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As we approach the end of 2023, it’s evident that this year has been a remarkable one for horror movie enthusiasts. Filmmakers like Ari Aster, Robert Eggers, and Jennifer Kent have played a pivotal role in reshaping the horror genre. They’ve managed to take the independent, grounded storytelling approach and bring it into the mainstream. In 2022, “Smile” was a huge success, originally based on a short film by its director, which was later acquired by Paramount and turned into a full-length feature.
This year, horror movies have continued to build on the legacy of their predecessors, delivering spine-chilling experiences that have left audiences screaming. These films have introduced a new and contemporary style of storytelling, combined with terrifying visuals, injecting a fresh and modern sensibility into the genre.
Updated on October 31st, 2023, by Neville Naidoo: This article has been refreshed with additional content to ensure the conversation stays current and engaging, offering more insights and new entries.
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Best Horror Movies of 2023
Sister Death
Years ago, Spain gained recognition in the horror genre with the chilling movie “Veronica.” Building on its success, “Sister Death” is set within the same fictional universe, serving as a prequel that delves into the backstory of Sister Narcisa and the circumstances leading to her loss of vision. After being accepted into a convent following the death of another nun, a young Narcisa quickly discovers that this supposedly holy place harbors dark secrets.
What Sets It Apart: The film excels in creating a sense of eeriness right from the start, thanks to its haunting visuals and imaginative, fear-inducing cinematography. Instead of relying heavily on jump scares, the filmmakers once again demonstrate an understanding of a concept that many major Hollywood studios often overlook: atmospheric horror and tension-building are much more effective in creating fear than simply resorting to cheap jump scares throughout the film.
Saw X
Saw X exceeded all expectations and marked a remarkable revival of the iconic horror franchise. With Tobin Bell’s return, it managed to recapture the essence of the original Saw films. Positioned between the first and second installments, the movie depicts John Kramer’s journey to Mexico to combat a deadly disease. However, when his experimental treatment is exposed as a sham, those responsible are coerced into a harrowing “game” filled with gruesome deathtraps.
What Sets it Apart? Saw X represents a triumphant return to the roots of the once-prolific Saw series. In a year filled with surprising comebacks in the horror genre, it highlights that even the most unforeseen franchises can be revitalized, albeit beneath a veneer of blood and gore.
The Blackening
Horror comedies are always a delightful experience, and “The Blackening” in 2023 is no exception. Directed by Tim Story, known for his work on comedies like “Barbershop” and “Ride Along,” this movie is a cleverly amusing and spooky tale where a group of Black friends gathers for a Juneteenth celebration at a remote cabin in the woods, only to be pursued by a masked killer shortly after.
What Sets It Apart? “The Blackening” excels by cleverly poking fun at various horror cliches, prioritizing its humor over its frights. Some even compare it to the early Scary Movie franchise, potentially revitalizing interest in the parody genre as a whole.
Totally Killer
“Totally Killer” offers a unique twist on the slasher movie genre by having a 17-year-old girl travel back in time to prevent a notorious serial killer, the “Sweet Sixteen Killer,” from resuming his reign of terror 35 years later. While it may not be a traditional horror film, it distinguishes itself with a blend of gore, humor, and a thrilling, entertaining experience. The movie delivers high entertainment value and features strong performances, making it a fast-paced and enjoyable ride. What sets it apart is its incorporation of time travel, injecting fresh energy into a sub-genre that has become somewhat predictable and monotonous over the years.
The Nun II
Building upon the tremendous success of James Wan’s Conjuring universe, “The Nun II” saw the return of the sinister entity Valak as she continued her malevolent reign of terror. In addition to familiar faces like Taissa Farmiga’s Sister Irene and Jonas Bloquet’s Maurice, the sequel introduced new cast members in Anna Popplewell and Storm Reid. This time, the story focused more on the collective efforts of female characters to confront the evil presence. Sister Irene is once again called into action when it becomes clear that Valak has escaped and is causing havoc across Europe, eventually infiltrating a school and using a possessed Maurice to carry out her sinister plans.
