Overview
The year 2024 has been a remarkable one for horror movie enthusiasts with a rich menu of scary narratives ranging from rampaging spiders to demonic late-night TV shows. This year’s horror lineup has uniquely reimagined popular clichés. It features a slasher film paying homage to both Terrence Malick and Jason Voorhees, a dystopian tale that focuses on a family’s disintegration rather than worldwide annihilation, and a pair of films revolving around nuns bearing evil entities. What’s more, several of these films have made a significant impact on the indie box office, reflecting the audience’s appetite for bold, unfamiliar journeys. Let’s delve into the best horror releases of the year.
Honorable Mentions
Before we unveil the top-tier selections, let us acknowledge some noteworthy contenders, listed in alphabetical order:
“Adult Swim Yule Log 2: Branchin’ Out”
The sequel to the unexpected holiday feature from Adult Swim, this film takes a whole new direction. It concentrates on Zoe (Andrea Laing), a survivor from the first installment, who is pursued again by the deadly log. This time, she finds herself trapped in an uncanny Hallmark holiday film, replete with genre tropes. Written and directed by Casper Kelly, “Branchin’ Out” masterfully blends satire with gore, culminating in an outrageous third act.
“Alien: Romulus”
While it didn’t revolutionize the genre, this grueling installment of the “Alien” franchise offers plenty to appreciate. With its impeccable sound design, outstanding production aesthetics, and intensely nerve-wracking scenes, “Alien: Romulus” delivers the space slasher experience many fans have been waiting for. Director and co-writer Fede Álvarez deserves much of the praise for his audacious vision.
“Frankie Freako”
Not a traditional horror film, but “Frankie Freako” is a heartfelt tribute to ‘80s and ‘90s puppet features like “Gremlins 2: The New Batch” and “Critters”. Directed by Steven Kostanski of “Psycho Goreman” fame, the film is a hit among genre fans.
“The Girl with the Needle”
This visually stunning nightmare, centered on a Danish serial killer from the early 1900s who dispatches infants that mothers can’t care for, juxtaposes a bleak reality for women with a monochrome fairy tale aesthetic. Dense and oppressive, it’s a study in empathy, villainy, mercy, and the blurred boundaries within even the most heinous individuals.
“Street Trash”
The much-anticipated sequel to the 1987 cult classic, this rendition of “Street Trash” is a visceral triumph of independent cinema. The film follows a motley crew of homeless friends who stumble upon a government conspiracy, delivering more heart and social commentary than one would typically expect from such a gruesomely delightful film.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 2024 has been a banner year for horror cinema, with a wealth of innovative and engaging films that have not only entertained audiences but also pushed the boundaries of the genre. Whether you’re a fan of classic horror tropes reimagined, or you’re looking for something completely out of the ordinary, this year’s offerings have something to satisfy every horror enthusiast.
FAQs
Q: What are some of the best horror movies of 2024?
A: Some of the best horror movies of 2024 include “Adult Swim Yule Log 2: Branchin’ Out”, “Alien: Romulus”, “Frankie Freako”, “The Girl with the Needle”, and “Street Trash”.
Q: Who are some notable directors from the 2024 horror movie lineup?
A: Some notable directors include Casper Kelly for “Branchin’ Out”, Fede Álvarez for “Alien: Romulus”, and Steven Kostanski for “Frankie Freako”.
Q: Where can I watch these movies?
A: Most of these movies can be found on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and others. Some may also be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like iTunes and Google Play.
Credit: variety.com
