20 Must-See Horror Movies Directed by Women You Never Heard Of

As a movie enthusiast who’s particularly fond of horror films, I must say it’s been predominantly male directors who have held the spotlight in this genre throughout history. Names like John Carpenter, Wes Craven, Sam Raimi, and Alfred Hitchcock have shaped the conversation, often leaving their female counterparts unnoticed or under-appreciated. However, the landscape is changing now, with emerging talents such as Gigi Saul Guerrero, Nia DaCosta, and Ana Lily Amirpour adding fresh perspectives that are enriching the horror genre in a big way.

Though women may not always be at the forefront of discussions about horror cinema, it doesn’t diminish the fact that a multitude of terrifying masterpieces have been directed by trailblazing female filmmakers since the 1980s. These films, which range from cult classics to critically acclaimed productions, have undeniably demonstrated that the genre is not exclusively for men.

20
The Slumber Party Massacre (1982)

Directed by Amy Holden Jones

Under the guidance of director Amy Holden Jones, “The Slumber Party Massacre” was not only directed but also scripted by author and feminist advocate Rita Mae Brown. This horror film centers around a gang of high school seniors who are hunted by a deranged killer armed with a lethal power drill. The cast includes Michele Michaels, Robin Stille, and Michael Villella, who all contribute to the movie’s thrilling narrative.

Originally a Parody

Initially intended by Brown as a humorous spoof of popular slasher movies, Jones filmed it more like a traditional horror flick, which led to the humor appearing incongruous within the movie. However, this unintended approach didn’t deter the creation of two sequels, both written and directed by women, along with a 2021 reboot under Danishka Esterhazy that continues the original storyline. Despite receiving mixed reviews and financial returns during its initial release, the film has since gained a dedicated cult following. Watch The Slumber Party Massacre on Prime Video.

19
Sorority House Massacre (1986)

Directed by Carol Frank

The movie titled “Sorority House Massacre” was crafted by director Carol Frank. This production is a sequel to “The Slumber Party Massacre“, set in the same universe as its forerunner. The plot revolves around an individual who has escaped from a mental health facility, aiming to complete his unfinished task as a child by causing havoc in a sorority house. The primary cast includes Angela O’Neill, Wendy Martel, Pamela Ross, and Nicole Rio. Initially, the film was distributed by Roger Corman’s Concorde Pictures.

A Feminist Cult Classic

Initially overlooked and likened to John Carpenter’s “Halloween,” the film “Sorority House Massacre” has since garnered recognition for its intelligent approach to slasher flicks, its feminist undertones, stunning visuals, and well-developed characters. You might notice that this movie borrows key elements from popular slashers, as dreams, the imposing figure of the killer, and supernatural events are all central themes. With a runtime of just 74 minutes, this entertaining ’80s slasher is bound to offer something you’ll enjoy. Consider streaming “Sorority House Massacre” on Prime Video.

18
Near Dark (1987)

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow

In her first solo directorial effort, Kathryn Bigelow helms the film titled Near Dark. This movie boasts some notable talents such as Bill Paxton, Lance Henriksen, and Adrian Pasdar. The story revolves around Adrian Pasdar’s character, Caleb Colton, who finds himself entangled with a band of wandering vampires in Oklahoma. With the desire to be with Mae (Jenny Wright), the woman he loves, Caleb is granted a week to hunt with the vampires as a means to earn their trust.

A Dark Neo-Western

In contrast to popular vampire movies like “The Lost Boys” and “Fright Night,” which were renowned for their trendiness, “Near Dark” directed by Kathryn Bigelow deviated from the norm, presenting the film as a Western-style production. This innovative approach resulted in a visually stunning masterpiece, now recognized as one of the greatest vampire films ever produced. Bill Paxton’s performance in this movie is particularly noteworthy, even eclipsing the performances of the main characters. It can be said without a doubt that Bigelow’s debut in horror filmmaking was truly unique and groundbreaking. Unfortunately, “Near Dark” is currently not available for streaming.

17
Blood Diner (1987)

Directed by Jackie Kong

Blood Diner, directed by Jackie Kong, is a cult favorite known for its over-the-top, absurd storyline. This film tells the tale of two brothers who establish a restaurant as a cover to entice women, whom they subsequently use for their body parts in an attempt to conjure a demon goddess named Sheetar. Actors Rick Burks and Carl Crew portray the two brothers, while Roger Dauer, LaNette LaFrance, and Lisa Guggenheim make up the rest of the principal cast.

