The Most Anticipated and Must-Watch Horror Movies of 2024

Horror in 2024 is shaping up to be a smorgasbord of chills, twists, and mind-bending narratives.

Whether you’re into supernatural possession, psychological dread, or visceral creature features, this year’s line-up is stacked with films that redefine terror.

Let’s dive into the standouts—and the ones stirring up conversation—from indie darlings to blockbuster hits.

Highlights of 2024 Horror Films

Smile 2: The Nightmare Returns

When Skye Riley—a global pop sensation—finds herself spiralling into paranoia during her world tour, the tension is almost unbearable.

Smile 2 expands on the original’s premise with Naomi Scott leading a haunting tale of fame’s darker side.

Currently available for streaming on Amazon Prime and Apple TV, it’s being hailed as an improved sequel, with Rotten Tomatoes reflecting an 85% critic score, surpassing its predecessor’s 79%.

Late Night with the Devil: A Devilishly Good Time

David Dastmalchian steals the show in this possession horror, set during a 1970s talk show gone horribly wrong.

Equal parts nostalgia and terror, Late Night with the Devil has received praise for its unique blend of period aesthetics and modern scares.

Keep an eye out for its theatrical run or upcoming streaming release.

The Substance: Body Horror Mastery

Coralie Fargeat’s latest film is a gruesome yet poignant exploration of self-perfection.

Demi Moore’s performance—possibly her finest—anchors this visceral story about a beauty product with horrific consequences.

Now showing in select cinemas, The Substance is expected to hit streaming platforms in the coming months.

Hidden Gems Worth Your Time

Strange Darling: Indie Excellence

This cat-and-mouse thriller elevates the genre with its unpredictable narrative and stellar performances by Willa Fitzgerald and Kyle Gallner.

Its shocking ending lingers long after the credits roll. Available now on Shudder, it’s a must-watch for fans of indie horror.

Infested: Arachnophobes Beware

This French creature feature brings an avalanche of deadly spiders to a decrepit apartment complex.

With stylish direction and an undercurrent of family drama, Infested is more than just creepy-crawlies. Currently streaming on Shudder.

I Saw the TV Glow: Surreal Horror

A24 delivers yet again with a tale of teens connected through a mysterious cult TV series.

Jane Schoenbrun’s bold storytelling combines nostalgia with emotional depth, creating a uniquely unsettling experience. Streaming now on Amazon Prime.

In a Violent Nature: Slasher Reimagined

This indie horror-slasher, written and directed by Chris Nash, premiered at the Sundance Film Festival.

Known for its gripping narrative and visceral intensity, it’s a highlight for fans of IFC Films and edgy storytelling.

Upcoming Releases to Keep on Your Radar

Nosferatu: A Classic Reimagined

Robert Eggers’ much-anticipated take on this horror staple promises to bring his signature eerie aesthetic to one of cinema’s most iconic characters.

Set for release later this year, it’s a gothic masterpiece in the making.

Heretic: Faith Meets Fear

Hugh Grant’s against-type performance is already generating conversation.

This film intertwines theological dread with psychological tension, proving horror can be cerebral as well as spine-chilling.

A Quiet Place: Day One: Expanding the Universe

This prequel ventures into the origins of silence. Lupita Nyong’o’s raw performance anchors the film’s emotional core, offering fresh insights into the quiet terror that defined its predecessors.

Expected to hit cinemas early next year.

Why 2024 Horror Feels Fresh

This year, horror is shedding predictable tropes in favour of experimental narratives.

From stop-motion terrors in Stopmotion to genre-bending entries like Cuckoo, the variety is staggering.

Many films balance scares with poignant themes—be it societal decay (Humane), personal demons (Arcadian), or artistic obsession (Stopmotion).

Indie horror is particularly thriving, showcasing experimental narratives and fresh talent.

Films like I Saw the TV Glow and Late Night with the Devil push the envelope with bold themes and innovative approaches.

Other standouts, such as In a Violent Nature and The Substance, highlight how indie filmmakers are redefining genre boundaries.

It’s not just about what scares us but how those fears are delivered.

The tactile eeriness of The Devil’s Bath and the grotesque beauty of The First Omen illustrate how directors are using horror to explore deeper human experiences.

Streaming vs. Cinema: Where to Watch?

With many titles, such as Smile 2 and Infested, already available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Shudder, the convenience of streaming is undeniable.

However, cinematic gems like The Substance and Late Night with the Devil make a strong case for the theatre experience, where the shared dread heightens every jolt.

Keep an eye on upcoming release dates to catch these films at their peak.

The Verdict

2024’s horror landscape is a playground for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a connoisseur of arthouse chills or a sucker for slashers, there’s something for everyone.

This year’s horror films promise to leave a lasting impression—and maybe a few sleepless nights.

What’s your pick for the scariest movie of 2024? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the horror discussion alive!