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Top 21 Scariest Horror Movies of the 2010s: From Get Out to Midsommar and more!

Top 21 Scariest Horror Movies of the 2010s: From Get Out to Midsommar and more!

Welcome to the Sinister World of the Twenty-Tens

Horror movies have been a staple of cinema since the earliest days of motion pictures, and the 2010s saw a resurgence in the popularity of the genre, thanks in part to a new generation of filmmakers who brought fresh ideas and techniques to the table.

From gory slasher flicks to spine-chilling supernatural thrillers, this decade delivered some of the most iconic and groundbreaking horror films in recent history – and we are just about to present the best of them.

Each film on our list offers a unique and hauntingly unforgettable experience, showcasing the impressive creativity and vision of the filmmakers behind them. These movies have not only terrified us but have also challenged societal norms and explored complex themes.

Our selection includes a wide range of sub-genres, from the atmospheric slow-burners to the intense jump-scare heavy thrillers. Some of these films have become instant classics, while others have flown under the radar but deserve just as much attention.

Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or just starting to dip your toes into the genre, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a spine-tingling journey through the best horror films of the 2010s.

This collection is an episode of FrameTrek’s Best Horror Movies of All Time, a mega-journey dedicated to identify the spookiest films of each cinematic era, chronologically. It starts with the Horrors of the Silent Era and wanders ahead decade-by-decade, all the way to our ever-moving present.


Presenting the 21 Best Horror Movies of the 2010s

Chronologically


1. Insidious (2010)

Insidious (2010), James Wan, Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Barbara Hershey, Best horror movies of the 2010s

Supernatural horror film directed by James Wan, starring Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne and Barbara Hershey.

Story: A family looks to prevent evil spirits from trapping their comatose child in a realm called The Further. (IMDb)

Aside from a shaky final act, Insidious is a very scary and very fun haunted house thrill ride.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Insidious among the best horror films from the 2010s?

Unique concept: The movie introduces a fresh concept that is different from the usual horror movie tropes, making it an exciting watch for those looking for something new.

Spine-chilling atmosphere: The movie has an eerie atmosphere that sets the tone for the horror elements to come, making it a perfect fit for horror movie fans who crave that spine-tingling sensation.

Superb performances: The cast delivers exceptional performances that lend an extra layer of authenticity to the movie, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates great acting.

Classic horror elements: The movie brings back classic horror movie elements such as ghosts and possessions, making it a great watch for those who want to relive the nostalgia of classic horror movies.


2. The Cabin in the Woods (2011)

The Cabin in the Woods (2011), Drew Goddard, Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Top horror movies of the 2010s

Science fiction comedy horror film directed by Drew Goddard, starring Kristen ConnollyChris Hemsworth and Anna Hutchison.

Story: Five friends go for a break at a remote cabin, where they get more than they bargained for, discovering the truth behind the cabin in the woods. (IMDb)

The Cabin in the Woods is an astonishing meta-feat, capable of being funny, strange, and scary — frequently all at the same time.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is The Cabin in the Woods among the greatest horror films of the 2010s?

✪ Unique monsters: The movie features unique monsters that are both terrifying and fascinating, making it a great watch for those who appreciate creature design.

Clever writing: The movie has clever writing that keeps the audience engaged and entertained throughout, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate smart and witty humor.

Great performances: The cast delivers fantastic performances, bringing a level of depth and realism to their characters, making it a great watch for those who appreciate strong acting.

Homage to classic horror: The movie pays homage to classic horror movie tropes while also subverting them, making it a great watch for those who love horror movies.


3. World War Z (2013)

World War Z (2013), Marc Forster, Brad Pitt, Mireille Enos, James Badge Dale, Most famous horror movies from the 2010s

Action horror film directed by Marc Forster, starring Brad PittMireille Enos and James Badge Dale.

Story: Former United Nations employee Gerry Lane traverses the world in a race against time to stop a zombie pandemic that is toppling armies and governments and threatens to destroy humanity itself. (IMDb)

It’s uneven and diverges from the source book, but World War Z still brings smart, fast-moving thrills and a solid performance from Brad Pitt to the zombie genre.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is World War Z among the most popular horror films from the 2010s?

