The movies on this list are underrated masterpieces that everybody should lay their eyes at least once. I assure you the watch experiences are transcendent! Quick disclaimer: You may fail a drug test after watching these movies, so hold off on the job interviews. You’ve been warned!
As you read, consider responding to some of the questions I've provided and adding your answer to the Comment section below. They're sure to help you on your horror writing journey!
Mandy (Shudder)
The most metal love story ever! A couple lives a quiet life in the countryside until an unhinged cult enters the picture. Nuts and original, it blends multiple genres into a neon fantasy. Punk bikers, crazy cults, and an interesting couple are only teasers for the chaos in store. The oversaturated reds make you feel like you’re in a bloody haze. Mandy truly creates a daunting world within its two-hour run time, one of those worlds you wouldn’t want to be in, but are fascinated by nonetheless.
Nicholas Cage put his soul into this one. Mandy is an odd masterpiece that everybody should watch. Make sure you take everything in, just don’t take a drug test afterward.
Things to Think About: How can you create a world with a few images? What’s the world you’ve always wanted to create? And what would be in that world?
Saint Maud (Prime Video)
If you you ever wanted to find out what happens when someone takes the bible literally, this is the one for you. Saint Maud is a slow-burn character study that takes its time to put audiences in the main character’s shoes. Pay attention to the religious imagery layered throughout the film. Listen carefully to the sound design which changes by the end of the film. There’s even one specific scene where you can hear the subtle shift, and it’s brilliant!
A powerful debut film by Rose Glass that will make you squirm and rethink your beliefs. The ending will surely disturb many, which is another reason why this movie kicks butt!
Things to Think About: What does the world look like in the eyes of an extremist?
Climax (Showtime)
The party of your nightmares. Loosely based on a true story, Climax is a simple premise that turns a typical dance party into an everlasting hellscape. When the movie gets rolling, mouths will be agape. Everything happening is surreal and chaotic, it’s like watching a train violently derail. While simple, the big reveal puts everything into a different perspective. Aside from the craziness, the opening credits start around 40 minutes into the film, which says a lot in itself.
This film is a great introduction to the world of Argentinian filmmaker Gasper Noé. After reaching the climax of film, you might just collapse from sensory overload.
Things to Think About: What’s a simple premise you can turn into a huge problem? What environment would make this issue even more interesting?
Possessor (Hulu)
The mind-bending Possessor puts a real spin on the typical assassin flick. Eye-ripping visuals, tense music, and a unique story set this film apart. Possessor is an ultra-violent movie carried by the literal mental battle of its key characters. Psychological distress and sci-fi are on full display here. The film is an absolute mind-fudge that’ll have you sporting a Professor X helmet after watching. It is super violent, so approach it with caution.
Brandon Cronenberg went all out for this gory psychological thriller. Another film where the ending is totally bonkers. Definitely, one you’ll be analyzing for days.
Things to Think About: How can you put a spin on one of your favorite movies? How can you simplify one of your favorite movies?
Titane (Hulu)
Original Af! When a murderous woman with a titanium plate in her head vanishes, she has a journey of self-discovery. Titane is a bizarre journey that will have you scratching your head with intrigue. The film feels like an episode of Tom & Jerry, but with an extremely dark take. Even with the description, you could never guess where the movie lands. It’s an oddly charming adventure that’s engaging from beginning to end.
Things to Think About: What’s a theme, question, or idea that interests you? How can a character be developed to encapsulate that theme, question, or idea?
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