Dive into the spine-tingling delights of 2024 with Styleglim’s ultimate ranking of the year’s top horror films. From Certified Fresh masterpieces to Fresh-rated thrillers, we’ve scoured critic-approved favorites and shocking Rotten gems to bring you every must-see scare. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or a casual viewer, this list promises to satisfy your craving for fear. Ready to explore the best in horror? Let’s get started!
October additions so far: Terrifier 3. Caddo Lake. It’s What’s Inside. Smile 2.
The horror genre is alive and well in 2024, with chilling October additions like Terrifier 3, Caddo Lake, It’s What’s Inside, and Smile 2. Each of these new releases brings its own terrifying twist, from psychological thrills to slasher chaos, cementing their place in this year’s best. I remember the growing excitement each time a fresh horror film hit the screen it’s that rush of anticipation that October promises every year for horror enthusiasts.
Beetlejuice: Beetlejuice kicked off spooky season in September. The Substance became MUBI’s highest-grossing theatrical release.
Starting with Beetlejuice, which marked the beginning of spooky season in September, the month has delivered spine-tingling films like The Substance, which went on to become MUBI’s highest-grossing theatrical release. Doubts around the remake of Speak No Evil faded when the film went Certified Fresh, proving that even reimagined horrors can succeed. Having followed the horror scene closely, I’ve seen how both new and remade films can captivate audiences when done right it’s a testament to the evolving creativity in horror filmmaking
August saw the return of the Alien franchise in a big way, with Romulus becoming the first Certified Fresh movie in the series not directed by Ridley Scott since James Cameron’s Aliens. This year’s lineup also introduced Cuckoo, Neon’s post-Longlegs offering, while Strange Darling played with twisty thriller tropes, though both films faced challenges in translating their high marks into box office interest. As a long-time horror fan, I’ve always found these shifts in the genre fascinating, particularly when movies like these push boundaries, yet struggle to gain the broad appeal they deserve.
June was a strong month with multiple Certified Fresh offerings
June was a strong month for horror, featuring multiple Certified Fresh offerings like Handling the Undead, New Life, and The Devil’s Bath. Fans of apocalyptic tension also got the highly anticipated A Quiet Place: Day One, adding depth to the franchise. As July arrived, the excitement continued with MaXXXine, one of the most talked-about A24 horror movies, followed by Longlegs and the intriguingly titled Oddity. Having followed these releases, I can personally attest to how MaXXXine stood out for its bold storytelling and LongLegs delivered unsettling thrills.
In May, the horror landscape showcased intriguing pairs, including low-performing titles like Tarot and The Strangers: Chapter 1, which fell short of expectations. However, contrasting this were the critically-acclaimed audience-splitters, I Saw the TV Glow and In A Violent Nature, proving that horror can stir both appreciation and debate among viewers. As a fan of the genre, I often find that even the major studio releases that don’t hit the mark have unique aspects worth discussing, while the films that spark conversation often become cult classics over time. My experience has shown me that the best horror movies often thrive in this tension between mainstream appeal and creative ambition.
In April, the horror genre saw intriguing developments with films like Infested and Sting spinning a web of terror, while Nic Cage made a noteworthy return in the action-hybrid Arcadian, proving he’s never too far from the vampire realm. Universal took another bite out of the vampire scene with Abigail, following last year’s Last Voyage of the Demeter, showcasing their commitment to fresh horror narratives. Meanwhile, the long-in-the-tooth franchise received a much-needed update with The First Omen, reviving interest in classic themes. Having watched countless horror flicks, I find that the creativity in these recent films keeps the thrill alive; it’s always refreshing to see new twists on beloved concepts that challenge our expectations and enhance the chilling experience.
March additions: Larry Fessenden’s back with his werewolf-take Blackout. Night Shift. Imaginary (see Blumhouse horror productions ranked). Indian Hindi-language Shaitaan. Late Night with the Devil. Sydney Sweeney’s Immaculate. You’ll Never Find Me. Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2.
