Horror movies can be a lot of fun to watch, but what about the ones that are underrated?

Horror movies are usually associated with scream-worthy jump scares, but there are so many more types of horror films that deserve recognition.

In this article, we’ll be going over some of my favorite overlooked horror films, and why they’re worth checking out.

There are some hidden gems that might surprise you! Here are five underrated horror movies that will send shivers down your spine, but not make you too sad or angry when they’re over.

Best Underrated Horror Movies

Let’s start off with one you’ve probably heard of before!

The Invitation (2015)

“The Invitation” is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.

The film follows a group of old friends who reunite for a dinner party hosted by one of their own, but as the night unfolds, it becomes clear that something is not quite right.

Director Karyn Kusama masterfully crafts a tense and unsettling atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll.

The cinematography and score work in tandem to create an eerie and foreboding feeling throughout the film.

The performances are also top-notch, with standout work from Logan Marshall-Green as the troubled protagonist Will and Tammy Blanchard as the unnerving and enigmatic Eden.

“The Invitation” is a slow-burn that builds to a heart-stopping climax that will leave you breathless.

It’s a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre who appreciate intelligent storytelling and a well-crafted atmosphere. Highly recommended.

 

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The Invitation
  • Logan Marshall-Green, Tammy Blanchard (Actors)
  • Karyn Kusama (Director)

Session 9 (2001)

Session 9 is an eerie and unsettling horror film that will leave you with chills down your spine. The film takes place in an abandoned mental asylum where a group of asbestos removal workers are tasked with cleaning up the hazardous materials.

   

However, as they start to work, they begin to experience strange and inexplicable occurrences, leading them to question their sanity and safety.

The film is expertly crafted with a slow-burning tension that builds throughout, leaving the audience on edge and anticipating the next scare.

The setting of the abandoned asylum adds an extra layer of creepiness, with its dark corridors and ominous atmosphere.

And the use of real-life recordings of psychiatric patients adds a disturbing and haunting element to the film.

The performances from the cast are top-notch, with standout performances from David Caruso and Peter Mullan.

Their characters’ descent into madness is convincingly portrayed, making the audience feel their fear and paranoia.

 

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Saint Maud (2019)

Saint Maud is a haunting and mesmerizing psychological horror film that will leave you feeling disturbed yet captivated.

Morfydd Clark delivers a standout performance as Maud, a devoutly religious nurse who becomes obsessed with saving the soul of her terminally ill patient, Amanda, played by Jennifer Ehle.

Director Rose Glass masterfully creates an eerie atmosphere with her use of sound and visuals, making every scene feel unsettling and ominous.

The film is a slow burn, but it is worth the wait for its shocking and unforgettable finale.

Saint Maud explores themes of religion, mental illness, and isolation in a way that is both thought-provoking and terrifying.

It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll, and it is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre.

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Saint Maud [Blu-ray]
  • Morfydd Clark, Jennifer Ehle, Lily Frazer (Actors)
  • Rose Glass (Director) - Oliver Kassman (Producer)
  • Spanish (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015)

The Blackcoat’s Daughter is a hauntingly atmospheric horror film that will leave you feeling chilled to the bone.

Set in a remote Catholic boarding school during winter break, the film follows two girls who are left behind as their parents fail to pick them up.

As strange occurrences begin to happen around the school, the girls’ sanity is tested as they are faced with an evil force that threatens to consume them.

Oz Perkins’ directorial debut is a slow-burning masterpiece that relies on mood and tension rather than cheap scares.

The cinematography is stunning, with the snowy landscape and dark interiors creating a sense of isolation and dread.

The performances from Kiernan Shipka and Emma Roberts are outstanding as they navigate their characters’ descent into madness.

The Blackcoat’s Daughter is not a film for everyone. It’s a slow-paced, character-driven horror that requires patience and attention to detail.

But for those who appreciate atmospheric horror and psychological terror, this film is a must-see.