Gory and Grimy Fun

1980s, what a delightful era, isn’t it? The movie “Blood Diner” offers an entertaining dose of excessive gore and campiness. Originally planned as a sequel to the 1963 splatter film “Blood Feast“, directed by Herschell Gordon Lewis, it was later reworked into a standalone horror flick. This transformation proved beneficial as “Blood Feast” thrives on its outlandish concept and excessive special effects. Aficionados of splatter horror will find much to appreciate in this peculiar ’80s gem. Unfortunately, “Blood Diner” is not currently streaming anywhere.

16
Pet Sematary (1989)

Directed by Mary Lambert

Under the guidance of director Mary Lambert, known for helming Madonna’s “Like a Prayer” music video, the movie titled “Pet Sematary” is a film adaptation of a Stephen King novel. In this chilling tale, Dale Midkiff plays a bereaved father who, in desperation to resurrect his son, unleashes a horror that should have remained buried. The family pet mysteriously returns from the dead following burial at the ominous “sematary,” setting off a chain of events that lead to an unimaginable terror. The cast includes Fred Gwynne, Denise Crosby, Brad Greenquist, Michael Lombard, Miko Hughes, and Blaze Berdahl in addition to Midkiff. Mary Lambert would later direct the sequel, “Pet Sematary Two,” which was released in 1992.

One of the Best Stephen King Adaptations

With earnings surpassing $50 million at the box office, this film has garnered a mix of opinions through the years. Some critics have deemed it dull and predictable, while others, like Steve Barton from Dread Central, have hailed it as one of the finest Stephen King adaptations ever crafted. The remarkable portrayal of Jud Crandall by Fred Gwynne has even inspired a parody in multiple episodes of South Park. Additionally, the film’s soundtrack includes the iconic song “Pet Sematary” by the Ramones, which later became one of their most commercially successful hits. Stream Pet Sematary on Paramount+.

15
Critters 3 (1991)

Directed by Kristine Peterson

Titled “Critters 3,” this straight-to-video sequel within the “Critters” series was helmed by Kristine Peterson, who during her tenure at Zoetrope Studios contributed to the production of “Apocalypse Now.” In this installment, the mischievous creatures escape from the quaint, fictional town of Grover’s Bend and invade a Los Angeles high-rise apartment building, resulting in chaos. The principal cast consists of Aimee Brooks, John Calvin, Katherine Cortez, Geoffrey Blake, and a young Leonardo DiCaprio.

Part of the Critters Collection

Over time, the movie “Critters 3” has received mostly negative reviews from critics. However, it’s worth noting that this film holds a significant place in history as it marked Leonardo DiCaprio’s first appearance on the big screen. Despite its general criticism, there are aspects of the movie that deserve recognition. For instance, David J. Schow wrote the screenplay during his initial days in the industry. He later went on to contribute to the scripts for “The Crow” and “The Hills Run Red” in 2009. Moreover, Geoffrey Blake delivers a commendable performance in this film, which came before his iconic role in “Forrest Gump.” You can watch Critters 3 on Prime Video.

14
Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare (1991)

Directed by Rachel Talalay

Under the screenplay by Michael De Luca and directed by Rachel Talalay, who later became famous for directing “Tank Girl”, “Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare” is the sixth installment in the “Nightmare on Elm Street” series. Initially planned as the final film of the franchise, “Freddy’s Dead” introduces a new teenager named John Doe (Shon Greenblatt), who allies with psychologist Maggie Burroughs (Lisa Zane) to endure the nightmarish terror unleashed by the dream-manipulating killer, Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund). Leslie Deane and Yaphet Kotto complete the cast.

A Full-Blown Comedy

By now, viewers had grown weary of Freddy Krueger, as he shifted from a terrifying dream-killing monster to a mere caricature, spouting cheesy jokes and puns. The cameos by Johnny Depp and Alice Cooper further emphasized the film’s comedic slant. Although it wasn’t the poorest performer in the series financially, it’s mainly remembered for its final 10 minutes, which were shot in 3D. Regrettably, this feature was initially eliminated from the DVD and Blu-ray editions, but was reinstated for the 1999 box set release. Consider watching or purchasing Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare on Apple TV.