March brought a thrilling array of additions to the horror genre, showcasing works like Larry Fessenden’s unique werewolf interpretation, Blackout, alongside the eerie Night Shift. Fans of Blumhouse productions will surely want to catch Imaginary, while the Hindi-language horror Shaitan offers a fresh perspective on classic tropes. Not to be overlooked, Late Night with the Devil and Sydney Sweeney’s Immaculate promise spine-tingling narratives, and the intriguing You’ll Never Find Me could redefine suspense. Even Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2 stirs curiosity with its dark twist on a beloved character. As a long-time horror enthusiast, I appreciate how these films push boundaries and breathe new life into the genre, reminding us why we keep coming back for more spine-chilling experiences.
In February, terror took on a unique form in the stop-motion animation medium with the release of a literally titled film, Stopmotion, reminiscent of Phil Tippett’s earlier work, Mad God, which captivated audiences in 2021. This innovative approach adds a fresh layer to the horror genre, showcasing how animation can evoke genuine fear and suspense. As someone who has always been fascinated by the versatility of horror films, I found the blend of artistry and fright in these animations truly compelling. The craft behind bringing such chilling narratives to life is remarkable, and I can’t wait to see how this genre continues to evolve in 2024.
2023’s horror scene was electrified by M3GAN, but 2024’s major releases like Out of Darkness and Lisa Frankenstein didn’t spark the same excitement. The genre continues to evolve, blending eras and styles to create fresh narratives that reflect societal anxieties. As a horror fan, exploring these films has been an exhilarating reminder of why I love the genre.
Late Night with the Devil
Late Night with the Devil is a delightfully dark film that showcases how possession horror remains relevant and captivating, proving it isn’t played out. Critics highlight it as an outstanding showcase for David Dastmalchian, whose performance anchors the chilling narrative.
| Critics Consensus | The critics consensus praises the film for its fresh take on the genre, with Dastmalchian delivering a gripping portrayal that resonates deeply with viewers. |
| Synopsis | Set in the 1970s, Johnny Carson’s rival Jack Delroy hosts the talk show ‘Night Owls’, a trusted companion for late-night audiences. However, as the night progresses, the show descends into a horrifying paranormal event. |
| Starring | The film features David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Fayssal Bazzi, and Ian Bliss, each enhancing the eerie atmosphere with strong performances. |
| Directed By | Directed by Colin Cairnes and Cameron Cairnes, the film effectively combines suspense and emotional depth, making it a standout entry in modern horror. |
Oddity
| Critics Consensus | The critics consensus celebrates Oddity for its elegant and spooky storytelling, showcasing a fresh take on ghost narratives. The film’s clever jolts create a chilling atmosphere that resonates with audiences, effectively blending fright with engaging plot twists. |
| Synopsis | Set against the backdrop of a remote country house, Oddity unfolds the story of Dani, who is brutally murdered while she and her husband Ted are renovating their home. As the chilling events transpire, everyone becomes a suspect, heightening the suspense and intrigue. |
| Starring | Featuring a talented cast, Oddity includes Gwilym Lee, Carolyn Bracken, Tadhg Murphy, and Caroline Menton. Each actor contributes to the film’s eerie atmosphere, delivering strong performances that enhance the haunting narrative. |
| Directed By | Damian McCarthy, Oddity masterfully |
INFESTED
As we dive into the chillingly engaging world of horror cinema, the critics have reached a consensus on the effective films of this year, with creepy-crawlies and more on their minds than just simple scares. One standout is Infested, a stylish and efficient creature feature that draws viewers into its intricate web.
| Critics Consensus | The film’s synopsis revolves around Kaleb, who is about to turn 30 and feels increasingly lonelier as he navigates conflict with his sister over an inheritance. |
| Synopsis | With a cast featuring Théo Christine, Sofia Lesaffre, and Jérôme Niel, directed by Sébastien Vaniček, this promises an unforgettable horror experience. |
| Starring | Théo Christine, Sofia Lesaffre, Jérôme Niel, Lisa Nyarko |
| Directed By | Sébastien Vaniček |
IN FLAMES
In the realm of horror, In Flames stands out as a film that masterfully weaves a narrative of fear and unease, conjuring an atmosphere of tension that lingers long after the credits roll. This exemplary work goes beyond mere cathartic jolts, offering something profound about the oppression of women within a family dynamic.
