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International horror films offer a unique cultural lens through which to explore fear and the supernatural, presenting diverse beliefs and creatures that induce terror globally. These movies act as mirrors, reflecting the darker aspects of societies and delving into the psyches of characters, probing fears and anxieties.
On platforms like Netflix, acclaimed international horror movies like “Under the Shadow” and “Dabbe: The Possession” provide profound examinations of the intersection between the supernatural and socio-political contexts. They encourage viewers to confront their own beliefs and fears, transcending geographical boundaries.
Cinema’s evolution into a global phenomenon has liberated it from regional constraints, transforming it into a universal celebration of talent, storytelling, and cinematic artistry. Today, it is crucial to embrace the diverse narratives of horror movies, allowing us to appreciate and understand the fears that people from different corners of the world experience.
The world of horror cinema, a beloved genre, captivates audiences worldwide with its spine-chilling tales. While Hollywood often dominates discussions of scary movies, there is a wealth of horror stories waiting to be discovered in films from various countries.
What sets international horror movies apart is their ability to transport audiences to distant locales, showcasing the rich tapestry of cultures, beliefs, and creatures that evoke fear. Whether it’s Japan’s eerie Yūrei or Mexico’s haunting La Llorona, these films delve into the distinct elements that terrify people across the globe.
In this article, we will delve into the top 15 international horror movies currently available on Netflix, offering a diverse and enriching cinematic experience that transcends borders.
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15 Best International Horror Movies on Netflix to Watch Next
Under the Shadow (2016)
Under the Shadow immerses viewers in the chilling setting of war-ravaged Tehran. Shideh, once a promising medical student, not only grapples with the horrors of the Iran-Iraq War but also contends with a malevolent supernatural force exploiting the fear and vulnerability of her family. The film masterfully balances the eerie and the tangible, using Shideh’s quest to protect her daughter as a potent metaphor for the challenges faced by women in a society besieged by conflict.
What Sets It Apart Under the Shadow stands out due to its exceptional and fearless exploration of the intersection between the supernatural and the socio-political landscape. As the story unfolds, it delves deeply into the characters’ psyches, laying bare their fears and anxieties. This film exemplifies the power of horror to act as a reflective mirror, illuminating the darkest aspects of our lives, whether real or imagined.
Dabbe: The Possession (2013)
“Dabbe: The Possession” delves into the theme of demonic possession within the Turkish context, offering a chilling exploration of a family grappling with malevolent forces they cannot comprehend. The film effectively draws on Islamic folklore, providing an intimate portrayal of terror through a cultural lens.
What sets “Dabbe” apart and contributes to its global reputation for spine-chilling horror is its unwavering commitment to the supernatural genre. The movie fearlessly immerses viewers in the mystical and unexplained, cultivating a tangible sense of dread. It skillfully navigates the tension between faith and the unknown, compelling audiences to confront their own beliefs and fears.
Eerie (2019)
Eerie delves into the unsettling events occurring within a Catholic girls’ school in the Philippines. A determined guidance counselor takes on the task of unraveling a series of mysterious deaths, exposing a disturbing secret deeply rooted in the school’s ominous history. The movie skillfully contrasts religious symbols with the horrifying truths concealed behind the school’s closed doors.
What Heightens Its Horror Eerie excels in creating a pervasive sense of impending doom. It skillfully juxtaposes the perceived sanctity of a religious institution with the grotesque, offering a critical examination of the power dynamics within organized religion. The film serves as a disquieting exploration of the hidden terrors that can thrive within the supposedly sacred confines of such establishments.
Sabrina (2018)
Sabrina delves deep into the abyss of sorrow and fixation. After losing his wife, a man undertakes a dangerous quest to resurrect her, unknowingly triggering a series of horrifying and unforeseen repercussions. His relentless pursuit of the supernatural becomes a bone-chilling exploration of the limits between life and death.
What Heightens the Fear Sabrina immerses itself in the murky depths of psychological horror, revealing the extent of human despair and the unintended fallout of meddling with the natural order. It serves as a haunting reflection on the delicate nature of life and the toll one faces when attempting to breach the sacred boundary between existence and the afterlife.
The film serves as a grim reminder that the human pursuit of the supernatural often leads to disastrous and terrifying outcomes, compelling us to reflect on the moral and metaphysical consequences of our actions.
The Ritual (2017)
The Ritual unfolds a narrative of friendship and terror as four companions embark on a hiking expedition in the dense woods of Sweden, only to find themselves lost in a malevolent wilderness harboring an ancient malevolence. Their fight for survival becomes a unraveling journey as they confront profound fears, both internal and external.
