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If you’re browsing through Netflix and find yourself drawn to the horror section, you might experience some initial trepidation. However, your determination to watch a horror movie without a dozen sequels is resolute. It’s possible you’ve already exhausted the supply of horror films that once graced the big screen, in which case, it’s worth exploring Netflix’s original offerings. While some streaming service-produced movies can lean toward the cheesy side, there are hidden gems among them. Here’s a selection of original Netflix horror movies that warrant your attention.
Updated as of October 14th, 2023, by Danilo Raúl: This article has been refreshed with additional content to provide up-to-date information and introduce new additions to the list.
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15 Best Netflix Original Horror Movies to Watch Right Now
Veronica (2017)
During the intense satanic media hysteria that gripped the American public in the 1980s, using an Ouija board was considered a symbol of ultimate rebellion. However, “Veronica,” a compelling film directed by Paco Plaza, is set in the 1990s when the fear had subsided.
“Veronica” serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the collective anxieties of bygone eras. It subjects three young girls to a harrowing ordeal after they engage in a ritual with an Ouija board, attempting to summon the spirit of one girl’s deceased father. Although something indeed made contact with them, it was not the soul they had intended to invoke in their ceremony.
Eli (2019)
The plot of the movie “Eli” incorporates themes of fear and long-term illnesses as it follows the story of a young man who has suffered from allergies since he was born and has had to live in isolation. His journey takes a turn when he discovers a Clinic that can provide the medical care he desperately needs, allowing him to reunite with his parents. Eli forms a close bond with another patient but soon starts to encounter unexplained supernatural events. This film, both written and directed by Ciaran Foy, delivers a remarkable and unexpected twist in the storyline when Eli uncovers the true nature of his condition and the identity of his parents, earning it a high ranking in terms of plot twists.
In The Tall Grass (2019)
Stephen King continues to expand his extensive collection of novels adapted into movies with “In The Tall Grass,” a film adapted from his book of the same name. The narrative revolves around two siblings whose road trip is unexpectedly disrupted when they encounter a lost child in a vast expanse of tall grass. While trying to rescue the boy, they discover themselves ensnared within the grassy maze with no apparent exit. In order to break free, they must delve into the enigmatic secrets of the field, embarking on a journey of self-discovery that exposes the darker aspects of their personalities.
Apostle (2018)
Gareth Evans delivers a surprising independent production in the form of “Apostle,” a gothic horror narrative he wrote, directed, and edited himself. The story revolves around Thomas Richardson, who is compelled to return to his hometown upon discovering that his sister has been abducted by a fanatical religious group.
Determined to reunite with his sister, Thomas embarks on a perilous mission to infiltrate the cult’s stronghold and unveil their sinister secrets. The cult, once devout, has fallen into disarray due to external influences, and Thomas must navigate the ensuing chaos to rescue his sister, escort her onto a boat, and secure her journey back home. However, the price he may have to pay for his endeavors is likely to be exceedingly steep.
The Babysitter (2017)
At first glance, “The Babysitter” might appear to be a clichéd horror movie that takes advantage of its well-known cast. However, that’s precisely what it is, and it’s this very quality that contributes to its appeal. The film fully embraces the familiar horror movie tropes, with characters embodying distinct roles and stereotypes that are ingrained in our collective cinematic consciousness. For example, you have the seemingly invincible jock, the token Black character, the hyper-sexualized girl, and the sacrificial virgin. This movie succeeds because it comes across as a satirical take on the horror genre, while still managing to maintain its originality and keep the audience engaged in its own unique way.
There’s Someone Inside Your House (2021)
It’s a common occurrence for slasher movies to revolve around high school settings, often due to the more compelling motives they offer. “There’s Someone Inside Your House” may come off as slightly cheesy within the slasher genre, but it manages to tick a lot of the right boxes. With a masked murderer, a revenge-driven storyline, and a particularly unsettling scene involving an Achilles tendon, it’s a film that delivers the chills. Although the killer’s identity might be somewhat predictable, and the jump scares aren’t exactly groundbreaking, it remains a worthwhile and enjoyable 90-minute watch.
Cam (2018)
The inspiration for the movie “Cam” came from the writer’s personal experience as a cam girl, and if you’ve watched the film, this fact might surprise you. The story revolves around Alice, a cam girl striving to become the top streamer on a popular website by engaging in extreme acts to attract viewers and fans. She even stages her own suicide to cater to people’s fantasies. One day, she discovers that another cam girl who looks exactly like her is using her name while streaming, essentially creating a doppelganger. “Cam” is masterfully paced and keeps viewers guessing as the plot unfolds, leaving them to unravel the true nature of the events.