Unique take on zombies: Instead of focusing on the typical slow-moving, flesh-eating zombies, the movie introduces fast-moving, aggressive zombies that are more similar to a swarm of insects.

High-octane action: The movie features intense and thrilling action sequences that are expertly choreographed and executed. This makes it a great watch for action movie fans who are looking for something with a lot of excitement and energy.

High production values: The movie has high production values, with stunning visual effects and impressive set design that create a fully realized and immersive world.

Brad Pitt’s performance: The movie stars Brad Pitt as the lead character, who is tasked with finding the source of the zombie outbreak. Pitt delivers a strong performance that anchors the movie and brings depth to the character.


4. The Conjuring (2013)

The Conjuring (2013), James Wan, Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Ron Livingston, Iconic horror movies of the 2010s

Supernatural horror film directed by James Wan, starring Patrick WilsonVera Farmiga and Ron Livingston.

Story: Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren work to help a family terrorized by a dark presence in their farmhouse. (IMDb)

Well-crafted and gleefully creepy, The Conjuring ratchets up dread through a series of effective old-school scares.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is The Conjuring among the classic horror films of the 2010s?

Suspenseful storytelling: The movie is expertly crafted to keep the audience on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. The pacing is just right, with moments of intense suspense balanced out by quieter moments of character development and world-building.

Great performances: The movie features strong performances from its entire cast, including Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as the Warrens. These actors bring a level of depth and nuance to their roles that elevates the film above the typical horror fare.

Atmospheric setting: The Conjuring takes place in a creepy old farmhouse in rural Rhode Island, which serves as the perfect setting for a horror movie. The creaky floorboards, dark corners, and eerie atmosphere all contribute to the film’s overall sense of dread.

Strong direction: Director James Wan has become one of the most well-respected horror directors of its time, and The Conjuring is one of his best works. His attention to detail and masterful use of camera angles and lighting create a truly terrifying experience for viewers.


5. Warm Bodies (2013)

Warm Bodies (2013), Jonathan Levine, Nicholas Hoult, Teresa Palmer, Rob Corddry, Best horror films of the 2010s

Paranormal romantic zombie comedy film written and directed by Jonathan Levine, starring Nicholas HoultTeresa PalmerRob Corddry.

Story: After a highly unusual zombie saves a still-living girl from an attack, the two form a relationship that sets in motion events that might transform the entire lifeless world. (IMDb)

Warm Bodies offers a sweet, well-acted spin on a genre that all too often lives down to its brain-dead protagonists.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Warm Bodies among the top horror films of the 2010s?

Unique twist on the zombie genre: Warm Bodies takes a fresh and unique approach to the classic zombie genre by telling the story from the perspective of a zombie who begins to regain his humanity.

Excellent pacing: The movie is well-paced and never drags, with just the right amount of action, romance, and humor to keep the audience engaged.

Strong performances: The film features strong performances from its lead actors, including Nicholas Hoult as the zombie protagonist and Teresa Palmer as his love interest. They bring depth and charm to their roles, which helps to anchor the film.

Surprising depth: Despite its comedic premise, the film actually has surprising depth and explores themes like the nature of humanity, the power of love, and the importance of connection.


6. It Follows (2014)

It Follows (2014), David Robert Mitchell, Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist, Olivia Luccardi, Scary horror movies of the 2010s

Mystery horror film written and directed by David Robert Mitchell, starring Maika MonroeKeir Gilchrist and Olivia Luccardi.

Story: A young woman is followed by an unknown supernatural force after a sexual encounter. (IMDb)

Smart, original, and above all terrifying, It Follows is the rare modern horror film that works on multiple levels — and leaves a lingering sting.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is It Follows among the greatest horror movies from the 2010s?

Unique premise: It Follows has a unique and original premise that sets it apart from other horror films. The idea of a supernatural entity that follows its victim until it catches them is both terrifying and fascinating.

