Top 10 horror films of 2024

“Longlegs,” directed by Osgood Perkins and released in 2024, is a horror-thriller that has garnered significant attention for its atmospheric storytelling and compelling performances. The film stars Maika Monroe as FBI agent Lee Harker, who is investigating a series of ritualistic murders linked to a mysterious figure known as “Longlegs,” portrayed by Nicolas Cage.

Critics have praised the film’s brooding atmosphere and the performances of its leads. David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter described it as Perkins’ “most fully realized and relentlessly effective film to date,” noting the blend of crime procedural and occult mystery elements. Bob Strauss of the San Francisco Chronicle highlighted how Perkins “blends psychological and supernatural horror in a manner not quite seen before,” commending the film’s dark, poetic cinema.

Nicolas Cage’s portrayal of the titular character has been particularly noted for its unsettling and memorable nature. The New York Post referred to it as one of his “most eccentric roles,” contributing to the film’s lingering frightful imagery. Maika Monroe’s performance as Agent Harker has also been well-received, adding depth to the film’s narrative.

However, some critics have pointed out areas where the film falls short. Richard Lawson of Vanity Fair commented that while “Longlegs” is “stylish,” it is also “vacuous,” suggesting that it lacks substance behind its foreboding presentation. Additionally, discussions have emerged regarding the film’s portrayal of androgynous characteristics, with some audience members perceiving potential issues related to representation.

“Longlegs” stands out as a notable entry in the horror genre for 2024, offering a blend of psychological and supernatural elements that create a haunting cinematic experience. Its combination of strong performances, particularly by Cage and Monroe, and Perkins’ atmospheric direction make it a film worth watching for horror enthusiasts.

“The Substance,” directed by Coralie Fargeat, is a 2024 body horror film that has garnered significant critical acclaim for its audacious storytelling and thematic depth. The narrative centers on Elisabeth Sparkle, portrayed by Demi Moore, an aging aerobics TV star who resorts to a mysterious substance to regain her youth, resulting in unforeseen and grotesque consequences.

Critics have lauded the film’s blend of horror and satire, with particular praise for Moore’s fearless performance. The Guardian describes it as “a cheerfully silly and outrageously indulgent piece of gonzo body-horror comedy,” highlighting Moore’s commitment to the role. IndieWire hails the film as “an epic, audacious body horror masterpiece,” emphasizing its status as an instant classic. Additionally, the film holds a positive reception on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics noting its “audaciously gross” and “wickedly clever” approach.

The film delves into themes of societal pressures on women’s bodies and the pursuit of eternal youth, offering a satirical critique of ageism and beauty standards in Hollywood. The New York Times notes that the film serves as “a mirror, and our discomfort reveals our own hidden biases and fears about ourselves.” Vulture highlights its commentary on addiction, comparing it to “Requiem for a Dream.”

Visually, “The Substance” is noted for its masterful cinematography and practical effects, which effectively evoke a sense of claustrophobia and anxiety. The film’s use of grotesque imagery and body horror elements has been compared to the works of David Cronenberg and David Lynch, creating a disturbing yet compelling viewing experience.

“The Substance” is recognized as a daring and provocative film that challenges societal norms and offers a fresh perspective on body horror, solidifying its place as one of the standout films of 2024.

“Heretic” is a 2024 horror-thriller directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, featuring Hugh Grant in a role that diverges from his typical character portrayals. The film centers on two young Mormon missionaries, played by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East, who encounter Mr. Reed (Grant), a reclusive man whose initial charm conceals a more sinister nature.

Critics have largely praised “Heretic” for its engaging dialogue and thematic depth. The film begins with intellectual discussions on faith and belief, gradually transitioning into a more traditional horror narrative. Hugh Grant’s performance has been highlighted as a standout, with Vanity Fair noting that he “deftly uses his Oxford sophistication” to enhance the character’s complexity.

Similarly, Decider observes that the movie divides into a “tense, dialogue-driven first half and a more typical horror-thriller second half.”

“Heretic” has also been noted for its commentary on religious themes, particularly how religion impacts women. The film delves into complex themes of belief and manipulation, offering a thought-provoking examination of faith and persuasion.

Highly recommended film for viewers interested in a horror film that combines intellectual debate with traditional genre elements. Oh and Hugh Grant’s performance is certainly worthy of Oscar consideration.

“The First Omen” (2024) serves as a prequel to the 1976 horror classic “The Omen,” exploring the origins of the malevolent forces that set the original narrative into motion. Directed by Arkasha Stevenson in her feature debut, the film has been noted for its atmospheric tension and strong performances, particularly by Nell Tiger Free in the lead role.

Visually, “The First Omen” has been lauded for its cinematography and unsettling imagery. The film features “truly grotesque and Cronenbergian images” that leave a lasting impression on the audience. Additionally, the film is noted for having “some actual scares that didn’t have a loud music cue to tell you to be scared,” indicating a reliance on genuine suspense over traditional horror tropes.

“The First Omen” is recommended for fans of atmospheric horror that prioritizes character development and psychological tension over conventional scares. Its connection to the original film adds an intriguing layer for those familiar with the series, while its standalone story offers a compelling experience for newcomers.

Nell Tiger Free’s portrayal of Margaret has received acclaim for adding depth to the narrative. Her performance is described as “fearless,” contributing significantly to the film’s impact. The film’s deliberate pacing and emphasis on building suspense have been both praised and critiqued. Some viewers appreciate the slow-burn approach, noting that it “builds a sense of evil” effectively. However, others feel that it “promises much at the start” but “lacks the strength of a true single-minded auteur at the wheel to guide it.”