13
Ghostwatch (1992)

Directed by Lesley Manning

Back in 1992, I had the chilling experience of watching “Ghostwatch” – a unique British mockumentary that sent shivers down my spine when it was aired on BBC during Halloween. Although it was pre-recorded weeks prior, it was presented as a live broadcast, adding an unsettling layer of authenticity to the storyline. The plot revolves around Sarah Greene, a familiar face on our TV screens at the time, delving into the eerie poltergeist activities haunting a family consisting of a mother and her two daughters. Accompanying Sarah were television personalities like Michael Parkinson, Mike Smith, Craig Charles, Gillian Bevan, and Keith Ferrari, all lending their credibility to this spine-tingling production.

So Close to Being Real

Switching between in-studio interviews, on-location reporting, and phone calls from viewers, the movie “Ghostwatch” could be referred to as the British equivalent of “War of the Worlds“, given that it caused a massive uproar when it first aired, with many viewers convinced it was real. The controversy went so far as to reach the courts following one individual’s suicide after watching the film. Known as an early pioneer in the found footage genre, “Ghostwatch” can still be enjoyed today, even beyond its original television broadcast. Stream “Ghostwatch” on Shudder.

12
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992)

Directed by Fran Rubel Kuzui

The movie “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” was penned by Joss Whedon and directed by Fran Rubel Kuzui. It boasted an impressive ensemble cast including Kristy Swanson, Donald Sutherland, Luke Perry, David Arquette, and Hilary Swank. This film is a tale of self-discovery, where the protagonist – a high school cheerleader – discovers she’s destined to become a vampire slayer. James Hayman, with credits in both film and television from “The Sopranos” to “House M.D.”, served as the movie’s cinematographer.

The Start of Something Incredible

During filming, executives from 20th Century Fox significantly changed the script, causing Joss Whedon (initially in an advisory position) to leave the production. Despite this setback, he achieved great success later, penning and executive producing a popular television series titled “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” where Pedro Pascal made a notable appearance as a young character. The film has its supporters, but it’s largely eclipsed by the TV show. Kuzui, too, took on an executive producer role in the TV series and its spin-off, “Angel.” If you’re interested, you can either buy or rent “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” on Apple TV.

11
American Psycho (2000)

Directed by Mary Harron

In 1991’s novel “American Psycho,” Bret Easton Ellis’ work was brought to the big screen by Canadian filmmaker Mary Harron. The film featured Christian Bale portraying the chilling character of Patrick Bateman, a serial killer and investment banker. Through Bateman’s questionable viewpoint, we delve into his life with a darkly comedic lens. Killing for him is as effortless as booking a restaurant reservation, and as Bateman’s hold on sanity weakens, so too does his polished facade. Willem Dafoe, Jared Leto, Samantha Mathis, and Josh Lucas joined Bale in the cast.

Now a Modern Classic

Controversial without a doubt, the movie “American Psycho” initially faced criticism upon release, but has since become known not just for Christian Bale’s outstanding acting, but also for its exploration of themes like materialism, loneliness, and monotony. Interestingly, during the pre-production phase, Mary Harron was removed from the project, with Oliver Stone stepping in to direct and Leonardo DiCaprio being considered for the role of Bateman. However, their collaboration didn’t last due to creative disagreements, resulting in Harron’s re-hiring and Christian Bale securing the lead role. If you’d like to watch “American Psycho”, it’s available on Hulu.

10
In My Skin (2002)

Directed by Marina de Van

In My Skin is a French film in the genre of body horror. This movie was not only written and directed by Marina de Van, but she also took on the lead role as Esther, a character whose self-mutilation becomes increasingly grotesque as the plot unfolds. Laurent Lucas co-stars as Vincent, Esther’s boyfriend, who expresses his worry about her escalating self-harming behaviors. Léa Drucker, Thibault de Montalembert, and Dominique Reymond appear in supporting roles throughout the movie.

A Chilling Examination of Disassociation

Despite varying opinions about this movie, Marina de Van’s portrayal of gore alongside themes like body dysmorphia, dissociation, and the impact of everyday events on one’s life make In My Skin a gripping and thought-provoking film to watch. It often gets categorized with other graphic films in the New French Extremity genre, such as Martyrs and High Tension, which use intense violence to express their themes in an innovative manner. If you can handle it, In My Skin is undoubtedly a chilling viewing experience. However, unfortunately, currently, In My Skin cannot be streamed online.

9
Pathogen (2006)

Directed by Emily Hagins

Emily Hagins, who was only 12 years old at the time, wrote, directed, and produced the movie called Pathogen independently. This film narrates the struggle of a group of middle-school students as they strive to halt the spread of a waterborne disease that transforms people into zombies. The main cast includes Rose Kent-McGlew, Alec Herskowitz, and Tiger Darrow.

