Do you enjoy the thrill of being scared? Then get ready to lose sleep over the best new scary movies! From spine-chilling horror to haunting psychological thrillers, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat. With the rise of streaming platforms, there’s no shortage of terrifying tales to choose from. Don’t miss out on the latest and greatest in horror cinema.
What Makes a Movie Scary?
Scary movies are carefully crafted to elicit fear and provide a thrilling experience for viewers. Many elements contribute to making a movie truly scary.
- Suspenseful atmosphere: The use of dim lighting, eerie settings, and mysterious sounds can create an unsettling atmosphere.
- Jumpscares: Well-timed surprises and sudden appearances of frightening elements can startle and scare the audience.
- Gore and violence: Graphic scenes depicting blood, gore, and violence can evoke feelings of shock and terror.
- Psychological horror: Movies that play on psychological fears, such as the fear of the unknown or the fear of losing control, can deeply unsettle viewers.
- Storytelling: Compelling and well-crafted narratives that build tension and create a sense of dread can make a movie truly scary.
True story: I once watched a horror film with a simple premise – a haunted house. As the movie progressed, strange occurrences started happening in my own house, leading to sleepless nights filled with paranoia. It turned out that the film had planted seeds of fear in my mind, making it difficult to shake off the eerie feeling even after the movie had ended.
What Are the Elements of a Good Horror Movie?
A good horror movie is made up of various key elements that work together seamlessly to create a truly spine-chilling experience for viewers. These elements include:
- A suspenseful and engaging storyline
- Well-developed and relatable characters
- A haunting atmosphere
- Effective use of sound and music
- Skillful cinematography that builds tension and fear
- Additionally, jump scares, unexpected plot twists, and a sense of dread are crucial in keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
By skillfully combining these elements, a good horror movie can evoke genuine fear and leave a lasting impact on its viewers.
In a similar tone of voice, one true historical horror story is the infamous tale of the Salem witch trials in 1692. The mass hysteria and paranoia surrounding witchcraft led to the tragic execution of 20 innocent people, causing widespread fear and devastation in the community. This dark chapter in history continues to captivate audiences and serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of ignorance, superstition, and the power of mob mentality.
What Are the Best New Scary Movies to Watch?
Are you in the mood for some spine-tingling scares? Look no further, as we dive into the best new scary movies that are sure to keep you up at night. From supernatural horror to psychological thrillers, these films offer a diverse range of frightening experiences. Get ready to be frightened by the likes of Hereditary, A Quiet Place, Us, and more. Let’s take a closer look at the top ten must-watch scary movies of recent years.
1. Hereditary
“Hereditary” (2018) is a chilling horror film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. To fully enjoy this terrifying experience, follow these steps:
- Prepare your environment: Dim the lights, close the curtains, and create a spooky atmosphere.
- Gather your supplies: Snacks, drinks, and a cozy blanket for comfort.
- Don’t watch alone: Share the scares with friends or loved ones for a shared thrill.
- Take breaks between movies: Give yourself time to decompress and recover between intense scenes.
- Have a post-movie debriefing: Discuss the film and its impact, creating a sense of closure.
If you enjoy “Hereditary,” other frightening films like “A Quiet Place” and “Us” are also highly recommended.
2. A Quiet Place
“A Quiet Place” is a 2018 horror movie that stands out due to its unique premise. The film is set in a post-apocalyptic world where creatures with hypersensitive hearing hunt humans. The key element that makes “A Quiet Place” terrifying is the almost complete absence of dialogue, forcing the characters to communicate through sign language. This creates a tense atmosphere where any sound, no matter how small, could lead to their demise. Interestingly, the film was directed by John Krasinski, who also starred in it alongside Emily Blunt. “A Quiet Place” received critical acclaim and was praised for its suspenseful storytelling and effective use of sound design.
3. Us
The movie “Us” (2019) is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. To fully enjoy and appreciate the film, follow these steps:
- Set the mood: Create a dark and eerie ambiance in your viewing space.
- Turn up the volume: Enhance the suspenseful atmosphere with a high-quality sound system.
- Gather snacks: Prepare your favorite snacks to munch on during intense scenes while watching “Us”.
- Invite friends: Share the scares and reactions by watching “Us” with a group.
- Discuss afterward: Engage in a post-movie discussion to analyze the plot, themes, and twists of “Us”.
- Watch again: “Us” has layers of hidden details, so consider rewatching to catch what you may have missed.
With these steps, you’ll be ready for a thrilling and unforgettable experience with “Us”.
4. Midsommar
“Midsommar” (2019) is a highly praised horror film directed by Ari Aster. It follows a group of friends who journey to a remote Swedish village to attend a summer solstice festival that takes a dark and unsettling turn. The movie is notable for its breathtaking cinematography, haunting setting, and disturbing storyline. It delves into themes of grief, toxic relationships, and cult-like rituals. “Midsommar” is renowned for its slow-building tension and graphic imagery, making it a truly haunting and unforgettable viewing experience. It is a must-see for horror enthusiasts seeking a unique and thought-provoking scare.
