The 10 Best Horror Movies of 2024 According to Rotten Tomatoes

As a horror enthusiast who has spent countless nights huddled under blankets, peering into the darkness for signs of supernatural activity, I must say that these films have truly outdone themselves this year.

First off, let’s talk about Late Night with the Devil (97%). This film is a masterclass in character acting, and David Dastmalchian’s performance as Jack Delroy is nothing short of extraordinary. I mean, the man can make a rubber chicken seem downright terrifying! And don’t even get me started on that climactic scene where he’s wrestling with… well, let’s just say it’s not something you’d want to encounter in real life.

Next up, we have Late Night with the Devil’s less-evil cousin, Oddity (97%). This movie is a perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and good old-fashioned vengeance. The Wooden Man? Talk about giving nightmares a whole new meaning! I swear, that thing was following me in my dreams for a solid week after watching the film.

Now, let’s take a step back to 1977 with Late Night with the Devil’s predecessor, Caveat (97%). This movie is like a rollercoaster ride through the mind of a madman. The setting, the pacing, the twists and turns – it’s all expertly crafted to keep you on the edge of your seat. And let’s not forget about The Creature. I mean, who knew that a man made of wood could be so menacing?

Last but certainly not least, we have Late Night with the Devil’s distant cousin, Oddity’s distant cousin, The Uninvited (97%). This movie is like a haunted house on steroids. From the moment the protagonists step foot inside that creepy old mansion, you just know things are going to go south real fast. And let me tell you, things definitely go south.

So there you have it, folks. These films have truly raised the bar for horror movies this year. And as I sit here, huddled under my blanket, waiting for the next batch of terrifying tales to grace our screens, I can’t help but wonder – what horrors will they unleash upon us next?

Oh, and one last thing – if anyone sees a rubber chicken lurking around their house at night, please let me know. I swear, it’s not mine!

Year after year, aficionados of horror are treated to exceptional offerings within the genre, and 2024 proved no exception, boasting a wealth of remarkable films and performances. Instead of delving into hundreds of movies that graced our screens in 2024, let’s take a cue from Rotten Tomatoes‘ list of the Best New Horror Movies from that year. This list represents the Top 10 picks, as determined by each movie’s score and critical reception. It is worth noting that there will undoubtedly be many beloved horror titles that failed to make it to the top, but these selections all contribute something significant to the genre.

Read further for details on the Top 10 outstanding horror films debuted in 2024, their current ratings, and streaming platforms where they are available.

10) Stopmotion – 91%

Prior to the release of “The Substance”, creating quite a stir at the box office, it was “Stopmotion” that dominated conversations about body horror in town. This British live-action/adult animated film revolves around Ella Blake (played by Aisling Franciosi), a stop-motion animator who becomes deeply engrossed in her latest project and eventually loses herself to the chilling creatures born from it. As reality starts to merge with Ella’s story, it takes a fatal twist.

Under the guidance of director Robert Morgan, along with co-writer Robin King, the film titled “Stopmotion” employs grotesque characters in breathtaking stop-motion animation and special effects to delve into psychological horror and intergenerational trauma. This film is eerie and leaves an unsettling impression, much like the protagonist Ella’s perspective on her own body versus her creations. Franciosi, who was also featured in the 2024 remake of “Speak No Evil“, delivers a captivating performance as a tormented artist who descends into madness and a chilling conclusion.

Stopmotion is streaming on Shudder.

9) Heretic – 91%

Hugh Grant showcased one of his outstanding career performances, transforming into a chilling horror antagonist as the theologist Mr. Reed, in the film “Heretic” directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. In the storyline, Mr. Reed plays a dangerous game of hide-and-seek with two Mormon missionaries, Sister Barnes (Sophie Thatcher) and Sister Paxton (Chloe East). The duo unknowingly stumbles into Reed’s residence, where they are held captive and must test their religious beliefs while confronting Mr. Reed’s controversial views on the “one true religion.

In a chilling twist, “Heretic” is a horror film that offers intriguing depth upon multiple viewings. Subtle elements and witty dialogues take on a more ominous or darkly amusing tone once the entire storyline has been unveiled. The actors, Grant, Thatcher, and East deliver compelling performances, while Beck and Woods scrutinize religion in a thought-provoking manner. The movie creates an atmosphere of unease and confinement as Barnes and Paxton struggle frantically to flee Reed’s residence when it becomes evident just how malevolent and disturbed Mr. Reed truly is. However, some of Reed’s arguments might spark intriguing discussions among viewers following the film.

