While some might find the abundance of movie streaming services today to be overwhelming, others see it as an exciting ‘candy store’ experience. Regardless of whether you’re a dedicated cinephile or a casual viewer, there’s a wealth of features available at all hours. If you’re fond of a specific genre, you can immerse yourself in your favorite films for as long as your time and energy allow. Whether it’s the golden age of cinema or a never-ending buffet – perspective plays a big role in how we view this situation.
Streaming platforms offer an extensive range of horror content, with many channels boasting a robust collection of both contemporary and classic horror films spanning various subgenres, including ’80s slasher movies, giant monster flicks, ghost tales, and even the most infamous horror productions. Some platforms such as Shudder exclusively provide horror content on a continuous loop featuring endless screams.
Without a doubt, Netflix, the globally recognized leader in streaming service, doesn’t shy away from providing a diverse selection of horror flicks from various corners of the globe to its impressive 282 million subscribers worldwide. The company frequently updates its genre offerings every month, which can sometimes make it challenging to discern which titles are truly worth watching. To help you out, here’s a curated list of the top 15 horror movies currently available on Netflix.
The Birds
When Alfred Hitchcock, a renowned suspense filmmaker, ventured into horror, his work often proved remarkable. Among his most acclaimed movies spanning his career, “Psycho” and “The Birds,” stand out not only as significant contributions to the genre but also as inspirations for directors such as John Carpenter, Guillermo del Toro, and Eli Roth. Their impact can be seen in Hitchcock’s innovative visual designs, optical effects, and chilling scenes. In June 2025, “The Birds,” along with some of Hitchcock’s other top films including “Psycho,” were added to Netflix as part of their “Alfred Hitchcock Collection.
While bird attacks serve as a prominent aspect, “The Birds” isn’t merely a horror movie about nature run amok. Alongside the fear of avian attacks, director Alfred Hitchcock delves into his characters’ personal affairs, such as Tippi Hedren’s character who enjoys pranks, and the intricate emotional dynamics between Rod Taylor, Jessica Tandy, and Suzanne Pleshette. Their preoccupation with their own matters prevents them from fully grasping the growing bird threat, which is reminiscent of an invading army.
As a consequence, no one is prepared for the attacks, leading the survivors to eventually turn against each other in an attempt to understand the terror they’ve experienced. The film “The Birds” implies that we have a knack for becoming our own worst enemies and there seems to be little hope that things will improve. Upon its release, The New York Times commented that this horror movie would make even the bravest shudder and give the sturdiest skin goosebumps.
Starring: Tippi Hedren, Rod Taylor, Suzanne Pleshette
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Year: 1963
Runtime: 119 minutes
Rating: NR
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94%
Barbarian
In Zach Cregger’s 2022 movie “Barbarian,” there exists a complex maze, or labyrinth, that serves as home to not one, but two frightening creatures. This labyrinth is fittingly symbolic of the film’s narrative structure, as Cregger intentionally keeps both the audience and his protagonist, Tess (played by Georgina Campbell), guessing about the path ahead and its potential perils, heightening tension and subverting expectations.
At times, he subtly unveils snippets of details, yet it’s often unclear what actions we should take with this information. I found myself intrigued when I discovered that the haunted Airbnb occupied by a nervous tenant named Keith (Bill Skarsgård), and home to the labyrinth, belongs to a struggling actor on the verge of a personal and professional breakdown (Justin Long). Flashbacks reveal the former owner (Richard Brake) used this very labyrinth for sinister intentions. However, I was left puzzled as to how these pieces fit together until it was too late to intervene effectively.
In the movie “Barbarian,” there are fleeting hints of underlying themes, particularly about predators and their camouflage among ordinary folks. Generally speaking, “Barbarian” is a deeply unsettling journey, a haunted house tale where the monsters emerge only when they’re practically touching us. As Time Out noted, it’s a mix of terror, humor, and unpredictability that will leave you guessing about its destination.
Starring: Georgina Campbell, Bill Skarsgård, Justin Long
Director: Zach Cregger
Year: 2022
Runtime: 102 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92%
Us
In Jordan Peele’s second horror movie, “Us,” released in 2019, there are layers of depth beneath its surface, addressing themes like institutionalized racism, class division, privilege, fear of outsiders, and marginalization. It’s notable that Peele handles such topics delicately, a characteristic that distinguishes his films within the horror genre. What truly sets “Us” apart is that it not only explores these subjects but also effectively functions as an exceptional source of terror.
