Horror movies have been a staple in the film industry for decades, captivating audiences with their spine-tingling thrills and chilling storylines. With the 2010’s coming to an end, it’s the perfect time to look back at some of the best horror movies that have graced the big screen in the past decade. From psychological thrillers to supernatural horrors, here are the top 10 horror movies of the 2010’s that will send shivers down your spine.
1. The Babadook (2014)
Directed by Jennifer Kent, The Babadook is a psychological horror film that follows a single mother, Amelia, and her son, Samuel, who are being haunted by a mysterious creature called the Babadook. As the Babadook’s influence grows stronger, Amelia’s mental state starts to deteriorate. This film is a perfect example of how horror can be used as a metaphor for something deeper, in this case, grief and trauma. The Babadook has received critical acclaim for its gripping storyline and stellar performances by Essie Davis and Noah Wiseman.
2. Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s directorial debut, Get Out, took the world by storm with its thought-provoking storyline and sharp social commentary. The film follows Chris, a young African American man, who goes to meet his white girlfriend’s family for the first time. However, as the weekend progresses, Chris starts to uncover a sinister plot that involves hypnosis and body-snatching. Get Out is not your typical horror movie; it delves into issues of racism and white privilege in a gripping and unsettling way.
3. It (2017)
Based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name, It is a supernatural horror film that follows a group of kids who are terrorized by an evil entity that takes the form of a clown named Pennywise. The film is set in the 1980s and highlights the power of childhood friendships in overcoming fear. It received praise for its stellar cast, led by Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise, and its impressive visual effects. The film’s sequel, It Chapter Two, was also released in 2019 and received similar acclaim.
4. Hereditary (2018)
Hereditary is a slow-burning yet bone-chilling horror film that explores the dark secrets of a family after the death of their matriarch. As the family deals with their grief, they soon realize that there is something sinister at play, inherited from their grandmother. This film has been praised for its disturbing imagery and intense performances by Toni Collette and Alex Wolff.
5. The Conjuring (2013)
The Conjuring is a supernatural horror film based on the real-life experiences of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film follows the Warrens as they investigate a haunted house where a family is being terrorized by a malevolent spirit. The film’s success led to a franchise with several sequels and spin-offs, but the original remains a fan favorite for its tense and terrifying atmosphere.
6. A Quiet Place (2018)
Directed by John Krasinski, A Quiet Place takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where a family must survive in silence to avoid being hunted by creatures that are attracted to sound. With minimal dialogue, this thriller relies heavily on sound design and visuals to create a suspenseful and nerve-wracking experience for the audience. Emily Blunt and Krasinski’s real-life chemistry adds to the emotional impact of the film.
7. The Witch (2015)
Set in 17th century New England, The Witch is a slow-burning supernatural horror film that follows a Puritan family as they are exiled to a remote farm. As strange occurrences start happening on their land, the family begins to believe that their daughter, Thomasin, is a witch. The film is a masterclass in building tension and creating a sense of unease, making it a must-watch for horror fans.
8. Train to Busan (2016)
Train to Busan is a South Korean zombie horror film that follows a group of passengers on a train as they fight for survival during a widespread zombie outbreak. This film is not only terrifying but also emotional, with themes of sacrifice and redemption woven into its intense action sequences. It has been praised for its unique take on the zombie genre and its powerful depiction of human nature in dire situations.
9. Insidious (2010)
Insidious is a supernatural horror film that follows a couple, Josh and Renai, as they try to save their son from malevolent spirits that have attached themselves to him. This film is known for its jump scares and eerie atmosphere, but it also explores themes of parental love and the consequences of playing with the supernatural. Insidious spawned three sequels, but the original remains a favorite among horror fans.
10. Us (2019)
Jordan Peele makes another appearance on this list with his second directorial venture, Us. The film follows a family who is terrorized by their doppelgangers during a vacation. While it has its fair share of scares, Us also dives deep into themes of identity and societal divides. Lupita Nyong’o delivers an unforgettable performance, cementing this film as one of the best horror movies of the 2010s.
The 2010s have been a decade filled with terrifying and thought-provoking horror movies that have pushed the boundaries of the genre. From psychological thrillers to supernatural horrors, these films have captured our imaginations and kept us on the edge of our seats. As we enter a new decade, we can only hope that the future of horror movies will continue to surprise and terrify us in new and innovative ways.
