The year 2024 has delivered some of the best horror films in recent memory, blending suspense, supernatural twists, and intense psychological horror that’s left audiences in awe. From terrifying sequels to unique, genre-defying stories, this year’s films have reshaped what we expect from horror, pushing boundaries and delving into themes of survival, fame, and obsession.
Below, we break down the top 10 horror films of 2024, each earning high Rotten Tomatoes scores and bringing fresh frights to the screen. There are no rocks in this bunch, Charlie Brown!
The Substance – 91%
Demi Moore leads in this intense thriller directed by Coralie Fargeat (Revenge). The film examines society’s obsession with beauty through psychological horror, where self-improvement quickly turns disturbing.
Stopmotion – 91%
Directed by Robert Morgan, this film follows an animator whose eerie creations come to life. The stop-motion style adds a haunting layer to its inventive story.
The Devil’s Bath – 90%
Set in 18th-century Austria, this historical horror from Severin Fiala and Veronika Franz unveils a supernatural mystery that terrorizes a small village.
A Quiet Place: Day One – 87%
This prequel starring Lupita Nyong’o explores the onset of the alien invasion that devastates humanity. Director Michael Sarnoski introduces new tension and emotional stakes.
Smile 2 – 85%
Naomi Scott stars as a pop star in this terrifying sequel directed by Parker Finn, blending fame’s pressures with psychological dread as she confronts a sinister presence.
Longlegs – 85%
Nicolas Cage plays a trans killer with dark, satanic connections. Maika Monroe is the “Clarice Starrling” out to stop them. This thriller merges horror with police procedural intensity.
The First Omen – 84%
A chilling return to The Omen universe, this prequel dives into the roots of demonic prophecy and fate, expanding on the dark legacy of the original.
Late Night with the Devil – 84%
Set on a 1970s talk show with a supernatural twist, this period piece weaves suspense and horror as things spiral out of control on air.
Infestation – 83%
This creature feature taps into environmental horror, as a small town grapples with an outbreak of unsettling, insectoid monsters. A must-watch for suspense lovers.
Cuckoo – 83%
Euphoria’s Hunter Schafer stars in this tale of identity and terror, with a young girl trapped in a surreal nightmare as she struggles for survival and self-definition.
These films showcase fresh takes on Satan, spiders, Satan again, body horror and just bad people. If you’re not watching The World Series tonight, try one of these.
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The Geek is a working screenwriter, director and screenwriting instructor.
