The Best Overlooked Horror Movies You Must Stream in October

The Autopsy of Jane Doe – Netflix

In András Žvédal’s novel, “The Autopsy of Jane Doe,” even skilled and seasoned medical examiners find themselves disturbed by the mysterious occurrences taking place.

In a quaint town’s mortuary, long-time coroner Tommy (played by Brian Cox) is endeavoring to impart his trade secrets to his son Austin (portrayed by Emilie Hirsch), as they delve into the mystery surrounding the death of an unidentified woman, referred to as “Jane Doe.” With each fresh clue they unearth, their inquiry stirs up further puzzles about the circumstances that led to her demise.

The film primarily takes place within a dismal morgue, and with each grotesque revelation unearthed by the father and son duo, their proximity to their own demise appears increasingly imminent. This chilling production skillfully exploits the terror of the unknown and confinement, creating an unforgettable experience for both the characters and viewers following their harrowing odyssey.

Creep and Creep 2 – Netflix

Indeed, we’re bending the rules slightly by recommending two movies instead of one. However, considering their equal impact and the fact that they are both available on Netflix, it’s pertinent to explain why the “Creep” films create an impressive double feature.

The film features Mark Duplass portraying an individual hiring a cameraman, played by director Patrick Brice, to capture his everyday activities, supposedly for his son upon his death due to a terminal illness. As the days progress, tasks become increasingly peculiar, leaving viewers questioning whether this character’s social awkwardness is genuine or if his persona as “Peachfuzz” conceals potential violent tendencies lurking beneath the surface.

Not only do these films offer an entertaining blend of humor and terror, making them worth your time, but they also serve as excellent precursors for the upcoming TV show “The Creep Tapes” on Shudder, premiering in November.

Drag Me to Hell – Prime Video

Prior to becoming famous for the Tobey Maguire Spider-Man trilogy, director Sam Raimi had already established a reputation in the horror genre. Consequently, it was fitting that after parting ways with superhero films, he would create this thrilling adventure instead.

Following the rejection of a bank loan from an elderly woman, Christine (Allison Lohman) finds herself under a mysterious vow. This vow grants her just three days to unravel the mystery and lift the curse. In her desperate attempts to seek help, she consults spiritual mediums and performs certain rituals. However, instead of subsiding, the fear and horror surrounding her predicament intensifies significantly.

Sam Raimi has consistently shown his ability to create tension throughout his career, be it for frightening or comedic purposes. His work, such as “Drag Me to Hell” from 2009 and more recently “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” showcases this skill. Initially, some fans were divided when “Drag Me to Hell” was released, with Spider-Man enthusiasts disappointed that it wasn’t as gory as Raimi’s earlier work, and horror fans frustrated it didn’t live up to their expectations for bloodiness. However, over time, more and more audiences have come to admire Raimi’s return to the realm of spooky storytelling.

The Eyes of My Mother – Hulu

In a simpler and more conversational way: Nicholas Pesce’s first movie didn’t hold back on strong content. It was well-received at film festivals, but when it reached wider audiences, its intense and gripping themes sparked more divided opinions.

Nestled amidst the countryside, the narrative delves into recurring themes of pain and fear as a household first experiences a shocking break-in, serving as the catalyst that unveils a deeper, more unsettling chain of horror.

The movie was skillfully crafted in striking black and white, harkening back to the horror classics of yesteryear, yet infused with contemporary flair through its innovative cinematography and plotline. This blend creates a chilling atmosphere, punctuated by genuinely terrifying special effects that are distinctly modern.

Hagazussa: A Heathen’s Curse – Prime Video

Horror films have portrayed witches since the dawn of cinema, from comical old hags as seen in ‘Hocus Pocus’ to sinister figures of darkness such as those in ‘The Witch’. However, with ‘Hagazussa: A Heathen’s Curse’, viewers encounter an unparalleled experience.

In the 15th century, the film “Hagazussa” takes on a documentary-like quality, portraying the suffering and persecution women experienced during the witch trials of that time. It focuses on women who are ostracized by their communities for reasons that seem reasonable today. What distinguishes this movie from many others is its stunning cinematography and the haunting, enigmatic beauty of the landscapes depicted. Patient horror enthusiasts who appreciate the tone and atmosphere of Robert Eggers’ “The Witch” should definitely check out “Hagazussa”.

