Chilling Thrills: 16 Best Horror Movies for a Terrifying Valentine’s Day Date Night!

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Here comes the time for expressing affection yet again, and that signals the arrival of sugary chalk candies and oversized red hearts adorning store displays everywhere. Valentine’s Day, known for being an ideal moment to savor pricey indulgences and immerse oneself in heartwarming romantic tales, often finds itself as a backdrop for numerous romcoms and dramas. Whether you are a fan of the holiday or not, it serves as the perfect excuse to unwind and enjoy an entertaining film.

If you’re planning a romantic evening with your significant other on Valentine’s Day, or if you’d rather escape the holiday altogether by being scared senseless, we’ve got some chilling horror movies that will fit the bill. No matter how you feel about Valentine’s Day, these spine-tingling horror films are guaranteed to give you goosebumps!

16
Valentine (2001)

In 2001, the film “Valentine” was released, but it’s filled with beloved stars from the ’90s such as David Boreanaz, Denise Richards, Marley Shelton, and Katherine Heigl. The story begins with a flashback to an ’80s Valentine’s Day dance, where four cruel girls repeatedly reject a social outcast who asks them to dance. A kinder girl agrees, but she falsely accuses him of assault when they share a private moment together. As a result, the outcast is publicly shamed and institutionalized. Thirteen years later, these women seem to be living comfortably until an anonymous figure dressed as Cupid starts sending offensive Valentine’s cards, tainted chocolates filled with maggots, and threatening their lives. Unsurprisingly, they start turning against each other in a desperate bid for survival as they race to uncover the identity of the deranged killer lurking among them.

An Underrated Slasher

Under Jamie Blanks’ direction, the movie titled Valentine stands out for being a slasher film specifically set around Valentine’s Day. Denise Richards delivers a solid performance in one of her early horror roles, building on her work from the cult horror classic Tammy and the T-Rex. The murderer in this film even uses a thematically fitting bow and arrow to eliminate one of his victims. Although it didn’t achieve significant critical or commercial success, it did receive nominations at the Teen Choice Awards and boasts a fun, cheesy soundtrack filled with popular hard rock and metal hits from that era. Purchase or Rent Valentine on Prime Video.

15
My Bloody Valentine (1981)

The small town of Valentine Bluffs traditionally hosts a Valentine’s Day dance, but this year’s event is abruptly halted following a tragic mining accident that leaves only one survivor, who resorts to cannibalism. This grim turn of events significantly dampens the townsfolk’s enthusiasm for dancing. The following year, the same miner sends out Valentine’s chocolates containing human hearts, but once he is institutionalized, the dance is resumed. A group of local teenagers eagerly anticipate the event, but their excitement is short-lived as people in the town start mysteriously losing their lives. The culprit is a killer dressed in mining gear, adding an eerie twist to the annual Valentine’s Day celebration in Valentine Bluffs.

Too Gory for the MPAA

Heed this: The movie “My Bloody Valentine” packs quite a punch with graphic violence. Originally, nine minutes were removed by the MPAA to keep it rated R. However, there’s much more to appreciate here. It offers a captivating mystery that the talented cast delivers authentically, stunning on-location cinematography, and endorsements from esteemed filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino, making “My Bloody Valentine” a hidden treasure in slasher films. If you’re looking for a darker choice for your Valentine’s Day viewing, “My Bloody Valentine” is an excellent option. You can watch or rent it on Prime Video.

14
Thirst (2009)

Park Chan-wook’s 2009 horror movie titled “Thirst” skillfully merges a fatal disease outbreak, vampires, and Émile Zola’s 1867 novel “Thérèse Raquin” into an engaging narrative. In this film, Song Kang-ho plays Sang-hyun, a priest who feels disillusioned with his faith. He decides to participate in an experiment aimed at curing a deadly disease and ends up surviving after receiving a blood transfusion, only to discover he’s transformed into a vampire. Initially overjoyed about the miracle, Sang-hyun soon grapples with his newfound thirst for blood and tries to avoid killing. However, when he becomes romantically entangled with Tae-ju (Kim Ok-vin), the wife of his childhood friend who appears submissive but may not be as she seems, he finds himself in a precarious situation. As both Sang-hyun’s misery and Tae-ju’s propensity for violence escalate, drastic actions become necessary.

