One of the Decade’s Best Horror Movies Is a Must-Watch on Netflix Right Now

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If you’re seeking another spine-tingling horror movie to watch while waiting for more Weapons, give Barbarian a try instead! Written and directed by Zach Cregger, this film is an innovative addition to the horror genre, delving deeply into trauma in a chilling manner. This film, which became unexpectedly popular when it premiered in cinemas last year, marked Cregger’s directorial debut and signified a significant change for him within the industry. Barbarian also boasts one of the most talented actors in the genre today, using their skills in a clever, unconventional way. Best part? It’s available on Netflix right now!

In “Barbarian,” the protagonist, Tess Marshall (played by Georgina Campbell), reserves an AirBnb in Detroit only to find someone else already occupying it. It turns out the host has made a mistake and double-booked the place for the night. Initially cautious about the other guest, Keith (portrayed by Bill Skarsgård), Tess decides to spend the night regardless, with herself taking the bedroom and Keith sleeping on the couch. At first, she fears Keith could pose a danger, but as the story unfolds, she uncovers hidden passages in the basement that conceal a more menacing peril.

In Barbarian, traditional elements of the horror genre are skillfully utilized but Cregger cleverly challenges these conventions. For example, the initial act largely consists of an extended conversation between Tess and Keith, creating an intense atmosphere that plays with our assumptions about what a typical horror film entails.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Keith is portrayed by Skarsgård, best known for his chilling performance as Pennywise the Clown in the remake of “IT”. This brings an extra layer of anticipation, given the audience’s expectations based on his previous role. Throughout the scene, we find ourselves on tenterhooks, prepared for a violent or gruesome conclusion. However, when Tess and Keith’s initial encounter doesn’t result in a murder or similar bloody event, we’re left feeling off-balance and deceived into a false sense of security. Consequently, the unveiling of the real monster in the movie becomes even more shocking and unexpected.

In simpler terms, Cregger effectively portrays the monster in the movie “Barbarian” as a pitiful character, even though the film is still thrilling and scary without understanding the antagonist’s background. The movie’s impact is amplified by Cregger’s depiction of its circumstances for the monster and contrasting it with other characters. This approach results in a thought-provoking commentary on sexual assault, leaving viewers pondering long after the movie ends, and earning “Barbarian” a spot among the best horror films of recent times.

In a surprising turn of events, the low-budget horror film “Barbarian” raked in an impressive $45 million globally, far surpassing its initial budget of $4.5 million. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Zach Cregger, the movie’s director, was stepping into the horror genre for the first time. Known previously for his work in comedy, including his role in the TBS series “Wrecked” and being a founding member of The Whitest Kids U Know, Cregger’s success with “Barbarian” might signal a permanent shift away from comedy. This is particularly noteworthy since he is currently working on a reboot of “Resident Evil” for Sony.

Barbarian is currently streaming on Netflix.

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2025-08-16 16:45