7 Halloween movies that will keep you awake all night
As Halloween approaches, the excitement for spine-chilling stories intensifies. October serves as the perfect backdrop for horror films, with a genre that has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in recent years. From gothic classics to modern interpretations of fear, the film industry is brimming with terrifying tales that promise to keep you awake at night. This article presents a curated selection of seven films that not only embody the essence of horror but also ensure that you’ll think twice before turning off the lights.
La hora de la desaparición (HBO Max)
This year, director Zach Creeger has redefined urban horror with La hora de la desaparición. This film captures the essence of fear with its unsettling atmosphere and masterful use of jumpscares, reminiscent of John Carpenter’s classics. The plot centers around a mysterious disappearance of children from a primary school, escalating into a chaotic narrative filled with collective hysteria and paranoia.
As the story unfolds, the viewer is plunged into a chilling exploration of evil lurking beneath the surface. Creeger's storytelling takes unexpected turns, culminating in a shocking revelation that unveils the source of the terror gripping the characters. With a series of iconic and disturbing scenes, this film is sure to linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
- Director: Zach Creeger
- Genre: Urban Horror
- Available on: HBO Max
Cuando acecha la maldad (Prime Video)
Cuando acecha la maldad, winner of the 56th Sitges Film Festival, is a supernatural nightmare that escalates rapidly. Directed by Demián Rugna, this film portrays an insidious evil that spreads through the Argentine countryside, leaving a trail of brutality and horror in its wake.
As brothers Pedro and Jimi confront the growing menace, their attempts to escape lead them into a deadly scenario. The film effectively captures the feeling of relentless dread, showcasing how the infected individuals become agents of chaos, demonstrating the inescapable grip of evil. Prepare for a gripping experience that challenges the boundaries of survival.
- Director: Demián Rugna
- Genre: Supernatural Horror
- Available on: Prime Video
Háblame (Prime Video)
Brothers Michael and Danny Philippou have crafted a grotesque tale in Háblame, where the desire to connect with the dead leads to devastating consequences. What starts as a macabre game transforms into a harrowing tale of loss and horror, delving into the fragility of life and death.
The film articulates how close the boundary is between our world and the unknown. With heart-pounding scenes that provoke genuine fear, it stands out as a must-watch for those seeking an authentic horror experience this Halloween. The exploration of grief through supernatural lenses adds a poignant layer to the chilling narrative.
- Directors: Michael and Danny Philippou
- Genre: Supernatural Horror
- Available on: Prime Video
Aterrados (Prime Video)
Demián Rugna’s debut film, Aterrados, investigates the eerie events surrounding a seemingly ordinary street in Buenos Aires. This film builds a compelling narrative that showcases how fear permeates everyday life, revealing the disturbing presence that corrupts the community.
Through a series of chilling sequences, Rugna crafts a tapestry of horror where individual stories converge into a larger narrative of dread. The film’s unique approach to exploring primal fears—featuring unsettling imagery such as a moving corpse—guarantees that it will leave a lasting impression on viewers.
- Director: Demián Rugna
- Genre: Psychological Horror
- Available on: Prime Video
El baño del diablo (Filmin)
Directors Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala take viewers on a disturbing journey in El baño del diablo, which weaves together horror and a commentary on societal prejudices. Set in a secluded village during a dark medieval period, the narrative revolves around women committing unspeakable acts against children for reasons shrouded in mystery.
This film exemplifies how true terror emerges not only from supernatural creatures but also from the depths of human malice. With its brutal exploration of fear and emotional depth, it resonates on a level that is both frightening and profoundly moving, ensuring that viewers will be left contemplating its dark themes long after it ends.
- Directors: Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala
- Genre: Psychological Horror
- Available on: Filmin
Medium (Movistar+)
In Medium, Damian McCarthy dives into the intricate relationship between psychic abilities and horror. This 2024 film explores how the fear of death can manifest as a formidable adversary. The protagonist, a psychic named Darcy, finds herself embroiled in a web of deceit and terror following her sister's mysterious murder.
The film takes viewers on a haunting journey through hidden truths and generational trauma, accentuated by a cursed object that facilitates communication with the dead. Featuring some of the most terrifying apparitions in recent cinema, Medium is an unsettling yet captivating exploration of grief and the supernatural.
- Director: Damian McCarthy
- Genre: Supernatural Horror
- Available on: Movistar+
El elixir de la inmortalidad (Netflix)
To round off our Halloween selection, El elixir de la inmortalidad offers a visceral experience filled with gore, directed by Indonesian filmmaker Kimo Stamboel. This film starts with a chilling incident involving a man transforming into a ravenous zombie, setting the stage for a series of gruesome events leading to an apocalyptic scenario.
The relentless horror unfolds as the narrative explores the origins of this terrifying phenomenon, delivering a succession of graphic scenes that will shock even the most seasoned horror aficionados. With its relentless pace and unflinching brutality, this film serves as a fitting conclusion to our list of must-watch horrors this Halloween.
- Director: Kimo Stamboel
- Genre: Gore Horror
- Available on: Netflix
For those looking for a deeper dive into horror, this selection of films spans a variety of themes and styles, each contributing uniquely to the genre. Whether you seek supernatural scares or psychological depth, these films are sure to provide a thrilling cinematic experience. As you prepare for Halloween, consider indulging in these titles that promise to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Also, check out this insightful video that showcases more chilling films for Halloween:
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