Horror fans, rejoice! Shudder, the ultimate streaming service for horror aficionados, is a treasure trove of spine-chilling films that often fly under the radar. While many flock to the well-known classics, there are several hidden gems on Shudder that deserve your attention. Here are six overlooked horror movies on Shudder that every horror fan must watch.
First up is “Host” (2020). This film, created during the lockdown, is a masterclass in modern horror. Shot entirely on Zoom, it’s a lean, mean, 56-minute scare-fest that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The story revolves around a group of friends who decide to hold a séance over a video call, only to unleash a malevolent spirit. The film’s innovative use of the Zoom platform and its tight pacing make it a standout in the genre. Despite its 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, “Host” remains relatively unknown, making it a must-watch for those who crave fresh and inventive horror.
Next, we have “The Invitation” (2015). This psychological thriller is a slow burn that builds to a terrifying climax. The plot centers on a man who attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife, only to realize that something is horribly wrong. The film’s unsettling atmosphere and the sense of dread that permeates every scene make it a gripping watch. It’s a film that gets under your skin and stays with you long after the credits roll.
Another gem is “Incident in a Ghostland” (2018). This film tells the story of two sisters who, after surviving a traumatic home invasion, are forced to confront their past when they return to the house years later. The film is a brutal and intense experience, with a twist that will leave you questioning reality. It’s a film that demands your attention and rewards it with a deeply unsettling narrative.
“Grave Encounters” (2011) is another underrated horror film that deserves more recognition. This found-footage film follows a team of paranormal investigators who lock themselves inside an abandoned mental hospital, only to discover that the building is haunted by malevolent spirits. The film’s use of the found-footage format adds to its authenticity and makes the scares feel all the more real. It’s a film that plays with your mind and delivers some genuinely terrifying moments.
For fans of supernatural horror, “The Autopsy of Jane Doe” (2016) is a must-watch. The film follows a father-son team of coroners who are tasked with performing an autopsy on an unidentified woman. As they delve deeper into the autopsy, they uncover a series of disturbing and inexplicable events. The film’s claustrophobic setting and its slow, methodical build-up of tension make it a standout in the genre. It’s a film that keeps you guessing until the very end.
Lastly, “Color Out of Space” (2020) is a visually stunning and deeply unsettling film based on the H.P. Lovecraft short story of the same name. Directed by Richard Stanley and starring Nicolas Cage, the film tells the story of a family whose lives are turned upside down when a meteorite crashes on their farm, bringing with it a strange and otherworldly force. The film’s psychedelic visuals and its descent into madness make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
These six films are just a taste of what Shudder has to offer. Each one brings something unique to the table, whether it’s innovative storytelling, intense atmosphere, or mind-bending twists. They may not have the same level of recognition as some of the more mainstream horror films, but they are no less deserving of your time and attention.
So, if you’re a horror fan looking to explore some hidden gems, give these films a watch. They are sure to provide you with the scares and thrills you crave. And who knows, you might just discover your new favorite horror film.
Source: BuzzFeed, Shudder
