As spooky season officially begins, the anticipation of Halloween, pumpkin patches, chilly fall breezes, and horror movie nights with loved ones in matching themed pajamas is on the horizon. While Gen Z may not have grown up with classics like Psycho, The Mummy, or The Silence of the Lambs, modern horror films do not disappoint on the scare meter. Advances in film technology have created gruesome visuals, realistic graphics, and intense sound effects that can be hard to stomach, making these top Gen Z horrors truly spine-tingling.
If you’re anything like me when it comes to horror, you might sneak a peek at the ending online to prepare for the suspense. Does this ruin the plot? Not at all. I love knowing what’s coming so I can brace myself. Many of the films on this list required mental preparation, as the industry continues to push horror to new iconic levels each year.
If you’re looking for the perfect movie night lineup, these selections will have your significant other jumping into your arms or friends spilling popcorn in shock. This is a list that might make you keep the lights on. Here’s a roundup of recent Gen Z horror films you won’t want to miss this fall, with where to watch each one.
Hereditary (Hulu)
This film sticks with you long after the credits roll. The stakes of survival against witchcraft are high, and family dynamics are pushed to terrifying extremes. Alex Wolff delivers one of the most memorable performances of his career.
Sinners (Hulu)
Ryan Coogler’s box office hit is an intricate mix of Black history, vampires, and religious practices. Michael B. Jordan shines as the lead, making this horror film a standout.
Insidious 2 (Hulu)
While the Insidious franchise has many entries, the sequel truly lives up to the name. Suspense builds to the point that you’ll feel your hair stand on end as you hold your breath throughout.
Smile 2 (Hulu)
This sequel exceeds expectations. Naomi Scott takes viewers on a psychological rollercoaster, blurring the line between reality and perception in a way that keeps you fully engaged.
Weapons (Prime Video)
This box office hit centers on the mysterious disappearance of children at night. Themes of trust, witchcraft, and the fragility of normalcy keep the tension high.
HIM (Apple TV+)
This psychological horror follows Tyriq Withers and Marlon Wayans as they navigate professional sports. The film asks difficult questions about ambition, morality, and the lengths people will go to achieve success.
The Long Walk (YouTube)
Based on Stephen King’s 1979 dystopian novel, this adaptation captures the original story’s chilling tension, reminding viewers why King’s work remains unforgettable.
Black Phone (Peacock)
When your phone rings late at night, be prepared to jump. A young boy fights for survival in a tense cat-and-mouse game. With Black Phone 2 now out, this is the perfect time to catch up.
The Conjuring: Last Rites (Amazon Prime)
Based on the Smurl family haunting, this installment delivers real terror. Demons and exorcisms create a cohesive and frightening storyline in this iconic franchise.
The Final Destination: Bloodlines (Hulu)
This franchise set the standard for modern horror. Even longtime fans recall moments that haunt them years later. As Death hunts the remaining survivors, families face impossible choices and inevitable fate.