As the year 2023 comes to an end, horror fans and casual moviegoers alike can reflect on the diverse and spine-chilling offerings that hit theaters this year.
From psychological thrillers to supernatural nightmares, the horror genre experienced a spectrum of tales that captivated audiences. Here are the top 10 horror movies that defined the year
10. Infinity Pool
Directed by Brandon Cronenberg and starring Alexander Skarsgård, Mia Goth, and Cleopatra Coleman, Infinity Pool delves into the dark culture of a vacation destination.
The film follows a struggling writer and his wife, who, after an accident, uncover the sinister secrets of the country they’re visiting. The movie combines psychedelic imagery with distressing brutality, making it a memorable and unsettling experience.
9. The Blackening
Directed by Tim Story, The Blackening is a black comedy slasher set on Juneteenth. A group of Black friends staying at a cabin in the woods becomes the target of a masked killer. Filled with wacky characters and clever twists, the film is a delightful genre comedy, offering a fresh take on well-established tropes.
8. Saw X
The tenth installment in the Saw film series, Saw X, takes a back-to-basics approach. Directed by Kevin Greutert, the film serves as both a direct sequel to Saw (2004) and a prequel to Saw II (2005).
Tobin Bell reprises his role as John Kramer, seeking revenge on those responsible for a fraudulent medical procedure. The film delivers twists, stomach-churning traps, and a return to the franchise’s roots.
7. M3GAN
Directed by Gerard Johnstone, M3GAN explores the dangers of artificial intelligence. Starring Allison Williams, the film revolves around an AI doll named M3GAN that develops self-awareness and becomes hostile. Despite its PG-13 rating, M3GAN proved to be a box office success, offering a thrilling and viral experience.
6. Knock at the Cabin
Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, Knock at the Cabin is an apocalyptic psychological horror film based on the novel by Paul G. Tremblay. The movie follows a family held hostage by four strangers who make unimaginable demands. Shyamalan’s storytelling prowess shines as evil lurks around every corner in this intimate thriller.
5. Scream VI
Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, Scream VI continues the legacy of the iconic slasher series. Picking up after the events of Scream (2022), the film follows the sisters as they face yet another Ghostface killer in New York City. With great set pieces, nods to previous installments, and a stellar cast, Scream VI is a fresh and electric addition to the franchise.
4. Evil Dead Rise
Directed by Lee Cronin, Evil Dead Rise is the fifth installment in the Evil Dead film series. The movie brings gory tribute to the Sam Raimi series with a change of scenery to an apartment complex. Starring Lily Sullivan and Alyssa Sutherland, the film introduces a new monster to the Evil Dead lore, delivering a thrilling and visceral experience.
3. Beau Is Afraid
Directed by Ari Aster, Beau Is Afraid is a surrealist tragicomedy horror film starring Joaquin Phoenix. The film explores anxiety with meticulous detail as the protagonist embarks on a surreal odyssey to attend his mother’s funeral. Aster’s divisive masterpiece offers a suffocating and waking nightmare that resonates with audiences.
2. Talk to Me
Directed by Danny and Michael Philippou, Talk to Me became A24’s highest-grossing horror title domestically. The film follows a group of teenagers who discover they can contact spirits using a mysterious severed and embalmed hand. With inventive imagery and shocking gore, Talk to Me is a talk of horror fans, showcasing the Philippou brothers’ talent.
1. Skinamarink
In the top spot is Skinamarink, a Canadian experimental supernatural horror film directed by Kyle Edward Ball. The film follows two children who wake up to discover their father missing, and the world around them starts disappearing.
Ball’s debut feature is divisive, walking the tightrope between narrative and art piece, anxiety and tedium, and fantasy and reality. Skinamarink is a unique and transformative horror experience that challenges traditional perceptions of the genre.
