The Scariest Movies to Watch in the Dark 👻

1. Alien: Romulus, 2024

⭐️Rate: 8/10

🎬Review: I had high hopes for this one and what can I say : I just got back into the theatre again after the first showing because I couldn't wait to see it a second time. Remember how we always wondered if Alien and Blade Runner took place in the same universe? The world building was so well done and involving I was almost disappointed to remember after 30 minutes that I was to see an Alien movie. Almost. Because the rest is so good. The way the characters are built in relation to each other and against what's happening is masterful. I also love how the movie reunites thematically and lore wise ALL 6 movies that came before (there's a node to each and everyone of them and I'm a sucker for a good candy if it's done purposefully) while doing it's own thing. Because it IS a Fede Alvarez movie, as fresh and dynamic as the other movies he's done.

Finally, you just have to see the opening: as soon as the computer lights up, you know where you are and you know it's gonna be as respectful and familiar as possible. True, there are liberties taken with the lore and some will argue on these with reason but I personally can forgive those shortcuts because they serve the pace (and every movie has its own specific Xenomorphs anyway). There's no down time, always something happening. It checks the boxes but it's also unique and special. This was well worth the wait.

2. Tarot, 2024

⭐️Rate: 6/10

🎬Review: Its not as bad as the reviews and ratings suggest. Its perfectly wachable and entertaining enough for a one time watch. What it lacks is originality. If you have watched a few young adult /teen horrors with supernatural elements, this movie will feel very predictable. But it will not bore you if you like such movies. Just don't watch expecting anything new or ground breaking. Acting could also have been improved in some places. Visual effects were good. With a better & more original story, this could have been quite popular but it is what it is. Watch it if you are okay with predictable but entertaining horror movie, ignore if you are looking for a deep / original / masterpiece writing.

3. Oddity, 2024

⭐️Rate: 8/10

🎬Review: For anyone that watches a lot of horror, you'll know how difficult it is to scare audiences today.

This film got me. It's definitely without a doubt one of the scariest and most original indie horror films to come out in 2024. Oddity managed to tell what feels like a big story in really just a few locations. I can't imagine the budget was too big, and sometimes it felt low budget, but in my opinion, this only made it scarier. For some reason I always feel like big budget horror movies don't serve the scares as successfully because there's something comforting about the studio polish. This film had an indie grit and the jump scares were SO EFFECTIVE. I don't jump easily but this got me several times. And the story is also captivating. Highly recommend, especially for horror lovers!

4. Daddy's Head, 2024

⭐️Rate: 6/10

🎬Review: I recently watched the UK film EK Daddy's Head (2024) on Shudder. The story follows a young man living with his stepmother after the tragic death of his father. As they both struggle to cope with their loss, a strange figure emerges from the woods, claiming to be the boy's father. But what is buried in the woods, and is this really his father?

The film is written and directed by Benjamin Barfoot (Double Date) and stars Julia Brown (Shetland), Rupert Turnbull (Scrooge: A Christmas Carol), Nila Aalia (The Commuter), and Charles Aitken (Happy Death Day).

This film had a lot of potential. The casting and performances were spot on, and the settings, cinematography, and props effectively created a moody, atmospheric backdrop. The psychological struggles of the main characters felt authentic, making their vulnerability palpable.

However, despite the buildup, the villain or supernatural presence never fully takes over the film as you'd expect. The best horror elements come from the eerie sound effects of the creature, but even that isn't enough to carry the tension. The ending is especially disappointing, as it leaves you waiting for a climactic moment that never happens.

5. Caddo Lake, 2024

⭐️Rate: 8/10

🎬Review: I went into this knowing nothing about this movie, except the genre. I am glad that that was the case! I had no expectations and was able to just let the plot unfold and experience the discovery right along with the protagonists. I really enjoyed it. If it's not too late, l'd recommend not reading the plot summary or any detailed reviews before watching.

It starts out feeling a bit like a family drama but pay attention because sprinkled throughout are little plot supporting elements. You might even reach a point where you'll be wondering just what in the world is going on. Don't worry... it's all explained fairly neatly before it's done. Just hang in there!

What's the creepiest horror film you've seen recently? Comment below!

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