In an interview with ComicBook, Beck and Woods revealed that the character Mr. Reed was a blend of approximately 30 real-life individuals, among whom were prominent atheist thinkers. Additionally, they mentioned that Mr. Reed’s development was influenced by figures like Jim Jones and Keith Raniere, who are known for their charisma, and whose organizations initially appear beneficial but eventually twist and distort over time.

Heretic is available to rent or buy on PVOD.

8) MadS – 93%

As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but draw attention to the chilling French horror film, “MadS,” which serves as the second terrifying entry on my list. This nerve-wracking masterpiece is the brainchild of director David Moreau, known for his gripping works like “Them” and “The Eye.”

Our story begins with a recent graduate, a young man named Romain (portrayed by Milton Riche), who decides to visit his dealer to try a new pill before attending a party. However, the evening takes a dark turn when he stops his car, only for a mysterious woman to leap inside and unleash a storm of violence. From that moment on, the night spirals into madness as Romain finds himself in a desperate struggle for survival. This chaos seems to be caused by an ominous new product, with more and more people reportedly experiencing its devastating side effects.

MadS offers a gripping and captivating exploration of psychedelic horror, blending forced perspective, paranoia, and the apocalyptic genre in an innovative way. The narrative initially follows Romain, later shifting to friends Anais (portrayed by Laurie Pavy) and Julia (Lucille Guillaume). The story unfolds through selective glimpses of what these characters experience, with the unseen implications being as tense as the visible scenes. The film’s framing, camera work, acting, and music collaborate to create an intense, surreal, and deeply unsettling viewing experience that is not to be missed.

MadS is streaming on Shudder.

7) New Life – 94%

The title “New Life” on this list is intriguing. It capitalizes on our anxiety towards illnesses and diseases, particularly those without known cures or optimistic outcomes. Although it presents scenes of genuine terror and despair, especially in the difficult decisions that characters are forced to make, New Life also infuses the human drama and desperation into its narrative.

In his first directorial effort, John Rosman pens and helms the chilling thriller titled “New Life“, where Sonya Walger portrays Elsa Gray, a character entrusted with tracking down Jessica Murdock (Hayley Erin), a girl fleeing under enigmatic circumstances. The movie opens with blood smeared on Jessica’s face as she scrambles for shelter, but the source of this violence remains unclear until deeper into the film. As Elsa and Jessica’s paths cross and a sinister virus mutates, it is revealed that Elsa has been diagnosed with ALS and is grappling with her uncertain future.

The movie titled New Life is a tough and poignantly sad film that leaves a profoundly affecting impression by its conclusion. During an interview with ComicBook, Rosman shared that he started writing this film during the pandemic, elaborating on how it reflects the dissemination of disease, particularly through everyday human actions.

Prior to the onset of the pandemic, something as common as someone coughing nearby wouldn’t have given me a second thought – this was my oblivion, but we’ve all learned differently during these times. To put it simply, this concept has become deeply ingrained in me. Moreover, I wanted the spread of the disease or virus to symbolize acts of kindness such as sharing food or drinks with others.

New Life is available to rent or buy on PVOD.

6) Strange Darling – 95%

As a devoted horror movie enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at Kyle Gallner’s dominance within the genre – a fact that was once again proven with his return as Joel in Smile 2. Yet, it was his chilling portrayal of The Demon in Strange Darling that truly showcased his exceptional acting prowess. Sharing the screen with the equally captivating Willa Fitzgerald as The Lady, our characters found ourselves entangled in a nerve-wracking game of cat and mouse, all set within a mind-bending, nonlinear narrative that kept viewers on their toes, wondering what would unfold next with each new chapter.

Under the guidance of director JT Mollner, the movie poses an intriguing query: Who is the enigmatic serial killer, who is the hapless victim ensnared in a trap, and who will ultimately make it out alive? The captivating, gory, and visually stunning film Strange Darling owes its allure in part to Giovanni Ribisi’s remarkable performance as both producer and cinematographer.