| Critics Consensus | Following the death of the family patriarch, the precarious existence of a mother and her daughter is ripped apart by haunting figures from their past. |
| Synopsis | Starring Ramesha Nawal, Bakhtawar Mazhar, and Omar Javaid, and directed by Zarrar Kahn, this film combines chilling horror with deep societal themes. |
| Starring | Ramesha Nawal, Bakhtawar Mazhar, Omar Javaid, Mohammad Ali Hashmi |
| Directed By | Zarrar Kahn |
Strange Darling
In the landscape of horror films, Strange Darling emerges as a gripping tale that delivers a thrillingly unexpected experience. Directed by JT Mollner, this electric ride captivates audiences with breakout performances from Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner. The narrative twists in ways that reveal nothing is as it seems, as a twisted one-night stand spirals into a vicious encounter with a serial killer.
| Critics Consensus | Starring talented actors like Ed Begley Jr. and Barbara Hershey, this film not only thrills but also explores deeper themes of human connection and betrayal. |
| Synopsis | As a horror enthusiast, I find that the best films are those that blend suspense with character depth, leaving a lasting impression long after the screen goes dark. Each viewing of Strange Darling enriches my appreciation for how storytelling can elevate the horror genre. |
| Starring | Willa Fitzgerald, Kyle Gallner, Ed Begley Jr., Barbara Hershey |
| Directed By | JT Mollner |
NEW LIFE
In New Life, John Rosman’s gripping directorial debut, Jess, played by a stellar cast including Sonya Walger and Hayley Erin, fights to escape her troubled past. This suspenseful thriller combines emotional depth with thrilling twists, redefining horror with a brooding narrative and powerful storytelling.
| Critics Consensus | Breathing new life to the genre, this excellently acted brooding horror thriller marks a propitious debut for John Rosman. |
| Synopsis | Jess is a woman on the run, desperate to cross the Canadian border to escape her past. |
| Starring | Sonya Walger, Hayley Erin, Tony Amendola, Ayanna Berkshire |
| Directed By | John Rosman |
The Substance
| Critics Consensus | Audaciously gross, wickedly clever, and possibly Demi Moore’s finest hour, The Substance is a gasp-inducing feat from writer-director Coralie Fargeat. |
| Synopsis | Have you ever dreamt of a better version of yourself? You, only better in every way. You should try this. |
| Starring | Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, Dennis Quaid, Hugo Diego Garcia |
| Directed By | Coralie Fargeat |
STOPMOTION
| Critics Consensus | Stopmotion takes the conflict between art and artist to chilling, visually thrilling extremes, distinguished by director Robert Morgan’s excellent effects work. |
| Synopsis | A talented stop-motion animator becomes consumed by the grotesque world of her horrifying creations — with deadly results. |
| Starring | Aisling Franciosi, Stella Gonet, Tom York, Caoilinn Springall |
| Directed By | Robert Morgan |
The Devil’s Bath
The Devil’s Bath (2024) is a chilling period horror set in 1750 Austria. Directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, it follows Agnes, a deeply religious woman whose marriage spirals into psychological turmoil. With a stellar cast including Anja Plaschg and David Scheid, this film masterfully blends faith, fear, and emotional depth, leaving a haunting impression.
| Critics Consensus | A squirm-inducing period piece that locates true horror in both mind and spirit, The Devil’s Bath might be Severin Fiala and Veronika Franz’s most chilling directorial effort yet. |
| Synopsis | In 1750 Austria, a deeply religious woman named Agnes has just married her beloved, but her mind and heart soon became troubled. |
| Starring | Anja Plaschg, David Scheid, Maria Hofstätter, Natalija Baranova |
| Directed By | Veronika Franz, Severin Fiala |
A Quiet Place: Day One
A Quiet Place: Day One (2024), directed by Michael Sarnoski, explores the chilling day silence began. Starring Lupita Nyong’o and Joseph Quinn, it delivers raw emotion and suspense.