It’s a haunting and unforgettable experience that will leave you questioning what’s real and what’s not.

   

 

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The Blackcoat's Daughter
  • James Remar, Kiernan Shipka, Lucy Boynton (Actors)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

 

BEST UNDERRATED HORROR MOVIES

What Are Horror Movies?

Horror movies are often a genre of film that is not taken seriously.

It is seen as the lowest form of entertainment, but it has been steadily growing in popularity for decades.

Horror films have become so popular because they offer an escape from reality through fantasy and suspenseful story lines.

 

 

The Faculty (2018)

Create an entertaining and thrilling movie experience. Directed by Robert Rodriguez and written by Kevin Williamson, the film tells the story of a group of high school students who discover that their teachers are being taken over by alien parasites.

What makes The Faculty stand out from other horror films of the time is its strong cast of young actors, including Josh Hartnett, Elijah Wood, and Jordana Brewster.

They bring depth and authenticity to their roles, making the audience care about their characters and their struggle to survive.

The film also features a well-crafted script that balances scares and humor.

Williamson, who also wrote the hit horror film Scream, infuses the movie with his signature blend of meta-humor and pop culture references.

The result is a film that both pays homage to and subverts the tropes of the horror genre.

The Faculty also boasts impressive special effects, particularly in its depiction of the alien parasites and their takeover of the teachers’ bodies.

The film builds tension slowly, using clever camera angles and lighting to create a sense of unease and paranoia.

The Wailing (2016)

The Wailing is a haunting masterpiece that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The film, directed by Na Hong-jin, tells the story of a small Korean village plagued by a mysterious illness and a series of brutal murders.

The protagonist, a bumbling police officer, sets out to solve the case but is quickly drawn into a world of supernatural horror.

The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking landscapes and eerie lighting that perfectly captures the film’s unsettling tone.

The acting is superb, with standout performances from Kwak Do-won as the hapless officer and Hwang Jung-min as a mysterious shaman.

But what truly sets The Wailing apart is masterful storytelling.

The film manages to weave together elements of horror, mystery, and drama, all while exploring deep themes of faith, morality, and the human psyche.

The tension builds steadily throughout the film, culminating in a shocking and unforgettable finale that will leave you reeling.

 

The Wailing [DVD]
  • Polish Release, cover may contain Polish text/markings. The disk has English subtitles.
  • English (Subtitle)

Ganja & Hess (1973)

Ganja & Hess is a haunting and thought-provoking exploration of addiction, desire, and the human condition.

Directed by Bill Gunn, the film follows the story of an anthropologist named Hess Green (played by Duane Jones) who becomes addicted to blood after being stabbed by an ancient African artifact.

The film is a masterful blend of horror, drama, and romance, with stunning cinematography and a haunting score that creates a sense of unease throughout.

The performances are exceptional, particularly Jones’ portrayal of Hess, a man struggling to come to terms with his addiction and the consequences of his actions.

What sets Ganja & Hess apart from other horror films of its time is its exploration of complex themes, such as race, identity, and addiction.

The film is a powerful commentary on the ways in which societal pressures and expectations can drive individuals to seek out destructive behaviors, and the consequences that can arise from these actions.

Ganja & Hess [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Duane Jones, Marlene Clark, Bill Gunn (Actors)
  • Bill Gunn (Director)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Ju-on: The Grudge (2004)

Ju-on: The Grudge is a horror masterpiece that will leave you feeling uneasy long after the credits have rolled.

Director Takashi Shimizu has crafted a chilling and atmospheric tale of a cursed house that brings death and terror to all who enter its doors.

The non-linear storytelling adds to the sense of dread, as the audience slowly pieces together the events that led to the haunting of the house.

The use of sound and silence is also incredibly effective in building tension, with each creak and groan of the house sending shivers down your spine.

The performances are all top-notch, with Megumi Okina and Takashi Matsuyama standing out in their respective roles.