Strong performances: The film features strong performances from its cast, particularly Maika Monroe as the lead character Jay. Her portrayal of a young woman struggling with a terrifying supernatural threat is both compelling and realistic.

Unpredictable plot: The movie’s plot is unpredictable and keeps the audience guessing until the very end, which makes for a thrilling viewing experience.

Critical acclaim: It Follows has received widespread critical acclaim since its release, with many critics praising its originality, atmosphere, and strong performances. It has become a beloved part of modern horror cinema.


7. The Babadook (2014)

The Babadook (2014), Jennifer Kent, Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman, Hayley McElhinney, Most famous horror films from the 2010s

Psychological horror film written and directed by Jennifer Kent, starring Essie DavisNoah Wiseman and Hayley McElhinney.

Story: A single mother and her child fall into a deep well of paranoia when an eerie children’s book titled “Mister Babadook” manifests in their home. (IMDb)

The Babadook relies on real horror rather than cheap jump scares — and boasts a heartfelt, genuinely moving story to boot.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is The Babadook among the scariest horror films of the 2010s?

Outstanding performances: The movie features outstanding performances from its lead actors, Essie Davis and Noah Wiseman. Their performances as a mother and son struggling to deal with a malevolent force are both intense and emotional.

Tense atmosphere: The movie creates a consistently tense and creepy atmosphere that keeps the audience on edge throughout. The film’s use of lighting, sound, and visual effects creates a foreboding mood that never lets up, even during the quieter moments.

Well-crafted scares: The movie’s scares are well-crafted and rely on mood and atmosphere rather than cheap jump scares or gore. The film’s ability to keep the audience on edge without resorting to cheap thrills is a testament to its skillful direction and writing.

Critically acclaimed: The film has received widespread critical acclaim, with many critics praising its originality, performances, and psychological depth. The Babadook has been hailed as one of the best horror films of the decade, and has received numerous awards and nominations.


8. Split (2016)

Split (2016), M. Night Shyamalan, James McAvoy, Anya Taylor-Joy, Betty Buckley, Most popular horror movies of the 2010s

Psychological horror thriller film written, directed and produced by M. Night Shyamalan, starring James McAvoyAnya Taylor-Joy and Betty Buckley.

Story: Three girls, led by the wittiest Casey are abducted by a man with a multiple personality disorder. He has 23 personalities and the girls have to find the ones that will help set them free. Yet, things get a little scarier when a frightening 24th persona, “The Beast”, is coming for them. (IMDb)

Split serves as a dramatic tour de force for James McAvoy in multiple roles — and finds writer-director M. Night Shyamalan returning resoundingly to thrilling form.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Split among the iconic horror films of the 2010s?

Intense performance by James McAvoy: James McAvoy delivers an intense and nuanced performance as the lead character, embodying the different personalities with impressive range and depth.

Suspenseful storytelling: Director M. Night Shyamalan masterfully builds suspense throughout the movie, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds.

Psychological thriller: Split is a psychological thriller that explores themes like dissociative identity disorder, trauma, and survival, offering a thought-provoking and unsettling viewing experience.

Great cinematography: The movie’s cinematography is visually stunning, making great use of shadows, lighting, and camera angles to create a tense and eerie atmosphere.


9. 10 Cloverfield Lane (2016)

10 Cloverfield Lane (2016), Dan Trachtenberg, Mary Elizabeth Winstead, John Goodman, John Gallagher Jr, Classic horror movies from the 2010s

Science fiction psychological horror thriller film directed by Dan Trachtenberg, starring Mary Elizabeth WinsteadJohn Goodman, and John Gallagher Jr.

Story: A young woman is held in an underground bunker by a man who insists that a hostile event has left the surface of the Earth uninhabitable. (IMDb)

Smart, solidly crafted, and palpably tense, 10 Cloverfield Lane makes the most of its confined setting and outstanding cast — and suggests a new frontier for franchise filmmaking.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is 10 Cloverfield Lane among the best horror movies from the 2010s?

Suspenseful storytelling: Director Dan Trachtenberg masterfully builds suspense throughout the movie, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds.

