The Top 10 Underrated Horror Movies That Will Keep You Awake at Night

Horror films have the unique ability to provoke fear, anxiety, and thrills like no other genre. While there are mainstream titles that dominate the box office and are often discussed, many remarkable horror films go unnoticed. These underrated gems provide plenty of spine-chilling moments, unsettling atmospheres, and unforgettable storytelling that often leave a lasting impact. In this article, we’ll explore **ten underrated horror movies** that you might not have seen but will surely keep you awake at night.

1. The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)

Set in a small-town morgue, this film follows a father-son coroner duo tasked with performing an autopsy on an unidentified female corpse, Jane Doe. As they delve deeper into Jane’s mysterious condition, eerie phenomena begin to manifest, leading to unnerving discoveries that question the line between life and death. The film stands out for its slow-burn tension, atmospheric setting, and powerful performances, delivering eeriness that lingers long after the credits roll.

2. Lake Mungo (2008)

Presented as a mockumentary, this Australian film revolves around the tragic drowning of a teenage girl, Alice Palmer, and the supernatural occurrences that plague her family in the aftermath. Lake Mungo paints a haunting portrait of grief, while its found-footage style adds a layer of realism. The film’s subversive approach to horror is complemented by its intricate storytelling that unveils layers of secrets, tainted memories, and emotional depth.

3. The Invitation (2015)

A dinner party turns into a psychological thriller in this unsettling film directed by Karyn Kusama. The protagonist, Will, attends a gathering hosted by his ex-wife and her new partner. As the night unfolds, an undercurrent of tension grows, fueled by strange behavior, manipulative conversations, and hints of a dangerous cult-like agenda. The Invitation masterfully builds suspense, making you question what’s real, keeping viewers questioning until the very end.

4. The Babadook (2014)

This Australian psychological horror film tells the story of a single mother struggling to cope with the death of her husband and her son’s increasingly erratic behavior. When a mysterious storybook about a sinister entity called the Babadook appears, the reality of their trauma becomes entwined with a deep-rooted horror. The Babadook is a metaphorical exploration of grief and the downward spiral it can create, capturing the horrors of mental illness and motherhood that resonate deeply.

5. The Witch (2015)

Set in 1630s New England, this film follows a Puritan family that comes undone as they suspect witchcraft may be at play in their misfortunes. The Witch is a compelling period piece that masterfully combines folklore and visceral imagery, creating a palpable sense of dread and paranoia. Its slow-burn approach may be off-putting to some, but the unsettling atmosphere and haunting performances elevate it as a must-see for horror aficionados.

6. It Follows (2014)

This innovative horror movie centers around a young woman who, after a sexual encounter, finds herself pursued by a supernatural entity that can take on the appearance of anyone. The film’s unique premise builds an omnipresent fear, representing the consequences of actions, both physical and emotional. Its distinct retro aesthetic, haunting score, and relentless pursuit contribute to an atmosphere that’s both eerie and thought-provoking.

7. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)

This unique Iranian film blends horror with Westerns and locales of mystique. Set in a deserted Iranian town, it follows a female vampire who prowls at night and targets men who disrespect women. The film’s distinctive black-and-white cinematography, along with a powerful narrative examining themes of feminism and social injustice, sets it apart from typical vampire films. It’s artful and haunting, leaving a lasting impression long after viewing.

8. Coherence (2013)

A clever sci-fi horror movie that unfolds during a dinner party when a mysterious cosmic event occurs, leading to bizarre and terrifying consequences for the guests. The film integrates psychological tension with a unique narrative structure, deftly exploring themes of identity, reality, and perception. As characters grapple with their own duplicities against the backdrop of an ever-shifting reality, Coherence creates a cerebral experience that thrives on ambiguity and tension.

9. A Dark Song (2016)

In this unsettling film, a grieving mother enlists the aid of an occultist to contact her deceased son through an elaborate ritual. The film’s slow pacing allows viewers to immerse themselves in the characters’ psychological struggles while delivering an unsettling exploration of grief, guilt, and the supernatural. A Dark Song relies on atmosphere, character development, and emotional authenticity to craft dread, showcasing horror’s capacity to delve into human experience.

10. The taking of Deborah Logan (2014)

This found-footage horror film follows a documentary crew studying a woman suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. As they record her condition, they uncover sinister events that hint at something more disturbing than dementia. The Taking of Deborah Logan offers a fresh perspective on the horror genre, merging psychological and supernatural elements, as it explores themes of aging, memory, and the inherent fear of losing oneself.

Conclusion

While mainstream horror movies often grab the spotlight, these underrated titles evoke the kind of dread that lingers in your mind long after viewing. Each film offers a unique perspective on fear, examining not only the supernatural but also deeply human emotions. Whether you’re into psychological thrillers, supernatural chills, or intense character studies, these films are sure to haunt your dreams and keep you awake at night. So grab some popcorn, turn down the lights, and prepare for a terrifying experience with these horror gems that deserve more recognition.