The ghosts themselves are truly terrifying, with their contorted movements and eerie noises making them some of the most memorable horror villains in recent memory.

While the film may be slow-paced at times, it is ultimately a rewarding experience for fans of the horror genre. Ju-on: The Grudge is a haunting and unforgettable film that cements Takashi Shimizu’s status as a master of horror.

 

Ju-On - the Grudge [Édition Collector Limitée]
  • French (Subtitle)
  • French (Publication Language)

Tourist Trap (1979)

If you’re looking for a creepy, atmospheric horror film that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then Tourist Trap is definitely worth checking out.

Directed by David Schmoeller, this low-budget gem follows a group of friends who stumble upon an abandoned roadside attraction while on a road trip.

What initially seems like a fun and quirky place quickly turns into a nightmare as they realize that they are being hunted by the deranged owner, played brilliantly by Chuck Connors.

What sets Tourist Trap apart from other slasher films of its time is its eerie, surreal tone.

The abandoned attraction is filled with lifelike mannequins that seem to come to life, adding to the sense of unease and dread.

The film also features some genuinely disturbing scenes, including a particularly gruesome death involving a mannequin and a vat of plaster.

While the acting is a bit uneven at times, the film benefits from a strong performance by Connors, who manages to be both charming and terrifying in equal measure.

The score by Pino Donaggio is also a standout, adding to the film’s unsettling atmosphere.

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Tourist Trap [Blu-ray]
  • Restored and remastered especially for Blu-ray disc format
  • High-definition widescreen presentation
  • 5.1 Surround Sound audio mix
  • Brand new audio commentary by Tourist Trap director David Schmoeller
  • Full Moon Features trailers including the original Tourist Trap theatrical trailer

Afflicted (2013)

Afflicted is a found footage horror film that manages to stand out in a crowded genre.

The film follows two friends who embark on a trip around the world, only for one of them to become afflicted with a mysterious illness that turns out to be much more than they bargained for.

What sets Afflicted apart from other found footage films is its impressive use of special effects and action sequences.

The filmmakers don’t hold back when it comes to the gore and violence, and the result is a film that is both thrilling and terrifying.

The performances from the two leads are also noteworthy, as they manage to bring a sense of realism to their roles that is often lacking in found footage films.

The chemistry between the two friends is palpable, which makes the film’s more emotional moments hit even harder.

One potential downside to Afflicted is that it can feel a bit predictable at times.

However, the film’s strong execution and impressive visuals more than make up for any lack of originality.

 

Afflicted [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Clif Prowse, Derek Lee, Jason Lee (Actors)
  • Derek Lee (Director) - Chris Ferguson (Producer)
  • English, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

Train To Busan (2016)

Train To Busan is a thrilling and emotional zombie apocalypse film that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The story follows a father and daughter on a train ride to Busan, where a zombie outbreak quickly spreads and causes chaos on board.

The tension builds quickly as the passengers try to survive and make their way to safety.

One of the standout features of this film is its impressive and realistic special effects.

The zombies are terrifying and their movements are incredibly well-done, creating a sense of intense danger and urgency.

The action scenes are also expertly choreographed and filmed, making for some truly impressive and heart-pounding moments.

But what really sets Train To Busan apart is its focus on character development and emotional depth.

The relationship between the father and daughter is central to the story, and their struggles to survive and protect each other make for some incredibly poignant and heartbreaking moments.

The film also explores themes of class, sacrifice, and human nature in the face of disaster.

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Train To Busan
  • Gong Yoo (Actor)
  • English (Subtitle)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

The Girl On The Third Floor (2019)

The Girl on the Third Floor is a horror film that will leave you feeling uneasy and haunted long after the credits have rolled.

Starring WWE wrestler turned actor CM Punk, the film follows a man named Don as he moves into a rundown house in the hopes of fixing it up for his pregnant wife.