An Impressive Debut

Originating from Austin, Texas, the movie titled “Pathogen” debuted at the renowned Alamo Drafthouse. Thanks to a grant from the Texas Filmmakers Production Fund, Hagins was able to procure new equipment after some were stolen during filming, enabling her to complete post-production on the film. Since then, she has penned and directed numerous other features, with her latest production, “Sorry About the Demon”, premiering as a Shudder Original in 2022. Purchase or Stream Pathogen via Fandango At Home.

8
Jennifer’s Body (2009)

Directed by Karyn Kusama

Under the guidance of director Karyn Kusama, known for later works like “The Invitation” and “Destroyer,” featuring Nicole Kidman, the movie “Jennifer’s Body” was penned by Diablo Cody. In this film, Megan Fox portrays Jennifer, a student who becomes demonically possessed, leading her to slaughter her classmates. Amanda Seyfried plays Anita Lesnicki, Jennifer’s friend, who steps up to halt the chaos by taking decisive action. The talented cast includes Adam Brody, Johnny Simmons, J.K. Simmons, Amy Sedaris, and Kyle Gallner, among others.

Now a Beloved Favorite

Although Jennifer’s Body didn’t fare well at the box office initially, it has grown into a beloved cult film among fans, particularly those who appreciate its feminist themes such as bisexuality, female empowerment, friendship, and revenge. In this story, Megan Fox wields her body as a powerful weapon against those who have harmed her. Prior to its release, a graphic novel tie-in was published by Boom! Studios, enriching the film’s world. It is also worth mentioning that Lisa Frankenstein, scheduled for release in 2024 and written by Diablo Cody, is set within the same universe as this cult classic. If you’re interested, you can watch or rent Jennifer’s Body on Prime Video.

7
American Mary (2012)

Directed by Jen & Sylvia Soska

The second film by the creative duo Jen and Sylvia Soska, titled American Mary, was penned by them. This movie features Katharine Isabelle, a renowned Canadian actress known for her work in Ginger Snaps, as its protagonist. The story revolves around Mary, a struggling medical student who turns to performing extreme body modifications on clients to generate income. In the film, Antonio Cupo and Tristan Risk share the screen with Isabelle, while the Soska sisters make a fleeting appearance as a pair of twins from Berlin.

Accurate and Terrifying

Despite facing criticism for its sudden conclusion, American Mary earned acclaim from aficionados of body horror due to its impressive special effects and gore. In fact, renowned body artist Russ Foxx was enlisted as a consultant on the production to maintain accuracy within the body modification community. Recently in December 2022, the Soska Sisters revealed plans to transform the film into a television series. However, no additional information has been shared since then. Watch American Mary now on The Roku Channel.

6
A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)

Directed by Ana Lily Amirpour

Under the genre of an Iranian-themed Western vampire film, “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” was penned and helmed by Ana Lily Amirpour. The entire production was filmed in monochrome. Set in a fictitious Iranian town called “Bad City,” the residents are haunted by an enigmatic vampire woman, commonly referred to as The Girl (Sheila Vand). The principal cast includes Arash Marandi, Mozhan Marnò, Dominic Rains, and Marshall Manesh.

An Indie Success

Funded partially through an Indiegogo campaign, the movie “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and received numerous accolades for its exploration of themes such as drug addiction, seclusion, and female empowerment. Shot in just 24 days in southern California, this film stands out due to its innovative approach, earning several awards. The unique cinematography and soundtrack of the movie distinguish it from other vampire films. Its director, Ana Lily Amirpour, has since penned and directed “The Bad Batch” and “Mona Lisa and the Blood Moon,” two more original movies that undeniably make her a noteworthy figure in the industry. Watch A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night on Kanopy.

5
Goodnight Mommy (2014)

Co-directed by Veronika Franz

Under the guidance of directors Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, the film titled “Goodnight Mommy” unfolds a chilling narrative about two identical twins who become increasingly convinced that their mother, played by Susanne Wuest, is not herself following a facelift surgery, as her face remains bandaged. However, the audience’s perspective might be deceiving. The enigmatic Elias and Lukas Schwarz portray the boys with growing doubts.

