15 Best Indie Horror Movies From the Last 5 Years You Probably Missed

I love diving into indie horror films because they often take bold risks that bigger studios shy away from. These movies deliver raw, unsettling stories that linger long after the credits roll, and the past five years have been packed with hidden gems that deserve more attention.

This list highlights 15 indie horror movies from 2020 to 2025 that flew under the radar but pack a serious punch. From psychological thrillers to supernatural chills, these films showcase creative storytelling and fresh talent. Each one offers something unique, whether it’s a haunting atmosphere or a daring twist on the genre.

15. ‘The Night House’ (2020)

Rebecca Hall stars as Beth, a widow unraveling the dark secrets left by her late husband after his suicide. Strange occurrences in their lakeside home lead her to confront a supernatural force called ‘Nothing.’

Hall’s gripping performance carries this slow-burn psychological horror. The film’s eerie visuals and exploration of grief make it a standout that’s been unfairly overlooked.

14. ‘Relic’ (2020)

A mother and daughter visit their elderly matriarch, only to find her dementia intertwined with a creeping, otherworldly presence in her home. Emily Mortimer and Bella Heathcote shine in this Australian horror.

The film uses a growing black mold as a chilling metaphor for decay and loss. Its quiet dread and emotional depth make it a must-see for fans of thoughtful horror.

13. ‘Host’ (2020)

Shot entirely over Zoom during the 2020 lockdown, this British found-footage film follows friends who accidentally unleash a malevolent spirit during an online séance. The 56-minute runtime is relentless.

Its clever use of pandemic-era technology feels fresh and terrifyingly real. The film’s raw energy and smart scares make it a perfect indie horror gem.

12. ‘The Dark and the Wicked’ (2020)

Two siblings return to their rural Texas farm to care for their dying father, only to face a sinister force plaguing their family. The film’s oppressive atmosphere is suffocating.

With minimal gore, it leans on psychological terror and bleak visuals to unsettle viewers. It’s a haunting tale of familial trauma that deserves more buzz.

11. ‘We’re All Going to the World’s Fair’ (2021)

A teen girl dives into an online horror role-playing game, blurring the line between reality and fiction as her grip on sanity slips. Jane Schoenbrun’s debut is unsettling and unique.

The film captures the eerie loneliness of internet culture with a lo-fi aesthetic. It’s a slow burn that resonates with anyone who’s felt lost online.

10. ‘Barbarian’ (2022)

A woman arrives at an Airbnb in Detroit to find it double-booked, leading to a nightmarish discovery in the house’s basement. Zach Cregger’s debut is wild and unpredictable.

The film’s sharp twists and blend of gore and tension keep you glued to the screen. It’s a bold, creepy ride that’s become a cult favorite.

9. ‘The Invitation’ (2022)

Evie, a young woman, attends a lavish wedding in England after a DNA test reveals new family ties, only to uncover a sinister plot. Nathalie Emmanuel leads this vampire thriller.

The film mixes gothic vibes with modern horror, offering sleek visuals and a fresh spin on vampire lore. It’s a fun, underseen gem for genre fans.

8. ‘Resurrection’ (2022)

Rebecca Hall plays Margaret, a single mother whose orderly life is disrupted when a haunting figure from her past, played by Tim Roth, resurfaces. The film is a psychological descent.

Hall’s intense eight-minute monologue is a highlight, and the film’s unsettling tone keeps you guessing. It’s a gripping, overlooked thriller with raw emotion.

7. ‘The Sadness’ (2021)

A viral outbreak in Taiwan turns people into violent, depraved monsters, following two lovers trying to reunite amidst the chaos. This zombie film pushes boundaries with extreme gore.

Its relentless pace and brutal practical effects make it unforgettable for horror fans. It’s not for the faint-hearted but a standout in indie horror.

6. ‘Pearl’ (2022)

Mia Goth stars as a young woman in 1918 Texas, desperate for stardom but spiraling into violence when her dreams are crushed. This prequel to ‘X’ is vibrant and tragic.

Goth’s magnetic performance and Ti West’s colorful direction create a unique slasher. It’s a bold character study that’s both beautiful and horrifying.

5. ‘The Innocents’ (2021)

This Norwegian slow-burn horror follows four children whose eerie powers emerge during a summer vacation. Eskil Vogt’s film is deeply unsettling without relying on jump scares.

The young cast delivers chilling performances, and the film’s quiet dread builds to a shocking climax. It’s a masterclass in subtle, psychological horror.

4. ‘Late Night with the Devil’ (2023)

Set during a 1977 Halloween talk show, this film follows host Jack Delroy as a paranormal segment spirals into chaos. David Dastmalchian shines in this found-footage gem.

The retro aesthetic and immersive atmosphere make it feel like a real broadcast gone wrong. It’s a creative, terrifying indie that’s been underappreciated.

3. ‘Stopmotion’ (2024)

Ella, a stop-motion animator, descends into psychosis while finishing her mother’s film, blending reality with grotesque creations. The visuals, using real flesh, are disturbing.

The film explores grief and obsession through a toxic mother-daughter dynamic. It’s a harrowing, visually striking horror that’s flown under the radar.

2. ‘Strange Darling’ (2024)

A romantic encounter in rural Oregon turns into a twisted cat-and-mouse game in this non-linear thriller. Willa Fitzgerald’s performance is electrifying.

The film’s unpredictable structure and tense atmosphere make it a gripping watch. It’s a recent indie gem that deserves a bigger audience for its bold storytelling.

1. ‘Booger’ (2023)

Anna, grieving her best friend’s death, undergoes a surreal feline transformation after a cat bite. This body horror comedy dives deep into loss and identity.

Its mix of gross-out moments and heartfelt emotion creates a unique experience. This indie stands out for its daring blend of humor and terror.

Which of these indie horror films are you eager to check out, or is there another hidden scare I missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!