Horror Movies You Won't Stop Thinking About

Are we in a horror renaissance?

Are we in a horror renaissance? It sure feels like it. Horror is bigger than ever, with demand for the genre reaching record-breaking levels. And it's not just the movies - horror icons like Ghostface and Michael Myers have broken out of the screen to appear everywhere, from cute phone cases to eyebrow-raising TikTok trends.

In the early 2000s, around 200 horror films were released annually. But in 2023 alone, IMDb catalogued 1,586 new horror movies, making it one of the fastest-growing genres. Today, horror accounts for over 10% of all feature films, thanks to its flexibility and unique ability to tap into our deepest fears.

I was a late bloomer with horror, only starting to appreciate the genre in my mid-20s, as it became more of a getaway from reality. While others turn to tear-jerkers to release their sadness, I found that horror helped me purge my anxieties. The right horror film can stick with you, leaving you physically shaken in a way that's oddly satisfying.

These movies provide a temporary distraction from reality and there's nothing scarier than reality itself, after all. For many of us, horror acts as a coping mechanism, offering a safe way to process heavier psychological burdens. Horror movies give us a controlled way to confront and process our fears, providing a sense of both catharsis and control.

So, in honour of this horror renaissance, here's a list of recent releases destined to become future classics. Whether you're into suspenseful thrillers, adrenaline rushes or just here for the fun of it, there's something for every horror fan. And if you've already checked off this entire list, like I have, let me know what else is worth watching.

1. Barbarian

Genre: Mystery/Suspense Watch if...you're in the mood for intense twists and want gag-worthy horror.

About the movie: A woman books an Airbnb only to find it’s been double-booked. Basically, imagine your worst Airbnb experience - this movie is about that but ten times worse. Perfect pairing: Popcorn, and follow-up with a movie to redeem Justin Long. You’ll see why.

2. IT Follows

Genre: Suspense/Supernatural Watch if...you enjoy a slow-burning sense of dread.

About the movie: A young woman goes on a date with a seemingly nice guy, only to end up contracting a terrifying curse from their encounter that we all need to pray against.

Perfect pairing: A cosy blanket to hide behind and a strong will to delete your dating apps afterwards.

3. Raw

Genre: Coming-of-age/Drama

Watch if...you’re not squeamish and can handle gore - this one is very visual.

About the movie: A vegetarian college student discovers her primal instincts in a way no one expected. Warning: this appetite-suppressing movie is not for the faint of heart.

Perfect pairing: A vegetarian salad and ginger tea to keep your stomach settled.

4. Oddity

Genre: Paranormal/Mystery

Watch if...you’re looking for something unsettling, original and plain terrifying.

About the movie: A murder mystery that follows a psychic who uses her gifts to uncover the truth of what happened to her twin sister.

Perfect pairing: Lights out and a stress ball.

5. Midsommar

Genre: Drama/Supsense

Watch if...you enjoy folklore and a great Florence Pugh movie.

About the movie: A literal cult classic, this daylight horror is set in a remote Swedish village, where tradition and terror go hand in hand.

Perfect pairing: A charcuterie board and a floral crown.

6. Talk To Me

Genre: Supernatural

Watch if...you’re looking for a fresh take on the supernatural with humour.

About the movie: This modern spin on the Ouija board follows a group of teenagers as they dabble in the supernatural. It’s part seance, part teenage rebellion.

Perfect pairing: Shazam for the soundtrack and a hand to hold during the creepiest scenes.

7. Get Out

Genre: Psychological Horror/Comedy

Watch if...you want a sharp blend of humour and horror that will leave you laughing - and gasping - at the same time.

About the movie: A cultural touchstone for horror fans, Get Out serves up suspense, dark humour and a pointed look at race. You’ll be on the edge of your seat.

Perfect pairing: A friend to debate with about all the clever Easter eggs, and a cup of tea to steady your nerves, if you dare.

8. A Quiet Place

Genre: Post-apocalyptic/Survival

Watch if...you like your horror on the quieter side.

About the movie: In a world overrun by monsters who hunt by sound, silence is the answer to survival. Expect suspense - and barely a scream.

Perfect pairing: Headphones if you’re brave enough to amplify the silence, and a pillow to squeeze during those tense scenes.

9. Pearl

Genre: Slasher/Drama

Watch if...you've ever wanted to be famous.

About the movie: Pearl dreams of stardom, so much so that it deludes her into fame-obsessed madness. A creepy colourful tribute to vintage horror.

Perfect pairing: A microphone to unleash your inner star and a treat sweeter than Pearl.

10. Train To Busan

Genre: Action/Zombie

Watch if...you miss the early seasons of The Walking Dead and can handle heartbreak with your horror.

About the movie: A zombie outbreak traps passengers on a train from Seoul to Busan, leading to a desperate fight for survival.

Perfect pairing: Tissues to wipe away the tears and water to hydrate and replace those tears.

The beauty of horror is that it's always evolving. New subgenres, like "lockdown horror" born out of the pandemic are constantly surfacing. This adaptability is exactly why horror is thriving - it's uniquely suited to reflect our anxieties, channelling them into something entertaining, and sometimes a little healing.

Whether you're a horror buff or just dipping your toes into the genre, these films showcase the best of this horror renaissance. As horror continues to redefine itself, it's a genre that not only keeps us entertained but also connects us through our shared fears and moments of catharsis.