In Peele’s movie “Us”, there are several interpretations of who or what “Us” refers to. It could be the family portrayed by Lupita Nyong’o and Winston Duke, or it might be the ominous red-suited entities who infiltrate their vacation home as part of a nationwide rampage by the Tethered – doppelgängers of American citizens created for a sinister population control experiment. Like nightmares, the complete explanation behind “Us” remains frustratingly elusive, but the terror persists. According to the New York Times, while the outcome is complex, unsettling, and sometimes bleak, Jordan Peele isn’t merely making a horror film.
Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke, Elisabeth Moss
Directed by: Jordan Peele
Year: 2019
Runtime: 116 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%
Smile
In my opinion, it’s all about the perspective – something as innocuous as a toy or a fashionable robot can be twisted into instruments of dread when presented in the wrong (or right, depending on your viewpoint) context. Osgood Perkins transformed a simple toy into a tool of destruction in “The Monkey,” while Parker Finn’s “M3GAN” turned a stylish robot into a cold-blooded killer. The horror lurking behind the most benevolent facade was unveiled by Parker Finn in 2022’s “Smile,” a chilling expansion of his own short film. Sosie Bacon delivers an unsettling performance as a psychiatrist who unwittingly unearths a malevolent force that takes the form of a rictus grin, inciting people to commit unspeakable acts of violence.
The films “Smile” and its 2024 sequel explore themes similar to other horror movies like “The Ring” and “It Follows”. However, it distinguishes itself by delving into the horror that stems from deep-seated trauma. In the world of “Smile”, characters who have endured pain serve as magnets for the malevolent entity. This concept is a powerful, chilling metaphor for the lasting effects of emotional turmoil, resonating even after the memory of those wide smiles fades. As our review stated, while the story may not be particularly original, Finn’s ability to twist traditional horror tropes makes “Smile” one of the most unsettling studio releases in recent memory.
Starring: Sosie Bacon, Kyle Gallner, Jessie T. Usher
Directed by: Parker Finn
Year: 2022
Runtime: 116 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 79%
Talk to Me
Danny and Michael Philippou’s innovative first film, ‘Talk to Me,’ released in 2022, explores themes of sorrow and suffering. The Australian production revolves around the idea that people yearn to stay connected with those they’ve lost, particularly those taken by violence. This desire forms the backbone of its spine-tingling plot about a preserved hand that enables the living to be temporarily inhabited by the deceased for brief communication. However, as centuries of ghost stories have shown us, there are certain secrets humanity should not uncover. Delving too deeply into the spiritual realm brings dire consequences for Mia (Sophie Wilde), who has recently experienced the loss of her mother.
In the movie “Talk to Me,” directed by the Philippou brothers who delve into the horror of loss in their previous work, “Bring Her Back,” the emotional intensity amplifies the startling scenes, particularly when Riley (Joe Bird), the younger friend of Jade (Alexandra Jensen), seems to be overtaken by Mia’s mother’s spirit in a violent manner. As The AV Club puts it, this film offers a chilling and profoundly heartrending portrayal of grief through its moving script and an outstanding cast led by Sophie Wilde, making “Talk To Me” a haunting and consistently sorrowful tale.
Starring: Sophie Wilde, Alexandra Jensen, Joe Bird
Directed by Danny and Michael Philippou
Year: 2022
Runtime: 95 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94%
Heart Eyes
Slasher movies generally follow two distinct routes when appealing to their audience. One route is to lean into the raw, gritty aspects of the genre, as seen in films like “Terrifier” or “In a Violent World.” The other route requires finding innovative ways to present traditional slasher elements such as stalking and slaughter. This more difficult path can lead to rewarding outcomes, often by blending with other genres, such as comedy (“Happy Death Day”). To this list, I’d add “Heart Eyes,” a 2025 film that combines the slasher genre with romantic-comedy elements for a unique holiday-themed twist.
Heart Eyes
Overview: In this thrilling blend of romance, comedy, and sci-fi, the actors Olivia Holt (from “Totally Killer”) and Mason Gooding portray coworkers who find themselves in a chilling predicament. A psychopathic killer, known for slaying couples on Valentine’s Day, has them in his crosshairs. The film cleverly weaves the tension and confusion often seen in romantic comedies into its narrative, as the leads’ relationship status could potentially decide their survival. Directed by Josh Ruben and written by Philip Murphy, Christopher Landon, and Michael Kennedy, Heart Eyes skillfully balances humor and gore in an unexpected yet captivating manner. As a Valentine’s Day film and a horror production, it caters to fans of various preferences: those who crave warmth, anger, or a mix of both, as noted by RogerEbert.com.