| Critics Consensus | Grounded in raw humanity by Lupita Nyong’o and Joseph Quinn, this sideways entry into A Quiet Place finds fresh notes of fright to play amid the silence. |
| Synopsis | Experience the day the world went quiet. |
| Starring | Lupita Nyong’o, Joseph Quinn, Alex Wolff, Djimon Hounsou |
| Directed By | Michael Sarnoski |
Out of Darkness
Out of Darkness is a gripping survival thriller directed by Andrew Cumming. Starring Safia Oakley-Green, Kit Young, and Chuku Modu, it follows six individuals confronting their darkest fears in a desolate landscape. Balancing tension with reflection, it’s a haunting exploration of humanity’s vulnerabilities.
| Critics Consensus | A survival thriller reduced to the bare essentials, Out of Darkness offers a chilling reminder that the horror of looming death might be humanity’s most universal experience. |
| Synopsis | A small boat reaches the shores of a raw and desolate landscape. A group of six have struggled across the |
| Starring | Safia Oakley-Green, Kit Young, Chuku Modu, Iola Evans |
| Directed By | Andrew Cumming |
Smile 2
Smile 2 follows global pop star Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) as her world tour descends into a chilling nightmare. Directed by Parker Finn, this psychological thriller explores the dark side of fame, blending horror with social commentary. Also starring Rosemarie DeWitt and Lukas Gage, it’s a gripping sequel that pushes boundaries while escalating tension.
| Critics Consensus | Blessed with a nerve-jangling star turn by Naomi Scott, writer-director Parker Finn broadens Smile‘s conceit into a pop stardom nightmare that’ll leave a rictus grin on horror fans’ faces. |
| Synopsis | About to embark on a new world tour, global pop sensation Skye Riley (Naomi Scott) begins experiencing increasingly terrifying |
| Starring | Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Kyle Gallner, Lukas Gage |
| Directed By | Parker Finn |
Longlegs
Longlegs is a chilling horror film that follows a mysterious creature lurking in the shadows, preying on fear and vulnerability. With its unsettling atmosphere, it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
| Critics Consensus | Saturated in disquieting mood while leveraging a nightmarishly gonzo performance by Nicolas Cage, Longlegs is a satanic horror that effectively instills panic. |
| Synopsis | In pursuit of a serial killer, an FBI agent uncovers a series of occult clues that she must solve to… |
| Starring | Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Blair Underwood, Alicia Witt |
| Directed By | Oz Perkins |
I Saw the TV Glow
I Saw the TV Glow is a haunting psychological thriller that delves into the eerie world of obsession and media influence. This gripping film keeps viewers on edge with its dark exploration of reality and illusion.
| Critics Consensus | With a distinctive visual aesthetic that enhances its emotionally resonant narrative, I Saw the TV Glow further establishes writer-director Jane Schoenbrun as a rising talent. |
| Synopsis | Teenager Owen is just trying to make it through life in the suburbs when his classmate introduces |
| Starring | Justice Smith, Brigette Lundy-Paine, Ian Foreman, Lindsey Jordan |
| Directed By | Jane Schoenbrun |
Speak No Evil
Speak No Evil is a chilling psychological horror that explores the unsettling consequences of cultural differences. This disturbing thriller will leave you questioning trust and morality.
| Critics Consensus | Harnessing sick suspense from the glimmer in James McAvoy’s eye, Speak No Evil is the rare remake that hushes up concerns of “been there, done that. |
| Synopsis | When an American family is invited to spend the weekend at the idyllic country estate of a charming British family |
| Starring | James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Scoot McNairy, Aisling Franciosi |
| Directed By | James Watkins |