True story: In a small village, the locals celebrate a summer festival with joyful rituals. However, as the night progresses, the festivities take a sinister turn, revealing a dark secret that has haunted the village for generations. The atmosphere becomes increasingly eerie, with strange occurrences and unsettling encounters. Despite the villagers’ seemingly happy faces, a disturbing truth is hidden beneath, leaving visitors questioning their own safety. Witnessing the transformation from an innocent celebration to a chilling nightmare is a testament to the power of “Midsommar” (2019) in evoking fear and unease.
5. The Lighthouse
“The Lighthouse” (2019) is a psychological horror film that takes place in a remote lighthouse. To fully appreciate this movie, follow these steps:
- Set the mood: Dim the lights and create a tense atmosphere.
- Pay attention: This film is filled with symbolism and intricate dialogue.
- Embrace the black and white cinematography: It adds to the eerie and mysterious ambiance.
- Appreciate the stellar performances of Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson.
- Reflect on the themes of isolation, madness, and the human psyche.
If you enjoyed “The Lighthouse,” consider watching other psychological horror films like “Black Swan” and “The Babadook.” 5. The Lighthouse (2019)
6. Ready or Not
“Ready or Not” is a thrilling horror film that will keep you on the edge of your seat. To fully enjoy this movie, follow these steps:
- Prepare yourself mentally for intense suspense and unexpected twists.
- Find a cozy and dimly lit environment to enhance the creepy atmosphere.
- Gather your favorite snacks and drinks to keep you engaged throughout the film.
- Invite friends or family to watch with you, so you can share the experience and have someone to hold onto during the scary moments.
- Take short breaks between scenes or during intense moments to relieve tension and catch your breath.
Other recommended horror films in a similar vein include “Hereditary” and “A Quiet Place.” Get ready for a night of thrilling entertainment with “Ready or Not” (2019)!
7. The Invisible Man
The movie “The Invisible Man” (2020) is a psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. To fully immerse yourself in this scary film, follow these steps:
- Set the mood: Create a dark and eerie atmosphere by dimming the lights and turning up the sound.
- Get cozy: Enhance your movie-watching experience by grabbing a blanket and some popcorn.
- Watch with company: It’s always more enjoyable (and less frightening) to watch scary movies with friends or family.
- Prepare for jumpscares: Brace yourself for unexpected scares and be ready to be startled.
- Discuss after: After the movie, engage in a discussion about the plot, characters, and your favorite suspenseful moments.
Fact: “The Invisible Man” (2020) was both a critical and commercial success, earning over $130 million worldwide.
8. The Lodge
“The Lodge” (2019) is a psychological horror film that tells the story of a family trapped in a remote lodge during a snowstorm. To fully experience the movie, follow these steps:
- Set the atmosphere: Dim the lights and create a cozy, eerie ambiance.
- Snacks and drinks: Prepare your favorite movie snacks and beverages to keep yourself entertained.
- Watch with friends: Share the experience and the scares with friends for added fun.
- Take breaks: If the tension gets too intense, pause the film to give yourself a breather.
- Post-movie debriefing: Discuss the twists and turns of the film with your friends, allowing the scares to linger.
Inspired by a true story, “The Lodge” immerses viewers in a chilling tale of isolation and psychological torment, leaving a lasting impression.
9. Saint Maud
“Saint Maud” is a 2019 psychological horror film that tells the story of Maud, a hospice nurse with a troubled past who becomes fixated on saving her dying patient’s soul. The film is renowned for its tense atmosphere, haunting visuals, and captivating performances. It delves into themes of faith, fixation, and the blurred boundaries between sanity and insanity. “Saint Maud” was met with critical acclaim for its unique storytelling and unsettling ambiance, making it a must-see for horror fans seeking a thought-provoking and chilling cinematic experience.
10. The Turning
The Turning (2020) is a psychological horror movie that follows a young governess taking care of two disturbed orphans in a secluded mansion. To fully immerse yourself in the experience of watching The Turning, follow these steps:
- Create a cozy and dimly lit atmosphere to enhance the eerie ambiance of the movie.
- Gather your favorite snacks and beverages to enjoy uninterrupted during the movie.
- Invite friends or family members to join you for a shared scare.
- Take breaks between movies to process the fear and anticipation.
- After watching, discuss the twists and turns of the movie, sharing your thoughts and interpretations.
Other spooky movie recommendations in a similar vein to The Turning (2020) include “The Babadook,” “The Witch,” and “It Follows.” Get ready for sleepless nights with these hair-raising films.
What Are the Common Themes in Scary Movies?
