Top 10 Horror Movies of 2020 So Far
Top 10 Horror Movies of 2020 (So Far)
Top 10 Best Horror Movies of 2020
When did horror movies become a pleasant escape from real life? Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Horror Movies of 2020 (So Far). For this list, we’ll be looking at the most memorable horror movies released in 2020 thus far. We’re including films that technically premiered in 2019, but were given a general release this year.
#10: “Sea Fever” (2019)
Top 10 Most Anticipated Horror Movies of 2020
Originally set for theatrical distribution, “Sea Fever” switched to a video-on-demand release model due to the pandemic. This is a bizarre and unsettling coincidence since many have drawn parallels between the film and real-world events. Tell us if this sounds familiar: while out to sea, a crew’s water supply is tainted by lethal parasites, raising numerous debates onboard. Should the crew self-quarantine or head to port for help? If someone is infected, should they be put out of their misery right then and there? The film is full of challenging and strangely relevant ethical questions, which is where the true horror stems from. Elevated by a claustrophobic setting and strong lead performance from Connie Nielsen, “Sea Fever” keeps the tension afloat.
#9: “Underwater” (2020)
Top 10 Underwater Movie Fights
From one sea-related movie to another, “Underwater” received mixed reviews and didn’t make a huge splash at the box office. It’s worth a second look on-demand, however, for its harrowing atmosphere and heart-pounding action. The film follows Kristen Stewart in a committed performance as an engineer aboard an underwater facility. The crew is sent into disarray when the lab is hit by an earthquake, but it turns out that something even deadlier is in the water. While not on the same level as a James Cameron production, “Underwater” does warrant comparison to films like “Aliens” and “The Abyss.” Actually, “Aliens of the Deep” would’ve been a fitting title. The film consistently leaves you with a sinking feeling, giving little time to come up for air.
#8: “Gretel & Hansel” (2020)
Many of us have fond memories growing up reading “Hansel and Gretel,” what with its house made of candy and children triumphing over a witch. When you think about it, though, this so-called children’s story really puts the grim in Grimm fairy tale, touching upon abandonment, abduction, and cannibalism. “Gretel & Hansel” embraces its dark roots, cranking up the creep factor and sprinkling in a few twists. Sophia Lillis of “It” and newcomer Sam Leakey star as the titular siblings, who encounter a woman in the woods with a devious appetite. Director Oz Perkins drapes his film with shadowy cinematography and whimsically demented sets. Even if the build-up is a bit slow, the main course will fill your stomach with dread.
#7: “VFW” (2019)
Top 10 Movies That Will Blow Your Mind in 2020
The blind man from “Don’t Breathe,” John Kreese from “The Karate Kid,” T-Bird from “The Crow,” the Grim Reaper from “Bill & Ted,” Norm from “Cheers,” and B.J. Hammer, together at last! “VFW” is every bit as bonkers as its cast list suggests, revolving around some aging vets who once again find themselves at war. This time around, the enemy is a crazy drug dealer and his goons. Stuck in the middle is a teenage girl who our heroes have sworn to protect. “VFW” has the calling card of a classic grindhouse picture, complete with retro vibes, over-the-top performances, and balls to the wall mayhem. The film’s got cult status written all over it and could even become a midnight staple once theaters start reopening.
#6: “The Platform” (2019)
Top 10 Horror Copycat Movies
“The Platform” possesses echoes of a “Twilight Zone” episode, albeit with a lot more blood and gore. The inventive premise, shocking twists, and political commentary, however, certainly call Rod Serling to mind. This Netflix film takes place in a vertical prison with hundreds of floors. At the center is a moving platform that carries a lavish feast from top to bottom. The higher up you are, the less hungry you’ll be. The lower you are, well… your cellmate might start to look awfully appetizing. It’s an intriguing setup, brilliantly executed with style, satire, and several satisfying payoffs. For anyone who’s starving for original ideas, you’ll rarely know where “The Platform” is going and the final outcome is anything but “obvious.”
