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Are you looking for chills and cold sweats? Do not search anymore ! In this article, we have compiled the 15 Best Horror Movies Available on Prime Video. Whether you're a die-hard fan of zombies, demons or vengeful spirits, we've got everything you need to spend terrifying sleepless nights.
From the cult classic “The Return of the Living Dead” to the recent “Candyman,” here you’ll find a selection that will make your heart beat faster than ever. So, get ready to scream, jump and hide behind your blanket, because these films will send shivers down your spine. Come on, let's dive into the horror with the “Top 15 best horror films on Prime Video”!
Table of contents
1. The Return of the Living Dead (1985)
In the world of horror films, The Return of the Living Dead, produced in 1985 by Dan O'Bannon, left his mark brilliantly. This film, which has entered the history of cinema as one of the most influential in the zombie genre, was able to break conventions and establish new rules.
The genius of this film lies in its unique approach mixing black humor with gory horror, thus creating an explosive cocktail that captivated the audience. O'Bannon brilliantly deconstructed the codes of the genre, offering a fresh and offbeat perspective on the theme of the undead.
In addition, The Return of the Living Dead stood out for its audacity and originality, thus marking a decisive turning point in the history of horror cinema. Its impact on the zombie films that followed is undeniable, making it a true classic not to be missed on Prime Video.
| Directing | Dan O'Bannon |
| Scenario | Dan O'Bannon |
| Genre | Horror |
| Duration | 91 minutes |
| Trip | August 16, 1985 |
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2. Night of the Living Dead (1968)
In 1968, George A. Romero revolutionized the cinematic world with his film « Night of the Living Dead« . Considered the most important zombie film ever made, it laid the foundation for the genre, creating a standard that influenced the storylines of many subsequent horror films.
The film marked a turning point in the history of horror cinema, redefining what it means to be a "zombie" in popular culture. Despite the fact that the word "zombie" is never actually spoken in the film, its conceptual scope was profoundly transformed by this pioneering work.
But above all, “Night of the Living Dead” is a success as an independent film. With a limited budget, George A. Romero managed to create a film of great influence, proving that you don't always need massive resources to make a powerful and memorable work.
The film also made history by being the precursor to film titles containing the phrase "undead". This is how Romero chose to use the “of the dead” formula in his later films, a formula that has become emblematic of the genre.
Available on Prime Video, “Night of the Living Dead” remains an essential reference for all horror film fans. Its influence on the zombie film genre is such that it is still felt today, almost fifty years after its release.
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3. Train to Busan (2016)
Train to Busan is a true revolution in the zombie film category. Released in 2016, this South Korean film is chilling while touching the heart. It is known for its gripping suspense and poignant family story that unfolds alongside horror.
The film tells the story of a career-obsessed father who finds himself in a terrifying situation. He must protect his little daughter aboard a train invaded by bloodthirsty zombies. This premise offers a unique blend of action, horror and drama, all with a fast-paced pace that will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
The film's cast also deserves a mention. Starring actors like Ryu Seung-ryong, Shim Eun-kyung, Park Jung-min, Kim Min-jae and Jung Yu-mi, Train to Busan delivers powerful performances that add emotional depth to the visceral horror.
It is worth noting that director Yeon Sang-ho is no stranger to the zombie genre. He also directed the hit film Train to Busan, which has captivated audiences and critics around the world.
In short, Train to Busan is a must-have for all horror movie fans on Prime Video. Its unique blend of suspense, emotion and action makes it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
4. Hellraiser (1987)
In fourth place on our list of the best horror films on Prime Video, we have the disturbing « Hellraiser« , directed by the brilliant and daring Clive Barker in 1987. This film managed to mark the history of horror cinema thanks to its dark and disturbing atmosphere, as well as its innovative special effects for the time.
The film introduces the terrifying character of pinhead, a villain who has become iconic of the genre. With his bugs stuck in his skull and his icy gaze, Pinhead embodies a vision of horror that remains engraved in the minds of spectators.
And let's not talk about his world! “Hellraiser” immerses us in a dark and tortured world, where the lines between pain and pleasure are constantly blurred. It is a place where the horror is not only physical, but also psychological and emotional.
Despite a series of sequels that haven't always been up to par, “Hellraiser” remains a must-see for all horror movie fans, and continues to fascinate with its unique vision of horror. If you have a strong heart and are looking for a film that will make you shiver with fear, then “Hellraiser” is the film to watch on Prime Video.
5. We Need to Talk About Kevin (2012)
Unveiling a terrifying facet of psychological horror, « We Need to Talk About Kevin« is a chilling exploration of the nature of evil. Made in 2012, this film features a mother, played by the talented Tilda Swinton, who finds herself confronted with the unthinkable: her own son, played by Ezra Miller, is the author of a massacre at his school.
The film, lasting 112 minutes, is a deep and disturbing immersion into the torments of a mother tortured by guilt and incomprehension. Director, Lynne Ramsay, manages to maintain a constant tension throughout the film, highlighting the complexity of the maternal bond and the extreme loneliness that a mother can feel when faced with the horror committed by her child.