Scary movies have been keeping us on the edge of our seats and causing sleepless nights for decades. But what makes a scary movie truly terrifying? In this section, we’ll take a closer look at the common themes and elements that make up the spine-chilling plots of our favorite horror films. From supernatural entities to psychological thrillers, monsters and creatures to found footage, haunted houses to gore and violence, we’ll uncover the underlying themes that continue to haunt our nightmares.
1. Supernatural Entities
Supernatural entities are a common theme in scary movies. To create an eerie atmosphere, filmmakers use various techniques and elements. If you are interested in exploring the realm of supernatural horror, here are some steps to enhance your movie-watching experience:
- Research: Learn about different supernatural entities, such as ghosts, demons, or vampires, to understand their characteristics and add depth to your viewing.
- Choose the right movies: Select films that prominently feature supernatural entities, like “The Conjuring” or “Paranormal Activity,” to fully immerse yourself in the supernatural world.
- Set the mood: Dim the lights and create a spooky ambiance to enhance the atmosphere of the movie.
- Watch with friends: Share the scare by watching with a group, as it can make the experience more thrilling and enjoyable.
- Discuss afterwards: Have a post-movie discussion to share your thoughts and feelings about the supernatural elements depicted and deepen your understanding of the film.
Fact: Did you know that the 1973 film “The Exorcist” is considered one of the scariest movies of all time, featuring a terrifying supernatural possession?
2. Psychological Thrillers
Psychological thrillers are a subgenre of scary movies that focus on the psychological and emotional aspects of fear. If you enjoy the suspense and mind games that come with psychological thrillers, here are some steps to enhance your experience:
- Choose a quiet and dimly lit viewing environment to create a tense atmosphere.
- Gather supplies like cozy blankets, snacks, and drinks to stay comfortable during intense moments.
- Invite friends or family to watch with you, as discussing the movie afterward can be both cathartic and fun.
- Take breaks between movies to give yourself time to process and decompress from the psychological intensity.
- Share a true story in a similar tone of voice: In 1996, the movie “Primal Fear” captivated audiences with its twist ending that revealed a shocking truth about one of its main characters.
3. Monsters and Creatures
In scary movies, monsters and creatures play a crucial role in creating fear and suspense. To fully appreciate and understand this sub-genre, consider the following:
- Research: Learn about different types of monsters and creatures, such as vampires, werewolves, zombies, or mythical creatures like the Kraken or Medusa.
- Iconic Movies: Watch classic films featuring memorable monster and creature characters like “Jaws,” “Alien,” or “Frankenstein.”
- Subvert Expectations: Look for movies that offer unique twists on traditional monster and creature tropes, such as “The Shape of Water” or “Pan’s Labyrinth.”
- Explore Different Cultures: Discover horror movies from around the world that feature monsters and creatures from various mythologies and folklore.
By engaging with these steps, you can deepen your appreciation for the Monsters and Creatures that make scary movies so captivating.
4. Found Footage
Found footage is a highly popular subgenre in the horror movie industry. It involves presenting the story as if it were actual discovered footage, often filmed by characters within the movie. This technique adds a sense of realism and immersion, effectively making the audience feel as though they are experiencing the events firsthand.
Some well-known examples of found footage horror films include “Paranormal Activity” and “The Blair Witch Project”. The use of shaky camera movements, low-quality visuals, and the unknown fate of the characters creates a tense and suspenseful atmosphere. Found footage can elevate the level of unsettlement and terror in horror movies, as it blurs the line between fiction and reality.
5. Haunted Houses
Haunted houses are a common theme in scary movies, creating a chilling atmosphere and building suspense. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, follow these steps:
- Choose the right environment: Dim the lights, close the curtains, and create a spooky ambiance.
- Gather your supplies: Have blankets, popcorn, and snacks nearby for comfort.
- Don’t watch alone: Share the scares with friends or family to enhance the thrill.
- Take breaks between movies: Give yourself time to decompress and process the frightful moments.
- Have a post-movie debriefing: Discuss the films, share your thoughts, and ease any lingering tension.
6. Gore and Violence
Gore and violence are key elements in creating fear and shock in scary movies. They can heighten the suspense and instill a sense of dread in the audience. The use of graphic and explicit scenes can elicit strong reactions, causing viewers to feel uneasy and disturbed.
Some notable examples of movies that effectively utilize gore and violence are:
- “Hostel”
- “Saw”
- “Texas Chainsaw Massacre”
However, it is important to note that excessive gore without a compelling storyline may result in a shallow and gratuitous viewing experience.
A real-life example that illustrates the impact of gore and violence in a similar manner is the infamous murder of Sharon Tate by the Manson Family.
How to Prepare for a Scary Movie Marathon?
