Top Horror Movies Of 2016: A Scary Good Year!

Hey horror fans! Let's take a terrifying trip back to 2016 and unearth some of the best horror movies that year had to offer. 2016 was truly a fantastic year for horror, giving us everything from spine-chilling supernatural thrillers to gory slashers and psychological nightmares. Whether you’re a seasoned horror veteran or just dipping your toes into the genre, there’s bound to be something on this list to make you jump. So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and let’s dive into the top horror movies of 2016!

The Conjuring 2

If you are looking for bone-chilling horror movies, The Conjuring 2 will be perfect for you. Returning to the world of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring 2 takes us to Enfield, England, where the Hodgson family is terrorized by a powerful demonic entity. Directed by James Wan, this sequel amps up the scares with its atmospheric tension, unsettling visuals, and a truly terrifying villain in the form of Valak, the demonic nun. What makes The Conjuring 2 so effective is its blend of genuine scares and heartfelt character development. Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson deliver compelling performances as the Warrens, grounding the supernatural events with their emotional depth and unwavering faith. The film’s set pieces are masterfully crafted, building suspense with every creaking floorboard and flickering light. Valak's presence is genuinely frightening, and the film's exploration of faith and the battle against evil adds a layer of thematic richness. The narrative is very well-paced, ensuring there are very few dull moments, and the jump scares are used sparingly and effectively, creating a sense of dread that permeates the entire film. It is a must-watch for any horror fan, and its impact on the genre is still felt today. The Conjuring 2 is a worthy successor to its predecessor and remains a standout entry in the horror genre. So, if you're in the mood for a truly terrifying experience, this is the movie for you!

Don't Breathe

Do you want to watch nerve-wracking horror movies? Well, Don't Breathe offers a thrilling twist on the home invasion genre. Directed by Fede Álvarez, the film follows a group of young burglars who break into the house of a blind veteran, thinking they’ve found an easy target. However, they soon discover that he is far more dangerous than they ever imagined. Don't Breathe is a masterclass in suspense, relying on claustrophobic settings, creative sound design, and intense performances to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Stephen Lang delivers a chilling portrayal of the blind veteran, turning what could have been a one-dimensional villain into a complex and terrifying adversary. The film’s premise is simple but brilliantly executed, creating a sense of dread that escalates with each passing scene. The tension is almost unbearable as the burglars try to navigate the house in complete silence, knowing that any sound could be their last. Álvarez’s direction is superb, using innovative camera work and sound design to heighten the suspense. The film also explores themes of morality and survival, forcing the audience to question who they are rooting for. Don't Breathe is a visceral and unrelenting thriller that will leave you breathless. If you're looking for a horror movie that will keep you guessing until the very end, this is the one to watch.

Lights Out

Speaking of suspenseful horror movies, Lights Out takes a simple childhood fear and turns it into a terrifying cinematic experience. Based on the viral short film of the same name, Lights Out follows Rebecca as she tries to protect her younger brother from a supernatural entity that only appears when the lights are turned off. Directed by David F. Sandberg, the film is a masterclass in creating tension with minimal resources. The premise is incredibly effective, tapping into our primal fear of the dark. The creature design is genuinely frightening, and the film’s use of light and shadow is both creative and terrifying. Lights Out also explores themes of mental illness and family trauma, adding depth to the scares. Teresa Palmer delivers a strong performance as Rebecca, balancing her character’s vulnerability and strength. The film is tightly paced, with each scene building suspense and dread. The jump scares are well-executed, and the film’s overall atmosphere is incredibly unsettling. Lights Out is a perfect example of how a simple idea can be transformed into a truly terrifying horror movie. If you're looking for a film that will make you think twice about turning off the lights, this is the one to watch.

Hush

For fans of home invasion horror movies, Hush offers a unique and terrifying twist. Directed by Mike Flanagan, the film follows a deaf writer who must fight for her life when a masked killer targets her remote home. What sets Hush apart is its innovative use of sound and perspective. The film puts the audience in the shoes of the protagonist, experiencing the terror through her limited senses. Kate Siegel delivers a compelling performance as the deaf writer, conveying her character’s fear and determination with remarkable skill. Flanagan’s direction is masterful, creating a sense of claustrophobia and isolation that permeates the entire film. The tension is palpable as the writer tries to outwit her attacker, using her intelligence and resourcefulness to survive. Hush is a suspenseful and gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The film’s minimalist approach is incredibly effective, relying on suspense and character development rather than cheap scares. If you're looking for a horror movie that will challenge your senses and keep you guessing, this is the one to watch.

Ouija: Origin of Evil

If you are into supernatural horror movies, Ouija: Origin of Evil serves as a surprisingly effective prequel to the 2014 film Ouija. Directed by Mike Flanagan, the film tells the story of a widowed mother and her two daughters who run a séance scam. When they introduce a Ouija board into their act, they unwittingly invite a real demon into their home. Ouija: Origin of Evil is a well-crafted and genuinely creepy horror movie that surpasses its predecessor in every way. Flanagan’s direction is superb, creating a sense of dread and unease that permeates the entire film. The performances are strong, particularly from Elizabeth Reaser as the mother and Lulu Wilson as the possessed daughter. The film’s setting in 1967 adds to its atmospheric quality, and the use of practical effects is a welcome change from modern CGI-heavy horror movies. Ouija: Origin of Evil is a suspenseful and chilling thriller that will leave you with goosebumps. The film’s exploration of grief, family, and the dangers of playing with the supernatural adds depth to the scares. If you're looking for a horror movie that will truly frighten you, this is the one to watch.

Train to Busan

Let's not forget international horror movies, Train to Busan is a South Korean zombie thriller that took the world by storm. Directed by Yeon Sang-ho, the film follows a group of passengers on a train to Busan as they fight to survive a zombie outbreak. Train to Busan is a relentless and action-packed horror movie that delivers thrills from beginning to end. The zombie design is terrifying, and the film’s set pieces are incredibly inventive. The performances are strong, and the film’s emotional core adds depth to the scares. Train to Busan is not just a zombie movie; it’s a story about sacrifice, survival, and the bonds that connect us. The film’s themes of class inequality and social responsibility add layers of complexity to the narrative. If you're looking for a horror movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you think, this is the one to watch. Train to Busan is a must-see for any horror fan, and its impact on the genre is undeniable.

The Witch

For fans of atmospheric horror movies, The Witch is a chilling and unsettling tale set in 17th-century New England. Directed by Robert Eggers, the film follows a Puritan family who are banished from their colony and forced to live on a remote farm. As they struggle to survive, they are plagued by supernatural forces and growing paranoia. The Witch is a masterclass in atmosphere and suspense, creating a sense of dread that permeates every scene. The film’s historical accuracy and attention to detail add to its authenticity, and the performances are uniformly excellent. Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a breakout performance as the eldest daughter, and the film’s exploration of religious extremism and the power of belief is both thought-provoking and terrifying. The Witch is not a jump-scare-filled horror movie; it’s a slow-burn thriller that will stay with you long after the credits roll. If you're looking for a horror movie that will challenge your expectations and leave you deeply unsettled, this is the one to watch.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A look back at some of the best horror movies from 2016. From supernatural scares to home invasion thrillers and zombie apocalypses, 2016 had something for every horror fan. These films not only delivered the scares but also offered compelling stories, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes. Whether you’re revisiting these classics or discovering them for the first time, get ready for a terrifying treat! Happy watching, and don't forget to keep the lights on!