However, the house has a dark history and strange things begin to happen as Don attempts to renovate it.

The film is a slow burn, building tension and suspense with every creaking floorboard and flickering light.

The use of practical effects and practical sets adds to the unsettling atmosphere of the film.

The acting is solid, with CM Punk delivering a convincing performance as Don, a man struggling with his past mistakes and trying to make amends.

The supporting cast also shines, particularly Trieste Kelly Dunn as Don’s wife Liz.

 

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Girl On The Third Floor [Blu-ray]
  • Punk, C. M., Dunn, Trieste Kelly (Actors)
  • Stevens, Travis (Director)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

Lake Mungo (2008)

Lake Mungo is a haunting and deeply affecting documentary-style horror film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.

The film follows the Palmer family as they try to come to terms with the sudden and mysterious death of their daughter, Alice.

Through a series of interviews, home videos, and photographs, the film slowly unravels the dark secrets that Alice kept hidden from her family and the devastating impact they had on her life.

One of the most impressive aspects of Lake Mungo is its ability to build tension and suspense without relying on cheap scares or jump scares.

Instead, the film creates an atmosphere of unease and dread that slowly builds throughout the runtime, leaving you on the edge of your seat.

The use of found footage and photographs adds an eerie and unsettling quality to the film, making it feel all the more real and disturbing.

At its core, Lake Mungo is a meditation on grief, loss, and the ways in which we try to make sense of the inexplicable.

The film is a powerful exploration of the human psyche and the lengths we will go to in order to cope with tragedy.

It is a must-watch for fans of horror, but also for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted, emotionally resonant film.

Lake Mungo [Blu-ray]
  • German (Subtitle)

Goodnight Mommy (2015)

Goodnight Mommy is a haunting and intense psychological thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The film, directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, follows twin brothers who become increasingly suspicious of their mother after she returns home from cosmetic surgery with her face completely bandaged.

The cinematography in Goodnight Mommy is stunning, with the stark and isolated Austrian countryside serving as the perfect backdrop for the film’s eerie and unsettling atmosphere.

The tension builds slowly and steadily throughout the movie, culminating in a heart-pounding finale that will leave you breathless.

The performances by the cast, particularly the child actors who play the twins, are outstanding. The way they convey their fear and uncertainty is truly impressive, and the dynamic between them is both touching and disturbing.

 

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Goodnight Mommy [Blu-ray]
  • Susanne Wuest, Elias Schwarz, Lukas Schwarz (Actors)
  • Veronika Franz (Director) - Ulrich Seidl (Producer)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

From Beyond (1986)

From Beyond is a twisted and disturbing horror flick that will leave you feeling both intrigued and unsettled.

The film follows a group of scientists who create a device that allows them to see into another dimension.

However, their experiment goes horribly wrong when they encounter creatures from the other world that begin to manipulate and control their minds.

The film is directed by Stuart Gordon, who also helmed the cult classic Re-Animator, and it’s clear that he has a knack for creating truly disturbing horror.

From Beyond is filled with grotesque imagery and body horror that will make your skin crawl. The practical effects are also impressive, especially given the film’s low budget.

Jeffrey Combs, who starred in Re-Animator, once again delivers a standout performance as the eccentric and obsessive scientist, Crawford Tillinghast.

He perfectly captures the character’s descent into madness as he becomes more and more obsessed with the other dimension.

From Beyond
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Jeffrey Combs, Barbara Crampton, Ted Sorel (Actors)
  • Stuart Gordon (Director) - Stuart Gordon (Writer) - Michael Avery (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

Body At Brighton Rock (2019)

Body At Brighton Rock is a suspenseful and thrilling film that takes you on a wild ride through the wilderness.

The film follows Wendy, a park ranger who gets lost on a routine trail inspection and stumbles upon a dead body. As she waits for help to arrive, Wendy must confront her fears and navigate the treacherous terrain to stay alive.

The film is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the beauty and danger of the wilderness.