“We Need to Talk About Kevin” is a horror film that goes off the beaten track, far from the zombies of “Train to Busan” or the tortured world of “Hellraiser”. It tackles a much more real and everyday terror, that of a mother facing the inexplicable cruelty of her son. A film not to be missed for fans of psychological thrillers available on Prime Video.
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6. We Are Still Here (2015)
Get a dose of horror with « We Are Still Here« , a modern horror film that was directed by the talented Ted Geoghegan in 2015. This scary film, set in a haunted house, is a true homage to classic films of the same genre. The film stars the iconic actress Barbara crampton, known for her notable roles in numerous horror films.
The narrative begins as a story of escape from tragedy, but it doesn't take long for "We Are Still Here" to turn into an unexpected bloodbath, ratcheting up the intensity. Additionally, Geoghegan skillfully blended diverse influences, ranging from Fulci to Dan Curtis and Stuart Rosenberg, to create a unique and terrifying horror atmosphere.
The story takes place in a fictional setting inspired by HP Lovecraft, adding another layer of horror to this thrilling film. If you're a fan of horror films looking to push the boundaries of the genre, “We Are Still Here” is a perfect choice on Prime Video.
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7. House on Haunted Hill (1959)
Let's delve into the past to explore a gem of horror cinema: « House on Haunted HillI " released in 1959. This is an old-fashioned horror film, mixing dark and strange humor, which has stood out and stood the test of time.
Our protagonist, the legendary Vincent price, stands out in his role, thanks to his theatrical performance and his unforgettable voice. His character, extravagant and mysterious, invites a group of people to a haunted house for an evening that promises to be terrifying. This house, a real character which gives its title to the film, is an emblematic place of the genre, with its dark corridors, its creaking doors and its sudden apparitions.
The director William Castle, known for its horror films of the era, was able to create a masterpiece with “House on Haunted Hill”. This film brings together all the elements that make you shiver: Vincent Price's deliciously exaggerated performance, the big scary house, a mystery to solve, and a deliciously kitsch walking skeleton.
If you're a fan of the genre and looking to watch classics on Prime Video, “House on Haunted Hill” is a must-see. A film which, despite its age, continues to generate thrills and pleasure.
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8. REC (2007)
In eighth place on our list of the best horror films available on Prime Video, we have the fast-paced and terrifying « REC« . Originally from Spain, this found-footage style horror film, released in 2007, managed to captivate international audiences with its innovative approach to the zombie genre.
Like classic horror films, “REC” stands out for its unique fusion of traditional zombie folklore with religious mysticism. The film plunges us into a climate of anguish and pure terror, where horror can emerge at any time, from any direction. The dark and narrow corridors of the building where the action takes place amplify the feeling of claustrophobia, making the experience even more intense.
Through the slow progression of the infection and the terrifying transformation of victims into zombies, “REC” explores profound themes like fear of the unknown, human frailty in the face of supernatural threat, and the desperate struggle for survival.
The raw realism of this film, reinforced by the found-footage technique, gives the impression of being at the heart of the action, of sharing the horror and tension palpable at every moment. A true tour de force in modern horror cinema.
9. Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978)
Coming in ninth on our list of the best horror films available on Prime Video, we have the classic “Invasion of the Body Snatchers”, a film which plunges us into an atmosphere of latent anxiety. Directed by Philip Kaufman, this 1978 film is a remake of the alien invasion classic.
Donald Sutherland, the main actor, brings to life a character who must face an insidious and imperceptible threat. The story takes place in a world that seems strangely off-kilter, where the inhabitants are gradually replaced by aliens. The anxiety gradually builds as the protagonist becomes aware of the terrifying reality that surrounds him.
Kaufman's talent for creating an eerie atmosphere is undeniable. The director manages to inject anxiety into every scene, and even the most mundane moments take a sinister turn. The film is a fascinating exploration of alienation and paranoia, and it is considered a classic of the genre.
In short, “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” is an essential work for horror fans, a film that will keep you in suspense until the last minute. A perfect suggestion for a spooky movie night on Prime Video.
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10. Nope (coming soon)
Get ready to thrill with the next film from Jordan Peele, who are " nope“. This director, known for his films with complex plots and skillfully mixing horror with social criticism, promises us a captivating new work. By exploring the theme of image creation as a form of brutality in the quest for UFO evidence, Peele seems to want to push the boundaries of the genre once again.
The film features Daniel Kaluya, Keke Palmer et Steven Yeun, three actors who have already proven their talent on multiple occasions. With such a cast, “Nope” is already shaping up to be a must-see for any horror fan.
In “Nope,” Peele seems to balance more narrative threads than ever before. We are talking here about extraterrestrials, Muybridge revisionism, undigested mourning and chimpanzees. This makes it seem like "Nope" will be like Jaws in the sky, a true experience of cosmic horror.
The director appreciates the melodrama of a good Bible quote. In his 2019 film “Us,” he made numerous references to Jeremiah 11:11. It appears that his latest effort, “Nope,” also opens with a biblical quote, which promises an intense and dramatic atmosphere.
If you're a fan of horror movies and looking forward to the next hits on Prime Video, keep an eye on "Nope." This film could well be Jordan Peele's next big hit.
