Horror movies have always been a popular genre in the film industry. From classic slasher films like “Halloween” to supernatural thrillers like “The Conjuring”, the horror genre has captivated audiences for decades. However, amongst the countless horror movies that are released each year, there are some hidden gems that often go unnoticed. These films may not have big budgets or famous actors, but they have managed to make a mark in the genre with their unique storytelling and spine-chilling scares. In this article, we will take a look at 15 underrated indie horror films that you must see.
1. “The Autopsy of Jane Doe” (2016)
Directed by André Øvredal, “The Autopsy of Jane Doe” follows the story of a father and son who run a mortuary. One night, they receive the body of an unidentified woman who was brutally murdered. As they begin to perform the autopsy, they uncover terrifying secrets and encounter unexplainable events. This film is a perfect blend of mystery, suspense, and horror, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats until the very end.
2. “It Follows” (2014)
This supernatural horror film directed by David Robert Mitchell takes the concept of a spooky entity haunting its victims to a whole new level. The film follows a young woman who is pursued by an entity that can take on any form and follows her wherever she goes. The only way to get rid of it is to pass it on by having sex with someone else. This film is a thought-provoking and terrifying exploration of sexuality and fear.
3. “The Babadook” (2014)
Written and directed by Jennifer Kent, “The Babadook” is a psychological horror film that centers around a mother and her troubled son. After reading a mysterious pop-up book, they are haunted by an evil entity known as the Babadook. This film explores themes of grief, mental illness, and the dark side of motherhood, making it a unique and unsettling horror experience.
4. “Hereditary” (2018)
“Hereditary” is a slow-burning, atmospheric horror film directed by Ari Aster. The story follows a family who is grieving the loss of their matriarch. As they mourn, strange and terrifying events begin to occur, revealing dark family secrets and an evil presence that has been passed down through generations. This film is a masterful blend of family drama and supernatural horror, leaving a lasting impact on its viewers.
5. “The Witch” (2015)
Set in 17th century New England, “The Witch” is a period horror film that follows a Puritan family who is banished from their community. They have to build a new home near a dark forest, where they believe something sinister lurks. This film is an eerie and unsettling exploration of religious fanaticism and supernatural terror.
6. “The Invitation” (2015)
Directed by Karyn Kusama, “The Invitation” is a slow-burn psychological horror film that centers around a dinner party. The host invites his ex-wife and her new partner, along with some old friends, to his luxurious home. As the night progresses, tensions rise and dark secrets are revealed, leading to a shocking and terrifying climax.
7. “The House of the Devil” (2009)
Set in the 1980s, “The House of the Devil” is a throwback to classic horror films of that era. Directed by Ti West, this film follows a college student who takes on a babysitting job at a remote house. However, things take a sinister turn as she realizes that the couple who hired her have some disturbing plans for her. This film pays homage to classic horror tropes while still managing to scare its audience with its slow-building tension and satisfying payoff.
8. “The Wailing” (2016)
Hailing from South Korea, “The Wailing” is a supernatural horror film that follows a police officer investigating a series of mysterious deaths in his village. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a terrifying evil force that has gripped his community. This film is a blend of traditional Korean folklore and modern horror elements, making it a unique and chilling experience.
9. “Under the Shadow” (2016)
Set in war-torn Tehran during the 1980s, “Under the Shadow” is a horror film that explores the trauma of war and the supernatural. Directed by Babak Anvari, the story follows a mother and her young daughter who are haunted by an evil entity that may have been unleashed by a missile that landed on their apartment building. This film is a tense and atmospheric exploration of fear and the effects of war on individuals.
10. “The Loved Ones” (2009)
Directed by Sean Byrne, “The Loved Ones” is a brutal and disturbing horror film that follows a high school student who is kidnapped by a classmate and her deranged father. They plan to torture and torment him as revenge for rejecting her prom invitation. This film is not for the faint of heart, but it is a unique and twisted take on the genre.
11. “The Innkeepers” (2011)
Directed by Ti West, “The Innkeepers” is a slow-burn supernatural horror film that takes place in a historic hotel. As the hotel is about to close down, the two remaining employees become obsessed with proving that the hotel is haunted. However, their curiosity may lead to deadly consequences. This film is an homage to classic ghost stories and an atmospheric and satisfying horror experience.
12. “Starry Eyes” (2014)
This psychological body horror film directed by Kevin Kölsch and Dennis Widmyer follows a struggling actress who will do anything to achieve fame and success. When she gets a chance to audition for a prestigious role, she realizes that the price of fame may be more than she bargained for. This film is a disturbing and thought-provoking commentary on the dark side of Hollywood.
13. “The Battery” (2012)
“The Battery” is a post-apocalyptic zombie film directed by Jeremy Gardner. It follows two former baseball players who are trying to survive in a world overrun by the undead. As they navigate through the desolate landscape, their relationship is put to the test, and they have to face their own fears and insecurities. This film is a refreshing take on the zombie genre, focusing on the human element rather than mindless gore.
14. “Honeymoon” (2014)
Directed by Leigh Janiak, “Honeymoon” is a slow-burn horror film that follows a newlywed couple who goes on a romantic honeymoon in a remote cabin in the woods. However, their blissful vacation takes a terrifying turn when the wife begins to act strange, and her husband starts to question if he really knows her. This film is a haunting exploration of love, trust, and possession.
15. “Lake Mungo” (2008)
“Lake Mungo” is a found footage-style horror film directed by Joel Anderson. It follows a family who is grieving the loss of their teenage daughter, who drowned in a lake near their home. As they try to come to terms with their tragedy, they start to unravel disturbing and supernatural secrets about their daughter. This film is a slow-burning and chilling examination of grief and the unknown.
In conclusion, these underrated indie horror films may not have the same recognition as some of the bigger horror movies, but they offer unique and fresh perspectives on the genre. They are a testament to the fact that a big budget or famous actors are not necessary to create a terrifying and unforgettable horror experience. So, the next time you are looking for a good scare, give these underrated gems a chance, and you won’t be disappointed.