The score perfectly complements the tense atmosphere, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout the film.

Lead actress Karina Fontes delivers a standout performance as Wendy, capturing the character’s vulnerability and determination.

The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, adding depth and complexity to the story.

 

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Body At Brighton Rock [Blu-ray]
  • Karina Fontes (Actor)
  • Roxanne Benjamin (Director)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Wounds (2019)

Wounds is a psychological horror film that left me feeling disturbed and disoriented.

The film follows the story of a bartender named Will (played brilliantly by Armie Hammer) who finds a phone left behind at the bar.

The phone becomes the catalyst for a series of strange and terrifying events that unravel as Will becomes more and more obsessed with the device.

The film’s director, Babak Anvari, does an excellent job of creating a tense and unsettling atmosphere throughout the movie.

The use of sound and lighting is particularly effective in conveying the sense of dread that permeates the story.

The film also benefits from a strong supporting cast, with Dakota Johnson giving a standout performance as Will’s girlfriend, Carrie.

One of the film’s strengths is its ability to keep the audience guessing.

The plot is twisty and unpredictable, and there are several moments that left me genuinely surprised.

However, this unpredictability also leads to some confusion, as the film can feel disjointed at times.

Possessor (2020)

“Possessor” is a mind-bending and visually stunning sci-fi horror film that leaves a lasting impression.

Written and directed by Brandon Cronenberg, the son of legendary filmmaker David Cronenberg, “Possessor” explores the dark and disturbing consequences of mind control technology.

The film follows Tasya Vos (Andrea Riseborough), a skilled assassin who works for a shadowy organization that uses brain implant technology to take over the bodies of unsuspecting individuals in order to carry out their hits.

But as Tasya becomes more and more immersed in her latest assignment, taking over the body of a man named Colin (Christopher Abbott), she begins to lose touch with her own identity and the line between reality and the mission begins to blur.

Cronenberg’s direction is stylish and immersive, with a hauntingly beautiful score and striking visuals that are sure to stick with you long after the credits roll. Riseborough and Abbott both give powerhouse performances, with Riseborough in particular delivering a haunting portrayal of a woman losing touch with her own humanity.

Possessor
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Andrea Riseborough, Christopher Abbott, Jennifer Jason Leigh (Actors)
  • Brandon Cronenberg (Director) - Brandon Cronenberg (Writer) - Fraser Ash (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

Creep (2014)

Creep is a found footage horror film that will make your skin crawl. Director Patrick Brice and actor/writer Mark Duplass create an intensely uncomfortable atmosphere that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

The film follows a videographer named Aaron (played by Brice) who is hired by a man named Josef (played by Duplass) to film his daily life for a video diary.

What starts off as a simple job quickly turns into a nightmare as Josef’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic and sinister.

Duplass delivers a chilling performance as Josef, a man who seems to be hiding something sinister beneath his affable exterior.

The film’s found footage format adds to the tension, making you feel like you’re right there with Aaron as he descends into madness.

Despite a low budget and a limited setting, Creep manages to be one of the most effective horror films of recent years.

 

Creep
  • Patrick Brice, Mark Duplass (Actors)
  • Patrick Brice (Director)
  • English, French, Spanish (Subtitles)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

Black Box (2020)

Black Box is a suspenseful sci-fi thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The film follows a man named Nolan who suffers from amnesia after a car accident that killed his wife. He turns to an experimental procedure called the “Black Box” to try and regain his memories.

The film does an excellent job of building tension and keeping you guessing as Nolan delves deeper into the Black Box and its mysterious creator.

The performances are strong, particularly Mamoudou Athie as Nolan, who gives a nuanced portrayal of a man struggling to come to terms with his past.

The visual effects are also impressive, with the Black Box sequences creating an eerie and unsettling atmosphere.

However, the film’s strength lies in its exploration of memory, identity, and the consequences of tampering with the human mind.

