movies.
59. The Exorcist (1973)
Director: William Friedkin
Writer: William Peter Blatty
Cast: Max von Sydow, Ellen Burstyn, Lee Cobb
IMDB Rating: 8/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch The Exorcist (1973) Trailer on Youtube
Description: The movie revolves around three main stories. One, of a woman who is constantly under tensions over the behavioral changes and physical, make up of her 12-year-old daughter, a priest near Georgetown who starts doubting his faith while dealing with the terminal illness of his old mother, and a frail priest who recognized the need to fight a demon entity. If you like to watch
60. The Mist (2007)
Director: Frank Darabont
Writer: Frank Darabont
Cast: Thomas Jane, Laurie Holden, Marcia Harden
IMDB Rating: 7.1/10
Image Credit: YouTube
Watch The Mist (2007) Trailer on Youtube
Description: In a small town in Maine, a family of Drayton’s life, one night there is a massive downpour, a thunderous storm followed by an unusual mist on the next day.
And the family is stuck along with many other residents after it is established that the unknown mist contains something toxic and is intent on killing people. If you like streaming the best horror films, it is a great option for you.
61. The Fog (1980)
Director: John Carpenter
Writer: John Carpenter, Debra Hill
Cast: John Houseman, Adrienne Barbeau, Jamie Curtis
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Image Credit: Letter Boxd
Watch The Fog (1980) Trailer on Youtube
Description: This horror story tells about the coastal town community of Antonio Bay, California people are about to celebrate the centennial festival. During the preparations, a strange supernatural occurrence happens and a strange fog comes up. A 100 years ago, the natives of the area committed heinous crimes.
The people against whom the crimes were committed are now back for revenge as there are disappearances and killing of people all around.
62. Candyman (2021)
Director: Nia DaCosta
Writer: Jordan Peele, Win Rosenfeld, Nia DaCosta
Cast: Yahya Abdul Mateen II, Teyonah Parris, Nathan Stewart-Jarret
IMDB Rating: 6/10
Image Credit: Screen Rant
Watch Candyman (2021) Trailer on Youtube
Description: Many years after the towers of Cabrini have been torn down, Anthony & his partner shift into a new loft in the now redeveloped Cabrini. As an avid painter, upon getting to know about the Candyman he was anxious to use the details in his studio.
So, he unknowingly opens the door to an intricate past that sets off a wave of violence. Overall, it is among the best scariest movies of 2021.
63. Child’s Play (1988)
Director: Tom Holland
Writer: Don Mancini
Cast: Catherine Hicks, Chris Sarandon
IMDB Rating: 6.6/10
Image Credit: Strange Harbos
Watch Child’s Play (1988) Trailer on Youtube
Description: Escaping from the cop Mike Norris, Charles Lee Ray takes his soul and puts it into an innocent-looking doll named Chucky. Andy Barclay soon became the owner of that same doll and unknowingly bought a hell for him.
As the events turn out to be extremely rough as Chucky confides in Andy and murders a lot of people and till the time people start believing Andy, the time has already passed. If you like streaming the best scary movies of all time, or jump scares, it is a good option.
64. The Babadook (2014)
Director: Jennifer Kent
Writer: Jennifer Kent
Cast: Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman, Hayley McElhinney
IMDB Rating: 6.8/10
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch The Babadook (2014) Trailer on Youtube
Description: Amelia who had lost her husband in a car crash while on her way to childbirth struggles to cope with the problems of being a single mom. The young kid Samuel’s fear of monsters is also on the higher side and often violent reactions come from him.
They both read the book “Babadook” in which there is a story of a monster who hides in the dark. Both Mother and kid become frightened and the story revolves around them coping with the fear.
65. Get Out (2017)
Director: Jordan Peele
Writer: Jordan Peele
Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Image Credit: Vox
Watch Get Out (2017) Trailer on Youtube
Description: This horror social commentary tells – Chris along with his girlfriend Rose takes a trip upstate to meet his family. Upon reaching there, the peculiar behavior of the girl’s family seems to him as a problem that her family may have about the interracial relationship of their daughter. But to his surprise, the details were way more frightening than he could have ever imagined.
Finally, the young man tries to get out of the hypnosis the frightening people are trying to inflict upon him. He copes really hard through the situation to Get Out of that hell hole.
66. A Tale of Two Sisters (2003)
Watch A Tale of Two Sisters (2003) Trailer on Youtube
It tells the strong performances of two sisters. Su-mi is reunited with her loving sister, Su-Yeon, after being hospitalized in a mental hospital. They return to their rural home. Moon Geun-young, the girl’s widowed father, has remarried, and his new wife, Eun-Joo, is instantly despised by the siblings.
Moreover, these strange incidents afflict the home as Su-mi and Su-Yeon struggle to resume their normal lives, leading to unexpected disclosures and a terrible climax.
67. Final Destination (2000)
Watch Final Destination (2000) Trailer on Youtube
Alex is ready to board an airplane to France for a school trip when he has a terrifying vision of the aircraft exploding. Shortly after Alex, a group of kids, and his instructor are flung off the aircraft, the plane explodes, much to their surprise.
As each survivor succumbs, Alex must figure out Death’s strategy. While attempting to avert another fatality, Alex must simultaneously avoid the FBI, who suspect he is responsible for the explosion.
68. The Devil’s Backbone (2001)
Watch The Devil’s Backbone (2001) Trailer on Youtube
After losing his father, 10-year-old Carlos is taken in by the steely headmistress, Carmen (Marisa Paredes), and the gentle professor, Casares, at the Santa Lucia School, which houses orphans of the Republican militia and politicians.
Carlos had an altercation with the aggressive caregiver, Jacinto, soon after his arrival (Eduardo Noriega). However, Carlos gradually learns the school’s mysteries, including a young ghost on the grounds.
69. Wes Craven’s New Nightmare (1994)
Watch Wes Craven’s New Nightmare (1994) Trailer on Youtube
In this edition of the long-running horror series, director Wes Craven and actresses Heather Langenkamp and Robert Englund play themselves, creating a terrifying mix of reality and imagination.
Moreover, while Heather contemplates collaborating with Wes Craven in another film, her son Dylan falls prey to the legendary deformed monster Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund). Langenkamp must eventually face Freddy’s evil ghost to rescue Dylan’s soul.
70. The Evil Dead (1981)
Watch The Evil Dead (1981) Trailer on Youtube
Ashley and his four friends take a trip through the woods to a cabin for a night of fun. They discover an ancient book, the Necronomicon, whose content, when read aloud, reawakens the dead.
Inadvertently unleashing a deluge of evil, the companions must battle for their lives or perish as one of the horrible deaths. In this first installment of Sam Raimi’s trilogy, Ash sees his companions being possessed and must make a tough choice before daylight to preserve his own life.
Best Horror Movies: The Final Verdict
Modern horror classic is a diverse genre that may not be limited to movies about witches and black magic. It may range from fear within to fear of supernatural creatures. It is the magic of classic horror film Directors that sometimes make a small paranormal activity shown in a way that becomes more frightening than ax-wielding monsters.
However, sometimes actual ax-wielding monsters are so frightening that they put small paranormal happenings to feel “Meh!”. The list has been compiled considering each aspect of the genre so that people may find all kinds of movies that fit the genre.
The movies have been handpicked and we hope that you are going to love each and every one of them. The list contains the best new as well as all-time best horror movies.
So, if you are looking for old classics they are on the list and even if you want to see the latest cinema, we have tried to keep the list stuffed with modern cinema too.
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