Indie horror films have been gaining a lot of attention in recent years, with unique storytelling, creative visuals and chilling scares. As we look forward to the upcoming year, there are some highly anticipated indie horror releases that are set to send shivers down our spines. From psychological thrillers to supernatural horrors, here are the 15 most anticipated indie horror releases of next year.
1. “The Night House”
Starring Rebecca Hall, “The Night House” tells the story of a widow who discovers chilling secrets about her recently deceased husband. As she delves deeper into his past, she unravels a sinister presence that threatens her own life. With its gripping plot and eerie atmosphere, this psychological horror is definitely one to watch out for.
2. “Last Night in Soho”
Directed by Edgar Wright, “Last Night in Soho” follows a young fashion designer who mysteriously slips back in time to the 1960s where she encounters her idol. But as she becomes entangled in the glamorous yet dangerous world of London’s music scene, she realizes that things are not as they seem. This supernatural horror promises to be a thrilling ride with its blend of time travel and horror elements.
3. “Come Play”
Based on the award-winning short film “Larry”, “Come Play” centers around a young boy who befriends a mysterious creature through his cell phone. But as the creature begins to infiltrate his life and those around him, the boy must find a way to stop it before it’s too late. With its unique storyline and spine-chilling visuals, this film is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
4. “Antlers”
From the producers of “Get Out” and “The Shape of Water” comes “Antlers”, a supernatural horror that takes place in a small Oregon town. When a young teacher and her brother discover that one of her students is harboring a dangerous secret, they soon realize that it’s not just a myth. With its blend of Native American folklore and horror, “Antlers” promises to be an eerie and thought-provoking experience.
5. “Halloween Kills”
Following the success of 2018’s “Halloween” reboot, the highly anticipated sequel “Halloween Kills” is set to hit theaters next year. Jamie Lee Curtis returns as Laurie Strode, who must once again face off against her brother Michael Myers. With its intense action and classic horror elements, this film is a must-watch for any horror fan.
6. “The Green Knight”
Based on the Arthurian legend, “The Green Knight” follows King Arthur’s nephew, Sir Gawain, on a journey to confront a mysterious and supernatural knight. As he faces numerous challenges and temptations along the way, Gawain must ultimately face his fears and learn the true meaning of courage. With A24 behind this project, expect stunning visuals and a hauntingly beautiful tale.
7. “Candyman”
Another highly anticipated sequel, “Candyman” is a spiritual sequel to the 1992 classic horror film of the same name. Directed by Nia DaCosta and co-written by Jordan Peele, this film explores the urban legend of the Candyman, who appears when his name is spoken five times in front of a mirror. With Peele’s track record for creating thought-provoking horror, this film is sure to leave a lasting impact.
8. “Saint Maud”
After receiving rave reviews at various film festivals, “Saint Maud” is finally making its theatrical release next year. This psychological horror follows a devout nurse who becomes obsessed with saving the soul of her terminally ill patient. As her religious fervor intensifies, so do her increasingly disturbing actions. With its slow-burning tension and powerful performances, this film is not to be missed.
9. “Lamb”
From the creators of “Hereditary” and “Midsommar” comes “Lamb”, a folk horror that takes place in the Icelandic countryside. When a couple’s sheep gives birth to a human-like lamb, they decide to take it in and raise it as their own. But as the lamb grows older, their idyllic life takes a dark and sinister turn. With its eerie premise and stunning visuals, this film is set to be a unique and unsettling experience.
10. “Vivarium”
Starring Jesse Eisenberg and Imogen Poots, “Vivarium” tells the story of a young couple who become trapped in a mysterious suburban neighborhood. As they try to escape, they quickly realize that they are being watched by an unseen force. With its claustrophobic atmosphere and mind-bending plot, this film is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror.
11. “The Rental”
Starring Alison Brie and Dan Stevens, “The Rental” follows two couples on a weekend getaway that takes a dark turn when they discover hidden cameras in their rental home. As tensions rise and secrets are revealed, they must fight for their survival against an unknown assailant. With its tense atmosphere and relatable premise, this film is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
12. “Gretel and Hansel”
Based on the classic fairy tale, “Gretel and Hansel” tells the story of two siblings who venture into the dark forest in search of food and work. But as they come across a strange house inhabited by a powerful witch, they must use their wits to survive. With its visually stunning trailer and dark twist on the original story, this film is a promising addition to the horror genre.
13. “Amulet”
Written and directed by Romola Garai, “Amulet” is a psychological horror that follows a homeless ex-soldier who is taken in by a woman and her dying mother. But as he starts to uncover dark secrets about the house, he realizes that he may have been brought there for a sinister purpose. With its eerie atmosphere and strong performances, this film is definitely one to watch out for.
14. “The Power”
Set during the 1970s UK blackout, “The Power” follows a young nurse who is forced to work the night shift at a hospital. But as strange events start to occur, she realizes that there is a malevolent presence lurking in the shadows. With its period setting and spine-chilling premise, this film is sure to appeal to fans of classic horror.
15. “The Devil’s Candy”
From the director of “The Loved Ones” comes “The Devil’s Candy”, a supernatural horror that tells the story of an artist who moves into a rural home with his family. But as he becomes consumed by his latest masterpiece, he starts to experience terrifying visions and discovers that the house has a dark history. With its intense scares and heavy metal soundtrack, this film will leave you on the edge of your seat.
With these 15 highly anticipated indie horror releases, next year is shaping up to be an exciting one for horror fans. From psychological thrillers to supernatural horrors, these films promise to deliver frights and thrills in their own unique ways. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience these chilling tales on the big screen.