Psychological thriller: 10 Cloverfield Lane is a psychological thriller that explores themes like paranoia, trust, and survival, offering a thought-provoking and tense viewing experience.

Minimalist approach: The movie’s minimalist approach, with much of the action taking place within the confines of the bunker, adds to the tension and claustrophobic atmosphere.

Great cinematography: The movie’s cinematography is visually striking, making great use of lighting and camera angles to create a suspenseful and unsettling atmosphere.


10. Don’t Breathe (2016)

Don’t Breathe (2016), Fede Álvarez, Jane Levy, Dylan Minnette, Stephen Lang, Top horror movies from the 2010s

Horror-thriller film produced and directed by Fede Álvarez, starring Jane LevyDylan Minnette and Stephen Lang.

Story: Hoping to walk away with a massive fortune, a trio of thieves break into the house of a blind man who isn’t as helpless as he seems. (IMDb)

Don’t Breathe smartly twists its sturdy premise to offer a satisfyingly tense, chilling addition to the home invasion genre that’s all the more effective for its simplicity.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Don’t Breathe among the greatest horror movies of the 2010s?

Intense and physical performance by Stephen Lang: Stephen Lang delivers an intense and physical performance as the blind man, adding an extra layer of tension to the film.

Psychological thriller: Don’t Breathe is a psychological thriller that explores themes like justice, revenge, and survival, offering a thought-provoking and intense viewing experience.

Great cinematography: The movie’s cinematography is visually stunning, making great use of shadows, lighting, and camera angles to create a tense and eerie atmosphere.

Suspenseful storytelling: Director Fede Alvarez masterfully builds suspense throughout the movie, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the story unfolds.


11. Train to Busan (2016)

Train to Busan (2016), Yeon Sang-ho, Gong Yoo, Jung Yu-mi, Ma Dong-seok, Scary horror films of the 2010s

South Korean action horror film directed by Yeon Sang-ho, starring Gong YooJung Yu-mi and Ma Dong-seok.

Story: While a zombie virus breaks out in South Korea, passengers struggle to survive on the train from Seoul to Busan. (IMDb)

Train to Busan delivers a thrillingly unique — and purely entertaining — take on the zombie genre, with fully realized characters and plenty of social commentary to underscore the bursts of skillfully staged action.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Train to Busan among the classic horror movies of the 2010s?

Unique Setting: The movie takes place on a train, making it a unique and exciting setting for a zombie movie. The confined space of the train adds to the intensity of the action and helps to build suspense.

Emotional Connection: One of the strongest aspects of the movie is its ability to create emotional connections with its characters. You’ll find yourself caring about their fates, which heightens the intensity of the action scenes.

Realistic Zombies: Unlike many other zombie movies, Train to Busan’s zombies are fast, terrifying, and extremely realistic. The movie’s special effects team did an excellent job of creating creatures that are both frightening and believable.

Critically Acclaimed: Train to Busan has received rave reviews from critics and audiences alike. The movie has been praised for its unique setting, strong performances, and ability to blend action and emotion.


12. Get Out (2017)

Get Out (2017), Jordan Peele, Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford, Scariest horror movies from the 2010s

Psychological horror film written, co-produced, and directed by Jordan Peele, starring Daniel KaluuyaAllison Williams and Bradley Whitford.

Story: Chris and his girlfriend Rose go upstate to visit her parents for the weekend. At first, Chris reads the family’s overly accommodating behavior as nervous attempts to deal with their daughter’s interracial relationship, but as the weekend progresses, a series of increasingly disturbing discoveries lead him to a truth that he never could have imagined. (IMDb)

Funny, scary, and thought-provoking, Get Out seamlessly weaves its trenchant social critiques into a brilliantly effective and entertaining horror/comedy thrill ride.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Get Out among the iconic horror movies from the 2010s?

Creepy Atmosphere: From the opening scene to the final frame, “Get Out” creates a chilling and unsettling atmosphere that adds to the suspense and horror. The cinematography, music, and sound design all work together to create a sense of unease that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.

