Top 7 Underrated Horror Movies You Need to Watch

Horror movies are often dismissed as mere jump scares and gore-fests, but the genre is filled with deeply unsettling, atmospheric, and psychologically complex films that can leave a lasting impact on their viewers. While mainstream horror movies like The Conjuring and Hereditary get much-deserved attention, there are many lesser-known gems that often fly under the radar.

If you’re tired of the same old scares and are looking to explore some hidden horrors, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a list of 10 underrated horror movies that deserve your attention – perfect for when you’re in the mood to watch Netflix movies.

1. Session 9 (2001)

Directed by Brad Anderson, Session 9 is a psychological horror masterpiece that often goes unnoticed. Set in an abandoned mental hospital, the film follows a team of asbestos removers as they work to clear the building. The atmosphere is suffocating, and the decaying building becomes a character in itself. The slow build-up of tension, coupled with a haunting soundtrack, creates an experience that’s more about what you don’t see than what you do. It’s a chilling exploration of the mind’s fragility and how our deepest fears can consume us.

2. The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)

This film, directed by André Øvredal, is a claustrophobic and nerve-wracking experience. It follows a father-son coroner team as they perform an autopsy on a mysterious corpse found at a crime scene. As they dig deeper, they uncover disturbing secrets that make them question everything they thought they knew about the dead woman on their table. The film brilliantly combines supernatural horror with elements of a mystery thriller, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

3. The Invitation (2015)

Directed by Karyn Kusama, The Invitation is a slow-burn thriller that gradually escalates into pure horror. The film follows Will, who attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife and her new husband. As the evening progresses, Will becomes increasingly suspicious of the hosts’ intentions. Is he just paranoid, or is there something sinister at play? The film brilliantly explores themes of grief, trust, and paranoia, with a finale that will leave you breathless.

4. Pontypool (2008)

Pontypool, directed by Bruce McDonald, is a unique entry in the horror genre. The film takes place almost entirely within a radio station, where a shock jock begins to report on a series of violent incidents happening in the town. As the day unfolds, it becomes clear that something is turning people into mindless killers, and the cause is unlike anything you’ve seen before. The concept is innovative and unsettling, proving that you don’t need a big budget or elaborate sets to create a truly terrifying experience.

5. The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015)

Also known as February, this film by Oz Perkins is a haunting exploration of isolation and possession. The story is divided into three interwoven narratives, following two girls left alone at a boarding school during winter break and a mysterious woman on a journey to the school. The film’s slow pace and unsettling atmosphere build up to a chilling and emotional climax. It’s a film that lingers with you long after the credits roll.

6. The House of the Devil (2009)

Ti West’s The House of the Devil is a love letter to 80s horror, complete with retro aesthetics and a creeping sense of dread. The plot centers around a college student who takes a babysitting job at a remote mansion. As the night progresses, she discovers that things are not as they seem, leading to a terrifying climax. The film’s deliberate pacing and attention to detail create an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and terrifying.

7. It Follows (2014)

It Follows, directed by David Robert Mitchell, is a modern horror film that feels timeless. The story revolves around a teenager who is pursued by a relentless, shape-shifting entity after a sexual encounter. The creature can take the form of anyone and follows its victim at a slow but steady pace. The film’s concept is simple but terrifying, and its execution is pitch-perfect. The eerie soundtrack and unsettling cinematography create a sense of impending doom that is hard to shake off.

In Summary

Horror is a genre that often goes beyond jump scares and gore to explore the darkest aspects of human nature, societal fears, and the unknown. The films on this list may not have achieved the widespread recognition they deserve, but each offers something unique and compelling for horror enthusiasts.