6 Most Exciting Horror Movies Still To Come in 2025 (#4 Could Be Genuinely Traumatizing)

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Horror fans have a lot to look forward to in the latter part of 2025. Several highly anticipated films are scheduled for release, including projects from well-known and up-and-coming horror directors, as well as some exciting first-time filmmakers. Early buzz is building thanks to previews and trailers, and the movies are already generating a lot of excitement. The horror genre is currently more varied than ever, and this year’s upcoming films reflect that diversity.

As we head into spooky season, I’m taking a look at seven films that are already generating a lot of buzz. There’s a lot to be excited about – Jordan Peele’s production company is diving into a fascinating new blend of sports and horror, and Guillermo del Toro is *finally* bringing his vision of Mary Shelley’s classic novel to the big screen. These are just a few of the chilling releases horror fans will be keeping a very close eye on.

6) Him

Directed by Justin Tipping and co-written by Skip Bronkie and Zack Akers, *Him* uniquely blends the worlds of sports dramas and psychological horror. The film centers on Cam, a talented young football player who receives an invitation to train with legendary quarterback Isaiah White (played by Marlon Wayans) at his remote training facility. The cast is notably diverse for this type of film, featuring Tyriq Withers, Julia Fox, Tim Heidecker, Jim Jefferies, Naomi Grossman, Guapdad 4000, and rapper Tierra Whack. Produced by Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions and distributed by Universal Pictures, *Him* is receiving significant marketing support from the studio.

Horror fans are really excited about the new film, which combines the skills of director Jordan Peele’s production company with a unique take on the sports horror genre. The premise-hinting at dangerous obsessions, the pitfalls of fame, and a mentor relationship gone wrong-has generated a lot of buzz online, with many praising the trailer. One popular comment perfectly captures the excitement: “This movie takes the idea of ‘never meet your heroes’ to a whole new level.” While Peele is known for embedding social commentary into his thrillers like *Get Out*, *Us*, and *Nope*, it’s important to remember this film is directed by Tipping, with Peele serving as a producer. *Him* is set to be released in the U.S. on September 19, 2025.

5) Shelby Oaks

Chris Stuckmann, a well-known film critic on YouTube, makes his directorial debut with Shelby Oaks. The film blends found footage with traditional filmmaking techniques and stars Camille Sullivan as Mia Brennan, who searches for her missing sister and a team of paranormal investigators known as the Paranormal Paranoids. The movie also features Brendan Sexton III, Michael Beach, Robin Bartlett, and Keith David. Originally funded through a Kickstarter campaign, the project exceeded expectations, raising millions of dollars thanks to Stuckmann’s dedicated fans who were excited to see his first feature-length film.

The film initially gained traction and received a significant boost when Neon, a well-respected distributor, stepped in to finance additional filming. This allowed the filmmakers to add the realistic gore effects they’d previously had to cut due to budget constraints. Director Stuckmann told CinemaBlend that these reshoots helped him achieve his original vision for Shelby Oaks, which was influenced by the horror film Lake Mungo. The movie has already been shown at festivals like Fantasia, where it’s received positive reviews for its mood and lead actor Sullivan’s performance. Originally a small, independent project, Shelby Oaks is now gearing up for a wide theatrical release on October 3rd.

4) Good Boy

Ben Leonberg is making his first film as director with *Good Boy*, a movie he co-wrote with Alex Cannon. The film stars Shane Jensen, Arielle Friedman, horror veteran Larry Fessenden, and Leonberg’s dog, Indy, who plays the main character. What makes this movie special is that part of the story is told from the dog’s point of view – he can see supernatural things that people can’t. This unique idea has sparked a lot of online discussion, attracting both horror fans and people who’ve experienced strange things with their own pets – something many people apparently have!

The movie debuted at the SXSW festival in March to positive reviews. Even major publications like *People* shared the trailer, generating excitement before the official release. IFC Films and Shudder, known for quality content, will distribute the film, making it available in theaters and for streaming. *Good Boy* offers a unique and original story and will hit U.S. theaters on October 3rd, 2025, alongside the release of *Shelby Oaks*.

3) Bone Lake

Directed by Mercedes Bryce Morgan and written by Joshua Friedlander, *Bone Lake* features Maddie Hasson, Alex Roe, Andra Nechita, and Marco Pigossi. The movie centers on a couple seeking a romantic escape at a secluded lakeside mansion, but their getaway takes a dark turn when they discover another couple is already there. What begins with attraction and secrets quickly spirals into a dangerous game of manipulation and deceit. Mickey Liddell and Pete Shilaimon produced the film, and Bleecker Street is releasing it in the U.S.

The horror film *Bone Lake* debuted at Fantastic Fest in September 2024 and then won an audience award at the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival. Critics have praised its blend of folk horror and relationship issues, comparing it to Ari Aster’s *Midsommar* but saying it’s even scarier. *Bone Lake* will be released on October 3rd, alongside other new horror movies *Good Boy* and *Shelby Oaks*, making it a potentially great triple feature for horror enthusiasts.

2) Keeper

In the new thriller Keeper, directed by Osgood Perkins, Tatiana Maslany and Rossif Sutherland play a couple whose romantic getaway to a secluded cabin takes a dark turn. When the husband mysteriously disappears, his wife (Maslany) is left alone and begins to suspect something sinister is happening. The film features a screenplay by Nick Lepard, with stunning visuals from cinematographer Jeremy Cox and a haunting score by Edo Van Breemen.

Director Osgood Perkins, known for his unsettling horror films like *Longlegs* and *The Monkey*, is again working with Neon for his newest movie, *Keeper*. Fans of Perkins’ distinctive, atmospheric style have been eagerly awaiting this release. Combined with the star power of Tatiana Maslany, *Keeper* is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated horror films of the year, and Neon is positioning it as a major release. It’s set to hit theaters on November 14, 2025.

1) Frankenstein

Guillermo del Toro, the acclaimed director, is at last making his dream version of Mary Shelley’s *Frankenstein*. He wrote the screenplay himself, and the movie boasts a stellar cast. Oscar Isaac will play Victor Frankenstein, with Jacob Elordi as the monster, and supporting roles filled by Mia Goth, Felix Kammerer, Lars Mikkelsen, David Bradley, Charles Dance, and Christoph Waltz. Del Toro has often spoken about this film as a deeply personal project, hoping to recreate the dark and atmospheric feel of the original 1818 novel. The movie is being made by Netflix with a budget of $120 million.

The first look at the film has excited fans, who are particularly impressed with the stunning visuals and unique creature designs. Many feel it marks a welcome return to director Guillermo del Toro’s distinctive style, reminiscent of his beloved film, *Pan’s Labyrinth*. Del Toro has made it clear he wanted to create *Frankenstein* using traditional filmmaking techniques, prioritizing real sets, props, and environments over digital effects and AI. He personally oversaw the construction of these physical elements. Actor Christoph Waltz, playing Henrich Harlander, even jokingly declared “CGI is for losers” in interviews, highlighting the production’s commitment to practical effects.

The movie will first be shown in select theaters on October 17th, and then it will be available to stream on Netflix starting November 7th. With Guillermo del Toro directing and a strong cast and large production, *Frankenstein* is already generating a lot of buzz as one of the year’s most highly anticipated horror films.

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2025-09-17 22:37