Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

Summary

  • Tubi has a vast array of horror films, including underrated gems & B-movies for fans of the genre.
  • From killer crabs to zombie poodles, Tubi offers a diverse selection of horror movies with unique twists.
  • Don’t overlook Tubi’s original horror titles like “Slay” & “Black Mold” for a mix of campy fun & scares.

As a seasoned connoisseur of all things horror, having spent countless nights huddled under blankets while watching the most terrifying films the genre has to offer, I must say that these two movies, Bloody New Year and The Boneyard, have left quite an impression on me.


Among all streaming services, Tubi stands out as a favorite among horror enthusiasts due to its extensive collection of independent films, B-movies, classics, and hidden treasures. If you don’t mind occasional advertisements, you won’t find a more content-rich platform for horror fans. However, be prepared for a mix of quality and not-so-great productions as you navigate through the platform, especially when venturing away from well-known titles. You might discover an intelligent indie film with a chilling atmosphere or a movie hastily made over a weekend with subpar special effects.

As a self-proclaimed horror movie enthusiast with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the following list of underrated horror movies on Tubi is nothing short of a treasure trove for fans like myself. Having grown up in the era of VHS tapes and late-night cable screenings, I’ve seen my fair share of cheesy slasher flicks and campy monster movies. But what truly excites me about this selection is the sheer diversity it offers, showcasing the boundless creativity that exists within the horror genre.

10 Crabs! (2021)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

After a nuclear mishap, a horde of horseshoe crabs invades a quaint coastal town, causing havoc during the town’s high school prom night. The narrative unfolds around Philip and his confidante, Maddy, as they grapple with teenage emotions, complex family relationships, and a terrifying onslaught of crustacean creatures with a taste for human faces.

Totally ’90s!

Experience Pierce Berolzheimer’s “Crabs!” as it brims with ’90s exaggerated and outlandish style, a time capsule that requires a fond appreciation for its high points and flaws. Be prepared for a dash of cheesiness and potential insensitivity; Radu, the awkward European exchange student, might either win you over or leave you cold. Yet, the endearing quality and originality of the concept – lethal crabs – is hard to ignore.

As a devoted cinephile, I must admit that some viewers may have dismissed this creature-feature as just another cash-grab in the oversaturated realm of killer animal films on streaming platforms like Tubi. However, they’d be missing out on an extraordinary cinematic experience. The special effects are nothing short of phenomenal, and the campy humor is spot-on, adding a delightful twist to the narrative. What sets this film apart is the sheer scale of the invasion, which escalates to such gigantic proportions that it demands an epic Kaiju battle to conclude the movie with a bang!

9 Vampire Clay (2017)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

A group of students eager to master pottery in a quaint studio led by a once-prominent artist are grappling with the competitive art scene. In their quest for clay, they unwittingly unearth it from an enigmatic location near the school, awakening an ancient curse. The clay now craves human blood and manipulates its pliable form to possess others, blending itself within society to feed and expand.

Thriving on Its Practical Effects

I wasn’t blown away by the storyline of the indie-horror movie “Vampire Clay” from Japan, as it presents an implausible concept that’s tough to swallow. But what truly sets this film apart is the expertise of its director, Sôichi Umezawa, who previously worked as a special effects artist in the industry. His experience shines through in the movie, with the bizarre and one-of-a-kind special effects that make use of clay in chilling and nightmare-inducing ways. For aficionados of body horror, this is an unmissable treat, as the transformations are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. As a visual spectacle, Umezawa’s horrifying creations make “Vampire Clay” a must-watch.

8 The Innkeepers (2011)

Claire and Luke have been assigned as the last two workers at the notoriously haunted Yankee Pedlar Inn, which is planning to shut down forever following a final weekend of operation. Eager for paranormal activity, Luke, who dabbles in ghost hunting, stirs Claire’s curiosity about the inn’s possible spectral inhabitants before its closure. During their stay, they encounter spiritualists lodging at the inn, and together, they get closer than anticipated to communicating with the deceased.

