Looking for something to give you the creeps this month? I think I’ve explored alot of horror films with some having very thematic stories. From haunting tales of migration to terrifying curses and chilling doppelgängers, these horror films are some of my favorites and I have a lot of those. So, grab your popcorn, maybe a friend (or a stuffed animal), and let’s check out some crazy stories.
His House
Imagine moving to a new country for a fresh start, only to be haunted by the traumas of your past—literally. His House follows Bol, played by the talented Nigerian-British Actor Sope Dirisu, as he and his family immigrate to the UK, only to find themselves facing supernatural horrors in their new home.
This film, directed by Remi Weekes, masterfully blends the real-life struggles of migration with the eerie feeling of being watched. As the family confronts the ghosts of their past, you’ll find yourself gripping your seat. The ending? Let’s just say, it’s a twist you won’t see coming. A must-watch for fans of smart, socially conscious horror.
Incantation
If found footage films are your thing, Incantation is a chilling ride you won’t want to miss. This Chinese horror flick, directed by Kevin Ko, is all about curses, forbidden rituals, and the consequences that follow. Imagine you just picked up a camera and watched what was on it, only to realize it’s the personal accounts of people interacting with curses and now you might be cursed too! The film was showcased at the far East film Festival 24 and was bound to provoke alot of watchers and thrill seekers to join its audience.
Li Ronan, our fearless protagonist, breaks a religious taboo on one of her tomb-raiding adventures and now must protect her daughter from the curse that ensues. The film’s clever use of found footage style makes it feel as if you’re watching real events unfold, which is both immersive and terrifying. Watching it in its original Mandarin will add an extra layer of authenticity—and fear. Just be careful: you might find yourself chanting that catchy incantation long after the credits roll.
The First Omen
This film explores the uncanny activities of the catholic church with evil, in a way that sees the birth to the very first incident of it all. The First Omen Is a film that explores very graphically provoking and dark themes of what the director, Arkasha Stevenson sees as the best way to literally birth evil to screen. The movie follows Nell Tiger Free, starring as a young American lady is brought to Rome to start a life of ministry to the church, but she discovers a horrifying plot intended to bring about the incarnation of evil and is confronted with a darkness that makes her doubt her faith.
The movie explores how the sanctity of the church is only maintained by the presence of evil. The lack thereof prompting the church to need to create a new evil, a new fear. These church themed horrors really know how to stretch the limits of evil and evil incarnation. If you like a visual shocker, this is one for the books.
Men
Still hot on the concept of giving birth, this is a film you should watch on an empty stomach. Especially if you’re not keen on the more gorey side of things. However, as is my horror’s delight, Men is a film that also explores birth and the cycle of evil in the systems and social constructs men have. The movie follows Harper, as she goes to the country to be alone after a tragedy, but when she arrives, something unnatural in the forest is triggered, turning her discomfort at the town’s snarling and very identical males into a full-fledged nightmare. This film packages very well aspects of controversy in relationships and society in a very unnerving way, especially with how all the Men in the show have a nasty visual ‘similarity’ to each other. I’ll just say those faces can throw anyone off with the level of creepiness this film gets to. This makes it a perfect unwinder or sundowner when you’re feeling dark and doozy.
Talk To Me
GenZ (yes, those ones you’re thinking of) meet the supernatural in Talk To Me, and decide to have it at the party rather than do what any other person afraid of ghosts would, run! The film explores what happens when a group of young friends discover how to summon evil spirits. Directed by Danny and Michael Philippou, this Australian horror flick is a fresh take on the classic ghost story. This awesome sauce follows a group of friends that find out how to bring up evil spirits. I guess they needed more for the party?
The stakes get higher the more you play any game and this film properly relays how this group come to terms with consequences of interacting with the afterlife.
It’s got everything: a creepy premise, a group of curious teens, and the inevitable consequences of meddling with the unknown. Released in 2023, it quickly became a box office hit and even teases a potential sequel. If you’re looking for a film that’s both modern and spooky, this one’s a winner.
Us
Jordan Peele strikes again with Us, a film that’s as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.
African Star Highlight – Lupita Nyon’go
Lupita Nyong’o stars as Adelaide Wilson, whose family vacation turns into a nightmare when they encounter their doppelgängers. These eerie doubles aren’t just creepy—they’re out for blood. With a mix of slasher thrills and mind-bending plot twists, Us offers scares that are both visceral and psychological. It’s a film that will leave you questioning who you really are—and who might be lurking in the shadows.
A Quiet Place: Day One
Alright, we know Hollywood loves its prequels and sequels, but sometimes, they really hit the mark. A Quiet Place: Day One is one of those times. Directed by Michael Sarnoski, this prequel dives into the origins of the silent apocalypse we know and fear from the original A Quiet Place films. Lupita Nyong’o shines as Samira, a cancer patient whose life is upended when alien creatures with ultrasonic hearing invade New York City. Suddenly, the struggle for silence isn’t just about survival—it’s about grappling with existential questions of life and death.
Nyong’o brings depth to her role, embodying a character who must navigate not only the terror of alien creatures but also her own inner turmoil. The dynamic between Samira and her anxious companion Eric (played by Joseph Quinn) adds an emotional layer to the high-stakes survival plot. With Michael Bay co-producing, you can expect some epic action sequences, but it’s Nyong’o’s performance that truly elevates the film. If you’re a fan of thoughtful, well-acted horror, this one’s a must-see.
Get Out
Jordan Peele’s debut film, Get Out, masterfully blends horror with social commentary, exploring the subtleties of racial tensions through the eyes of Chris, played by Daniel Kaluuya, a black man visiting his white girlfriend’s family. The film explores a mental kidnapping that’s sure to impose itself on you. The film explores what would happen if your mind was assimilated into a you like never before, without giving too much detail. The movie cleverly uses suspense and dark humor to critique societal norms, making it a standout in the genre. If you’re looking to for a mind-bender here’s a really great place to sit and get immersed.
Smile
Directed by Parker Finn, Smile is a chilling psychological horror film that centers around Dr. Rose Cotter, a therapist who begins experiencing disturbing and supernatural occurrences after witnessing the shocking suicide of a patient. This traumatic event seems to unleash a malevolent force that haunts her, manifesting through eerie smiles and strange happenings. The film expertly crafts a haunting atmosphere, delving into the psychological turmoil and paranoia that Rose experiences as she grapples with the curse. The narrative explores the fear of the unknown and the deep psychological scars left by trauma, leading to a series of terrifying and mysterious events that culminate in chilling and often grotesque outcomes.
Scream Series
The Scream TV series, inspired by the beloved slasher film franchise, offers a unique blend of horror and teen drama. The show introduces a new ensemble cast who bring a certain charm to their roles, though some viewers may find the performances less compelling compared to other shows. The series attempts to capture the meta-commentary and self-aware humor that characterized the original movies, though its execution can sometimes feel awkward or forced, particularly in its early episodes.
For fans of teen-centric thrillers, the show mixes familiar high school drama with slasher thrills, creating an experience that can be enjoyable if you’re in the mood for something light and playful. The series stays true to the Scream formula, delivering what fans of the franchise might expect, though it occasionally struggles to balance its homage to the original films with the need for fresh, engaging storytelling. Scream provides a nostalgic trip for fans of the genre, but it may not fully satisfy those looking for the sharp wit and tightly crafted suspense of the original movies. It’s a fun watch for those who appreciate a blend of horror and teen drama, but it may not resonate with everyone.