Best Horror Movies on Netflix: A Spine-Chilling Guide

When it comes to horror movies, Netflix offers a treasure trove of spine-chilling, hair-raising films that cater to all kinds of horror aficionados. Whether you’re into psychological thrillers, supernatural hauntings, or gory slasher flicks, Netflix has something to keep you on the edge of your seat. This guide will walk you through the best horror movies on Netflix, ensuring you never have a dull moment during your next movie night.

Key Takeaways

  • Netflix offers a diverse range of horror movies, from psychological thrillers to supernatural scares.
  • This guide covers the top horror movies currently available on Netflix, providing detailed descriptions and why they are must-watches.
  • Whether you’re a seasoned horror fan or new to the genre, there’s something for everyone on this list.

best horror movies on netflix

Top Horror Movies on Netflix

1. The Haunting of Hill House

Director: Mike Flanagan

Release Year: 2018

Plot: This series is a modern reimagining of Shirley Jackson’s classic novel. The Crain family faces haunting memories and terrifying events in their ancestral home. The narrative alternates between past and present, slowly unraveling the mysteries of Hill House.

Why Watch: With its intricate storytelling, deeply emotional character arcs, and genuinely terrifying moments, “The Haunting of Hill House” is a must-watch for any horror enthusiast. Mike Flanagan’s direction ensures a perfect blend of horror and drama.

2. The Witch

Director: Robert Eggers

Release Year: 2015

Plot: Set in 1630s New England, “The Witch” follows a devout family banished from their settlement, living on the edge of a dark, ominous forest. Strange occurrences and paranoia lead the family to believe they are cursed by a malevolent force.

Why Watch: This film excels in creating an unsettling atmosphere. The historical accuracy, combined with a slow-building tension and a chilling performance by Anya Taylor-Joy, makes “The Witch” a standout in the horror genre.

3. Hereditary

Director: Ari Aster

Release Year: 2018

Plot: After the death of their secretive grandmother, the Graham family begins to unravel cryptic and increasingly terrifying secrets about their ancestry. The family’s matriarch, Annie, finds herself and her children being haunted by a sinister presence.

best horror movies on netflix

Why Watch: “Hereditary” is a masterclass in psychological horror. The film’s exploration of grief, family trauma, and the supernatural is both harrowing and deeply affecting. Toni Collette’s performance is particularly noteworthy for its intensity and emotional depth.

4. Bird Box

Director: Susanne Bier

Release Year: 2018

Plot: In a post-apocalyptic world, unseen entities drive people to deadly violence upon sight. Malorie, played by Sandra Bullock, must navigate this treacherous landscape blindfolded to protect herself and her children.

Why Watch: “Bird Box” combines survival horror with psychological elements, creating a tense and gripping narrative. Sandra Bullock’s compelling performance and the film’s unique premise make it a standout in Netflix’s horror lineup.

5. Gerald’s Game

Director: Mike Flanagan

best horror movies on netflix

Release Year: 2017

Plot: Based on Stephen King’s novel, “Gerald’s Game” follows Jessie, who becomes handcuffed to a bed in a remote lake house after her husband dies suddenly. She must confront her inner demons and find a way to escape her predicament.

Why Watch: This film is a psychological thriller that delves deep into themes of trauma and survival. Carla Gugino’s powerful performance and Mike Flanagan’s adept direction make “Gerald’s Game” a gripping and thought-provoking horror film.

Honorable Mentions

1. The Conjuring

Director: James Wan

Why Watch: Known for its compelling storyline and terrifying jump scares, “The Conjuring” is a modern horror classic that continues to frighten audiences.

2. Hush

Director: Mike Flanagan

Why Watch: This home invasion thriller uniquely features a deaf protagonist, adding an extra layer of tension and innovation to the horror genre.

3. Apostle

Director: Gareth Evans

Why Watch: Set in 1905, this film combines horror with historical elements, delivering a story that is both disturbing and visually captivating.

Netflix offers a plethora of horror movies that cater to various tastes and preferences. Whether you’re in the mood for psychological horror, supernatural thrills, or intense survival stories, there’s something for everyone. The films listed above are some of the best horror movies on Netflix, guaranteed to provide an unforgettable viewing experience. So, grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare to be terrified.