“Oddity” is a 2024 Irish horror film written and directed by Damian Mc Carthy. The story follows Darcy, a blind psychic and curio shopkeeper, portrayed by Carolyn Bracken, who delves into the mysterious circumstances surrounding her twin sister’s murder. The film is set in a secluded, antiquated house filled with eerie artifacts, including a life-sized wooden mannequin that becomes central to the unfolding supernatural events.

Critics have praised “Oddity” for its atmospheric tension and meticulous craftsmanship. Sheila O’Malley of RogerEbert.com describes the film as “unnerving and unsettling,” highlighting Mc Carthy’s ability to build suspense through deliberate pacing and a focus on visual storytelling. O’Malley also commends Bracken’s performance, noting her portrayal of both Darcy and her twin sister Dani as a standout element of the film.

The film’s production design and cinematography have been widely acclaimed. Lauren Kelly’s work in creating the distinctive and haunting setting of the stone house is noted as superb, contributing significantly to the film’s immersive atmosphere. Cinematographer Colm Hogan’s use of shadows and lighting enhances the sense of dread, with scenes illuminated by fragile flashlight beams adding to the tension.

“Oddity” has been recognized for its patient storytelling, avoiding reliance on cheap jump scares or tired gimmicks. Instead, it builds a sense of dread until it becomes almost suffocating, with bursts of brutality and moments designed to unsettle the audience. This approach has been highlighted by Collider, which describes the film as having a strong sense of patience, effectively building tension throughout.

“Late Night with the Devil” is a 2023 horror film directed by Cameron and Colin Cairnes, featuring David Dastmalchian as Jack Delroy, a 1970s late-night talk show host who, in a bid to boost ratings, airs a live Halloween special that spirals into chaos as supernatural events unfold.

Critics have praised Dastmalchian’s performance, with RogerEbert.com highlighting his “phenomenally committed performance” that balances smarminess and likability, essential for capturing the 1970s talk show host persona.

The production design and period-accurate details have also been commended. Variety notes the “distinctive mix of vintage Me Decade showbiz cheese and Exorcist-y demonic doings,” showcasing the filmmakers’ attention to recreating the 1970s television atmosphere.

The film is a unique blend of horror and satire, offering a fresh take on the found-footage genre through its inventive premise and strong central performance.

Robert Eggers’ 2024 remake of “Nosferatu” has garnered significant attention for its atmospheric direction and strong performances, particularly by Lily-Rose Depp as Ellen Hutter and Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok. Critics have praised the film’s meticulous craftsmanship, with The Hollywood Reporter describing it as “exciting, repulsive and beautiful,” highlighting Eggers’ ability to build and sustain fear throughout the narrative.

The film’s visual aesthetics have been widely acclaimed. Skarsgård’s portrayal of Count Orlok deviates from the seductive vampire archetype, presenting a “hideous” and “disgusting” figure that aligns more closely with early 20th-century vampire lore.

Eggers’ “Nosferatu” is recognized for its atmospheric direction, compelling performances, and a fresh yet faithful rendition of the classic narrative, though some critics feel it doesn’t fully capture the enduring impact of the original. The film’s emphasis on style may overshadow its emotional impact. It lacks the lasting impression of its predecessor, suggesting that the remake occasionally feels “restrained and cautious.”

“In a Violent Nature,” directed by Chris Nash, is a 2024 Canadian slasher film that offers a distinctive twist on the genre by presenting the narrative from the killer’s perspective. The film follows Johnny, a mute and undead killer accidentally resurrected by a group of teenagers in the Ontario wilderness, leading to a series of gruesome events.

The film’s stylistic choices, including static long takes and the absence of a musical score, contribute to its documentary-like realism. This minimalist approach has been compared to the works of directors like Gus Van Sant and Terrence Malick, emphasizing a slow, deliberate pacing that builds tension.

The film is appreciated for its innovative perspective and atmospheric execution, offering a fresh take on slasher conventions that may appeal to fans seeking a different approach to the genre.cessor, suggesting that the remake occasionally feels “restrained and cautious.”

“Exhuma,” directed by Jang Jae-hyun, is a 2024 South Korean horror film that delves into shamanistic rituals and the supernatural. The narrative centers on a wealthy Korean-American family whose first-born male child is plagued by incessant crying, leading them to seek the expertise of Korean shamans and a geomancer to uncover the source of the affliction.

The film’s portrayal of Korean shamanism and traditional rituals has been particularly noted. Lee Yoon-seo of The Korea Herald praises the “super-realistic, detailed scenes depicting Korean shamanism,” suggesting that these elements elevate the horror experience to a new level.

“Infested” (original French title: “Vermines”) is a 2023 French horror film directed by Sébastien Vaniček in his feature directorial debut. The film stars Théo Christine as Kaleb, a young man with a passion for exotic creatures, who inadvertently unleashes a deadly spider infestation in his apartment complex. The supporting cast includes Sofia Lesaffre, Jérôme Niel, Lisa Nyarko, and Finnegan Oldfield.

The narrative centers on Kaleb, who brings home a lethal desert spider that escapes and rapidly reproduces, leading to a terrifying infestation that traps the building’s residents. The film combines elements of creature horror with social commentary, highlighting issues such as class and racial discrimination, as well as police brutality in French suburbs. The film premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival and was later acquired by Shudder for streaming in the United States, Canada, and other territories. It began streaming on Shudder on April 26, 2024.