A Different Kind of Vampire Film

This suspenseful, chilling, and captivating adult horror movie is a must-see! It’s equally sensuous and spine-chilling, offering a fresh perspective on an age-old story while skillfully developing the bond between Song Kang-ho and Kim Ok-vin. Notably, this horror film made waves at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, not only winning the Jury Prize but also being nominated for the prestigious Palme d’Or. Co-writer Jeong Seo-kyeong later worked with Park Chan-wook on the critically acclaimed erotic thriller, “The Handmaiden,” in 2016. Watch or Rent Thirst on Apple TV.

13
Ready or Not (2019)

In the movie “Ready or Not“, Grace (Samara Weaving) is a foster child who marries Alex from a wealthy and large family she just met on her wedding day. This sudden immersion leaves her feeling somewhat overwhelmed by their catty, snobbish, and peculiar behavior. As the night progresses, they persuade her to play a game of hide-and-seek, but this isn’t an ordinary game. Unbeknownst to Grace, her new family intends to hunt her down and sacrifice her before dawn as part of their ancient tradition. Although Alex tries to aid her in escaping the predicament, he had known about the possible danger since it was his family after all. Essentially, Grace is left to fend for herself, frantically running through the mansion, tearing off pieces of her beautiful wedding gown as she struggles to stay alive until dawn.

Surviving Your In-Laws

The takeaway from this is that it’s wise to become acquainted with your future in-laws prior to the wedding. Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, known for Abigail and Scream VI, this nerve-wracking horror thriller will resonate with anyone who’s felt snubbed by their in-laws. The suspenseful music by Brian Tyler (from Bug and The Final Destination) intensifies the on-screen tension even further. Remarkably, despite being made on a relatively small budget, it grossed over $57 million at the box office, that’s more than nine times its initial investment. If you’re eager to witness Samara Weaving shine as the final girl, this is the movie for you. You can purchase or rent Ready or Not on Prime Video.

12
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

In the film titled “Only Lovers Left Alive“, the characters Eve (played by Tilda Swinton) and Adam (portrayed by Tom Hiddleston) are two exceptionally stylish, intellectually refined, and captivating vampires you’ll encounter. They boast a rich circle of friends, including Kit Marlowe (John Hurt). Having been married for an almost endless duration, they often find themselves apart, with Adam developing a melancholic and suicidal disposition during those times. However, when Eve perceives his despair, they reconnect, and their situation begins to improve. But trouble brews when her mischievous sister Ava (played by Mia Wasikowska) shows up, carrying a multitude of problems along with her.

A Dreamlike Vampire Story

Experience the unique cinematic world of “Only Lovers Left Alive,” a movie by the talented Jim Jarmusch. The immortal vampire lovers often engage in thoughtful discussions about art, technology, and philosophy. This dreamy, romantic film is ideal for watching with your eternal companion. It was even nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, although its box office earnings were modest. Over time, both modern and retrospective critics have praised it as one of Jim Jarmusch’s finest works. Watch or Rent Only Lovers Left Alive on Prime Video.

11
Revenge (2018)

In “Revenge,” Jen (Matilda Lutz) eagerly anticipates a secluded weekend with her lover Richard (Kevin Janssens) at his desert home prior to his hunting trip with friends. Tragically, the friends, Stan (Vincent Colombe) and Dimitri (Guillaume Bouchède), unexpectedly arrive early, ruining Jen’s plans. While Richard is absent, Stan attacks Jen, and upon his return, Richard attempts to bribe her to keep quiet about the incident. When Jen threatens to expose Richard’s infidelity to his wife, things escalate, leaving Jen pursued by three armed men across the desert. After falling off a cliff and becoming impaled on a tree, it seems as though Jen is finished – but instead, this marks only the start of her quest for vengeance.

From the Director of The Substance

As I immerse myself in the gritty, post-apocalyptic landscape reminiscent of “Mad Max,” Jen’s relentless pursuit of justice unfolds in a brutal, unforgiving world. Writer and director Coralie Fargeat masterfully portrays the raw intensity and violent brutality of this story, garnering nominations for Best Director and Best Limited Feature at the Fangoria Chainsaw Awards. If you’re craving a gripping reinvention of a particularly dark corner of horror, “Revenge” delivers with style and panache. Don’t miss out – stream it now on Shudder!

