As Halloween approaches, I’m excited to share my article highlighting my favourite five horror movies of 2024. Each movie I picked offers a unique perspective on horror, blending suspense, gore, comedy, and emotional depth in ways that resonated with me. Whether you’re a fan of classic scares or innovative storytelling, this selection promises to deliver the spine-tingling chills we crave during the spooky season. Join me as we explore these standout films that are sure to haunt your thoughts.

Late night with the devil

A talk show host invites a girl allegedly possessed by Satan onto his show, leading to a night of terrifying events. Set in the 1970s, this film blends supernatural horror with a real-time unfolding of events, creating a tense atmosphere. This horror film brings a refreshing twist to the found-footage genre by setting its eerie events within the confines of a late-night talk show. The concept is undeniably original, blending the world of live television with supernatural terror.

The 1977 Halloween broadcast, where a TV host invites the Devil himself, sets the stage for a night of unsettling occurrences that keep viewers on edge. However, while the film excels in its unique premise, it occasionally falls back on familiar horror tropes. Jumpscares, possessed characters, and shadowy figures are effective but feel a bit overused, detracting from the film's otherwise inventive approach. In addition, the movie faced criticism for incorporating AI-generated images, which some viewers found distracting and less authentic. This choice sparked debate among fans and critics alike, with many arguing that it undermined the film's atmosphere.

Despite these shortcomings, Late Night with the Devil remains an entertaining ride. It successfully captures the tension of a live broadcast gone wrong, making it a worthwhile watch for horror fans who appreciate both innovation and classic scares.

Oddity

After Dani is murdered, her husband is the prime suspect, but the house they lived in holds dark secrets. This ghost story is filled with clever scares and emotional depth, making it a standout in the genre.

Oddity is a breath of fresh air in the horror genre, standing out as a ghost story and an emotional journey. The film expertly weaves clever scares with moments of genuine emotional depth, making it much more than just another horror flick. The narrative is tightly crafted, focusing on the psychological and supernatural elements that keep viewers on the edge of their seats while also engaging them on a deeper emotional level.

What sets Oddity apart is its ability to balance horror with humanity. The scares are not just about sudden jumps but are cleverly integrated into the storyline, making them feel earned and impactful. The film's pacing allows the tension to build slowly, creating an atmosphere of dread that lingers long after the credits roll. The characters are also well-developed, and their emotional arcs add significant weight to the story, making it not just frightening, but also poignant.

This combination of horror and heart makes Oddity unique in a genre often crowded with superficial scares. In a market filled with horror movies that rely heavily on clichés, Oddity brings a refreshing and deeply engaging experience that horror fans should not miss.

Longlegs

An FBI agent uncovers occult clues while hunting a serial killer. Nicolas Cage delivers a haunting performance in this supernatural detective thriller. Longlegs is a hauntingly atmospheric film that embodies the essence of a slow-burn horror experience. While some viewers may find its deliberate pacing tedious, the film's methodical approach to storytelling is both engrossing and richly rewarding.

The film weaves a chilling narrative that lingers long after the credits roll, primarily due to Nicolas Cage's mesmerizing performance. Cage brings a palpable intensity to his role, embodying the character with a quiet menace that is both captivating and unsettling. Though the movie's slower pace might not be for everyone, it is precisely this tempo that allows the tension to build gradually, culminating in moments of genuine horror. The subtle, eerie atmosphere and the film’s focus on psychological dread rather than cheap scares make it stand out in a genre often overcrowded with formulaic entries.

Longlegs is not just another horror film; it is a carefully crafted exploration of fear and human fragility, anchored by Cage's unforgettable portrayal. For those willing to embrace its measured pace, this film is a deeply unsettling and worthwhile watch.

Exhuma

This film follows four individuals with very interesting skills who confront a cursed grave that unleashes supernatural terror. It skillfully blends folklore with modern horror, exploring dark historical themes.

Exhuma is undoubtedly one of my favorite films this year, reinforcing South Korea's growing reputation for delivering superior cinema compared to Hollywood. Directed by Jang Jae-hyun, this horror film dives deep into the sinister and mysterious world of Korean folklore, crafting an atmosphere that is both suspenseful and richly textured. The film's exploration of traditional beliefs is both captivating and haunting, drawing viewers into a narrative that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in cultural history.

The acting in Exhuma is top-notch, with Choi Min-Sik delivering a particularly powerful performance. Known for his iconic roles in films like Oldboy *and *I Saw The Devil, Choi Min-Sik once again proves why he is one of South Korea’s greatest actors. His performance in Exhuma is nuanced, bringing depth and gravitas to a character caught in the terrifying events unfolding around him. The supporting cast also shines, contributing to the film's overall tension and emotional impact.

What sets Exhuma apart is its ability to blend horror with emotional depth, making it not just a frightening experience but also a profoundly moving one. The film's atmosphere is thick with suspense, and the exploration of Korean folklore adds layers of intrigue that keep you engaged from start to finish. If you’re a fan of horror with substance, Exhuma is a must-watch, further proof that South Korea is currently at the forefront of innovative and compelling cinema.

Agak Laen

Directed and written by Muhadkly Acho, it is a delightful blend of horror and comedy that brings a fresh perspective to Indonesian cinema. The film skillfully balances the odd and the hilarious, making it a standout in the genre. The story revolves around a group of friends who find themselves in a bizarre and terrifying situation, leading to a series of unexpected and laugh-out-loud moments.

One of the film's strongest points is the chemistry between the four main cast members, whose interactions are both believable and engaging. Their performances are lively, and they bring a sense of authenticity to the comedy, which contrasts effectively with the darker elements of the story. This dynamic is crucial in a film that attempts to juggle two very different genres, and Agak Laen does so with finesse.

Overall, the movie is a must-watch for fans of horror-comedy. It offers a unique viewing experience that is as entertaining as it is thrilling. With its sharp humor, spooky atmosphere, and excellent cast, I had a great time watching it and highly recommend it to anyone looking for something different yet thoroughly enjoyable.