The House of the Devil – Prime Video

Due to the success of the trilogy consisting of X, Pearl, and MaXXXine, Ti West is currently one of the most sought-after horror filmmakers, making it an ideal moment for those unacquainted with his work to revisit his debut film.

In the 80s, during the height of the Satanic panic, a university student named Samantha (Jocelin Donahue) finds herself in need of money to leave campus. She responds to an ad for a babysitting job, but once she arrives at the house, she discovers that her duties are not what was promised. Despite her financial struggles, she decides to take on the job.

In a similar vein to how West demonstrated with his recent works, “The House of the Devil” mirrors not only the visual aesthetics but also the mood of films from its time period. The intentional slow-burning pace effectively builds tension in viewers until West decides to unveil the truth about Samantha’s predicament. Despite being produced 15 years ago and on a shoestring budget compared to his A24 projects, “The House of the Devil” matches the impact of any of West’s more recent horror ventures.

I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House – Netflix

Among the most terrifying successes this year is the film “Longlegs” by Osgood Perkins, centered around a chase for a ruthless serial killer. If you’re keen on more work from Perkins, I recommend watching “I Am the Creeping Creature Dwelling in the House” which is currently available.

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the world of horror, I found myself captivated by “I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House,” a chilling tale unfolding in a tranquil Massachusetts abode tended by a live-in nurse. Despite the serene surroundings, the house was far from peaceful, as bizarre occurrences began to surface.

I Saw the TV Glow – Max

Although it may not fall squarely into the horror genre compared to others, it skillfully employs the visual narrative styles of multiple genres to convey a tale about the terrors of being confined within one’s own physical form.

As a dedicated fan, I find solace in the young-adult TV show “The Pink Opaque,” a sanctuary for me and my friend Owen, both misfits in our respective schools and families. However, when Maddy mysteriously disappears, Owen’s world is left shattered, leaving him to grapple with his identity. Though it brings a sense of relief when Maddy eventually reappears, ready to rejoin Owen, neither of us remains unchanged – we are no longer the people we once were.

In simpler terms, Jane Schoenbrun’s movie blends the eerie atmosphere of ’90s favorites like Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Pete & Pete, and Are You Afraid of the Dark? with deeper themes such as gender, sexual identity, loss, and emotional turmoil. Whether you’re a fan of horror or seeking a more contemplative film experience, I Saw the TV Glow offers just that, making it one of the most introspective and thought-provoking horror movies of 2024.

Immaculate – Hulu

Following their initial collaboration in the 2021 movie “The Voyeurs”, actor Sydney Sweeney and director Michael Mohan joined forces once more this year, but for a completely new encounter that proved to be equally delightful.

Sister Cecilia (Sweeney) journeys to an Italian convent following what appears to be a personal invitation to join her fellow religious sisters. Sister Cecilia appears to receive favorable treatment from the higher-ups, which piques her curiosity as to why her colleagues are being subjected to such unfavorable conditions. In the course of her inquiry, she discovers a shocking truth that could potentially alter reality.

Among the 2024 horror films that tackle reproductive rights and religion, Immaculate might not be the sole one, but its Italian setting, Sweeney’s captivating performance, and Mohan’s creative filmmaking make it the most remarkable nun-themed horror film in recent years.

The Invitation – Prime Video

Los Angeles might seem like an extraordinary location due to its reputation as a land brimming with opportunities and its rich history of innovative minds. This means that the views or ideas held by its residents could be quite unique compared to other places. In the movie titled “The Invitation“, a pair attend a dinner party hosted by old friends, but soon find themselves introduced to their hosts’ unique social circle, referred to as “The Invitation.

People lose touch with one another in a variety of ways throughout their lives, so it’s easy to relate to the idea of reconnecting with someone after years apart who has found a new and potentially surprising path for their life. The Invitation keeps audiences, and our protagonists, guessing for most of the run time about what the hosts are really attempting to accomplish with this party, as filmmaker Karyn Kusama offers us only glimpses of treachery in equal measure to miscommunications between the characters. All is revealed in the finale, however, which will never have you looking at the Hollywood Hills in the same way.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer – Max

In recent times, Yorgos Lanthimos has left a significant impact on American viewers with the unique blends of genres in films like “Poor Things” and “Kinds of Kindness”, but it’s arguably his “The Killing of a Sacred Deer” that stands out as one of his most chilling and captivating productions.

