30 Best Indie Horror Movies Ever Filmed
Naturally, when we discuss spine-tingling films, it’s the big studios that often come to mind. However, some of the most gripping and haunting tales are hidden within some of the best indie horror movies. Dive deep into this underexplored realm where raw passion and chilling narratives intertwine.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated in October 2023 with the latest movies and information.
1. ‘Get Out‘ (2017)
“Get Out” is a directorial debut of Jordan Peele that fuses biting social commentary with classic horror elements. The story follows Chris Washington, a young Black man, who visits the family of his white girlfriend, Rose Armitage, for a weekend. Soon, he starts to notice peculiar behaviors from the black workers at the estate. As Chris delves deeper into the mysteries of the Armitage family home, he unravels disturbing secrets that tie into race and identity.
What makes “Get Out” an outstanding indie horror film is its ability to tackle pressing societal issues while delivering heart-pounding suspense. Peele masterfully blends horror tropes with a thought-provoking narrative, challenging viewers to confront their biases. The film’s unexpected twists, combined with its socially conscious themes, have marked it as a great indie horror movie and a significant cultural milestone.
2. ‘Green Room‘ (2015)
“Green Room,” directed by Jeremy Saulnier, is a nail-biting thriller centered around a punk rock band, The Ain’t Rights. After witnessing a violent crime at a remote club in the Pacific Northwest, the band members find themselves trapped and fighting for their lives against a group of white supremacists. The movie does not shy away from showing the brutal and raw nature of their fight for survival.
This film stands out in the indie horror for its intense realism and claustrophobic atmosphere. With a limited budget, Saulnier manages to create a relentless and visceral experience for viewers. The tight spaces, palpable tension, and authentic performances, particularly by Patrick Stewart as the chilling antagonist, all make “Green Room” a masterclass in indie horror suspense.
3. ‘Goodnight Mommy‘ (2014)
Hailing from Austria, “Goodnight Mommy” is a psychological horror film directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala. The story revolves around twin brothers Elias and Lukas, who begin to doubt their mother’s identity after she returns home from facial reconstructive surgery. The once familiar and loving mother now feels like a stranger, leading the boys to question what’s hidden beneath her bandages.
Its compelling use of psychological tension elevates “Goodnight Mommy” in indie horror. The directors employ a slow burn technique, focusing on atmospheric dread rather than overt scares. The film’s uncanny ability to make the audience uncomfortable and its reliance on strong visual storytelling over dialogue highlights the strengths of indie filmmaking – creating deep, emotional impact without relying on big-budget effects.
4. ‘Mom and Dad‘ (2017)
“Mom and Dad,” directed by Brian Taylor, offers a wild and chaotic ride. It’s set in a world where parents are suddenly driven by an uncontrollable urge to harm their own children. The movie follows two teenagers, Carly and Josh, as they try to survive this inexplicable day of terror while avoiding their own homicidal parents, played by Nicolas Cage and Selma Blair.
The genius of “Mom and Dad” as an indie horror film is in its audacity. With a unique premise, Taylor dives deep into a dark comedy, exploring parental frustrations and the mundane nature of suburban life turned upside down. Cage’s unhinged performance, paired with Blair’s more subtle descent into madness, showcases the film’s balance of over-the-top horror and grounded emotional moments, epitomizing the innovative spirit of indie horror.
5. ‘Host‘ (2020)
“Host,” directed by Rob Savage, is a timely horror tale set during the COVID-19 pandemic. The entire film takes place over a Zoom call, where a group of friends hires a medium to conduct an online séance. Predictably, things go awry, and a sinister presence haunts the group. Each participant faces increasingly horrifying supernatural events as the call progresses, all viewed through their computer screens.
The brilliance of “Host” lies in its relevance and innovation. Savage taps into the shared global experience of the pandemic and the isolation felt during lockdowns. Utilizing a familiar platform like Zoom, he crafts a story that feels close to home. The film’s tight runtime and use of real-time events make every scene feel immediate and authentic. In an era dominated by big-budget spectacles, “Host” is a testament to the power of simplicity and resourcefulness in indie horror.