Surprise Twists: One of the things that makes “Get Out” so effective is its unexpected plot twists. Just when you think you know where the story is going, the film throws you a curveball, keeping you guessing until the very end.

Engaging Storytelling: Director Jordan Peele crafts a compelling narrative that explores deeper themes while still being entertaining. The film is expertly paced, with a structure that keeps audiences engaged and invested in the story.

Cultural Impact: This film sparked discussions about race and racism in the film industry and beyond, making it a significant cultural milestone.


13. It (2017)

It (2017), Andy Muschietti, Jaeden Lieberher, Bill Skarsgard, Scary horror movies from the 2010s

Supernatural horror film directed by Andy Muschietti, starring Jaeden Lieberher and Bill Skarsgard.

Story: After recent cases of disappearing local kids in the town of Derry, Maine, IT follows a group of kids dubbed “The Losers’ Club” in the summer of 1989 and their discovery and scary encounters of a shape-shifting demonic entity, known to return every 27 years and preys on your own personal fears. (IMDb)

Well-acted and fiendishly frightening with an emotionally affecting story at its core, It amplifies the horror in Stephen King’s classic story without losing touch with its heart.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is It among the most popular horror films of the 2010s?

Great acting: The young cast of “It” is impressive, bringing a level of realism and depth to their roles that is rare in horror movies. You’ll be invested in their characters and rooting for them to survive.

Iconic villain: Bill Skarsgård’s creepy and unsettling performance as Pennywise, the iconic clown, is both terrifying and captivating, adding to the film’s overall creepiness.

Beautiful cinematography: The film’s cinematography is stunning, with striking visuals and creative camera angles that enhance the eerie atmosphere and keep you on the edge of your seat.

Expertly crafted scares: The film’s scares are expertly crafted, using a mix of jump scares and psychological terror to keep you on edge and scared out of your wits.


14. Alien: Covenant (2017)

Alien: Covenant (2017), Ridley Scott, Michael Fassbender, Katherine Waterston, Billy Crudup, Most famous horror movies of the 2010s

Science fiction action horror film directed and produced by Ridley Scott, starring Michael FassbenderKatherine Waterston and Billy Crudup.

Story: The crew of a colony ship, bound for a remote planet, discover an uncharted paradise with a threat beyond their imagination, and must attempt a harrowing escape. (IMDb)

Alien: Covenant delivers another satisfying round of close-quarters deep-space terror, even if it doesn’t take the saga in any new directions.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Alien: Covenant among the best horror movies of the 2010s?

✪ Memorable performances: The film boasts an impressive cast, including Michael Fassbender and Katherine Waterston, who deliver powerful performances that add depth to the story and its characters.

✪ Spectacular visuals: The film’s stunning visuals, from the eerie planet landscapes to the design of the deadly Xenomorphs, make for an immersive and terrifying sci-fi experience.

✪ Expertly crafted tension: The film builds tension masterfully, using sound design, cinematography, and pacing to keep you on the edge of your seat and scared out of your wits.

✪ Creative and thrilling action: The film’s action scenes are creative and thrilling, with the crew facing off against the deadly alien species in intense and terrifying battles.


15. A Quiet Place (2018)

A Quiet Place (2018), John Krasinski, Emily Blunt, John Krasinski, Millicent Simmonds, Best horror films from the 2010s

Post-apocalyptic science fiction horror film directed by John Krasinski, starring Emily BluntJohn Krasinski and Millicent Simmonds.

Story: Two parents do what it takes to keep their children safe in a world full of creatures hunting every sound they can hear. Not a sound can be heard from the family hiding in silence, but all it takes is one noise and everything can go wrong. (IMDb)

A Quiet Place artfully plays on elemental fears with a ruthlessly intelligent creature feature that’s as original as it is scary — and establishes director John Krasinski as a rising talent.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is A Quiet Place among the scariest horror movies of the 2010s?

Intense and suspenseful: The film’s use of silence and sound creates a sense of intensity and suspense that is rarely seen in horror movies, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout the film.

Stellar performances: The cast, including Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, deliver outstanding performances that make you care about their characters and invest in their survival.

