5 Best Horror Movies Since 2020, Ranked
Horror cinema remains one of the most dynamic and popular genres due to its emotional impact. Recent years have yielded many brilliant horror films, from anticipated sequels and reboots to original and spine-chilling narratives. This surge has given horror enthusiasts an abundance of gripping movies to enjoy.
The genre has experienced a renaissance, showcasing modern films that incorporate diverse themes, advanced special effects, and more serious storytelling. These developments increase the genre's respectability, with talented creators like Jordan Peele and Lee Cronin contributing to this shift. Despite what critics may claim, horror remains vibrant and noteworthy, particularly in the 2020s with numerous outstanding offerings.
5. The Last Voyage Of The Demeter
"The Last Voyage of the Demeter" adapts a chapter from Bram Stoker's "Dracula", telling the story of a crew unknowingly transporting Dracula's coffin across the sea. What begins as a routine trip devolves into gripping isolated horror. The terrifying creature stalks the crew at night, eliminating them one by one.
Set against stormy seas, the film depicts a chilling descent as crew members fall victim to Dracula's predation. Its scary portrayal of Dracula and the haunting setting on a ship make it a standout in vampire cinema, earning considerable praise.
4. The Menu
"The Menu" chronicles the experience of wealthy patrons at the elite Hawthorne restaurant, run by Chef Julian Slowik. Seeking social status and a remarkable culinary experience, the guests quickly find themselves in a harrowing trial during their dining experience. Harmful remarks escalate to acts of violence, including a shocking suicide.
A remarkable blend of satire, horror, and dark comedy unfolds as Chef Slowik ruthlessly confronts his arrogant guests. The film skillfully balances humor with high-stakes tension, revealing that escape from their grim fate is impossible. Through its sharp commentary, "The Menu" captivates and horrifies in equal measure.
3. Texas Chainsaw Massacre
As another reboot of the franchise, 2022's "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" centers on a group of friends planning to gentrify the small Texas town of Harlow. Their failure to respect the elderly woman caring for Leatherface ignites the wrath of the masked killer. Following the woman's death after eviction, Leatherface reignites his infamous rampage.
In a single night, he claims numerous victims and faces Sally Hardesty, now on a quest for revenge. Despite some criticisms, the film satisfies horror aficionados with its relentless scares, expertly designed jump scares, and the most terrifying portrayal of Leatherface in years.
2. X
"X" follows a group of friends shooting adult films at a secluded cabin near an elderly couple's farm. When Pearl, the elderly woman, discovers their activities, her long-simmering sexual repression transforms into a horrific spiral of violence. After being rejected, she kills one of the men and targets the remaining guests with her husband's aid.
This intense slasher film pays homage to classic exploitation horror while unsettled audiences at every turn. It marked the beginning of a new slasher franchise, presenting an unsettling exploration of lost innocence and buried frustrations.
1. Evil Dead Rise
In the latest addition to Sam Raimi’s revered "Evil Dead" series, the 2022 film "Evil Dead Rise" features Beth, who visits her pregnant sister and her children. After an earthquake, they seek shelter in the basement, where the kids rediscover the ancient Necronomicon Ex Mortis. Their forbidden exploration quickly unleashes terrifying Deadites, leading to the possession of their mother.
As Beth fights to protect the children from the malevolent entity, the apartment building turns into a nightmarish battleground filled with horror. This film surpasses its 2013 predecessor, returning the series to its visceral roots after the comedic spin-off "Ash vs. Evil Dead." Unquestionably, it secures its place as one of the best horror films of the decade.
Earlier, SSP told about 5 best high school movies of all time.