10
A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)

The Film “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night” was marketed as the first Iranian blend of vampire and Western genres. The protagonist, referred to as The Girl (played by Sheila Vand), is a skateboarding, chador-donning vampire who mirrors the solitary figures of traditional spaghetti Westerns, patrolling the streets at night. In her unique way as a vampire, she sets things right, eliminating pimps and shielding the vulnerable. She encounters Arash (Arash Marandi), a young man grappling with his drug-addicted father’s struggles. The Girl extends help to Arash when he’s lost in his ecstasy addiction, and this kindness, unexpected for her, stirs something within her.

A Stylish and Creative Film

Experience the unique charm of “A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night,” a film that stands out in today’s colorful cinema landscape due to its intriguing monochrome presentation. The soundtrack, a blend of Radio Tehran and Federale music, complements this cool, Nosferatu-inspired Western vibe you won’t forget. This stylish horror film delves into the essence of vampirism and is certain to leave an indelible impression on both you and your viewing companion. Consider watching or purchasing A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night on Apple TV.

9
Beast (2017)

Featuring captivating performances by Jessie Buckley and Johnny Flynn, the film “Beast” is categorized as a thriller, but for those currently dating, it might as well be a chilling horror tale. In the movie, Moll, played by Buckley, harbors a mysterious, troubled past that her critical family frequently brings to light. Flynn’s character, Pascal, enters mysteriously with a hunting rifle, rescuing Moll from potential danger after an encounter with a stranger at a nightclub.

Despite warnings from her family, Moll becomes smitten with Pascal, and their growing bond occurs concurrently with the killings of several young girls in the local area. Due to her own complicated history, Moll defends Pascal when he is implicated, distancing herself from loved ones. Yet, how much can one truly grasp about someone, particularly when affection clouds judgment?

An Underrated Thriller

Instead of getting mixed up with Idris Elba’s survival thriller titled the same, “Beast” is a film that masterfully explores the emotional intricacies and depth of relationships. At its heart, it’s a chilling story, but Jessie Buckley’s mesmerizing performance as the lead character draws you in, almost compensating for some of the movie’s other less impressive aspects. Directed by Michael Pearce and produced by Lauren Dark, this film went on to win a BAFTA award for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director, or Producer. You can catch “Beast” streaming on The Roku Channel.

8
Thelma (2017)

Joachim Trier directed “Thelma” – a subtly chilling, supernatural psychological thriller – several years before his global acclaim with “The Worst Person in the World”. The character of Thelma (Eili Harboe) is initially timid and heavily influenced by her deeply religious parents. Her transition to university in Oslo proves challenging, and she starts experiencing mysterious seizures coinciding with her growing feelings for a fellow student, Anja (Kaya Wilkins). These emotions are perplexing and contradictory to what her parents would want for her, causing Thelma great fear when she wishes these feelings away. However, it’s Anja who vanishes, and the terrifying thought crosses Thelma’s mind that she may have unwittingly made it happen. The revelation of her psychokinetic abilities reawakens a horrifying memory from her past concerning her infant brother.

An Acclaimed Norwegian Film

This film delves into the issue of religious fanaticism and shows that suppressing oneself can sometimes lead to unexpected consequences. Though its horror aspects are less intense than those in other movies from this group, they are still unsettling when they appear. Since Thelma has a high level of emotional intensity, these uncomfortable scenes become even harder to watch. Despite being one of Norway’s submissions for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar, it didn’t quite make the cut for a nomination.
Check out Thelma on Kanopy.

7
The Fly (1986)

In a notable twist to the 1957 short story and the 1958 film starring Vincent Price, David Cronenberg significantly intensified the eerie aspect of the well-known tale: a brilliant scientist aspires to unveil a teleportation method devoid of side effects. However, things don’t go as planned. The 1986 remake of The Fly, directed by Cronenberg, features Jeff Goldblum in the role of Seth, the genius scientist, and Geena Davis as Ronnie, a reporter with whom he’s developing a romantic connection.