Visual storytelling: The film’s use of visual storytelling, with minimal dialogue and reliance on body language and facial expressions, adds to the overall sense of tension and unease.

Expertly crafted scares: The film’s scares are expertly crafted, using a combination of jump scares and psychological horror to create a sense of terror that stays with you long after the credits roll.


16. Bird Box (2018)

Bird Box (2018), Susanne Bier, Sandra Bullock, Trevante Rhodes, John Malkovich, Scary horror films from the 2010s

Post-apocalyptic horror thriller film directed by Susanne Bier, starring Sandra BullockTrevante Rhodes and John Malkovich.

Story: Five years after an ominous unseen presence drives most of society to suicide, a mother and her two children make a desperate bid to reach safety. (IMDb)

Bird Box never quite reaches its intriguing potential, but strong acting and an effectively chilly mood offer intermittently creepy compensation.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Bird Box among the most scariest horror films from the 2010s?

✪ Tense and suspenseful: The film’s use of tension and suspense creates a sense of unease and fear that grips you from start to finish, making it a thrilling horror movie.

✪ Strong performances: The cast, led by Sandra Bullock, delivers strong performances that make you care about their characters and invest in their survival.

✪ Exploration of human nature: Bird Box delves into the depths of human nature, exploring how fear and survival instincts can bring out the best and worst in people.

✪ Global phenomenon: Bird Box became a global phenomenon upon its release, with social media buzz and a viral challenge, making it a must-see movie for its cultural impact alone.


17. Annihilation (2018)

Annihilation (2018), Alex Garland, Natalie Portman, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Gina Rodriguez, Classic horror films from the 2010s

Science fiction psychological horror film written and directed by Alex Garland, starring Natalie PortmanJennifer Jason Leigh and Gina Rodriguez.

Story: A biologist signs up for a dangerous, secret expedition into a mysterious zone where the laws of nature don’t apply. (IMDb)

Annihilation backs up its sci-fi visual wonders and visceral genre thrills with an impressively ambitious — and surprisingly strange — exploration of challenging themes that should leave audiences pondering long after the end credits roll.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Annihilation among the most best horror films of the 2010s?

✪ Stunning Visuals: From the incredible special effects to the mesmerizing landscapes, Annihilation is a feast for the eyes that will transport you to another world.

✪ Thought-Provoking Themes: Touching on themes such as identity, mortality, and the nature of existence, Annihilation is a film that will leave you pondering the big questions long after the credits roll.

✪ Intense Horror: With its unsettling and gruesome scenes, chilling creature designs and intense sequences of terror, Annihilation delivers a terrifying horror experience that will have you jumping out of your seat.

✪ Deeply Emotional – While it may be a sci-fi thriller at heart, Annihilation is also a deeply emotional film that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling deeply moved.


18. Hereditary (2018)

Hereditary (2018), Ari Aster, Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro, Top horror films from the 2010s

Psychological horror film written and directed by Ari Aster, starring Toni ColletteAlex Wolff and Milly Shapiro.

Story: A grieving family is haunted by tragic and disturbing occurrences. (IMDb)

Hereditary uses its classic setup as the framework for a harrowing, uncommonly unsettling horror film whose cold touch lingers long beyond the closing credits.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Hereditary among the scariest horror movies of the 2010s?

✪ Masterful Acting: Featuring outstanding performances from Toni Collette and Alex Wolff, Hereditary showcases the incredible talent of its cast, who bring to life a deeply emotional and terrifying story.

✪ Terrifying Imagery: From the gruesome and unsettling visuals to the shocking and disturbing twists, Hereditary is a horror film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

✪ Exceptional Directing: Directed by Ari Aster, Hereditary is a visually stunning film that is expertly crafted, with an eye for detail that adds to the film’s overall sense of dread.

✪ Psychological Horror: Hereditary isn’t just a jump-scare horror film, it’s a psychological thriller that plays with your mind and leaves you questioning what is real and what is not.


19. Midsommar (2019)

Midsommar (2019), Ari Aster, Florence Pugh, Jack Reynor, William Jackson Harper, Iconic horror films from the 2010s

Folk horror film written and directed by Ari Aster, starring Florence PughJack Reynor and William Jackson Harper.