#5: “Come to Daddy” (2019)
Top 24 Worst Horror Movies of Each Year (2000 - 2023)
Elijah Wood’s haircut and mustache aren’t even the weirdest things about this comedy thriller. Wood plays Norval, a full-grown mamma’s boy who reunites with his estranged father at a remote cabin. Instead of burying the hatchet, Norval begins to fear that his dad is trying to put him six feet under. There are more layers to this male bonding trip than even Norval suspects, though. Without spoiling anything, let’s just say that the movie’s trailer only gives the viewer a taste of what they’re in store for. “Come to Daddy” takes various unexpected turns that are equally jaw-dropping and hilarious. Similar to M. Night Shyamalan’s “The Visit,” the film walks a tightrope between fear and humor, culminating in an uproarious resolution.
#4: “Color Out of Space” (2019)
Top 10 Best The Color Purple Songs
Remember when Nicolas Cage was the most unpredictable, unrestrained, and unhinged actor in Hollywood? Well, between “Mom and Dad,” “Mandy,” and now “Color Out of Space,” Cage’s career hasn’t been this exciting in years. In this an adaptation of H. P. Lovecraft’s short story, Cage plays a family man whose farm is hit by a meteorite emitting an otherworldly purple color. Cage isn’t the only one riding the comeback train, as the film also marks the return of director Richard Stanley, who’s been essentially MIA since that ill-fated “The Island of Dr. Moreau” movie. Stanley has plans for a Lovecraftian trilogy and this first entry is a terrific start. With psychedelic visuals, a sinister sense of mystery, and the Cage Man himself, color us impressed.
#3: “Swallow” (2019)
With his directorial debut, Carlo Mirabella-Davis has made one of the most interesting and intense body horror pictures this side of David Cronenberg. The film is carried by a magnetic lead performance from Haley Bennett, who shares an uncanny resemblance to Jennifer Lawrence in “Mother!” Bennett shines as Hunter, a pregnant trophy wife who seems perfect on the surface; but something much more ghastly is happening beneath the surface - literally. Hunter suffers from Pica, a real disorder that compels her to consume marbles, thumbtacks, and other inedible items. Even when it isn’t leaning too heavily into bloody territory, “Swallow” is beyond disturbing and not for the squeamish. For those who can handle the cringe-inducing subject matter, though, it’s a pill worth well worth swallowing.
#2: “The Lodge” (2019)
Top 10 Horror Movies to Watch This Halloween
With its harsh, isolated winter setting, this psychological thriller is reminiscent of “The Shining” and “The Thing,” the latter of which is directly referenced. Riley Keough is exceptional as Grace, a former cult member with a history of mental illness. Grace is invited to spend Christmas with her boyfriend and his children, who have strong reservations about bringing a potentially unstable woman to their lodge. When Grace is left alone with the kids, things go from uncomfortable to downright unnerving as the cabin is plagued by unexplained occurrences. Is Grace falling into madness or are other forces at work? “The Lodge” keeps us guessing until the final act and once everything falls into place, you’ll be left shaken to the core. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “The Hunt” (2020) A Polarizing Yet Provocative Political Horror Parody “1BR” (2019) And You Think YOU Have Bad Neighbors “After Midnight” (2019) For the Monster & the Hopeless Romantic in Us All “Bit” (2019) Who Says that Fresh Vampire Movies Are Dead? “Blood Quantum” (2019) A Zombie Apocalypse Film with Sociopolitical Bite
#1: “The Invisible Man” (2020)
Top 10 Scary Movies to Watch If You Hate Horror
The Academy rarely recognizes the horror genre, but Elisabeth Moss deserves Best Actress consideration for her chilling work in “The Invisible Man.” Moss brings a raw sense of realism to her performance as Cecilia Kass, an emotionally and physically scarred woman who can’t seem to escape her ex. Director Leigh Whannell views H. G. Wells’ novel through a modern lens, effectively exploring domestic violence and growing technology. By taking this grounded approach, Whannell’s version almost feels like it could happen in today’s world, making the setup all the more haunting. As tense as it may be, “The Invisible Man” is surprisingly a lot of fun as well. With a well-crafted story, expertly-shot set pieces, and a compelling lead performance, this flick sticks out like no other.