What sets this sequel apart is the introduction of new characters, which inject a fresh dynamic into the cast and emphasize a strong female-driven theme. The film maintains its ability to deliver plenty of heart-pounding jump scares, accompanied by chilling music and impressive special effects, ensuring a consistently nerve-wracking experience for the audience. While it may not surpass the original film, “The Nun II” is still plenty terrifying and deserving of its place on this list. Furthermore, it effectively continues to explore the theme of religious horror that is central to the overarching narrative of the Conjuring universe.
Huesera: The Bone Woman
In 2023, several well-known filmmakers made their directorial debuts, and one such example was “Huesera: The Bone Woman,” co-written and directed by Michelle Garza Cervera, which had its commercial release in February. This film offers a thought-provoking exploration of motherhood, delving into the internal and external pressures experienced by a woman as she embarks on her first pregnancy. However, as she grapples with the challenges of motherhood, a series of strange occurrences and unsettling events start to take a toll on her mental state.
What Sets It Apart: If you’re a fan of bone-chilling moments and folk horror, “Huesera” is sure to deliver a truly terrifying experience. Many critics have highlighted the film’s distinctive blend of various elements, making it a one-of-a-kind cinematic work that effectively contextualizes the themes of motherhood and choice. Natalia Solián, who portrays the lead character, also delivers a performance that is equally intricate and compelling.
Enys Men
2023 has seen an impressive array of experimental horror films, with Enys Men likely being one of the earliest releases in this genre, making its official debut in the US through Neon in January. Shot on 16-millimeter film, Enys Men doesn’t follow a conventional narrative but instead provides a sensory experience. The film centers on the activities of a wildlife volunteer on a mysterious, uninhabited island in the mid-1970s, with only a few recurring elements indicating the passage of time.
What Sets It Apart: Although it gives off a strong 1970s vibe, Enys Men’s deliberate pacing and surreal atmosphere firmly place it in the modern era. It’s important to note that Enys Men might not be everyone’s cup of tea due to its unconventional approach, but it stands out as one of the most intriguing folk-horror films to come out this year. Its cinematography and musical score are absolutely outstanding.
The Offering
“The Offering,” despite its minimal pre-release buzz and comparatively modest profile in the 2023 horror film landscape, managed to exceed expectations in a chilling manner. The story unfolds within a Hasidic Jewish funeral home, where an estranged father reunites with his son and pregnant daughter-in-law just as a malevolent force within a deceased body begins to wreak havoc, with a particular interest in their unborn child.
What Sets It Apart: This film stands out due to its compelling performances and a unique storyline rooted in Jewish folklore. It establishes a dark and ominous atmosphere right from the start and delivers a series of well-executed, if somewhat jump-scare-heavy, moments of terror. In addition to jump scares, the movie employs tension-building and subtle elements, striking a balance that effectively keeps the audience on edge.
The Outwaters
The Outwaters, an unconventional horror film in the found footage genre, was a daring experiment created by Robbie Banfitch, who handled the roles of writer, director, and producer. While it initially gained recognition at film festivals in 2022, it reached a wider audience with its release in February. The film is presented as recovered footage from memory cards, following four friends in Los Angeles as they embark on filming a music video in the Mojave Desert, unaware that their innocent adventure will turn into a horrifying and violent nightmare.
What sets this film apart is its ability to make a lasting impact on viewers, despite receiving mixed reviews regarding its length and pacing. The filmmakers effectively utilize their limited budget, and they cleverly manipulate the audience’s imagination to create a genuinely terrifying experience.
Insidious: The Red Door
In the fifth installment of the immensely popular horror series, “Insidious: The Red Door,” we catch up with the Lambert family a decade after their last appearance. Josh and Dalton have undergone a form of hypnosis that erases their memories of the terrifying events they experienced in the further. Unfortunately, this memory loss has caused a rift between them, leading to Josh and Renai’s divorce. Now estranged, malevolent forces once again start to torment them, with neither realizing the nature of their experiences and their significance.
What Makes it Stand Out? Given the enduring success of the Insidious franchise since James Wan’s original hit film, the return of the original characters evokes a strong sense of nostalgia for fans. Patrick Wilson delivers an exceptional performance, and he even takes on the role of director for this installment. While the film is undeniably frightening, its most outstanding qualities lie in its compelling redemption story and the respectful way it handles the narrative, choosing depth over mere jump scares and shock value.