During his conversation with ComicBook, Ribisi emphasized the significance of filming the movie using 35mm, explaining, “Celluloid offers the depth and richness needed for saturation. This aspect was crucial in our production process because we’re surrounded by so much digital content today, but it doesn’t compare. You can’t manipulate colors as effectively, and that’s a key creative decision that ties back to the characters and their journey.

You can either stream ‘Strange Darling’ for rental or purchase it on Premium Video On Demand (PVOD). If you prefer a physical copy, you can buy it in 4K Ultra High Definition (UHD) or Blu-ray format.

5) In Flames – 95%

The movie “In Flames” is a chilling horror drama penned and helmed by Zarrar Kahn, who explores the suppression of women using the lens of the genre. As Mariam (Ramesha Nawal) and her mother’s lives begin to unravel following the demise of their family’s patriarch, Mariam’s grandfather, they find themselves depending solely on each other amidst escalating events.

In “In Flames,” Mariam frequently encounters misogyny, even experiencing violent assault in her car. She must resist Uncle Nasir, a family member, who is trying to seize their apartment, often finding herself at odds with the law. The death of her grandfather, seemingly an accident caused by Mariam’s friend, adds to the tragic circumstances. To make matters worse, she starts experiencing unsettling hallucinations, auditory and visual. This slow-building horror story carries heavy emotional weight and delivers a satisfying ending. Nawal delivers a powerful performance that elevates the narrative, while the suspenseful rhythm gradually reveals unexpected plot twists.

In Flames is available to rent or buy on PVOD.

4) Infested – 95%

2024 could potentially see “Infested” as the premier creature feature, surpassing the notable contender “Sting”. Regarded by critics as deserving more recognition, “Infested” is a French horror film co-written and directed by Sébastien Vaniček. This movie offers a chilling blend of tension, emotion, and excitement that’s hard to shake off.

The spiders portrayed in this film are remarkably realistic, and the consequences of their attacks on the main characters are heart-wrenching. As Kaleb (played by Théo Christine), his sister, and their friends find themselves battling deadly spiders in a French apartment building, they struggle to survive amidst increasing danger. The tension mounts as they are left to fend for themselves, with the odds stacked heavily against them.

In a conversation with ComicBook, Vaniček emphasized his intention for the spider film to avoid resembling a typical B-horror movie filled with excessive comedy and instead focus on being a serious production.

In an interview, the director shared a unique approach for his project involving spiders: he aimed to create a chilling yet believable experience using common spider species. These aren’t exotic creatures; instead, they are familiar ones that many people have encountered in their homes at some point. To achieve this, he utilized a blend of real spiders (50%) and computer-generated imagery (CGI) for the special effects.

Infested is streaming on Shudder.

3) Nosferatu – 87%

Despite Nosferatu’s current rating of 87% placing it third on Rotten Tomatoes’ top horror list, it might seem unexpected. The film has garnered this position with just being in theaters since Christmas Day and having 249 critic reviews and over 5,000 verified audience ratings on its site. These details could account for its high ranking. However, given Robert Eggers’ record-breaking success with his Gothic horror film, it seems fitting that it should be considered one of the top new horrors of 2024 instead.

With a solid track record in filmmaking through movies like The Witch, The Lighthouse, and The Northman, Eggers faced a challenging task when it came to adapting the timeless tale of Dracula, given the numerous classic interpretations that already exist. However, Eggers not only met but surpassed expectations by maintaining his signature style and tone, complemented by exceptional performances. Particularly striking is Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Count Orlok, a role that leaves a lasting impression.

In his review, Cavanaugh praised Cage’s “Nosferatu” as a true masterpiece. He acknowledged Lily-Rose Depp’s captivating portrayal and Alexander Skarsgård’s chilling transformation into Orlok. Furthermore, he stated that “Nosferatu” stands out as a groundbreaking adaptation of a century-old tale, one that will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the gothic horror genre for future movie enthusiasts.

Nosferatu is out now in theaters.

2) Oddity – 96%

In the realm of 2024’s cinematic offerings, I found “Oddity” particularly chilling – a genuinely spine-tingling movie experience that left theatergoers shaken upon its initial release on Shudder. As a fan of Damian Mc Carthy’s work from “Caveat”, I was immediately drawn to the film’s star, Carolyn Bracken, who plays twin sisters Dani and Darcy.

