14 Underrated Horror Films You’ve Probably Never Seen
Horror films often get overlooked, especially those that fly under the radar. While mainstream titles dominate, there are hidden gems that deserve much more attention. These films might not have made it to every theater, but they have earned their place in horror history. If you are a fan of the genre, it is worth discovering these lesser-known titles.
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Session 9 (2001)
Session 9 is a psychological horror film set in an abandoned mental hospital. The eerie atmosphere plays a significant role in creating a sense of unease as the workers uncover disturbing secrets. The film’s strength lies in its slow burn, where tension builds gradually instead of relying on jump scares. The performances and the setting make it an unsettling experience that lingers long after watching.
The movie’s complex characters and their interactions contribute to the story’s psychological depth. It is not just a typical haunted house story but rather a chilling exploration of the human mind. Despite being overlooked upon release, Session 9 has developed a strong following over the years. It remains a standout in the genre for its subtle horror and psychological themes.
The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
In The Autopsy of Jane Doe, a father and son are tasked with performing an autopsy on an unidentified woman. What begins as a routine investigation quickly turns into something much more sinister. The film expertly combines mystery with horror, as the pair uncover strange and unsettling secrets about the woman’s past. The claustrophobic setting and eerie atmosphere are perfect for heightening the tension.
The film uses minimalism effectively, with a small cast and a confined location, yet it still manages to create a terrifying narrative. It explores themes of the unknown, death, and the supernatural. Critics have praised its slow-building suspense, making it one of the most underrated horrors in recent years. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys horror films with deep psychological and supernatural elements.
The Innocents (1961)
Based on Henry James’ novella, The Innocents is a gothic horror film about a governess who believes the children she is caring for may be possessed. The film masterfully builds a sense of dread through its visuals and slow pacing. It is not a traditional haunted house movie but instead a psychological exploration of fear and paranoia. The performances, especially by Deborah Kerr, elevate the film, making it an unsettling experience.
The movie is notable for its ability to suggest horror rather than showing it outright, making it all the more terrifying. Its themes of innocence lost and the impact of fear on the mind remain relevant. Despite its age, The Innocents stands the test of time as a deeply disturbing and intelligent horror film. It is often overshadowed by more famous horror films but deserves a prominent place in the genre’s history.
The Babadook (2014)
The Babadook tells the story of a mother and her son who are haunted by a mysterious entity from a children’s book. While the movie’s premise might seem simple, it delves into complex themes of grief, mental illness, and motherhood. The film’s psychological horror is deeply unsettling, and the monster itself is a representation of internal struggles. It’s a film that stays with you, with its disturbing images and powerful themes.
The movie’s visual storytelling and its exploration of deep emotional pain make it stand out in the genre. Rather than relying on gore, it focuses on psychological terror, creating an atmosphere of dread throughout. The Babadook is not just a horror film, it’s also an exploration of trauma. It’s widely praised for its emotional depth and has become a modern horror classic.
Triangle (2009)
Triangle is a mind-bending horror-thriller that plays with the concept of time loops. A group of friends stranded on a mysterious ship find themselves in a strange, eerie situation. As the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that nothing is as it seems, with twists and turns that will keep you guessing. The film masterfully combines horror with a psychological thriller, making for a gripping experience.
The film’s complex narrative structure and psychological depth set it apart from typical horror films. It blends supernatural elements with psychological horror, making it a unique entry in the genre. Though Triangle didn’t receive wide recognition, its clever storytelling and unsettling atmosphere have earned it a cult following. It’s a perfect film for those who enjoy challenging and thought-provoking horror.
The Ritual (2017)
The Ritual follows a group of friends who venture into the Swedish wilderness, only to encounter a series of terrifying events. As they become lost in the forest, they encounter an ancient and terrifying creature. The film combines elements of folk horror with psychological tension, keeping viewers on edge throughout. The sense of isolation and growing fear is enhanced by the stunning yet eerie setting.
The slow pace of the film allows for a steady build-up of suspense and dread. Its themes of friendship, guilt, and survival are explored against the backdrop of a supernatural threat. The Ritual is a perfect choice for fans of horror that blends natural terror with psychological drama. The film is underappreciated but offers an intense, immersive experience that is hard to forget.
The House of the Devil (2009)
The House of the Devil is a slow-burn horror film set in the 1980s, featuring a babysitter who takes a job at a secluded house. The film evokes the atmosphere of 1980s horror with its slow pacing, retro aesthetic, and tension-filled moments. It expertly builds dread without relying on jump scares, creating an unnerving feeling throughout. The film’s minimalist approach to horror makes it stand out from more modern, fast-paced horrors.