Slow-Burn Horror at Its Best

Among all of Ti West’s works, his least recognized might be “The Innkeepers“. Despite being overshadowed, it embodies the director’s distinctive slow-building style, which first gained him a cult following from his hit debut film “The House of the Devil“. This movie is rich in atmosphere, boasts excellent cinematography, and features strong acting performances. Fans who have rediscovered West through his recent work with the X series might find his growth as a director intriguing. Additionally, horror enthusiasts who prefer a gradual build-up of tension over shock will appreciate the subtle, carefully constructed haunted house horror that is “The Innkeepers“.

7 13 Cameras (2015)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

In my perspective as a movie critic, I’d put it this way:

The Killer Is Inside the House

In some instances, horror series may not receive widespread recognition, and one such example is the trilogy consisting of 13 Cameras, followed by 14 Cameras and 15 Cameras. For those unfamiliar, they might be taken aback to discover these sequels exist, as they can be found on Tubi. Despite having a dedicated fanbase, the series tends to avoid mainstream attention due to its unique brand of horror. The first film, 13 Cameras, generates an unsettling sense of anxiety regarding our vulnerability when we’re away from home. Its focus on hidden cameras in private spaces and someone defiling personal belongings creates a fear that may strike too close to home for some viewers.

The real horror here is having our privacy and homes invaded, with the series largely forgoing gore and jump scares for the continued discomfort and unease of having a creepy killer making himself at home. These movies are ones that the viewer, particularly those renting, can place themselves in; for some, this is a draw; for others, it is a deterrent. Still, if you have any inkling to experience uncomfortable horror, 13 Cameras and its sequels are worth a watch.

6 Meander (2020)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

Devastated by the death of her daughter, Lisa embarks on a journey to find some sense of self, only for it to be interrupted dramatically when a potential serial killer offers her a ride. But this is merely the beginning of her troubles. Overpowered by the suspected assassin, she regains consciousness in a puzzling maze, discovering a timer on her wrist and other panicked individuals struggling through the same confusing pathways.

Claustrophobic Sci-fi Horror

Enthusiasts of sci-fi horror films similar to Cube might have missed out on a gem, namely the French horror film “Meander” by Mathieu Turi. It’s unfortunate because this movie combines elements of horror, mystery, and science fiction in an inventive way that will undoubtedly make those with claustrophobia uncomfortable. The majority of the film follows one character, allowing Gaia Weiss’s compelling and intense portrayal to fully engage viewers in her dire circumstances. For those who appreciate films with abstract themes and open-ended interpretations, “Meander” offers a fascinating puzzle to unravel once the credits start rolling.

5 Slay (2024)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

In a booking error, four drag performers on tour unexpectedly end up in a conservative town that’s not fond of their act. Gradually gaining acceptance from the crowd, with some hidden advocates, their show is abruptly halted when a group of vampires slip away from a local bar. An unusual partnership is established, and both the queens and locals must band together to fend off the attack until dawn.

Faster Queen, Slay, Slay!

Tubi’s original horror movies don’t always get the credit they deserve, with the platform having some stand-out titles that fall under the radar. Slay came and went with little coverage or fanfare, but the movie is more than just a treat for Drag Race fans. Slay is a hilarious horror comedy backed by some strong performances and just the right amount of camp one would expect from the combination of drag and horror. There are plenty of great one-liners, gender-bending comedy, and vampire kills here to appease fans of LGBTQ+ horror movies. If you want a more serious outing from Tubi, consider checking out the twisted psychological horror Black Mold.

4 Broadcast Signal Intrusion (2021)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

A television archive worker named James stumbles upon a troubling collection of pirate broadcasts depicting an enigmatic masked character while sorting through vintage tapes at a Chicago TV station. As he delves into the history of these transmissions, he finds links to unsolved missing persons cases, among them his own wife, Hannah. This startling connection spurs James to delve deeper, uncovering layers of intrigue that send him on a state-wide quest to expose the truth behind these mysterious broadcasts.