Black Box
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Mamoudou Athie, Phylicia Rashad, Amanda Christine (Actors)
  • Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour, Jr (Director) - Emmanuel Osei-Kuffour, Jr (Writer) - Jason Blum (Producer)
  • Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Filipino (Playback Languages)
  • Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Filipino (Subtitles)

Midsommar (2014)

Midsommar is a haunting and unforgettable film that will leave you feeling disturbed long after the credits roll.

Directed by Ari Aster, this film explores the breakdown of a relationship amidst the backdrop of a pagan cult in rural Sweden.

The cinematography is stunning, with vibrant colors and picturesque scenery contrasting with the horror that unfolds.

Florence Pugh delivers an incredible performance as the lead, expertly conveying the emotional turmoil of her character.

The pacing is slow and deliberate, building tension and unease as the story progresses.

The rituals and traditions of the cult are both eerie and fascinating, drawing the viewer in and making them feel like a part of the proceedings.

 

Midsommar
  • Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
  • Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, William Jackson Harper (Actors)
  • Ari Aster (Director) - Ari Aster (Writer) - Patrik Andersson (Producer)
  • English (Playback Language)
  • English (Subtitle)

Hellions (2015)

Hellions is a visually striking horror film that takes place on Halloween night.

Director Bruce McDonald creates a creepy, dreamlike atmosphere that is both haunting and unsettling.

The film follows teenager Dora Vogel (Chloe Rose) as she faces an unexpected pregnancy and is terrorized by a group of demonic children who are determined to take her unborn child.

The cinematography is one of the standout features of Hellions.

The use of color, lighting, and camera angles creates a surreal and eerie environment that perfectly complements the film’s unsettling storyline.

The sound design is also noteworthy, as it adds to the film’s overall sense of dread.

Chloe Rose delivers a strong performance as the lead character, Dora. Despite the horrors she faces, Dora remains determined to protect her unborn child, adding a layer of emotional depth to the film.

The supporting cast, including Robert Patrick and Rossif Sutherland, also deliver solid performances.

While Hellions is not without its flaws, including some pacing issues, it is a unique and visually stunning addition to the horror genre.

Fans of atmospheric horror films will appreciate the film’s artistry and the sense of unease it creates.

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Daughters Of Darkness (1971)

Daughters of Darkness is a hauntingly beautiful film that explores the dark and seductive world of vampirism.

The film follows a young couple who find themselves drawn to a mysterious woman and her partner, who claim to be descendants of Countess Bathory.

As the couple becomes more involved with the two women, they begin to uncover a sinister plot that threatens to consume them.

Director Harry Kümel creates a moody and atmospheric film that is both visually stunning and emotionally gripping.

The film’s lush cinematography captures the beauty and danger of the seaside resort where much of the action takes place.

The use of color and light is particularly effective, as Kümel masterfully contrasts the bright, sunny exterior with the dark and foreboding interior of the hotel.

The cast is also exceptional, with Delphine Seyrig delivering a captivating and enigmatic performance as the seductive Countess.

John Karlen and Danielle Ouimet are equally impressive as the young couple who become embroiled in the Countess’s web.

 

Daughters of Darkness [Blu-ray]
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Delphine Seyrig, John Karlen, Danielle Ouimet (Actors)
  • Harry Kumel (Director)
  • French, Spanish, English (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)

The Crazies (2010)

“The Crazies” is a suspenseful and disturbing horror-thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.

The film is a remake of the 1973 classic of the same name, but it manages to carve out its own identity with updated technology, stunning visuals, and excellent performances.

The story follows a small Iowa town that is suddenly hit by a deadly virus that turns its residents into violent and irrational killers.

A group of survivors, including the town’s sheriff (played by Timothy Olyphant) and his pregnant wife (played by Radha Mitchell), must fight their way out of the town and find a way to survive the outbreak.

The film is expertly directed by Breck Eisner, who masterfully builds tension and creates a sense of dread throughout the film.