The character Steven, portrayed by Colin Farrell, appears to have an idyllic life with his stunning spouse (Nicole Kidman) and their two kids. However, a casual meeting with teenager Martin (Barry Keoghan), who lost his father due to a surgery performed by Steven, sets off alarm bells when Steven notices unusual illnesses affecting his own children. Martin then admits that he’s the one causing these peculiar sicknesses, leaving Steven with a heart-wrenching choice to make.

One striking aspect of Lanthimos’ projects is his ability to blend bleak humor with grim topics, and while The Killing of a Sacred Deer shares the same level of absurdity as his other works, it almost completely lacks any comical or lighthearted aspects. This results in an intensely somber and impactful film.

Mandy – Hulu

Nicolas Cage is a fearless performer who constantly surprises audiences, no matter how familiar we might grow with his abilities. You’ll see no better execution of his range of skills than in Mandy, a mind-tripping tale of revenge.

In the tranquil and amorous Pacific Northwest, Red (Cage) and his girlfriend Andrea Riseborough lead a peaceful life. However, their serene existence is shattered when a religious sect called the Children of a New Dawn intrude upon them. A fateful meeting ultimately leads to Mandy’s death at the hands of the cult, prompting Red on a vengeful journey fueled by drugs.

Without a doubt, Mandy isn’t a film that shies away from boldness, and this is primarily due to Cage’s captivating performance and the movie’s vibrant visuals tinged with psychedelia. Director Panos Cosmatos skillfully harnesses Cage’s talent, and while he excels in portraying the tender and intimate moments between these two lovers initially, it’s when his character’s torment transforms into chaos that the film truly reaches its peak. This transformation propels Cage’s iconic intensity to unprecedented levels.

Monster Inside: America’s Most Extreme Haunted House – Hulu

The only documentary on this list, Monster Inside proves how fact is freakier than fiction.

Each autumn, you’ll find spooky houses cropping up across different neighborhoods, usually providing harmless frights. However, McKamey Manor transcends these typical haunted attractions. This documentary delves into the experience of individuals who dared to enter the “haunted house,” enduring verbal abuse, physical conflicts, near-drownings, and other distressing ordeals that might otherwise trigger legal action (though a lengthy waiver shielded owner Russ McKamey from legal repercussions). Despite spending years trying to heal from the psychological wounds inflicted, these participants grapple with the long-term effects. The documentary raises intriguing questions about whether these individuals bear responsibility for their post-experience struggles due to their initial participation, while also exploring why McKamey feels compelled to subject others to such torment.

This year, McKamey was apprehended for crimes including sexual assault, domestic violence, and attempted murder. The movie “Monster Inside” seemed to merely hint at the horrors this person was capable of.

Paranormal Activity 3 – Max

The Paranormal Activity series took over where the Saw series left off, as each film was economical to produce, resulting in a new sequel being released every October for several years consecutively. However, the majority of films within this franchise didn’t reach the level of success attained by the original installment. The notable exception is this third entry.

Years before I, a gamer, got embroiled in the chilling events of the original movie, Paranormal Activity 3 delves into younger Katie’s initial brush with darkness. While part of the thrill lies in the mystery surrounding the malevolent spirits, this spin-off offers both spine-tingling frights and insightful explanations that shed light on why this nightmare began, offering a fresh perspective and redefining everything we thought we knew about this found-footage phenomenon.

Ready or Not – Hulu

Previously, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett hadn’t made their debut with a feature-length film, but it was certainly Ready or Not that catapulted them into prominence in the industry. This movie paved the way for future projects such as Scream, Scream VI, and Abigail.

On the night of her wedding, Grace (Samara Weaving) finds herself immersed in festivities hosted by her new family, but a seemingly harmless suggestion to play hide-and-seek escalates into a lethal game that forces her into a struggle for survival.

This movie offers a thrilling mix of humor and horror, a unique trademark for its creators, and it marked an outstanding debut for Weaving. With a follow-up in production, where Weaving has agreed to reprise her role, now is the perfect moment to relive the exhilarating journey of 2019.