His House (2020)
“His House” is a gradual, psychological thriller that avoids excessive gore in favor of steadily escalating tension, delivering some startling moments. The story revolves around a couple who relocates from South Sudan to the UK and encounters discrimination from their neighbors and others in their new home.
However, things take a sinister turn as they realize that their house is haunted by a malevolent spirit, which manifests as a monstrous presence residing within the walls. This entity distorts their memories and subjects them to perilous situations. The film’s plot twist at the end adds significant value, leaving viewers more bewildered than ever as the credits roll.
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1922 (2017)
“1922,” a 2017 film adaptation of Stephen King’s novella, received a steady reception for its interpretation of the book. The story revolves around a man who takes an extreme and dark path when he disagrees with his wife’s plan to move. Rather than compromising, he involves his son in a plot to murder her. After the murder, the house becomes infested with rats, leading to its decay. The son, Henry, flees with his girlfriend, leaving his father to face the consequences alone in the deteriorating house. The movie ultimately delivers a sense of justice for all its characters in its conclusion.
The Perfection (2018)
If you’re in search of a horror film that induces a queasy feeling while watching it, “The Perfection” is the one for you. This movie, with its blend of gore and a twisted plot, will keep you captivated throughout, as the unexpected twists will constantly keep you on the edge of your seat.
Starring Alison Williams and Logan Browning, this expertly-crafted thriller delves into the repercussions of abuse and power dynamics. Both protagonists are violinists who endured childhood abuse from their mentor, Anton. The narrative will immediately draw you in, and there’s a particularly disturbing scene where one of the characters suffers a gruesome hand injury.
May The Devil Take You (2018)
“May the Devil Take You,” an Indonesian horror film, is a classic supernatural thriller that is sure to send shivers down your spine and possibly make you think twice about turning off the lights before bedtime. The movie explores the terrifying outcomes of dabbling with a satanic ritual in pursuit of personal benefits.
As a malevolent supernatural force is unleashed, it targets various family members, leading to the uncovering of deep-seated secrets and life-altering revelations. If you relish spine-chilling tales involving possessed dolls and eerie possessions, this film is a must-watch for you.
The Ritual (2017)
“The Ritual” is a gripping cult and witchcraft-themed movie that leaves you deeply contemplative after it ends. The story revolves around a group of friends who embark on a journey to Sweden following the murder of one of their close friends during a late-night convenience store incident. Their purpose is to pay tribute to their fallen comrade. As they venture through the forest, eerie occurrences unfold, leading to the gradual demise of each member of the group. Ultimately, the sole survivor encounters the Norse god Loki, and you can’t help but be transfixed by the horrifying revelation of Loki’s true form.
Gerald’s Game (2017)
Gerald’s Game, adapted from Stephen King’s novel, provides a gripping and intense experience. In the story, a couple ventures to a secluded cabin and attempts an unconventional bedroom activity to add excitement to their relationship. However, things take a disastrous turn when Gerald, the husband, passes away while in the act, leaving his wife handcuffed to the bed. The woman endures horrifying ordeals while trapped, and the anxiety escalates when she realizes that the cabin’s front door remains wide open. Additionally, if you’re averse to gruesome body horror, the scene where she painstakingly frees her hand from the handcuff will undoubtedly be unsettling.
Calibre (2018)
In the horror movie genre, there are moments where viewers can’t help but shout warnings at the characters, urging them not to make foolish decisions. This is a common experience when watching suspenseful or horror films, that feeling of anxiety as you witness characters making incredibly unwise choices.
This sensation is very much present in the film “Calibre.” In the movie, the characters make a shocking decision to shoot a young boy and his father. Instead of seeking help or reporting the incident, they opt to bury the bodies secretly, hoping to forget about the situation and move on with their lives. Unsurprisingly, this decision doesn’t lead to a tidy resolution. The film portrays a realistic and gripping scenario as the characters grapple with the ethical dilemma of what to do next and face the inevitable consequences of their actions.
Hush (2016)
“Hush,” featuring Kate Siegel, stands out as an exceptional piece of cinema. It reimagines the home invasion thriller with a unique twist, making it unlike any other suspenseful movie you’ve seen. The protagonist resides in an isolated house deep within the woods, which sets the stage for an unconventional narrative. When a masked intruder infiltrates her home, the fact that she’s deaf adds an element of tension, as she remains oblivious to the threat initially. The film offers numerous pulse-pounding sequences and one particularly shocking moment that’s bound to leave a lasting impact on its viewers.
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