Genuine Dread Throughout

At the 71st Venice International Film Festival, the film “Goodnight Mommy” made its debut, delivering captivating performances, a gradual accumulation of tension, and a heart-pounding climax. Although it was initially chosen as a contender for Best Foreign Film at the Oscars, it did not receive a nomination. However, it was recognized by the National Board of Review as one of the Top 5 Foreign Language Films of 2015. Since then, the duo behind the camera, Franz and Fiala, have produced another chilling psychological horror film titled “The Lodge“. A remake of “Goodnight Mommy” was released in 2022 on Amazon Prime as an Original movie, with Naomi Watts in the lead role. You can watch Goodnight Mommy on Prime Video.

4
The Babadook (2014)

Directed by Jennifer Kent

Under the guidance of debuting director Jennifer Kent, the chilling Australian movie titled “The Babadook” unfolds. This horror film delves into the strained bond between a widow and her child as they confront a mysterious entity called Mister Babadook. Actress Essie Davis and Noah Wiseman bring the mother-son duo to life on screen, while Hayley McElhinney, Daniel Henshall, Barbara West, and Ben Winspear round out the principal cast.

A Universally-Praised Debut

Written by Kent, “The Babadook” is highly acclaimed with a 98% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and praised by the late director of “The Exorcist,” William Friedkin, as one of the most terrifying films he’s ever seen. Interestingly enough, this horror film has become popular within the LGBTQ+ community despite not explicitly referencing their culture in the movie. Some viewers see its flamboyant character as a gay icon due to the character’s bold persona, unique costume, and impact on family dynamics. The creator, Kent, appreciates this interpretation of Mister Babadook. If you haven’t seen it yet, consider streaming “The Babadook” on Shudder.

3
Tigers Are Not Afraid (2017)

Directed by Issa López

A movie from Mexico that combines crime, horror, fantasy, and magical realism was created by director Issa López and debuted at Austin, Texas’s annual Fantastic Fest. Since then, it has garnered an impressive 51 awards at film festivals worldwide. The film is titled “Tigers Are Not Afraid“. When her mother vanishes, a young girl becomes part of a group of street kids, leading to tragic and terrifying circumstances.

A Surprising Film With an Effective Young Cast

Explore the powerful themes of political corruption, violence, homelessness, and deep-rooted trauma in “Tigers Are Not Afraid.” Featuring remarkable performances from its young cast that truly impresses, this film has earned accolades from Guillermo Del Toro and Stephen King. Currently, you can catch it as an exclusive on Shudder. Watch Tigers Are Not Afraid on Shudder now.

2
Bingo Hell (2021)

Directed by Gigi Saul Guerrero

Additionally, in 2021 at Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas, Bingo Hell will make its debut. This film is directed by Gigi Saul Guerrero. The story revolves around a band of elderly individuals who are determined to prevent their beloved bingo hall from falling into the hands of ominous entities. The main cast includes Adriana Barraza, L. Scott Caldwell, and Joshua Caleb Johnson, while Richard Brake portrays a particularly threatening Mr. Big. Shane McKenzie and Perry Blackshear collaborated with Gigi Saul Guerrero to write the screenplay for this film.

A Better Blumhouse Film

In the collection of films known as the Welcome to Blumhouse series, the film Bingo Hell, created by a well-known company and exclusive to Amazon, stands out. This entertaining production skillfully weaves themes of capitalism and urban renewal while incorporating humor to soften tense moments. It’s one of the most delightful films in the Welcome to Blumhouse series. Director Guerrero has garnered acclaim for her work in horror, and if Bingo Hell is any sign, her talent promises some fantastic future projects. Don’t miss out on watching Bingo Hell on Prime Video.

1
Huesera: The Bone Woman (2022)

Directed by Michelle Garza Cervera

In her first foray into feature filmmaking, Michelle Garza Cervera directs the intriguing movie titled Huesera: The Bone Woman. The narrative centers around Valeria (played by Natalia Solián), who experiences an unsettling sensation upon discovering her pregnancy. This sets off a chilling journey into the realms of body horror and the supernatural, brilliantly executed. The ensemble cast includes Alfonso Dosal, Mayra Batalla, Mercedes Hernández, Sonia Couoh, and Aida López in additional key roles.

Motherhood and Mexican Mythology

This Spanish horror movie, boasting a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, delivers chilling visuals and eerie sound effects that are guaranteed to give viewers the shivers. Blending Mexican folklore with the dread of motherhood, director Cervera offers a unique take on the genre while drawing inspiration from films like Rosemary’s Baby. With only one feature under her belt so far, it will be intriguing to see what direction she takes with her upcoming film, Palizada. Don’t miss out on watching Huesera: The Bone Woman on Shudder.

2025-01-27 04:09

20 The Slumber Party Massacre (1982)