Saint Maud – Prime Video

Currently airing on TV, “The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power” is one of the most popular shows, and one of its beloved characters is Morfydd Clark’s Galadriel. Before she took on the role of this renowned character, Clark garnered acclaim for her poignant acting in the film “Saint Maud,” as recognized by director Rose Glass.

Maud (Clark), the caretaker, is deeply committed to both caring for her patients and her religious convictions. However, Amanda’s (Jennifer Ehle) attempts to challenge these beliefs only serve to strengthen Maud’s faith. As Amanda’s life nears its end, Maud takes increasingly drastic steps to demonstrate her devotion, causing viewers to ponder if her many sacrifices will ultimately be rewarded.

People who have watched the film “Saint Maud” can easily comprehend why Clark managed to secure a significant role in the “Lord of the Rings” series, as the movie offers a chilling and intellectually stimulating experience. Later on, Glass worked with Kristen Stewart in this year’s “Love Lies Bleeding,” which turned out to be one of the most acclaimed genre films of the year.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark – Netflix

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark marks the second film by Guillermo del Toro collaborator, Guillermo del Toro and Dan Scanlon, that appears on this list, having been released during the summer of 2019. Despite its Halloween-themed start and the source material being synonymous with the eerie atmosphere of the autumn season, the movie has been deemed underappreciated primarily because it premiered during the summer months.

The adaptation of Scary Stories effectively preserves the essence of Alvin Schwartz’s stories and Stephen Gammell’s artwork from their classic series, while also infusing new components to interlink the timeless tales. This rendition primarily features teenage characters, maintaining the playful aura of the original content. However, Guillermo del Toro didn’t shy away from the darker aspects with this PG-13 production, striking a balance between tone and style that makes it an ideal introduction to horror for budding fans.

Trick ‘r Treat – Max

Regardless of whether you’ve watched the movie “Trick ‘r Treat”, you might have noticed that its iconic character Sam has been gaining widespread popularity lately. This adorable mascot has rightfully earned a significant role as a symbol for Halloween festivities.

2009 saw the release of “Trick ‘r Treat” by director Michael Dougherty, a tribute to Halloween that blends diverse traditions and classic monsters into one intriguing narrative. The film is rich in Halloween symbolism, often regarded as the most recognizable horror movie set on October 31st since John Carpenter’s “Halloween.” From creepy demons to howling werewolves to spooky ghosts, “Trick ‘r Treat” is a treasure trove of Halloween imagery.

The Wailing – Netflix

Movie director Na Hong-jin’s “The Wailing” offers a hauntingly intense and relentless horror journey that has left many viewers breathless over the past ten years. This film is sure to captivate and tire its audience with its suspenseful storyline.

In a modest Korean town, there appears to be an unusual virus spreading among its inhabitants, leading them to display aggressive behavior. These outbursts coincide with the arrival of a Japanese visitor, who some residents believe possesses extraordinary powers and is responsible for the escalating violence within their community.

When it initially premiered, “The Wailing” was often likened to “The Exorcist”, primarily because numerous scenes required powerful depictions of despair and fear through acting. Indeed, “The Wailing” merits this comparison, as its investigation into ancient lore, paranoia, and psychological horror seamlessly complements William Friedkin’s 1973 classic, “The Exorcist”.

When Evil Lurks – Hulu

Similar to “The Wailing,” “When Evil Lurks” is among the most unremitting films in this collection, which may deter some viewers. However, it’s also one of the most powerfully impactful movies of 2023.

The movie, located in a rural Argentinian setting, experiences an unusual phenomenon where villagers seem to be under some form of possession. Unlike a single demon targeting a particular person, it appears that a shadowy menace has enveloped the entire community, with its reach expanding increasingly ominously with every ticking hour.

Fans of Demi Rugna’s earlier work, “Terrified,” might expect that his latest film, “When Evil Lurks,” would feature some truly nerve-wracking scenes – and they wouldn’t be wrong. We won’t give away the specifics, but let’s just say that this movie delivers some of the most chilling moments captured on screen in 2023. Unlike other horror movies that rely heavily on gore to scare their audience, Rugna masterfully crafts suspense by skillfully releasing fear in carefully timed doses, creating a thrilling journey through terror instead.

Of the listed movies, which one are you planning to watch? Connect with Patrick Cavanaugh directly via Twitter or Instagram for a chat about Star Wars and horror topics!