11. Candyman (2021)
Now let's dive into the terrifying world of « Candyman« of 2021. This long-awaited sequel to the original horror film from Nia DaCosta is a spine-chilling masterpiece. With Yahya Abdul Mateen II in the lead role, this film redefines what a supernatural urban legend is.
Revisiting the narrative elements of the original film, DaCosta constructs a chilling story that explores deep and relevant topics like racism and gentrification. Playing artist Anthony, Abdul-Mateen II is introduced to the same urban legend that consumed graduate student Helen Lyle in the first film. But this time, Anthony's attraction to the legend, to the story, is more intimate.
“What’s real – what’s true – lasts forever,” says Burke, the longtime laundryman played by Colman Domingo. “It’s Candyman.”
And therein lies the true horror of “Candyman”. DaCosta makes it clear that the urban legend is not just a scary story, but a reflection of the horrors of our real society. The film is a complex and frightening mosaic that brings together the pieces of the original film into a fascinating and vindictive collage.
Available on Prime Video, “Candyman” is a must-see horror film, a terrifying mirror of reality that will keep you thinking long after the film is over.
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12. The Fog (1980)
The twelfth gem on our list is the 1980 horror film, « The Fog« , directed by the master of the genre, John Carpenter. This film is much more than just scary entertainment, it is a cinematic masterpiece that is a testament to Carpenter's genius.
Imagine a quiet coastal town shrouded in enigmatic fog. It is not just any fog, but a thick white mist that brings quick death to those within it. This is the terrifying scenario that Carpenter presents to us in “The Fog”.
Available on Prime Video, “The Fog”, with its dense and supernatural atmosphere, is a horror film that will send shivers down your spine. Its practical effects, produced with a relatively higher budget than that of its predecessor “Halloween”, are particularly impressive. The luminescent fog that moves across the city is amplified by Carpenter's signature synthetic soundtrack, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Plus, the stellar cast includes names like Jamie Lee Curtis, Adrienne barbeau, Tom atkins, Janet Leigh et Hal holbrook, who deliver remarkable performances.
In short, “The Fog” stands out for its high production quality and its strange and disturbing atmosphere. This film is a must-see for all horror movie fans available on Prime Video.
13. Night of the Demons (1988)
The iconic horror film from the late 80s, « Night of the Demons« , is a bold and chilling depiction of what can go wrong when a group of young people gather in a terrifying place. This film, directed by Kevin S. Tenney, is famous for its unapologetic audacity and its jubilant look at the deaths of its characters.
It fits into the 80s horror film subgenre, where the plot focuses on a group of young people who go to a scary place and all end up dying. This film, with its dark atmosphere and terrifying scenes, is a thrilling journey that will captivate you until the last minute.
The charm of “Night of the Demons” lies in its uncompromising approach to horror. There is no room for tastelessness or moderation in this film. Each scene is designed to thrill you, surprise you and leave you wanting more. It is undeniable that “Night of the Demons” has left an indelible mark on the world of horror films and remains a perfect choice for lovers of thrills available on Prime Video.
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14. Dead & Buried (1981)
Immersed in the sinister atmosphere of a small New England coastal town, we discover “ Dead & Buried“, a pure gem of horror cinema available on Prime Video. The film thrills with its chilling tale of the reanimated dead and its skillful combination of murder mystery, cult history and zombie film elements.
Director, gary sherman, has created a terrifying work of art that keeps you in suspense from start to finish. Indeed, the disconcerting plot of “Dead & Buried” takes place in a small coastal New England town. Viewers are plunged into a series of unexplained murders and supernatural phenomena.
The film shines with its ability to mix several subgenres of horror cinema. It artfully combines elements of murder mystery, cult story and zombie film to create a unique cinematic experience. Horror and suspense are expertly intertwined, making every scene in “Dead & Buried” incredibly intense and unforgettable.
The new life given to the dead in “Dead & Buried” is far from stereotypical. This is a reanimation of the dead in its own way, creating an even more terrifying atmosphere. If you're a fan of horror movies and looking to explore something unique and thrilling, "Dead & Buried" is the perfect choice on Prime Video.
15. Suspiria (2018)
In the vast universe of horror cinema, the remake of Suspiria from 2018 per Luca Guadagnino occupies a place of choice. Taking up the original work of Dario Argento, Guadagnino offers an interpretation that explores the essence of the original while adding his own unique touch.
Considered both delightful and disturbing, this horror film goes beyond the genre's usual expectations to venture into uncharted territories. Like the eerie, eerie fog of “The Fog” and the spooky atmosphere of “Night of the Demons,” Suspiria offers horror movie fans an intense and unique cinematic experience.
The 2018 remake of Suspiria is much more than just a horror film. It stands out for its graphic violence which serves as a disturbing symbol, both too real and too absurd. Instead of simply replicating the horror of the original, Guadagnino questions the very concept of horror, offering a new perspective on what can be considered terrifying.
With Suspiria, Guadagnino confirms his status as a master of contemporary horror. As in “Dead & Buried,” mystery and suspense are skillfully intertwined, creating an atmosphere of palpable tension that will keep you in suspense until the end.