A Horror Story for Those Obsessed with Lost Media

Broadcast Signal Intrusion appeals particularly to enthusiasts of lost media and detective stories reminiscent of old times. It draws inspiration from the infamous Max Headroom incident and the classic YouTube frightener “I Feel Fantastic,” positioning it in a specific era that might have ensured its initial obscurity upon release. The focus isn’t predominantly on horror, but rather on solving an intriguing mystery, which could potentially narrow its audience.

Despite Harry Shum Jr delivering an exceptional performance as the main character, his journey is filled with intriguing locations and characters that maintain the film’s captivating nature. Furthermore, the movie serves as a tribute to lesser-known media, wrapping it in a thriller/mystery plot driven by conspiracy theories, which should satisfy fans of such genres.

3 Descent Into Darkness (2013)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

In Paris, journalist Rafaël Cherkaski sets up shop unconventionally to produce a documentary on the concept known as the “European dream.” Initially, he encounters friendliness and assistance from others, despite his peculiar behavior. However, as time passes, Rafaël starts making a string of poor choices, leading to a snowballing series of problems. Ultimately, he finds himself in financial ruin. Desperate for survival, the aspiring documentarian resorts to illegal activities. The gravity of these acts only serves to fuel his growing appetite for more criminal acts.

Worst Vacation Ever

This one is more for fans of extreme horror, as this found-footage movie gets downright nasty. Chronicling the travels of ‘journalist’ Sorgoi Prakov, the events start harmless enough: sightseeing and candid interviews for his show. Yet, with each passing day, things get worse for the traveler, and he begins to make horrible decisions and indulge in substances that begin to warp his mind. The climax of Descent Into Darkness may come slowly, but it is an unforgettable spectacle of perversion, violence, and terror that is impossible to shake once you have seen it. The gritty, low-budget found footage aesthetic here also gives the whole production an uncomfortable realism; proceed with caution.

2 Bloody New Year (1987)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

Having run away from a gang of thugs, a band of teenagers seize a boat and voyage towards an island that harbors the Grand Island Hotel, unbeknownst to them. This hotel vanished mysteriously in 1959 during New Year’s festivities, and as they unwittingly arrive, they start experiencing peculiar supernatural occurrences. They later discover they are trapped within a time loop, which seems to suggest their chances of escaping might have passed already.

Welcome, We Hope You Enjoy Your Stay

It’s puzzling why the British ’80s horror film “Bloody New Year” hasn’t earned a spot among horror enthusiasts’ favorites. Its cheesy appeal and unique, hands-on special effects should have horror fans raving about it. This movie offers plenty to appreciate, such as imaginative deaths and hilariously absurd scenes that make it a standout among the many excellent ’80s horror films. The film seamlessly blends sci-fi and slasher elements to deliver memorable deaths, from a boat rotor beheading to walls consuming a woman alive; it’s a blast!

1 The Boneyard (1991)

Underrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on TubiUnderrated Horror Movies You Can Stream for Free on Tubi

Psychic Alley Oates, after being deeply affected by a chilling case, withdrew from society and lived in seclusion. But when detectives approached her regarding a string of child murders that hinted at supernatural involvement, she was compelled to re-emerge due to unsettling visions. Upon visiting the morgue to investigate, Alley confronted pure evil, and the evening transformed into a battle for survival.

It’s All Gone to the Zombie Dogs

“The Boneyard”

Although “The Boneyard” may not rank among the absolute best in the genre, given some refinement at the start, it could easily earn the respect of films like Peter Jackson’s “Dead Alive” or Stuart Gordon’s “Re-animator”. The latter half is exceptionally well crafted. For enthusiasts of ’80s and early ’90s horror, particularly those who appreciate well-designed zombie creatures in their movies, this one is a hidden treasure.

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2024-08-11 03:02