Story: A couple travels to Northern Europe to visit a rural hometown’s fabled Swedish mid-summer festival. What begins as an idyllic retreat quickly devolves into an increasingly violent and bizarre competition at the hands of a pagan cult. (IMDb)

Ambitious, impressively crafted, and above all unsettling, Midsommar further proves writer-director Ari Aster is a horror auteur to be reckoned with.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Midsommar among the greatest horror films from the 2010s?

✪ Unsettling Atmosphere: From the opening scene, Midsommar creates a sense of unease that grows throughout the film, leaving you on edge and constantly wondering what will happen next.

✪ Cult Horror – Midsommar takes the cult horror genre to new heights, exploring the dangerous allure of community and the horrors that lurk beneath the surface.

✪ Disturbing Imagery: From the vivid and colorful depictions of pagan rituals to the unsettling and gruesome scenes of violence, Midsommar is a horror film that is not for the faint of heart.

✪ Masterful Acting: Florence Pugh delivers an outstanding performance that is both nuanced and emotionally impactful, anchoring the film’s disturbing and haunting story.


20. Us (2019)

Us (2019), Jordan Peele, Lupita Nyong’o, Winston Duke, Elisabeth Moss, Most famous horror films of the 2010s

Psychological horror film written and directed by Jordan Peele, starring Lupita Nyong’oWinston Duke and Elisabeth Moss.

Story: A family’s serene beach vacation turns to chaos when their doppelgängers appear and begin to terrorize them. (IMDb)

With Jordan Peele’s second inventive, ambitious horror film, we have seen how to beat the sophomore jinx, and it is Us.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is Us among the best horror movies from the 2010s?

✪ Creepy Atmosphere: Us creates a tense and creepy atmosphere that will keep you on edge throughout the film. From its eerie score to its unsettling visuals, the film builds a sense of unease and dread that is both effective and memorable.

✪ Psychological Horror: Us is not just a traditional horror film, it’s a psychological thriller that will make you question what is real and what is not. The film explores themes of identity, trauma, and the shadow self, adding depth and complexity to the story.

✪ Terrifying Doppelgangers: The film’s doppelgangers are both creepy and terrifying, adding to the film’s overall sense of unease and dread. The way they move and speak is unsettling, and their presence creates an eerie and disturbing atmosphere.

✪ Expert Direction: Jordan Peele’s direction is masterful, building tension and suspense throughout the film. His use of visual motifs and clever foreshadowing adds to the film’s overall effectiveness, and he skillfully blends horror and humor to create a unique and engaging film.


21. The Platform (2019)

The Platform (2019), Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, Iván Massagué, Antonia San Juan, Zorion Eguileor, Top horror films from the 2010s

Spanish social science fiction horror film directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, starring Iván MassaguéAntonia San Juan and Zorion Eguileor.

Story: A vertical prison with one cell per level. Two people per cell. Only one food platform and two minutes per day to feed. An endless nightmare trapped in The Hole. (IMDb)

While it may feel muddled at times, The Platform is an inventive and captivating dystopian thriller.

Rotten Tomatoes Critics Consensus

Why is The Platform among the most popular horror movies from the 2010s?

✪ Unique Concept: The Platform is a Spanish science fiction horror film that explores a unique and intriguing concept that will keep you engaged throughout the film.

✪ Intense Atmosphere: The Platform creates an intense and oppressive atmosphere that makes the viewer feel the desperation and hopelessness of the characters trapped in the prison.

✪ Shocking and Graphic: The Platform is not for the faint of heart, as it features shocking and graphic scenes that will make you uncomfortable. The violence and gore depicted in the film are visceral and intense, which adds to the sense of danger and desperation in the story.

✪ Well-Crafted Production Design: The production design of the vertical prison is well-crafted and adds to the film’s overall atmosphere. The cramped and dirty cells, the stark lighting, and the use of color all contribute to a sense of unease and claustrophobia.


…end of the reel…


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