Hulu offers a diverse collection of horror films, ranging from sci-fi thrillers to supernatural hauntings and psychological dramas. While the platform boasts a broad selection of genre entries, including recent releases like Crimes of the Future, Alien: Romulus, Barbarian, Fresh, Cuckoo, Smile, and Immaculate, as well as the cult classic American Psycho, several films stand out for their critical acclaim and captivating narratives. These top-tier horror films, all scoring above 70 on Metacritic, provide a chilling and thought-provoking viewing experience.
Prey, a prequel to the Predator franchise, transports viewers to the Comanche Nation 300 years ago. The film centers on Naru, a skilled young warrior who confronts a technologically advanced alien predator. Prey effectively blends action, suspense, and historical context, presenting a compelling underdog story of survival against overwhelming odds. The film subverts expectations by placing a strong female character at the heart of the narrative, challenging traditional gender roles within the action-horror genre. Naru’s resourcefulness and determination make her a compelling protagonist, and the film’s depiction of Comanche culture adds a layer of depth rarely seen in sci-fi horror.
The First Omen serves as a prequel to the classic 1976 horror film The Omen. Starring Nell Tiger Free, the film explores the origins of the Antichrist, uncovering a sinister plot surrounding his birth. Set in Rome, The First Omen delves into religious and occult themes, creating a chilling atmosphere of impending doom. Free’s performance anchors the film, capturing the fear and desperation of uncovering a horrifying truth. The film builds suspense effectively, drawing viewers into a world of ancient prophecies and supernatural forces.
Piggy offers a unique perspective on the horror genre, exploring themes of bullying and revenge. The film follows a teenage girl tormented by her peers who witnesses their abduction by a stranger. This Spanish-language film, based on a short film of the same name, provides a gripping and unsettling exploration of the psychological impact of bullying. Piggy tackles complex issues with nuance, blurring the lines between victim and bystander. The film’s focus on the protagonist’s internal struggle adds a layer of psychological depth, making it more than just a typical revenge thriller.
Evil Dead Rise, a modern take on the classic horror franchise, centers on a possessed woman who becomes the focus of a terrifying Halloween special on a 1977 talk show. The film stars David Dastmalchian as the charismatic host seeking to boost his ratings. Evil Dead Rise delivers intense supernatural horror, escalating the tension and scares throughout its runtime. The setting of a live talk show adds a unique element to the narrative, creating a claustrophobic and unsettling atmosphere. The film’s blend of humor and gore, a hallmark of the Evil Dead franchise, makes it a thrilling and entertaining watch.
Infinity Pool, directed by Brandon Cronenberg, stars Mia Goth and Alexander Skarsgård as a vacationing couple who venture outside their resort and become embroiled in a criminal act. Goth delivers a captivating performance, solidifying her status as a modern scream queen. Infinity Pool delves into the dark side of human nature, exploring themes of privilege, morality, and the consequences of unchecked desires. The film’s unsettling atmosphere and disturbing visuals contribute to its overall sense of dread. Skarsgård’s performance adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Hatching, a Finnish creature feature, presents a disturbing tale of a 12-year-old girl who discovers a strange egg. The egg hatches into a monstrous bird, contrasting sharply with her family’s pursuit of perfection. Hatching explores themes of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the suppression of emotions. The film uses the monstrous bird as a metaphor for the protagonist’s inner turmoil, creating a symbolic and visually striking narrative. Hatching offers a unique blend of horror and coming-of-age elements, making it a thought-provoking and unsettling film.
You Are Not My Mother focuses on Char, a teenager living with her grandmother and mentally ill mother, Angela. When Angela disappears and returns acting strangely, a creepy slow-burn mystery unfolds. The film explores themes of mental illness, family secrets, and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. Char’s resilience and determination to uncover the truth about her mother’s transformation drive the narrative. You Are Not My Mother effectively builds suspense through its atmospheric setting and subtle hints of supernatural elements.
These seven films represent a diverse range of horror subgenres, offering something for every horror aficionado. From alien encounters and demonic possessions to psychological thrillers and creature features, Hulu’s curated selection of critically acclaimed horror movies provides a chilling and captivating viewing experience. These films explore a range of themes, from the struggle for survival against overwhelming odds to the dark side of human nature and the complexities of family relationships. Their high Metacritic scores reflect their quality and impact within the horror genre.