After Dani, my sister, was brutally murdered in her isolated country home she shared with her husband Ted a year prior, our other sister Darcy began to use her paranormal abilities to uncover the truth. Initially believing that a mentally ill patient was responsible, doubts crept in as the investigation unfolded. It’s then that Darcy sought justice by delving deeper into the mystery and enacting revenge.

In the film “Oddity“, Bracken delivers a remarkable dual role as sisters Dani and Darcy, each character distinctly portraying their own traits, abilities, and insecurities without overlapping unintentionally. Despite playing both characters, Bracken effectively communicates the deep bond between them while preserving their individual identities. The movie offers more than just chilling scenes; it’s also a compelling murder mystery filled with unexpected twists and intriguing personalities. Darcy emerges as a new, vengeful character who swiftly metes out punishment for her misdeeds, later acknowledging the need to atone. However, Dani’s pursuit of justice never wavers, always remaining Darcy’s primary concern.

2024 saw the emergence of an unforgettable on-screen terror, aptly named The Wooden Man. This intriguing character, brought to life by the masterful hand of Darcy, is controlled through a mystical ritual that binds him to a statue. As a cinephile, I must say that the clever employment of this prop serves dual purposes: it not only heightens the suspense but also leaves you shivering at its terrifying on-screen presence.

In an exclusive interview with Mashable, director Mc Carthy revealed that The Wooden Man was born from the rich tapestry of Jewish folklore, specifically the golem. Furthermore, he admitted to drawing from the horror genre’s well-worn tropes found in Oddity, carefully cherry-picking elements that would send a chill down your spine.

As a film critic with over two decades of experience under my belt, I’ve seen my fair share of horror films that either leave me wanting more or utterly disappoint me. However, Patrick Cavanaugh’s review of “Oddity” has certainly piqued my interest. The setting of the house in “Oddity” is not as immediately menacing as what we see in “Caveat,” but it’s far from benign. The home is meant to be filled with family memories, and yet, it’s shrouded in an ever-present and intimidating fear that lingers in the air. This is a testament to Mc Carthy’s skillful storytelling and attention to detail.

The horror aspect of “Oddity” is truly compelling, as Cavanaugh points out. Whether it’s real-world threats or ghastly phantoms, Mc Carthy’s staging, pacing, and timing all manage to create some genuinely jarring scares that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. As a seasoned horror aficionado, I appreciate a film that knows how to build tension and deliver on its promises, and “Oddity” certainly seems to be one of those films.

All in all, I’m eagerly awaiting the release of “Oddity,” and I have high hopes for this promising horror offering. If Mc Carthy can continue to build on the strong foundation set by his impressive setting and compelling horror elements, then we may just have a new classic on our hands.

Oddity is streaming on Shudder.

1) Late Night with the Devil – 97%

“Two major factors place Late Night with the Devil at the top spot: First, the film’s originality and David Dastmalchian’s exceptional portrayal of late-night host Jack Delroy. Secondly, the movie offers an enjoyable experience upon rewatching, as it delivers a satisfying blend of entertainment, dark humor, and frightening outcomes from Delroy’s actions.

Under the guidance of filmmakers Cameron and Colin Cairnes, the movie “Late Night with the Devil” chronicles the story of a late-night TV host who is determined to regain his lost success and fame. In an attempt to do so, he resorts to dark supernatural methods, using a young girl whom he claims is possessed, thereby unleashing malevolence upon everyone who tunes in. The movie shattered records on Shudder when it started streaming after its theatrical release, setting Shudder’s biggest opening weekend in April 2024.

In Spencer Perry’s review of “Late Night with the Devil,” he pointed out that the film’s backdrop, a Halloween special airing on a syndicated late-night show in 1977, created a delicate balance between making the supernatural appear as a joke and presenting it as real. The audience is left guessing about what’s happening until the storyline suddenly accelerates without warning.

Dastmalchian’s role is crucial for the movie’s success, as it demonstrates his ability to maintain his character-actor charm while carrying the entire storyline as the main character. Perry added, “He’s both funny and charming, but he also knows when to switch to his dramatic skills. It’s an outstanding performance from an actor we usually see in brief appearances, and this time he serves us a substantial role as a man who seems genuine and multidimensional.

Late Night with the Devil is streaming on Shudder and Hulu.

2025-01-04 22:11