Starring: Olivia Holt, Mason Gooding, Jordana Brewster
Director: Josh Ruben
Year: 2025
Runtime: 97 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%
Dawn of the Dead (2004)
Rather than viewing Zack Snyder’s “Dawn of the Dead” as a remake of George A. Romero’s original zombie classic, it’s more accurate to consider it a fresh interpretation with similar elements. The two films share some basic traits: aggressive zombies, a mall setting, a few character details, and occasional references to the 1978 “Dawn” through appearances by the original actors. These shared aspects are the foundation for the criticism that Snyder’s version receives, as it appears to lack Romero’s social and political themes. However, the 2004 “Dawn,” despite these differences, offers a unique and fulfilling zombie horror experience in its own right.
In this movie, Snyder’s usual excessive elements are largely missing. His fast-paced direction mirrors the speed of his zombies, and it’s just as focused on delivering pulse-pounding action-horror. James Gunn’s script plays a crucial role in this, much like his work for Marvel and DC, where he skillfully explores the unique aspects of the diverse characters. The actors, including Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames, Jake Weber, and Ty Burr, deliver strong performances. Some might argue that the running dead offer a modern take on Romero’s critique of mindless, relentless violence. Critics at Fangoria have praised it as a worthy successor to classics like ‘The Ring’ and ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’, a film that respects its roots while standing firmly on its own in the horror genre.
Starring: Sarah Polley, Ving Rhames, Jake Weber
Director: Zack Snyder
Year: 2004
Rating: R
Runtime: 100
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 77%
El Conde
The 2023 Chilean horror-satire “El Conde” (“The Count”) is based on real-life atrocities, telling the tale of an ancient vampire who transformed into a South American leader, struggling to relinquish his thirst for blood and power. In this film directed by Pablo Larrain, the undead ruler is none other than Augusto Pinochet (portrayed by Jaime Vadell), who served as Chile’s leader from 1973 to 1990, responsible for the death or torture of thousands of his own people before passing away in 2006. Released on the 50th anniversary of Pinochet’s coup, Larrain’s movie depicts the dictator as still alive when an accountant arrives to evaluate the family’s wealth. However, much like other characters in the film (including Margaret Thatcher, former British Prime Minister), the accountant is not what she appears to be.
In a Gothic ambiance crafted by Oscar-nominated American cinematographer Edward Lachman, “El Conde” immerses itself in bloodshed, though this is less intended to frighten than to emphasize the destruction brought about by Pinochet’s coup. The question of why Pinochet is portrayed as a vampire can be interpreted from the film’s conclusion, where Pinochet (and Thatcher) appear to escape their pursuers, much like how vampires elude death. This symbolizes that fascism, destructive politics, and greed are relentless entities, persistently seeking new victims. As The Guardian wrote, “This is another potent entry in Larraín’s film series exploring the enduring pain of Chile, and the Chilean people’s resilience in grappling with their past, armed with determination and a readiness to confront.
Starring: Jaime Vadell, Gloria Münchmeyer, Alfredo Castro
Director: Pablo Larrain
Year: 2023
Runtime: 110 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%
Creep
As a horror enthusiast, I must say that among the scarcely found footage horror films worth watching, Patrick Brice’s “Creep” stands out as an exceptional piece. Unlike many others in its genre, it boasts minimal gimmicks or unexpected twists. Instead, it’s a captivating two-person performance – with Brice sharing the screen with the talented Mark Duplass from “The Morning Show”.
Remarkably, the script and production were developed on-the-spot, similar to the indie productions that catapulted Duplass to stardom. Yet, “Creep” manages to be one of the most tension-filled films I’ve encountered in my horror movie exploration.
A significant portion of the film’s success can be attributed to Duplass, who manages to exude charm even in roles that are not particularly appealing. He skillfully employs this trait in “Creep” where he portrays Josef, a character who hires a videographer named Aaron (Brice) to document his life as a video diary for his unborn child. Initially, Josef presents himself as a dying man with a brain tumor; however, as Aaron learns, almost everything about him is false, and the real purpose of the recording is actually quite disturbing, or shall we say, creepy.
Mark Duplass doesn’t require much effort to instill fear in viewers. At first, he might seem too kind, disarming Brice’s suspicions. However, it isn’t until later that the sinister side within him reveals itself – quite literally when Josef unveils his favorite growling wolf mask to Aaron. “Creep” explores our innate tendency to trust others and how deceitful individuals can conceal their malicious intentions behind this trust.