As a dedicated movie buff, I’ve found myself captivated by a tale where a pair faces their highs and lows. In the throes of one such low point, tipsy with frustration, I, Seth, inadvertently attempt a self-teleportation stunt without realizing a pesky fly had sneaked into the transport pod with me. At first, everything seems normal, but it doesn’t take long before my mental and physical condition starts to deteriorate at an alarming pace. The horrifying transformation unfolding within me is that of a human-fly hybrid, which leaves me utterly repulsed.

An Iconic Body Horror Film

The Fly stands as a memorable work for Jeff Goldblum and the gifted director David Cronenberg, with the movie being considered among his finest. Geena Davis and John Getz deliver chilling performances, while the Academy Award-winning special effects by Chris Walas and Stephan Dupuis are guaranteed to make you queasy. If you’re a fan of body horror, you simply must see this twisted take on romance. Purchase or Stream The Fly on Amazon Prime Video.

6
Hounds of Love (2016)

The danger posed by strangers doesn’t disappear as you grow older, a lesson tragically underscored in the film Hounds of Love. The story is loosely based on the chilling true events surrounding Australian killers David and Catherine Birnie. In this gripping tale, we follow Vicki (Ashleigh Cummings), a teenager who flees her troubled home only to stumble upon what appears to be a kindly couple, John (Stephen Curry) and Evelyn (Emma Booth). However, Vicki soon realizes that this duo, particularly John, are far from benevolent. She swiftly comprehends the gravity of her situation and recognizes that her survival depends on turning the tables. By playing one against the other, Vicki cleverly attempts to manipulate them in a desperate bid for freedom.

An Unpleasant Watch

The movie “Hounds of Love” offers a deeply unsettling and chilling experience, with its characters being downright unpleasant and potentially causing you to reconsider making new friendships. Although it saw only a limited release in Australia, director Ben Young skillfully crafts a tense thriller from his debut feature-length production. For those who crave seeing two sinister lovers torn apart, “Hounds of Love” is a unique film that caters perfectly to this desire. Unfortunately, at the moment, it’s not available for streaming.

5
Atlantics (2019)

In a striking directorial debut, Mati Diop introduced her film Atlantics, marking it as the first motion picture directed by a woman of African descent to compete at Cannes. The narrative unfolds in the outskirts of Dakar, where a love triangle takes shape. Ada, portrayed by Mame Bineta Sane, is betrothed to the affluent Omar (Babacar Sylla), yet her heart yearns for Souleiman (Ibrahima Traoré), an underpaid construction worker longing for a brighter future in Spain. However, after their departure, there’s been no word from them, and Ada’s wedding is thrown into disarray when Omar’s bed mysteriously ignites, casting suspicion on her for arson. As it turns out, the young men have met with tragedy at sea, but their spirits return to seek vengeance on the businessman who owed them wages — all except Souleiman, who merely lingers in longing for Ada.

A Daring Debut

Deep subjects such as income inequality, the plight of refugees, and societal views on women add layers of complexity to this visually striking first feature, titled “Atlantics“. This movie premiered internationally on Netflix and even garnered recognition from former U.S. President Barack Obama, who listed it among his favorite films for 2019. The cinematography by Claire Mathon, also seen in “Portrait of a Lady on Fire“, is worth mentioning, contributing to a chilling film that’s as enchantingly beautiful as it is unsettling. Don’t miss out on streaming Atlantics on Netflix.

4
Trouble Every Day (2001)

In the thrilling film titled “Trouble Every Day“, Vincent Gallo, Béatrice Dalle, and Alex Descas join forces with Claire Denis for an intense, gory journey. If you’re ready to buckle up, this ride promises a wild, blood-splattered experience. In this movie, Shane Brown, portrayed by Gallo, is a doctor on his honeymoon in Paris, but he also has a secret mission: tracking down his old mentor, neuroscientist Léo, played by Descas. However, Léo is not the man he used to be; he’s been drained by his constant vigilance over his wife, Coré, played by Dalle. Coré, unfortunately, has been infected with a mysterious affliction that drives her to seek out gruesome sexual encounters with men, who she then brutally murders.

An Extreme French Film

Trouble Every Day is typically categorized with the broader New French Extremity genre, and for a reason – it’s an intensely graphic movie, even for hardcore horror enthusiasts. This film might not appeal to everyone, but it provides a tense exploration of desire, drenched in excessive amounts of blood and gore. If you’re looking to feel uncomfortable this Valentine’s Day, give this movie a try. Stream Trouble Every Day on The Criterion Channel.