No One Will Save You
“No One Will Save You” is a film written and directed by Brian Duffield and features Kaitlyn Dever in the lead role. The film garnered attention for its unique approach of minimal spoken dialogue, relying on other elements to convey the story. The plot revolves around Brynn, who lives alone in her childhood home due to past events that have turned the town against her. One night, Brynn discovers an intruder in her home, only to realize it’s an alien attempting to manipulate her mind. As she grapples with this revelation, she learns that the entire town is under attack, with aliens taking control of its residents, forcing Brynn to fight for her survival.
What sets this film apart is its innovative twist on the alien invasion theme, infusing elements of horror and survivalism into the narrative. Despite its minimal use of dialogue, the film remains captivating and immersive, managing to evoke spine-tingling sensations. It’s a refreshingly original movie that leaves a lasting impact on its audience.
Perpetrator
“Perpetrator” has the essence of a superhero film with a significant infusion of horror elements. The movie, crafted by Jennifer Reeder and featuring talented actors like Kiah McKirnan, Melanie Liburd, and Alicia Silverstone, revolves around the life of Jonny Baptiste, a rebellious teenager placed with her estranged aunt. On her 18th birthday, she uncovers her extraordinary power, referred to as “The Forever.” When a group of girls from her school vanishes, Jonny embarks on a quest to locate them and pursue the predator, creating turmoil in her new environment.
What Sets it Apart? This film is tailor-made for those who relish the macabre, brimming with unsettling and gruesome visuals. However, its appeal goes beyond mere shock value, as it skillfully delves into psychological horror, crafting a consistently disturbing atmosphere. It’s a delight for dedicated horror enthusiasts with a penchant for the morbid, but it may not be as enjoyable for casual moviegoers.
Talk to Me
“Talk to Me” stands out as one of the most imaginative horror films of the year. The movie follows Mia and her friends as they engage in a chilling game involving a severed embalmed hand. In this game, they must hold the hand and communicate with the spirit within, with a time limit to maintain control. Failure to respect the time limit results in the spirits taking over the host, unleashing terrifying consequences for Mia, who contacts her deceased mother.
What Sets It Apart: Hailing from Australia and directed by the first-time feature-length directors, the Phillipou brothers, “Talk to Me” is a standout horror film. It excels in creating a gripping atmosphere, delving into psychological horror that gets under your skin, and using restrained gore to increase the disturbing factor. The film is a true gem of the horror genre, effectively terrifying and flawlessly executed. The Phillipou brothers seem poised for promising careers as the next great masters of horror.
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Influencer
The world of social media can be a breeding ground for countless horrifying tales, as sometimes the most grotesque monsters come in human form. “Influencer,” an independent production exclusively available on Shudder, the premier horror streaming service, unfolds its narrative in Thailand. It revolves around Madison, an influencer who uses her vacation to showcase herself and her sponsors, projecting an illusion of a lavish lifestyle. Along the way, she encounters CW, a seemingly helpful companion who promises to guide her to the country’s top destinations, only to later abandon Madison on a remote island and assume her identity.
What sets “Influencer” apart is its lack of supernatural elements, ghosts, demons, or mythical creatures. Nevertheless, this absence doesn’t diminish its capacity to terrify, as it masterfully portrays the true monstrosity that resides within people. With a title that explicitly hints at its central themes, the film serves as a chilling reminder of the dark and cutthroat nature of the social media influencer world.
El Conde
Combining horror and comedy can be a winning formula in filmmaking when the director is dedicated to delivering a compelling narrative. “El Conde,” a film crafted by Pablo Larraín and featuring the talents of Jaime Vadell, Gloria Münchmeyer, and Alfredo Castro, exemplifies this approach. In this alternate reality, Augusto Pinochet, Chile’s former dictator, has been a vampire for over 250 years and has grown weary of existence. He bore witness to the French Revolution and later assumed power in Chile after toppling Salvador Allende. In the twilight of his vampiric life, Pinochet’s children squabble over their inheritance, enlisting a nun to eliminate Augusto. However, she ends up seducing him to keep the money for herself.
