As 2024 draws to a close, horror fans have plenty to celebrate. This year has delivered a wide array of terrifying films, from haunting sequels to original nightmares. The upcoming year promises even more excitement, with some highly anticipated releases already making waves in the horror community. Here, we explore the best horror films of 2024 and take a sneak peek at what’s in store for 2025.
The Best Horror Movies of 2024
1. The First Omen
The Omen franchise makes a triumphant return with The First Omen. This prequel delves into the chilling origins of the series, exploring the dark forces at play before Damien’s rise. Fans of the original films will find plenty to love, from its foreboding atmosphere to its unrelenting tension.
2. Alien Romulus
Alien Romulus takes the iconic sci-fi horror franchise to a whole new level. Set on a distant, hostile planet, the film introduces a fresh cast of characters facing off against the terrifying xenomorphs. With stunning visuals and edge-of-your-seat suspense, this is a must-watch for fans of the series.
3. Beetlejuice 2
After decades of anticipation, Tim Burton’s cult classic gets a sequel. Beetlejuice 2 brings back Michael Keaton as the mischievous ghost and introduces new characters and settings. Expect whimsical chaos, dark humour, and Burton’s signature gothic aesthetic.
4. Terrifier 3
Art the Clown returns to terrorise audiences in Terrifier 3. Known for its brutal violence and unrelenting scares, this instalment promises to push the limits of horror even further. Fans of the franchise will not be disappointed as Art delivers another round of blood-soaked mayhem.
5. Smile 2
Building on the success of the first film, Smile 2 dives deeper into the sinister curse that plagues its victims. With more psychological tension and terrifying imagery, this sequel will leave audiences questioning every friendly grin they see.
6. Heretic
A haunting exploration of dark rituals and forbidden practices, Heretic combines religious themes with supernatural horror. Its chilling visuals and unsettling narrative make it one of the standout films of the year.
7. Late Night with the Devil
What begins as an ordinary late-night TV show quickly descends into chaos in Late Night with the Devil. This innovative horror blurs the lines between reality and the supernatural, creating a truly unique and unsettling experience. This film received an almost perfect score on rotten tomatoes and it’s easy to see why.
8. Longlegs
This modern reimagining of the Slender Man legend is as terrifying as it is thought-provoking. Longlegs explores themes of paranoia and urban folklore, delivering a chilling tale that lingers long after the credits roll.
9. The Substance
A psychological horror that challenges perceptions of reality, The Substance takes viewers on a mind-bending journey. With a mix of surreal visuals and a gripping story, the film builds it world around the fear of aging and doubles as a feminist exploration of autonomy and identity.
10. Salem’s Lot
Stephen King’s classic vampire tale returns to the big screen. Salem’s Lot promises atmospheric dread and heart-pounding scares as it brings the chilling story of a small town overrun by vampires to life.
11. Maxxxine
The third chapter in Ti West’s X trilogy, Maxxxine continues the story of its resilient protagonist. With a mix of slasher elements and deep character exploration, this film is a fitting conclusion to the saga.
What’s to Come in 2025
The horror genre shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. With remakes, sequels, and original stories on the horizon, next year promises to be a thrilling ride for horror enthusiasts. Here are the highlights:
1. Nosferatu
Release Date: January 1, 2025
The legendary vampire returns in this gothic remake. Directed with a haunting visual style, Nosferatu is poised to become a modern classic while paying homage to its 1922 roots.
2. Wolf Man
Release Date: January 17, 2025
The werewolf myth gets a fresh retelling in Wolf Man. With a blend of modern effects and practical makeup, this film promises to bring the iconic creature to terrifying life.
3. The Monkey
Release Date: February 21, 2025
Based on Stephen King’s chilling short story, The Monkey explores supernatural horror through the lens of a cursed object. This eerie tale is sure to keep audiences on edge.
4. 28 Years Later
Release Date: June 20, 2025
The 28 Days Later franchise returns with its most ambitious installment yet. 28 Years Later expands on the dystopian world overrun by the infected, offering a gripping and action-packed narrative.
5. M3GAN 2.0
Release Date: June 27, 2025
The sinister AI doll is back in M3GAN 2.0. This sequel delves deeper into the dangers of artificial intelligence, combining chilling scares with biting social commentary.
6. Untitled Conjuring Film
Release Date: September 5, 2025
The Conjuring universe continues to grow with a new chapter. Expect more supernatural terrors, haunted artefacts, and terrifying encounters as the Warrens take on their latest case.
7. Saw XI
Release Date: September 26, 2025
Jigsaw’s legacy lives on in Saw XI. With its signature blend of gore and psychological twists, this instalment promises to be a gruesome treat for fans of the franchise.
8. The Bride
Release Date: September 26, 2025
A modern reimagining of The Bride of Frankenstein, this film explores themes of love, creation, and horror. With a fresh perspective, The Bride breathes new life into a classic tale.
9. The Black Phone 2
Release Date: October 17, 2025
After the success of the first film, The Black Phone 2 delves deeper into its supernatural premise. Expect more eerie phone calls and chilling twists that will keep audiences guessing.
10. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2
Release Date: December 5, 2025
The haunted animatronics are back in Five Nights at Freddy’s 2. This sequel raises the stakes with new scares, intricate lore, and heart-pounding tension.
Horror fans have plenty to look forward to as 2024 comes to an end and 2025 begins. From long-awaited sequels to innovative new stories, the genre continues to evolve and captivate audiences. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, supernatural scares, or classic monsters, the next year promises something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for another year of nightmares on the big screen.