What Sets It Apart in Terms of Horror The distinctive aspect of The Ritual lies in its examination of primal fear and the darkness inherent in humanity. The film captivates audiences with its entrancing descent into the recesses of the human soul, using ancient folklore as a backdrop to materialize inner demons. It serves as a chilling reminder that, at times, the most horrifying terrors are those that dwell within us. The Ritual serves as a haunting exploration of how fear has the power to not only alter the external world but also reshape our perceptions and the bonds that connect us.
His House (2020)
His House delves into the journey of a Sudanese couple seeking asylum in the UK, placed in a decrepit house plagued by supernatural disturbances. As they confront malevolent spirits, the film compellingly intertwines social commentary with psychological horror, exploring the immigrant experience and the traumas of displacement. It skillfully draws parallels between the terrors of everyday life and otherworldly horrors. His House is a culturally resonant horror film that emotionally navigates trauma, loss, and the haunting echoes of the past. It encourages contemplation on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of both earthly and supernatural nightmares.
Veronica (2017)
In the Madrid of 1991, a teenage girl engages in a seance with her friends, inadvertently summoning a malicious entity that begins to torment her family. “Veronica” is inspired by a true story, unfolding as a chilling narrative of possession and horror. As the entity’s influence intensifies, Veronica’s quest to safeguard her younger siblings and uncover the truth behind the haunting presence becomes a desperate confrontation with the supernatural.
What Heightens the Fear “Veronica” takes audiences on an unrelenting plunge into the frightening unknown, skillfully exploiting the fear of what cannot be seen and the vulnerability of adolescence. The film’s documentary-style approach, reminiscent of unsettling real-life experiences, imparts a chilling authenticity that induces spine-tingling sensations. It transcends the typical horror genre, delving into a profound examination of the sacrifices one must endure when confronted by malevolent forces. Veronica’s journey serves as a distressing reflection of the resilience and fragility inherent in the human spirit.
Stree (2018)
Stree unfolds in the Indian town of Chanderi, where an annual festival becomes the backdrop for the mysterious abductions of men by a malevolent female spirit named Stree. A group of friends embarks on a journey to uncover the spirit’s true identity, leading them to unveil the town’s hidden secrets and Stree’s ominous history.
What Sets It Apart Stree offers a unique and bold approach to the horror genre by seamlessly blending humor, social commentary, and supernatural elements. The film fearlessly delves into the dynamics of gender and patriarchy in a small Indian community, all while delivering a gripping horror storyline.
Beyond merely inducing fear, Stree sparks reflection, challenges societal norms, and offers a disconcerting glimpse into the vulnerabilities that connect communities. It’s a cinematic experience that not only frightens but also prompts contemplation, encouraging viewers to question the existence of spirits as well as the deeply ingrained fears and biases present in their own lives.
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Cargo (2017)
Cargo envisions a post-apocalyptic world where a human courier navigates the desolate wastelands, transporting souls to the afterlife. As he grapples with the isolation of his task, he stumbles upon an abandoned girl who may hold the key to humanity’s salvation. Their perilous journey becomes a test of his humanity and the fragile hope for a better future in a haunting exploration of loneliness, the transition from life to death, and human resilience. This visually striking and emotionally resonant horror film transcends traditional boundaries, delving into the profound depths of the human condition against a dystopian backdrop.
Bulbbul (2020)
“Bulbbul” is a period horror film set in 19th-Century Bengal that intricately weaves a chilling tale around a child bride who matures into a formidable force, driven by a quest for vengeance against those who have oppressed her. This atmospheric film not only explores the supernatural but also integrates elements of folk horror with a feminist narrative, uncovering the horrors concealed within the shadows of a patriarchal society.
What sets “Bulbbul” apart and contributes to its terrifying essence is its visual opulence and thematic depth. The film boldly challenges societal norms and expectations, delving into the grim reality of gender-based violence. It serves as a compelling narrative about the reclamation of power within the confines of a Gothic and supernatural backdrop.
The film’s ability to blend horror with social commentary makes it a potent example of the genre as a vehicle for addressing pertinent issues. “Bulbbul” engages viewers in a mesmerizing and thought-provoking exploration of injustice and retribution, utilizing horror elements to convey a powerful message.
In terms of storytelling, “Bulbbul” stands out for its exceptional narrative, offering a dreamy and astonishing visual spectacle reminiscent of Guillermo Del Toro’s gothic romance “Crimson Peak.” The film’s ruby-esque aesthetic not only adds to its visual allure but also enhances the overall cinematic experience, creating a unique and immersive world for the audience.