The screenplay by Scott Kosar and Ray Wright is tightly written and keeps the audience guessing until the very end.

The cast is also excellent, with Olyphant and Mitchell delivering emotionally charged performances that anchor the film.

The supporting cast, including Joe Anderson and Danielle Panabaker, also shine in their respective roles.

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The Crazies (Special Edition) [Blu-ray]
  • Lane Carroll, Will MacMillan, Harold Wayne Jones (Actors)
  • George A. Romero (Director)
  • English (Publication Language)

Tetsuo The Bullet Man (2017)

“Tetsuo The Bullet Man” is a surreal and visually stunning film that will leave you questioning your own reality.

This 2017 remake of the cult classic is a must-watch for fans of Japanese cyberpunk and body horror.

Director Shinya Tsukamoto masterfully creates a world where technology and humanity merge in the most gruesome ways possible.

The film follows the story of Anthony, a man whose life is turned upside down when his son is killed in a hit-and-run accident.

As he tries to find answers and seek revenge, he discovers that he himself is turning into a machine.

The special effects and cinematography in “Tetsuo The Bullet Man” are jaw-droppingly impressive.

The metallic textures and industrial settings create a sense of unease that is impossible to shake off. The pulsating soundtrack adds to the overall feeling of chaos and disorientation.

The acting is also worth noting, with Eric Bossick giving a haunting performance as the protagonist.

His transformation from a grieving father to a cyborg-like being is both captivating and terrifying.

 

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Tetsuo: The Bullet Man
  • Factory sealed DVD
  • Shinya Tsukamoto, Eric Bossick, Akiko Monou (Actors)
  • Shinya Tsukamoto (Director) - Masayuki Tanishima (Producer)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

Southbound (2016)

Southbound is a horror anthology film that takes viewers on a twisted journey through the American Southwest.

The film comprised of five interconnected stories, each one more bizarre and unsettling than the last.

What makes Southbound so effective is its ability to blend different horror sub-genres seamlessly. From cosmic horror to slasher flicks, each story feels distinct and yet still cohesive within the larger narrative.

The film also boasts some impressive practical effects and makeup work, creating some truly gruesome and unforgettable visuals. But it’s not just about the gore – Southbound also has a hauntingly eerie score that perfectly sets the tone for each story.

While not every story is equally strong, the overall experience of Southbound is a thrilling and chilling ride that horror fans won’t want to miss.

It’s the type of film that will have you looking over your shoulder long after the credits roll.

The Alchemist Cookbook (2016)

“The Alchemist Cookbook” is a haunting and unsettling film that will leave you with a sense of unease long after the credits roll.

The story follows a reclusive young man named Sean who has retreated to the woods to conduct experiments in alchemy.

As he delves deeper into his studies, he begins to unravel and confronts his own demons.

The film is shot in a stark and eerie style, with a tense atmosphere that builds throughout.

The sparse setting and minimal cast allow the audience to focus on Sean’s descent into madness, and the film is all the more effective for it.

It is a slow burn, but it is one that is well worth the investment.

The standout performance of the film is undoubtedly that of Ty Hickson, who plays Sean with a raw intensity that is at times uncomfortable to watch.

He perfectly captures the character’s desperation and delusion, and carries the film on his shoulders.

 

The Alchemist Cookbook
  • Ty Hickson, Amari Cheatom (Actors)
  • Joel Potrykus (Director)

Emelie (2016)

“Emelie” is a chilling and unsettling thriller that takes the concept of a babysitter from hell to a whole new level.

The film follows the Thompson family as they hire a new babysitter, Emelie, to watch their three children while they go out for their anniversary dinner.

However, as the night progresses, it becomes clear that Emelie is not who she seems, and the children soon find themselves in a dangerous and terrifying situation.

What makes “Emelie” so effective is the way it slowly builds tension and unease throughout the film.