Starring: Mark Duplass, Patrick Brice
Directed by: Patrick Brice
Year: 2014
Runtime: 77 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%
Bone Tomahawk
2014’s movie “Bone Tomahawk,” directed and written by S. Craig Zahler, is a unique blend, combining the Western genre with an intense and gruesome horror experience. It also features sharp dialogue and dark humor that might seem contradictory, but the film manages to hold its ground against high expectations. The success of “Bone Tomahawk” can be attributed to Zahler’s skillful direction and a strong cast, with Kurt Russell leading the way in his role as a resolute lawman.
The movie has been referred to as a disturbing reinterpretation of “The Searchers.” Instead of John Wayne, we have Russell, Patrick Wilson, and Richard Jenkins chasing an indigenous group who have abducted Wilson’s spouse (Lili Simmons). Similar to the original film by John Ford, the trek to the tribe’s valley involves discussions about race. However, unlike the original, Zahler’s characters are massive cannibals with a knack for cunning stealth and deadly ambushes, making them significantly different from the characters in the classic film.
In the film “Tomahawk”, the characters find themselves in a life-or-death struggle, featuring one of the most awe-inspiring acts of brutality ever captured on screen. This movie serves as both a poignant farewell to the Old West and a thrilling experience for Western enthusiasts and horror aficionados. Critics at Sight and Sound recognized “Bone Tomahawk” as an unusual western setting where one can easily be plundered, devoured, or misplaced.
Starring: Kurt Russell, Patrick Wilson, Richard Jenkins
Director: S. Craig Zahler
Year: 2014
Runtime: 132 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%
Train to Busan
As a dedicated fan, I must admit it’s quite a challenge to infuse emotional depth and societal insights into a zombie movie, but it certainly isn’t impossible. Legends like George A. Romero and Danny Boyle have shown us how it’s done in their iconic series, and South Korean director Sang-ho Yeon has proven he belongs in that elite group with his 2016 masterpiece, “Train to Busan.” This action-horror film, which has since spawned a sequel and an animated prequel, follows the harrowing journey of commuters who discover that the undead passengers of a zombie outbreak are also on their speeding train.
In the film “Train to Busan,” the zombies display an aggressive, fast-moving nature similar to those seen in Boyle’s “28 Days Later.” However, these undead creatures are taken to new levels of ferocity. Director Yeon pays equal attention to the intense battles between the zombies and passengers, with a thrilling car-full-of-zombies versus Ma Dong-seok fight being one of the standout moments. If the action alone were not enough, Yeon ensures that his characters have compelling reasons to engage in these struggles. For instance, Ma is driven by the need to protect his pregnant wife, while Gong Yoo seeks to save his daughter. Each character has a reason to live or die, making their battles more meaningful and engaging for the audience.
If you find zombie movies capable of making you emotional, then “Train to Busan” is likely your best bet. According to Entertainment Weekly, this film by Sang-ho Yeon has a strong resemblance to ‘World War Z’ in its portrayal of swift-moving hordes of the undead. However, it offers an emotional depth that the Brad Pitt-led production sometimes seemed to lack.
Starring: Gong Yoo, Ma Dong-seok, Jung Yu-mi
Directed by: Sang-ho Yeon
Year: 2016
Runtime: 118 minutes
Rating: NR
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 95%
Cargo
In many zombie movies, the moment when the main character becomes infected is usually a crucial turning point. However, in the 2017 Australian thriller “Cargo,” the protagonist Andy (played by Martin Freeman) gets bitten by his wife almost immediately. This gives the film its somber intensity, as characters who are infected in “Cargo” have only 48 hours before they transform, and Andy has a baby daughter to look after during this time.
In this revised version, filmmakers Ben Howling and Yolanda Ramke (originally a 2013 short) establish a chilling backdrop of horror through the violent fury of plague victims and their relentless pursuit. A band of Aboriginal hunters are seen ruthlessly subduing these infected individuals with extreme finality. While these scenes are tense, it is the haunting presence of the survivors, particularly Freeman, who bears the weight of colossal loss and sorrow, that leaves a lasting impact on viewers.
In contrast to typical zombie/plague films that focus on endless cycles of killing and surviving, the film “Cargo” emphasizes the profound emotional losses caused by such a catastrophic event. Entertainment Weekly praised the lead performance of Martin Freeman, stating that he skillfully portrayed Andy’s character in moments both resolute and devastatingly desperate as he strives to protect a valuable life amidst this world of the undead.
Starring: Martin Freeman, Simone Landers, Anthony Hayes
Directors: Ben Howling, Yolanda Ramke
Year: 2017
Runtime: 105 minutes
Rating: R
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
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2025-06-06 21:32