5 Horror Movies That Lurk in The Dark
1. Lights Out, 2016
⭐Rate: 7/10
🎬Review: Martin is a little boy hounded by a monster in the dark. His dad (Billy Burke) is killed by a woman in the dark. His mother (Maria Bello) seems to be talking to that mysterious being called Diana. Children's Services calls in his step-sister Rebecca (Teresa Palmer) who has commitment issues unwilling to even let Bret keep one sock at her place. Rebecca takes Martin to her home upon seeing her mother in dire mental state.
The visual concept of a lurker in the dark is quite compelling. The movie could have done more with a slower burn. It does a big kill right at the beginning which leaves the shock of discovery less overwhelming. It becomes the same move over and over again. It's a great move but it would work so much better with a gradual ramp up. The mother's madness is intriguing. A little more thought could be used to maximize the story.
2. In the Shadow of the Moon, 2019
⭐Rate: 7/10
🎬Review: It's refreshing to find a mid range budgeted thriller. The film is unafraid to attempt high concept storytelling and for the better part of the running time it works. There are some strong flaws, but if you can go with the film, you'll enjoy the twists and turns. Nice to see Netflix relying on these high concept to lure audiences, who are trapped by mega studios pumping superheroes at us. Not great, but I thought it was interesting.
3. Dark Skies, 2013
⭐Rate: 7/10
🎬Review: Am i crazy? Did this one fly over my head or is it just profusely underrated in the modern horror genre. "Dark Skies" is an upper tier horror with criminally low recognition. Boy was I surprised how good and actually frightening this film was. Horror is my drug I am numb to it at this point, and maybe because I wasn't expecting anything but this one genuinely shocked me. Sure there were a couple minor flaws in character actions but overall this one got the job done plus some.
4. The Blackcoat's Daughter, 2015
⭐Rate: 7/10
🎬Review: Directed by Oz Perkins, "The Blackcoat's Daughter" stands as a testament to atmospheric horror, deliberately avoiding the trappings of common tropes and clichés pervasive in the genre. Perkins crafts a deliberate pace and employs a restrained visual style to construct an eerie atmosphere that saturates every frame. The desolate, snow-covered setting further enhances the isolation, providing an unsettling backdrop for the unfolding events.
The film's title, "The Blackcoat's Daughter," takes on a symbolic weight as the narrative delves into profound themes of sin, guilt, and the sinister forces that clandestinely operate beneath the surface. Alternatively titled "February (source broken)," this moniker serves as a subtle clue, emphasizing that the film is a psychological puzzle inviting viewers to piece together cryptic elements. The reward lies in the satisfaction of those who appreciate ambiguity and open-ended conclusions.
The non-linear storytelling may prove disorienting for some, demanding patience and an appreciation for atmospheric horror. The deliberate ambiguity, while leaving certain questions unanswered, adds to the film's enigmatic allure.
What truly distinguishes "The Blackcoat's Daughter" is its audacious twist. Departing from the familiar narrative of victimhood, the film unveils a protagonist who willingly embraces the forces of darkness. Rejecting the conventional portrayal of the possessed as helpless victims, the narrative takes an unexpected turn as the central character's allegiance to the devil is revealed.
5. In the Dark, 2022
⭐Rate: 9/10
🎬Review: In the pilot, the main character is a drunk sex addict. It shows her as a real person and tries to delve into why she is rough and not willing to let others get close to her, including her roommate and family. Other reviewers get offended that they dare show her like this, as an addict. They say it's a bad representation of blind people. But she's not meant to be all blind people, she's meant to be her. Why does any disabled person on television have to be a shining example for all people with that disability? Answer: they don't. There are many blind people in the real world that aren't always polite and I'm sure most of them are tired of people asking why they're blind. The show goes to extremes trying to give viewers a glimpse into the life of a blind person without sugar coating it with a world of encouragement and trying so hard. It starts off well letting you know the blind character is a real person and not just included in the show for the sake of inclusion. It lets you know the character sees herself as excluded. The start of the series has a lot of potential specifically because it shows people aren't all perfect, that being blind isn't the only flaw blind people can have, and it shows a desire for change. That's the start of a good story. Identify how things actually are, identify how the character wants to change and how they will try to change. No she's not the Wonder Woman of blind people, but she is not supposed to be either. This isn't a buddy-buddy sitcom, or a teen romance, it's a dark drama.
What's the best horror movie twist you've ever seen? Comment and let me know!
#lemon8tainment #movie #movierecommendations #halloweenmovies #watchlist #holidaywatchlist #moviereview #christmasmovies
As a horror movie enthusiast, there's nothing quite like the thrill of a film that truly gets under your skin. We often chase that feeling of dread, the lingering unease, or the heart-pounding jump scare that makes us question what's lurking in the shadows. Finding those hidden gems that deliver genuine terror can be a challenge, but when you do, it's incredibly rewarding. For me, a great horror movie isn't just about gore; it's about atmosphere, tension, and a story that makes you think (or makes you afraid to think!). Whether it's a supernatural spirit attached to a mother, a terrifying presence in a boarding school, or an unknown force from beyond the stars, the best horror plays on our deepest fears. The movies I've shared are perfect examples of how different styles of horror can create unique experiences. 'Lights Out' excels with its clever visual concept of a creature that only exists in the dark, building suspense with every flicker. Then you have something like 'The Blackcoat's Daughter,' which is a true masterclass in atmospheric horror and a psychological puzzle, relying on ambiguity and a slow burn to deliver its unsettling impact. It's not about cheap scares, but a profound sense of dread. If you're like me and appreciate a horror film that's perhaps a bit overlooked, you know the joy of discovering something like 'Dark Skies.' It really sticks with you, proving that suburban terror can be just as potent as any other setting when a family is terrorized by an unseen entity. And while 'In the Dark' steps into dark drama territory, its exploration of a blind woman's journey adds a unique, intense perspective, reminding us that fear isn't always supernatural. The way these films handle their twists, or even their non-linear storytelling, keeps you guessing and elevates them beyond typical horror tropes. To really get the most out of these picks, I always recommend setting the mood. Turn off the lights (if you dare!), get some popcorn, and really immerse yourself. These aren't just movies; they're experiences designed to challenge your comfort zone. So, if you're craving a unique fright night or looking to broaden your horror horizons beyond the mainstream blockbusters, definitely give these a watch. You might just find your new favorite spine-chilling movie that truly lurks in the dark!
Did u even watch these