As Halloween approaches, horror enthusiasts are always on the lookout for spine-tingling films to enjoy during the spooky season. Bailey Richards, a horror aficionado and contributor at PEOPLE, has curated a list of ten standout horror films from the 170 she has watched this year, comprising a mix of both recent releases and underappreciated classics.
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Richards started this journey after receiving feedback on her extensive viewing habits last year. With the comment “You should get out more” echoing in her mind, she committed herself to exploring the horror genre even further, resulting in an impressively diverse selection of films to recommend.
Among her picks is *I Love Paris*, a fresh take on the vampire mockumentary genre. This French film made waves following its premiere at the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival. It stars Aminata Thiboult as a young musician named Paris, who resorts to violent means to secure a spot at a music festival. Thiboult delivers a charismatic performance, effectively capturing the fierce spirit of a Gen Z protagonist. This film serves not only as a darkly comedic piece but also as a unique portrayal of contemporary youth culture.
Moving back to the genre’s roots, *See No Evil*, a 1971 psychological thriller starring Mia Farrow, offers a chilling narrative centred around a young woman who, after losing her sight in an accident, becomes the target of a sadistic killer. Farrow’s portrayal of Sarah draws viewers into a world of palpable dread, making this forgotten classic a must-watch for fans of psychological horror.
Another intriguing suggestion on Richards’ list is *Mārama*, the directorial debut of Taratoa Stappard, which delves into the history of colonisation in New Zealand. This film follows Mary, a Māori woman played by Ariāna Osborne, on a harrowing journey that unravels the violent truths about her family’s past. Not shying away from the harsh realities of colonial violence, *Mārama* stands out as a potent exploration of revenge and cultural identity.
From the 1970s, *Messiah of Evil* offers viewers a surreal atmospheric nightmare. The film follows a character searching for her father in a coastal town, slowly losing her grip on reality as the eerie narrative unfolds. Its dark, dreamlike quality and unsettling atmosphere have cemented it as a cult classic among genre fans. With numerous alternate titles, including *Dead People*, this film has earned its place in horror history for its unique storytelling.
For those looking for something a bit different, Richards recommends *Oddity*, a supernatural horror film that delves into the complexities of sibling relationships. The film features a tense blend of grief and revenge, creating an engaging narrative that resonates on both emotional and horror levels. Its director, Damian McCarthy, previously impressed audiences with *Hokum*, making *Oddity* a notable entry in his oeuvre.
In a twist of genres, *The Faculty* offers a nostalgic trip back to the ‘90s with its ensemble cast, including Clea DuVall and Elijah Wood. This sci-fi horror flick combines elements of teen drama with an alien invasion narrative, showcasing a group of high school students who band together to fight parasitic aliens infiltrating their school. Its witty dialogue and cleverly crafted plotlines make it an enjoyable watch for fans of both science fiction and horror.
*The Cycle*, a recent release, blends procedural crime drama with creature feature elements, offering a fresh perspective on the genre. Starring Deborah Ann Woll and Jeffrey Donovan, the film encapsulates the bizarre landscape of small-town America, where grisly events unfold unexpectedly. Richards emphasises the importance of experiencing this film firsthand, encouraging viewers to dive into its mysterious storyline.
Lastly, *Creep 2* stands out as a well-crafted found footage horror film that transcends its genre’s typical limitations. It follows the interactions between the eccentric killer Aaron and Sara, an aspiring web series host. This film balances dark humour with profound moments, exemplifying the relationship between its characters in a way that keeps audiences hooked.
In examining classics like Mario Bava’s 1963 film *The Whip and the Body*, and the modern-day intrigue of *Thesis*, Richards has curated a refreshing list that balances nostalgia and newness. Each film on her docket offers something unique, ensuring there’s a slice of horror for every enthusiast this Halloween season.
With a vibrant mix of genres and themes, these recommendations can cater to those seeking old-school thrills, culturally significant narratives, or even dark humour. As Halloween approaches, these ten films will undoubtedly enhance any horror lover’s watchlist.