10 New Horror Films Released This Week (October 21-27, 2024)
As Halloween approaches, horror enthusiasts have a plethora of new releases to choose from this week. Let’s delve into 10 fresh horror films that have just hit screens, offering a diverse range of scares, laughs, and thrills.
Carved (Hulu)
“Carved” is a Halloween-themed horror-comedy that’s part of Hulu’s annual “Huluween” lineup. The film stars Peyton Elizabeth Lee as a teenage playwright who, along with a group of unsuspecting visitors, finds herself trapped in a historical reenactment village. The twist? They’re battling a vengeful sentient pumpkin. This quirky premise promises a blend of scares and laughs, with Corey Fogelmanis co-starring. The film’s unique setting and supernatural antagonist offer a fresh take on the Halloween horror subgenre.
Ghost Game (VOD)
From DREAD and director Jill Gevargizian comes “Ghost Game,” an indie horror that taps into the dangers of internet challenges. The story follows a couple who decide to secretly live in a supposedly haunted house as part of an online dare. As they settle in, they begin to experience increasingly chilling encounters that blur the line between reality and the supernatural. Gevargizian, known for her work in short horror films, brings her unique vision to this feature-length exploration of modern ghost stories.
Catnado (VOD)
“Catnado” takes the ridiculous premise of tornadoes filled with deadly cats and runs with it. This campy disaster horror film combines the inexplicable appeal of cat videos with the over-the-top nature of weather-based disaster movies. While it’s unlikely to win any awards, “Catnado” seems poised to become a cult favorite among fans of so-bad-it’s-good cinema. The film promises outrageous special effects and a healthy dose of feline-based mayhem.
Carnage for Christmas (VOD)
Directed by trans filmmaker Alice Maio Mackay, “Carnage for Christmas” offers a unique blend of holiday horror and ghost story. The film centers on a true-crime podcaster who returns to her hometown, only to face a vengeful ghost. Mackay’s perspective as a trans director adds an intriguing layer to this seasonal horror, potentially exploring themes of identity and homecoming alongside its supernatural elements.
The Werewolves of Millers Hollow (Netflix)
Based on the popular card game, this French comedy-horror transports a modern family to a medieval village where they must battle werewolves. The film adapts the game’s mechanics of deception and survival into a full-fledged narrative, likely balancing humor with werewolf action. Its unique premise and game-inspired storytelling could appeal to both horror fans and those who enjoy the original card game.
Azrael (Shudder)
Starring Samara Weaving, “Azrael” presents a bold concept: a world without speech. In this silent dystopia, Weaving’s character fights for survival against a ruthless community. The film’s premise allows for innovative storytelling techniques, relying on visual cues and physical performances to convey its narrative. Shudder’s involvement suggests a focus on genuine horror elements despite the unique setting.
Frankie Freako (VOD)
Directed by Steven Kostanski, known for his work in practical effects, “Frankie Freako” is a zany horror-comedy about a yuppie who inadvertently unleashes tiny monsters through a party hotline. Kostanski’s background suggests impressive creature designs for the miniature menaces. The film’s 1980s setting and outlandish premise promise a nostalgic yet fresh take on monster movies.
All You Need Is Blood (VOD)
This horror-comedy follows a teenage aspiring director who decides to use his newly zombified father to create the ultimate horror film. The premise blends coming-of-age themes with zombie horror, potentially exploring the lengths one might go for artistic vision. The film likely balances gore with humor, appealing to fans of zom-coms.
Your Monster (Theaters)
Starring Melissa Barrera, “Your Monster” puts a romantic spin on monster movies. The story follows an actress who, after a breakup, befriends the monster living in her closet. This unique premise allows for an exploration of relationships and personal growth through the lens of horror-comedy. Barrera’s involvement, fresh off her success in the “Scream” franchise, adds star power to this indie production.
Don’t Move (Netflix)
Produced by horror legend Sam Raimi, “Don’t Move” presents a high-concept thriller. The film follows a woman trying to escape a serial killer before her body completely shuts down. This race-against-time premise, combined with Raimi’s production expertise, promises intense suspense and innovative horror set-pieces. The film likely explores themes of resilience and survival in extreme circumstances.
This diverse lineup of new releases ensures that horror fans have plenty of options to satisfy their craving for scares, laughs, and thrills as Halloween approaches.