Director Michael Thelin does an excellent job of creating an atmosphere of dread, and the film’s pacing is spot-on, with the tension slowly ratcheting up as the night progresses.

The performances from the child actors are also impressive, particularly Sarah Bolger as Emelie, who is both charming and sinister in equal measure.

While “Emelie” may not be the most original horror movie out there, it’s still a well-crafted and effective thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

If you’re a fan of movies about babysitters gone bad, or just enjoy a good old-fashioned horror movie, then “Emelie” is definitely worth checking out.”

Emelie
  • Sarah Bolger (Actor)
  • Audience Rating: NR (Not Rated)

The People Under The Stairs (1991)

“The People Under The Stairs” is a twisted horror-comedy gem from the mind of Wes Craven. The film tells the story of Fool (played brilliantly by Brandon Adams), a young boy from the ghetto who gets caught up in a nightmarish home invasion when he and his accomplices break into the home of the wealthy and sadistic Robesons.

What follows is a thrilling and often hilarious ride filled with twisted plot twists, eccentric characters, and over-the-top gore.

The film’s standout performances come from Everett McGill and Wendy Robie, who play the deranged and seemingly incestuous Robeson couple.

Their chemistry and dynamic are both terrifying and absurd, making for some truly memorable moments throughout the film.

The film also boasts an impressive score by Don Peake that enhances the film’s tense and surreal atmosphere.

While “The People Under The Stairs” may not be for everyone, those who appreciate dark humor, social commentary, and campy horror will find plenty to love in this underrated gem.

Wes Craven proves once again that he is a master of the genre, delivering a film that is both disturbing and entertaining in equal measure.

 

Sale
The People Under the Stairs [Blu-ray]
  • Brandon Quintin Adams, Everett McGill, Wendy Robie (Actors)
  • Wes Craven (Director)
  • English, English (Subtitles)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: R (Restricted)

The Platform (2019)

The Platform is a viscerally disturbing and thought-provoking film that will leave you questioning the morality of human nature.

The movie takes place in a vertical prison where inmates are fed via a platform that descends floor by floor.

The lower you are, the less food you get, and survival becomes a brutal game of kill or be killed.

The cinematography is stunning, with shots that capture the bleakness and despair of the prison. The acting is superb, particularly by Ivan Massagué, who plays the main protagonist, Goreng.

His journey from a wide-eyed idealist to a jaded survivor is captivating to watch.

The film is not for the faint of heart, as it features graphic violence and disturbing imagery.

However, it is a masterful exploration of class struggle and the lengths people will go to survive. The Platform is a must-watch for fans of dystopian sci-fi and social commentary.

Overlord (2018)

Overlord is a thrilling and intense film that delivers on its promise of action and horror.

From the very beginning, the audience is thrown into a tense and chaotic situation as a of American soldiers parachute into Nazi-occupied France on the eve of D-Day.

What follows is a heart-pumping rollercoaster ride of gunfire, explosions, and bloodshed.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to blend genres seamlessly.

It’s part war film, part horror film, and part action film.

Director Julius Avery does an excellent job of balancing these elements, creating a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The cast is also top-notch, with Jovan Adepo giving a standout performance as the protagonist, Private Ed Boyce.

He’s a relatable and sympathetic character, and the audience roots for him every step of the way.

Wyatt Russell also gives a memorable performance as the tough-as-nails Corporal Ford.

The film’s special effects and makeup are also worth noting.

The practical effects are spectacularly gruesome, and the makeup team did an excellent job of creating realistic wounds and injuries.

The sound design is also fantastic, with explosions and gunfire ringing out in a way that makes the audience feel like they’re right in the middle of the action.

Sale
Overlord (The Criterion Collection) [DVD]
  • Brian Stirner, Davyd Harries, Nicholas Ball (Actors)
  • Stuart Cooper (Director) - Christopher Hudson (Writer)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • Audience Rating: Unrated (Not Rated)

 

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