Overall, “Bulbbul” emerges as a compelling and multi-faceted horror film that goes beyond the conventional boundaries of the genre, using its narrative and visuals to shed light on societal issues and captivate audiences with its haunting tale of revenge and empowerment.
Virupaksha (2023)
Perceiving the enigmatic demise of a local resident within the inner sanctum of a temple as a violation of the goddess’s sanctity, the inhabitants of Rudravanam enforce a border seal in accordance with the sacred decree of the temple. For the next eight days, nobody is permitted to cross this seal, and any transgression is warned to bring about the goddess’s wrath, leading to the village’s annihilation.
What Makes It Chilling Crafted by Karthik Dandu, Virupaksha soars with an atmospheric mysticism reminiscent of M. Night Shyamalan, weaving elements of superstition, love, faith, and dark magic into the fabric of traditional Telugu cinema. The film stands out through its commendable cinematography, a stunning yet spine-chilling soundtrack, and a captivating screenplay.
Exploring taboo and ominous practices like dark magic, the film delves into the unexplored chapters of the Atharvana Veda, all while preserving the cinematic essence. Virupaksha is a delight for enthusiasts of mysticism and folklore, extending a rich invitation for global cinephiles to embark on a Telugu cinema journey.
Blood Red Sky (2021)
Blood Red Sky takes us on a transatlantic flight where survival becomes the ultimate challenge as a group of hijackers faces an unexpected passenger harboring a deadly secret. The film ingeniously blends vampire mythology with a high-stakes action thriller, delivering a distinctive and gripping storyline.
What Heightens the Fear This movie revitalizes the vampire subgenre by intertwining it with a heart-pounding narrative of survival and self-sacrifice. Blood Red Sky explores the essence of the human condition, portraying the extraordinary measures individuals take to safeguard their loved ones in the face of a monstrous threat.
The film delves into the profound darkness inherent in everyone and the extraordinary lengths one is willing to traverse to confront it. In essence, Blood Red Sky serves as an action-packed homage to a mother’s unwavering love for her child and the extremes a mother will endure to shield her offspring.
RAW (2016)
Directed by Julia Ducournau, Raw tells the story of Justine, a young vegetarian entering veterinary school as part of her family’s legacy. The narrative takes a disturbing turn during a hazing ritual, forcing her to consume raw meat and triggering a gruesome transformation marked by cannibalistic cravings.
What sets Raw apart is its bold combination of body horror and coming-of-age elements. Ducournau’s skillful direction and Garance Marillier’s captivating performance immerse us in a surreal world, tackling themes of identity, sexuality, and societal expectations within the veterinary school setting.
The film’s vivid and thought-provoking imagery prompts viewers to confront their primal instincts and societal norms. By defying genre conventions, Raw fearlessly explores the intricacies of human nature. In the realm of contemporary horror cinema, Raw stands out, pushing boundaries and leaving a lasting impression.
Incantation (2022)
Incantation, a psychological horror movie set in a secluded village, unfolds as a priest is called upon to perform an exorcism. However, the film skillfully blurs the lines between the supernatural and the psychological, particularly as the priest confronts his own inner demons. The narrative adeptly treads the fine line between what is perceived and what is real, offering viewers a gripping psychological experience.
What Heightens Its Fright Factor This film excels in delving into the frailty of human sanity and the ambiguous nature of supernatural occurrences. Incantation serves as a reflective exploration of belief and the influential power of suggestion within a tightly woven psychological thriller. It takes the audience on a captivating journey of the mind, progressively muddling the distinction between genuine supernatural events and manifestations of the psyche, leaving viewers in a state of unsettling uncertainty.
Andhaghaaram (2020)
“Andhaghaaram unfolds as a labyrinthine narrative intricately weaving the tales of three distinct individuals: a blind former cricketer, a psychiatrist, and a visually impaired librarian. Their destinies become entwined as they grapple with supernatural phenomena that challenge their grasp on reality. The film takes audiences on a chilling journey through their intersecting lives, where the boundary between the tangible and the paranormal blurs into a captivating tapestry of mystery.
Elevated by V. Vignarajan’s auteur-level writing, this psychological masterpiece is a nuanced exploration of the human psyche, delving into the complex interplay of perception and reality. It immerses viewers in a mesmerizing and enigmatic tale that not only tests the characters’ sanity but also prompts reflection on our own.
The movie plunges into the depths of storytelling, highlighting the potent influence of narrative in shaping our understanding of the world. It serves as an eerie reminder of the fragility of the human mind, leaving audiences in a contemplative state long after the credits have rolled. Undoubtedly, a significant achievement in the realm of Tamil cinema.”
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