The film’s setting, the atmosphere, and the lead performance by Jocelin Donahue create an intense feeling of unease. It plays on the fear of the unknown and the isolation of the characters. The House of the Devil is a love letter to classic horror films, and it stands as an underrated gem in the genre. Its deliberate pacing and tension-filled plot make it a must-see for fans of atmospheric horror.
The Witch (2015)
Set in 17th-century New England, The Witch follows a Puritan family that becomes torn apart by dark forces. The film takes its time to build a slow, creeping sense of dread, focusing on the psychological unraveling of the family. It is a masterclass in atmosphere, with disturbing visuals and a haunting soundtrack. The film’s exploration of religious paranoia, fear, and isolation is both chilling and thought-provoking.
The film’s eerie tone and sense of dread make it a standout in the folk horror genre. Rather than relying on traditional scares, it focuses on the psychological deterioration of its characters. The Witch is a slow-burn horror that leaves an emotional impact, and its lack of wide recognition is unfortunate. It is a deeply unsettling film that requires patience but rewards viewers with a haunting experience.
The Loved Ones (2009)
The Loved Ones is an Australian horror film that blends psychological horror with gory violence. It tells the story of a high school student who is kidnapped by a girl and her father and subjected to a twisted prom night. The film is a mix of dark humor and brutal violence, making it a unique experience. Despite its extreme content, it’s a film that plays on the fear of being trapped in a situation where there’s no escape.
The film’s dark, twisted sense of humor adds a unique layer to the horror. The performances, particularly by Robin McLeavy, make the characters feel both terrifying and oddly sympathetic. The Loved Ones is a film that might not be for everyone, but it’s a refreshing take on the home-invasion subgenre. Its blend of psychological horror, gore, and black comedy make it an underrated horror gem.
It Follows (2014)
It Follows introduces a unique concept which is a supernatural entity that relentlessly follows its victims. After a young woman is cursed, she becomes the target of this entity, which takes the form of various people. The film’s premise is simple, yet the execution is chilling and unforgettable. It explores themes of fear, sexuality, and the inevitable nature of death.
The film is known for its atmosphere, which is both unsettling and tense. Its soundtrack, visuals, and sense of impending doom create a feeling of unease throughout. It Follows is a standout in supernatural horror, blending classic themes with modern storytelling. Its unsettling premise and eerie atmosphere make it a standout film in the genre.
The Invitation (2015)
In The Invitation, a man is invited to a dinner party by his ex-wife, only to find that things are not as they seem. The film gradually builds tension as the protagonist begins to suspect that there is a sinister agenda at play. The slow reveal of the true nature of the gathering keeps the audience on edge. The film’s ability to keep the viewer guessing makes it a standout thriller.
The film’s psychological tension and sense of dread make it a powerful experience. Its exploration of grief, trust, and paranoia adds emotional depth to the narrative. The Invitation is a horror-thriller that keeps the audience captivated from start to finish. It may not be widely recognized, but it’s an intelligent and disturbing film.
Martyrs (2008)
Martyrs is a French horror film known for its disturbing and brutal content. It follows two young women who seek revenge for the horrors they endured in their childhood. The film is not just a violent story, but it also explores the themes of suffering, revenge, and the human capacity for cruelty. It’s a brutal and emotionally taxing film that challenges the audience’s perceptions of horror.
While Martyrs is known for its intense violence, it also delves into psychological horror, creating a deeply unsettling atmosphere. The film is a masterpiece in shock horror, and its themes are both provocative and thought-provoking. It remains an underrated film in the horror genre, despite its heavy content. For those who can handle its disturbing nature, it is a must-watch.
The Wicker Man (1973)
The Wicker Man is a British folk horror film that focuses on a police officer investigating the disappearance of a young woman on a remote island. As he delves deeper into the case, he discovers that the islanders are involved in pagan rituals. The film is a slow burn, with an unsettling atmosphere and a haunting final act. Its combination of mystery and horror makes it a unique entry in the genre.
The film’s eerie tone and sense of dread make it a standout in British horror. The Wicker Man explores themes of belief, community, and sacrifice, making it more than just a horror film. Its haunting ending and the psychological impact it leaves on the viewer ensure its place as an underrated classic. It’s a must-watch for fans of folk horror.
A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)
A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is an Iranian horror film that blends the genres of horror, western, and thriller. The film follows a female vampire as she stalks the streets of a desolate town. The film is visually stunning, with its black-and-white cinematography and moody atmosphere. It’s a unique and haunting story that challenges traditional horror conventions.
The film’s slow pace and stark visuals create a sense of dread throughout. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is more than just a horror film, it’s also a cultural commentary on isolation and societal issues. Its unique style and storytelling make it an underrated gem in the genre. Fans of indie horror will find this film to be a refreshing and thought-provoking experience.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.