The article explores the evolution of horror films over the past five years, highlighting notable releases like “Midsommar,” “Candyman,” and “Talk To Me.” It emphasizes fresh approaches beyond traditional scares, incorporating social commentary, unconventional narratives, and psychological elements. As Halloween approaches, viewers are encouraged to seek out these recent gems, offering a mix of thrills and chills in cinematic horror, while also suggesting currently available films for those seeking the ultimate fright.
Icons of the horror genre like Freddy Krueger, Michael Myers, and Jason Voorhees have haunted audiences for decades. As their notorious antics have played out over nearly 50 years, fans might find themselves craving something new this Halloween. If you’re eager to avoid the old classics, check out these fresh, spine-chilling films from the last five years that are sure to deliver thrills and chills.
2019: From Bright to Dreadful
In 2019, director Ari Aster unveiled ‘Midsommar,’ proving that horror can emerge from the brightest settings. With Florence Pugh starring, Aster crafted a visually striking horror film that might make you rethink a trip to Sweden. The plot follows a group of students visiting a secluded Swedish commune, where their acceptance of local midsummer traditions swiftly takes a horrifying twist.
That same year, Jordan Peele followed up on his acclaimed debut with ‘Us.’ In a unique take on the home invasion trope, each character played by Lupita Nyong’o and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II faces off against twisted doubles of themselves, raising the tension with sociopolitical commentary while delivering intense scares.
2020: Unexpected to Unsettling
David Prior’s ‘The Empty Man’ initially presents itself as a standard horror film but evolves into a multifaceted narrative worthy of a second watch. The story revolves around an ex-cop, played by James Badge Dale, on a mission to find a missing girl, leading him to uncover a cult intent on summoning a sinister entity.
Meanwhile, ‘Underwater’ offers a terrifying twist on the classic science fiction horror formula. Starring Kristen Stewart and Vincent Cassel, the film immerses viewers in the claustrophobic environment of a deep-sea station, where a devastating earthquake exposes the crew to unseen horrors lurking in the depths.
2021: Thought-Provoking to Time-Tripping
The horror icon ‘Candyman’ made a notable return with a 2021 reboot directed by Nia DaCosta. The film deepens the lore behind the malevolent figure who emerges when his name is uttered in front of a mirror, intertwining themes of racism and systemic violence with supernatural elements. Notably, Jordan Peele’s involvement adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative.
Additionally, Netflix’s ‘Fear Street’ trilogy hit screens, transforming what starts as typical slasher fare into a compelling horror saga spanning different eras: 1994, 1978, and 1666. This engaging storyline reveals a small town’s dark history as a group of teens faces off against undead killers.
2022: Buzzing to Boldly Different
In 2022, ‘Smile’ captured widespread attention, becoming a cultural phenomenon due to its eerie premise. The film explores a sinister cycle where individuals are gripped by a contagious obsession with horrifying smiles just before their grim fates. By echoing the themes found in ‘It Follows,’ it crafts maximum terror with minimal effects.
In contrast, ‘Barbarian’ breaks the mold with its unconventional narrative. The film unfolds from various perspectives as two strangers discover unsettling truths about their shared Airbnb. With an engaging blend of dark humor and body horror, it keeps viewers on edge throughout.
2023: Intricately Crafted to Fearsome
Last year introduced audiences to the Australian gem ‘Talk To Me,’ where a mysterious hand-shaped statue enables communication with the deceased. What starts as a thrilling game spirals into an addiction with dire consequences, effectively blending supernatural horror with real-life themes like grief and dependency.
Similarly, ‘Evil Dead Rise’ revitalizes the beloved franchise by mixing classic horror with profound family drama. Set in an urban landscape, it showcases a family’s battle against evil, filled with expected gore, body horror, and plenty of suspense, proving that no character is out of harm’s way.
Currently in Theaters
If you’re keen to enjoy spine-tingling thrills on the big screen, there are several options available now. For fans of psychological horror, ‘Speak No Evil’ showcases James McAvoy’s unsettling descent into madness. Meanwhile, ‘Smile’ fans can rejoice as part two has recently hit theaters. For the hardcore horror enthusiasts, the third installment of the ‘Terrifier’ series launches on Halloween, promising to deliver stomach-churning scares. So, prepare yourself for a frightfully delightful Halloween!