Trouble Every Day falls under the New French Extremity category because it’s extremely graphic and may discourage you from ever wanting to be in a relationship again. Despite its intensity, it offers an intriguing exploration of desire amidst a sea of blood and gore. If you’re up for feeling uneasy this Valentine’s Day, consider watching it. You can stream Trouble Every Day on The Criterion Channel.

3
Audition (1999)

The film version by Takashi Miike based on Ryu Murakami’s novel serves as a warning for those who might shortcut their way to love. In the movie titled “Audition,” a lonely widower and single father named Shigeharu succumbs to his friend’s scheme to find him a partner. They stage a fake audition for a film, in reality, they are just seeking a romantic interest for Shigeharu. He quickly develops feelings for the seemingly innocent Asami, yet disregards concerning details on her application, such as her former employer who has mysteriously disappeared. Shigeharu and Asami begin dating, and he takes her on a romantic getaway to propose marriage. However, after their first night together, she inexplicably vanishes. Despite some ominous hints, Shigeharu persists in his search for her. Eventually, Asami reappears, but it is not a warm welcome.

A Shocking Ending

Prepare for Miike’s signature intense scenes in ‘Audition’, where its chilling conclusion has gained notorious fame. Praised by Quentin Tarantino and the Soska sisters as a remarkable horror film, ‘Audition’ caused a significant stir worldwide rather than domestically, leaving horror enthusiasts awestruck and appalled for years to come. What sets it apart is not just the ending per se, but the eerie, dream-like progression towards the shocking climax that will undoubtedly give you goosebumps. Watch Audition on Shudder.

2
Antichrist (2009)

Antichrist”

In this film, Charlotte Gainsbourg and Willem Dafoe play a nameless married duo. Tragedy strikes when their young son falls from a window during an intimate moment between the two parents. The wife is consumed by grief, while the husband, who’s a therapist, believes he can help her heal better than the hospital she’s currently in. They decide to retreat to a remote cabin in the woods, despite the wife’s intense fear of such settings.

The husband conducts therapy sessions on his wife, but as time passes, their situation spirals out of control. The wife fluctuates between deep despair and manic episodes, and the husband struggles to keep things under control. The story unfolds with disturbing violence, both physical and sexual, as they take turns inflicting pain upon each other.

Lars von Trier’s Most Depressing Film

The haunting film titled “Antichrist” is renowned for its intense portrayal of grief, stemming from director Lars von Trier’s personal struggles with mental illness. It kicks off his “Depression” trilogy. Starring powerhouse actors Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Gainsbourg, the compact cast effectively conveys the overwhelming isolation and intensity leading to their descent. Laden with symbolism, gruesome sequences of violence, and an unnerving ambiance, watching “Antichrist” will undoubtedly turn your usual date night into a harrowing experience. Watch Antichrist on Kanopy.

1
It Follows (2014)

In the movie “It Follows”, the traditional final girl trope is flipped on its head. The protagonist, a character named Jay (played by Maika Monroe), has just had sex with her new boyfriend, Hugh. However, instead of waking up refreshed, she finds herself bound to a wheelchair after being drugged. Hugh reveals that he’s been cursed; an ominous entity will relentlessly pursue its victim for eternity, capable of assuming the appearance of anyone. If the afflicted person is killed, the curse shifts to the last individual who passed it on through sexual intercourse. Immediately after this revelation, a naked woman begins chasing Jay, prompting Hugh to flee. Fortunately, Jay has her sister and friends ready to aid her in battling the curse. Faced with the choice of quickly passing the curse on or confronting it directly, Jay must make a decision.

One of the Best Horror Movies of the 2010s

Highly praised for its innovative approach to horror and its versatility across various perspectives, the movie “It Follows” was frequently hailed as one of the top horror films from the 2010s by numerous media outlets. Maika Monroe’s captivating lead role, the cinematography by Michael Gioulakis, and the thought-provoking screenplay penned by writer and director David Robert Mitchell are brimming with originality and skill in every scene. With minimal violence but plenty of entertainment value, this horror film is an ideal choice for a first date. Watch “It Follows” on Max.

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2025-02-01 04:06