Revisiting *The Silence of the Lambs* feels perfectly acceptable, especially since it’s the 35th anniversary of its release. And honestly, whether you have fava beans or not, it’s still worth a watch.
The same goes for other beloved classics in the horror genre—*Rosemary’s Baby*, *The Shining*, *The Exorcist*, and, of course, *Halloween* (1978) can always use a rewatch.
There’s something uniquely captivating about those low-budget special effects that bring terrifying creatures to life. They truly exemplify the idea of “less is more” when it comes to storytelling.
But what about those horror films that, for whatever reason, didn’t hit the mainstream radar and ended up on smaller streaming platforms? Here’s a list of five underrated gems that didn’t quite get the attention they deserved at release—whether they faltered at the box office or just quietly premiered online.
All of them are definitely worth a viewing, perhaps even while enjoying a nice glass of Chianti.
*Crawl* (2019)
If you’re going to watch one movie about killer alligators this year, let it be *Crawl*—even Quentin Tarantino dubbed it his favorite film of 2019.
Kaya Scodelario stars as a young woman checking on her father (played by Barry Pepper) during a fierce hurricane in Florida. Initially, she struggles to locate him as the floodwaters begin to rise. That’s unnerving enough. But things go from bad to worse when killer alligators crash the scene, and her character is suddenly on the menu.
Sure, it might seem reminiscent of *Sharknado*, but the film’s somewhat cliché premise is skillfully elevated by director Alexandre Aja, known for *High Tension* and *The Hills Have Eyes* (2006). The father-daughter relationship is beautifully portrayed, lending emotional depth without undermining the film’s suspenseful elements.
*Hush* (2016)
This Netflix original presents a unique twist: what if the protagonist in a home invasion thriller was deaf and oblivious to the intruder’s every move? Every creak and crash goes unheard, literally.
Mike Flanagan, a master of horror, takes a novel approach here. He bypasses standard horror tropes to craft a suspenseful narrative that keeps you on your toes. Hats off to Kate Siegel, who not only stars but also co-wrote the film, creating a strong female lead who proves capable in dire circumstances.
While it does share some characteristics with slasher films, the innovative concept elevates it beyond mere gore.
*Splinter* (2008)
This indie film features Shea Whigham, a familiar face in Hollywood who’s appeared in *Joker*, *Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning*, and *Boardwalk Empire*.
In *Splinter*, he plays a con artist who teams up with an unwilling female companion. As they evade capture, they hold a couple hostage, but their plans take a peculiar turn when a strange stick-like creature traps them inside a convenience store.
The gritty setting enhances the film, drawing focus to the clashing personalities of the four characters. Plus, the low-key special effects serve as a prime example of “less is more” storytelling. The character arcs are intriguing, as we witness a possible chance for redemption in Whigham’s character.
*Haunt* (2019)
The phrase “from the screenwriter of *A Quiet Place*” may not have equated to box office success, yet Scott Beck and Brian Woods’ directorial effort has its merits, delivering horror done well.
This flick revolves around a group of attractive young folks getting into Halloween antics. They stumble upon a haunted house experience that appears less than enticing but is filled with an unexpected eerie atmosphere.
*Haunt* doesn’t reinvigorate the horror mold, but it offers effective scares, clever twists, and a talented cast, ultimately making it Shudder’s most viewed movie premiere of 2019.
*Rogue* (2007)
If you’re planning to watch just one movie about a killer crocodile, make it this smart Australian thriller. Greg McLean, known for *Wolf Creek*, takes his hometown’s breathtaking landscapes and assembles an impressive cast to deliver a riveting horror experience.
Radha Mitchell plays a tour guide navigating the Northern Territory, encountering trouble when her ex-lover’s sarcasm disrupts a riverboat tour. But that’s just the beginning; chaos ensues as a gigantic crocodile begins its spree, attacking unsuspecting tourists.
The beautiful setting creates a deceptive sense of calm before the true horror unfolds. Co-stars Michael Vartan and Mia Wasikowska add depth, allowing viewers to connect with the group of dwindling survivors. Just be careful not to get too attached to any of them.
