As the horror genre continues to evolve, Netflix remains a hub for chilling and inventive films that captivate audiences. In 2024, the platform has offered a lineup of standout horror movies that blend supernatural elements, psychological terror, and intense thrills. Here’s a look at the best six horror movies of 2024 available on Netflix, including “Tarot,” “It Follows,” “His House,” “Thanksgiving,” “Under the Shadow,” and “Life”—each delivering a unique brand of horror that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Tarot
“Tarot” dives into the dark and mystical world of tarot card reading, offering a fresh take on supernatural horror. The film follows Claire, a tarot reader whose life is upended when she draws a card that forewarns of a catastrophic event. As the ominous predictions start coming true, Claire must unravel the mystery behind the cursed card and confront the malevolent forces at play.
The film stands out for its atmospheric tension and haunting visuals. The tarot cards are not just a gimmick but integral to the plot, serving as a conduit for suspense and dread. The director, Julia Winters, masterfully uses the symbolism of the tarot to enhance the story’s eerie atmosphere, making “Tarot” a must-watch for fans of supernatural horror and occult themes.
Why You Should Watch: If you’re intrigued by the mystique of tarot cards and enjoy a slow-burn horror with rich symbolism, “Tarot” offers a unique and unsettling experience that will keep you guessing until the very end.
It Follows
“It Follows” is a sequel to the critically acclaimed 2014 film of the same name. In this installment, the haunting entity returns with a new victim. The movie picks up where the original left off, exploring the lives of those cursed by the relentless and supernatural force that follows its victims until it claims their lives.
The film excels in maintaining the eerie and unsettling tone of the original. The creature is more menacing than ever, and the film’s soundtrack amplifies the sense of dread and urgency. “It Follows” explores themes of paranoia and the inescapable nature of trauma, delivering a chilling experience that builds on the legacy of its predecessor.
Why You Should Watch: If you were captivated by the first “It Follows” film, the sequel expands on the unsettling concept with fresh scares and a gripping narrative. It’s perfect for those who appreciate horror that combines psychological tension with supernatural elements.
His House
“His House” is a gripping tale of horror that focuses on refugees from South Sudan who move into a new house in England, only to discover that it’s haunted by malevolent spirits. The film explores the intersection of personal trauma and supernatural terror, delving into themes of displacement and the haunting echoes of past horrors.
The movie’s strength lies in its ability to blend social commentary with supernatural horror. The house’s haunting is a metaphor for the characters’ psychological struggles and past traumas. The performances by the lead actors, Sope Dirisu and Wunmi Mosaku, add emotional depth to the narrative, making “His House” a thought-provoking and spine-chilling experience.
Why You Should Watch: “His House” is ideal for viewers who enjoy horror that is both socially relevant and emotionally impactful. It offers a unique perspective on the genre by combining real-world issues with supernatural elements.
Thanksgiving
“Thanksgiving” brings a festive twist to the horror genre. Set during the Thanksgiving holiday, the film centers around a family gathering that takes a dark turn when a series of grisly murders disrupts the festivities. The killer appears to have a personal vendetta, and the family must unravel the mystery before they become the next victims.
Directed by Kevin Jackson, “Thanksgiving” is notable for its blend of dark humor and slasher elements. The film cleverly incorporates the holiday theme into its horror narrative, creating a unique backdrop for the scares. The mix of tension, gore, and occasional humor makes it a standout entry in the slasher genre.
Why You Should Watch: For fans of slasher films with a seasonal twist, “Thanksgiving” offers a fresh take on the genre. The holiday setting adds a unique flavor to the traditional slasher formula, making it a fun and frightening watch.
Under the Shadow
“Under the Shadow” is a psychological horror film set in post-revolutionary Iran. The story follows a mother and daughter who are haunted by a malevolent spirit in their apartment, set against the backdrop of a war-torn country. The film explores themes of fear, superstition, and the impact of societal upheaval on personal trauma.
The film’s setting and cultural context add layers of depth to the horror experience. The tension is heightened by the political and social turmoil surrounding the characters, creating a claustrophobic and intense atmosphere. “Under the Shadow” is both a compelling horror film and a poignant commentary on the effects of conflict and displacement.
Why You Should Watch: “Under the Shadow” offers a unique blend of psychological horror and socio-political commentary. It’s a powerful film for those interested in horror that addresses real-world issues while delivering genuine scares.
Life
“Life” is a sci-fi horror film that takes place in a high-tech research facility where scientists discover a life form from Mars. As the creature begins to grow and evolve, it becomes increasingly hostile, leading to a series of terrifying events. The film explores the themes of scientific ambition and the unforeseen consequences of tampering with unknown life forms.
The film is notable for its high production values and intense atmosphere. The creature design and special effects are top-notch, creating a sense of dread and unease throughout. “Life” combines elements of science fiction and horror, resulting in a gripping and visually stunning experience.
Why You Should Watch: “Life” is perfect for fans of sci-fi horror who enjoy a combination of cutting-edge special effects and psychological tension. The film’s exploration of extraterrestrial life and the consequences of scientific exploration adds a thought-provoking dimension to the scares.
Final Thoughts
Netflix’s 2024 lineup of horror films offers a diverse collection of scares, from supernatural chills and psychological tension to slasher thrills and sci-fi horror. “Tarot” provides a haunting exploration of occult themes, “It Follows” continues the legacy of its predecessor with fresh terror, and “His House” combines social commentary with supernatural horror.
“Thanksgiving” offers a festive twist on slasher horror, while “Under the Shadow” delivers a poignant yet chilling tale of personal and societal trauma. Finally, “Life” blends sci-fi and horror to deliver a high-stakes, terrifying experience.
James Miller is a passionate cinephile and the voice behind Just Movies. With a deep love for cinema, James provides honest, detailed critiques of both new releases and classic films. Their reviews dive into plot, character development, cinematography, and sound design, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of each movie.