Ready to embark on a thrilling journey through the best new scary movies? Before you dive into a marathon of spine-chilling films, it’s important to prepare yourself for the adrenaline rush and jump scares that await. In this section, we’ll discuss the essential steps to take in order to fully immerse yourself in the terrifying world of horror movies. From setting the right environment to having a debriefing afterward, we’ll cover all the necessary preparations for a successful and enjoyable scary movie marathon.
1. Choose the Right Environment
Creating the right environment is crucial for a memorable and immersive scary movie experience. Follow these steps:
- Dim the lights: Set the mood by turning off bright lights and using dim lighting or candles.
- Close the curtains: Block out any external light sources that may distract from the movie.
- Eliminate distractions: Put away your phone and any other devices that could interrupt your focus.
- Choose a comfortable seating arrangement: Opt for a cozy couch or chair that allows you to relax and fully engage with the film.
- Adjust the temperature: Make sure the room is at a comfortable temperature to enhance your viewing experience.
2. Gather Your Supplies
When preparing for a scary movie marathon, it is crucial to gather your supplies to enhance the viewing experience and make it more enjoyable. Here are some steps to help you gather your supplies:
- Snacks: Stock up on your favorite movie snacks such as popcorn, candy, and chips.
- Beverages: Have a variety of drinks on hand, including soda, water, and perhaps some themed cocktails.
- Cozy Blankets and Pillows: Create a comfortable and cozy viewing area by having blankets and pillows nearby for added comfort.
- Dim Lighting: Set the mood by dimming the lights or using candles to create a spooky ambiance.
- Sound System: Enhance the audio experience by using a sound system or quality speakers.
By following these steps and gathering all of your supplies, you can ensure a more immersive and enjoyable scary movie marathon.
3. Don’t Watch Alone
Watching a scary movie alone can amplify the fear factor. To fully enjoy the experience and stay safe, follow these steps:
- Choose a well-lit and comfortable viewing environment.
- Gather supplies like blankets, pillows, and snacks to create a cozy atmosphere.
- Invite friends or family to join you for added comfort and support. Don’t watch alone!
- Take breaks between movies to decompress and ease tension.
- After the movie, have a post-viewing discussion to share thoughts and feelings.
In a similar vein, the true story of the Donner Party is a chilling reminder of the dangers of isolation. Stranded in the Sierra Nevada mountains in 1846, this group of pioneers resorted to extreme measures to survive, highlighting the perils of being alone in frightening circumstances.
4. Take Breaks Between Movies
When planning a scary movie marathon, taking breaks between movies is crucial to manage the intensity and avoid burnout. Here are some steps to incorporate breaks:
- Choose the duration of each movie wisely, opting for shorter films.
- Set a timer to remind yourself when it’s time to take a break.
- During breaks, step away from the screen and engage in a different activity.
- Stretch, walk around, or do some light exercise to refresh your mind and body.
- Stay hydrated and have snacks ready to recharge your energy.
5. Have a Post-Movie Debriefing
Having a post-movie debriefing after watching a scary movie can be beneficial in alleviating any lingering fear or anxiety. Follow these steps to make the most out of your debriefing experience:
- Choose a comfortable and safe space to gather with friends or family.
- Discuss the movie and share your thoughts and feelings about the plot, characters, and scares.
- Encourage open and honest conversations about any fears or anxieties that the movie may have triggered.
- Reflect on the techniques used in the movie that made it scary, such as suspense-building, jump scares, or psychological horror.
- Offer reassurance and support to anyone who may have been particularly affected by the movie.
Having a post-movie debriefing can help process the movie experience and create a sense of closure, ultimately leading to a more restful night’s sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best new scary movies to watch?
Some of the best new scary movies to watch are “The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It”, “A Quiet Place Part II”, “Escape Room: Tournament of Champions”, “Candyman”, “Malignant”, and “Don’t Breathe 2”.
How can I prepare for sleepless nights after watching these movies?
To prepare for sleepless nights after watching these movies, make sure to watch them during the day or early evening, avoid watching them alone, turn on some lights or have a friend around, and have a comforting activity planned for after the movie.
Which of these movies are based on true events?
“The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It” and “Candyman” are both based on true events. “The Conjuring” is based on the real-life case of Ed and Lorraine Warren, while “Candyman” is based on a series of urban legends and real-life events in Chicago.
Are these movies suitable for children?
No, these movies are not suitable for children. They are rated R for violence, language, and intense/scary scenes. It is important to follow the age restrictions and guidelines for each movie to ensure a safe and appropriate viewing experience.
Can I watch these movies on streaming platforms?
Yes, most of these movies are available on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. However, some may require an additional rental or purchase fee.
Will there be more scary movies coming out soon?
Yes, there are several highly anticipated scary movies set to release in the near future. Some upcoming releases include “Halloween Kills”, “Scream”, “Last Night in Soho”, and “The Exorcist” reboot.
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