What sets this film apart is its refreshingly imaginative interpretation of history, offering not only entertainment but also a generous sprinkling of humor. From a pure enjoyment perspective, it’s an exceptional movie, brimming with unexpected twists, a clever and engaging storyline at its core, and remarkable performances from the entire cast, which come together to create a truly outstanding cinematic experience.
The Boogeyman
Similar to the success of “The Babadook,” “The Boogeyman” draws on themes of familial bonds and grief to drive its narrative, albeit with a greater emphasis on supernatural elements rather than psychological ones.
What sets it apart as an exceptional horror film is its ability to provide new and creative scares that resonate well with a PG-13 audience. The movie skillfully employs these themes to weave a tale of underlying trauma, complemented by haunting visuals and cinematography. The performances of the cast, combined with the direction of Rob Savage (known for his work on “Host”), breathe new life into the horror genre, offering a fresh and engaging experience for viewers.
Renfield
Nicolas Cage’s portrayal of Count Dracula in “Renfield” adds a delightful twist to the horror comedy genre, making it a surprise hit of the season. Nicholas Hoult’s exceptional performance as Renfield, a character seeking to escape Dracula’s domineering presence, is a standout feature of the film.
One of the film’s key strengths lies in its lightheartedness and refusal to take itself too seriously. While it’s primarily a comedy, it manages to retain the gothic essence of the original Universal Dracula, offering a fresh take for a contemporary audience. Originally, the movie was meant to be part of Universal Pictures’ interconnected horror universe, but due to the underwhelming performance of “The Mummy” in 2017, it was reimagined into the comedic narrative we now cherish.
M3GAN
M3GAN distinguishes itself in the horror genre by introducing a creepy doll with a self-awareness twist, a departure from the typical killer doll trope. In a cinematic landscape where spoof films like “The Blackening” have seen a resurgence, M3GAN stands out with its use of AI-driven horror elements. The story revolves around a poignant narrative as the doll becomes a source of solace for its owner, who is grappling with the loss of her parents.
What sets M3GAN apart is its ability to balance humor with a prevailing dramatic tone. While it does have its comedic moments, the film predominantly leans into terror and violence to craft a captivating narrative. It features unsettling kill scenes, compelling performances, and even a viral dance sequence, making it one of the most memorable horror movies of 2023. Notably, a sequel, “M3GAN 2.0,” is already in the works for a theatrical release in 2025.
The Pope’s Exorcist
“The Pope’s Exorcist” has emerged as an unexpected success in the current season, especially within the exorcism genre, which has seen numerous films over the decades. While none have quite measured up to William Friedkin’s iconic “The Exorcist,” which recently received a reboot, the film’s standout feature is undoubtedly Russell Crowe’s outstanding performance. Crowe’s dedication to the source material, inspired by the memoirs of Vatican exorcist Father Gabriel Amorth, played a pivotal role in elevating this film. In his role, Crowe portrays a fictionalized version of Amorth, who stumbles upon a potential threat hidden away for nearly a century following a routine exorcism.
What Sets It Apart? Beyond Crowe’s exceptional performance, reaffirming his status as one of the most talented actors in the industry, “The Pope’s Exorcist” offers several other noteworthy elements. The core of the film revolves around the possession, which is both heart-wrenching and terrifying in a way that viewers can easily relate to – a malevolent demon reveling in the torment of its innocent young host. Father Amorth’s humor serves as a delightful contrast to the film’s more serious and frightening aspects, taking the audience on an emotional rollercoaster throughout the story.
Infinity Pool
“Infinity Pool,” a film directed by Brandon Cronenberg, the son of renowned science fiction filmmaker David Cronenberg, features Mia Goth from Ti West’s X franchise and Alexander Skarsgård. The story revolves around a troubled couple who go on vacation but face a terrible tragedy. After a drunk driving incident puts them at risk of a death sentence, they are presented with the option to transfer the punishment to a perfect clone, leading to a dark and disturbing journey for all involved.
What makes this film exceptional is that it caters to a specific audience, as it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. “Infinity Pool” is characterized by its graphic violence, eerie atmosphere, and unabashedly sexualized content. The movie serves as an allegory for extreme hedonism and delves into the twisted depths of human desires. Viewers are advised to approach this film with caution and discretion.
Scream VI
“Scream VI is a follow-up to a long-running series, and it pays homage to the original films that starred Neve Campbell, evoking nostalgia for fans. What’s remarkable about Ghostface as a character is his enduring ability to terrify each new generation of horror enthusiasts. The Scream franchise has a unique self-awareness that allows it to evolve and adapt with each new installment.
What sets this sixth film apart is the unexpected and relevant twists and turns in the storyline, which breathe new life into the script and the overall series. It features both familiar faces from earlier films and introduces fresh characters like Tara Carpenter, portrayed by Jenna Ortega, which adds a contemporary pop culture dimension while still capturing the nostalgia of the past.”
Knock at the Cabin
Describing “Knock at the Cabin” as merely a shocking thrill ride would be a gross understatement. This new M. Night Shyamalan film, featuring Dave Bautista and Rupert Grint, introduces a captivating premise where a group of armed strangers unexpectedly arrives at a vacationing couple’s cabin. Their chilling demand is that the family must sacrifice one of their own to save the world.
What Sets It Apart? The movie’s strength lies in its intriguing concept, delivered by a director renowned for his history of character-driven suspense. However, “Knock at the Cabin” isn’t just a one-time watch; it beckons for a second viewing, offering intense moments that are heightened by Dave Bautista’s commitment to a more serious and, notably, villainous role.
Skinamarink
“Skinamarink,” which made its official debut in early 2023, stands out as one of the most unique and stylistic films of the year. Directed by Kyle Edward Ball and produced with a budget of just $15,000, this movie employs a raw and gritty style of cinematography that may challenge the expectations of some viewers. It effectively creates an eerie and tense atmosphere as it portrays the unsettling story of two young children who wake up to discover their father missing, and to their horror, they find themselves alone at home with all the doors and windows mysteriously gone.
What sets this film apart is that it’s not always about what you can see on the screen, but rather what you cannot see. Movies like “The Blair Witch Project” have demonstrated that the power of imagination can be more impactful than any visual effects created by makeup artists or computers. “Skinamarink” relies on darkness to convey its claustrophobic narrative, making it profoundly disturbing and well worth watching.
Beau Is Afraid
Ari Aster, renowned for his groundbreaking work in the horror genre through films like “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” has returned with his latest project, “Beau Is Afraid,” featuring Joaquin Phoenix in the lead role as Beau. The story follows Beau as he confronts his deepest fears upon returning home after his mother’s death. Unlike Aster’s previous works, this film incorporates more elements of surreal comedy at times, while still maintaining a strong focus on horror throughout.
What sets “Beau Is Afraid” apart is its exploration of the subconscious mind, taking the audience on a psychedelic journey. It delves into the most unusual and profound manifestations of our innermost fears, using a main character who is as abstract and enigmatic as the film itself, and this abstract quality is a major strength of the movie. Additionally, the film benefits from its runtime and an exceptional soundtrack, which further enhances the overall experience.
Evil Dead Rise
“Evil Dead Rise” is undeniably the most terrifying installment in the franchise and has been hailed as the scariest film of the year since its premiere in the spring of 2023. It received high praise from both critics and horror enthusiasts. Fans of the genre appreciated its departure from the original formula, notably being the first Evil Dead film, aside from “Army of Darkness,” to not be set in an isolated cabin in the wilderness. Instead, it unfolds in a rundown apartment, where an earthquake sets off a chain of events, with one of the children stumbling upon the infamous Necronomicon and inadvertently summoning an evil spirit that possesses their mother.
What sets the film apart is its clever use of familiar possession and lore elements, presented in a fresh and innovative way. It introduces new characters and locations, accompanied by deeply disturbing visuals that leave a lasting impression on viewers. Alyssa Sutherland delivers an unforgettable performance, earning her a cult status as a scream queen, while the film’s gore, execution, and overall unsettling nature truly resonate with horror enthusiasts everywhere.
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