6. ‘Train to Busan‘ (2016)
“Train to Busan,” directed by Yeon Sang-ho, is a South Korean zombie apocalypse film that primarily takes place aboard a high-speed train. Seok-woo, a workaholic father, and his young daughter, Su-an, are onboard when a sudden zombie outbreak engulfs South Korea. As the train hurtles towards Busan, one of the last safe zones, passengers face the external threat of the undead and internal conflicts that arise from fear and desperation.
Its seamless blend of heart-wrenching human drama with relentless action solidifies “Train to Busan” as a monumental indie horror film. It reinvigorates the zombie genre by emphasizing character development and interpersonal relationships. The confined setting of the train amplifies tension, and the film uses this to examine broader societal issues, including class divide and self-sacrifice, marking it as a standout in horror cinema.
7. ‘Bone Tomahawk‘ (2015)
Directed by S. Craig Zahler, “Bone Tomahawk” is a unique blend of the Western and horror genres. Set in the 1890s, the plot revolves around a group of men, led by Sheriff Franklin Hunt, venturing into the wilderness to rescue townspeople abducted by a group of cannibalistic cave dwellers. The film’s slow pace gives way to moments of shocking brutality, making the journey both tense and unpredictable.
“Bone Tomahawk” stands tall in the indie horror landscape due to its meticulous character development and fresh approach to familiar themes. The dialogue-rich narrative and strong performances, especially from Kurt Russell, vividly depict the Old West’s harsh realities. Its climax, which veers into deeply disturbing horror territory, showcases the effectiveness of mixing genres in independent cinema.
8. ‘The Lighthouse‘ (2019)
“The Lighthouse,” helmed by Robert Eggers, is a psychological horror film set on a remote island in the late 19th century. The story focuses on two lighthouse keepers, Thomas Wake and Ephraim Winslow, played by Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, respectively. As they maintain the lighthouse, isolation and strange occurrences push their sanity to the brink, leading to a maddening descent into paranoia and hallucination.
This film’s prowess as an indie horror lies in its haunting atmosphere and commitment to authenticity. Filmed in black and white and using a square aspect ratio, “The Lighthouse” feels timeless and otherworldly. The unnerving sound design, combined with the isolation of the setting, creates a pressure-cooker environment. Eggers’ attention to period-accurate dialogue and intense character dynamics result in a hypnotic, disorienting experience that’s hard to shake off.
9. ‘The Battery‘ (2012)
Jeremy Gardner’s “The Battery” is a post-apocalyptic film centered around two former baseball players, Ben and Mickey, as they navigate a world overrun by zombies. Rather than focusing on gore and action, the movie delves deep into the relationship between the two protagonists, their contrasting outlooks on their bleak situation, and the challenges of companionship in a world gone mad.
“The Battery” exemplifies indie horror’s potential to craft deeply human stories amidst fantastical settings. On a shoestring budget, Gardner showcases the desolation and beauty of the post-apocalyptic world, juxtaposing it with a touching portrayal of friendship and survival. The film’s emphasis on character dynamics over traditional horror elements makes it a refreshing and contemplative addition to the zombie genre.
10. ‘Martyrs‘ (2008)
Pascal Laugier’s “Martyrs” is a French-Canadian horror film that’s not for the faint of heart. It starts with a young woman named Lucie seeking revenge on those who tortured her as a child. But as the narrative unfolds, the plot takes several harrowing turns, diving into themes of pain, transcendence, and the search for ultimate knowledge.
“Martyrs” has earned its reputation as one of the most intense and polarizing indie horror films of its time. Its unflinching approach to violence serves not just as shock value but as a means to explore profound existential themes. Laugier’s fearless exploration of human suffering and the quest for understanding beyond our realm offers a disturbing yet thought-provoking cinematic experience that’s emblematic of the audacity found in indie horror.
11. ‘In Fabric‘ (2018)
“In Fabric,” directed by Peter Strickland, delves into the strange tale of a haunted red dress and the people who come to possess it. Set against the backdrop of a mysterious department store, the film follows the dress as it moves from one owner to another, bringing misfortune and eerie occurrences. The narrative weaves a rich tapestry of horror, humor, and style, with a peculiar focus on consumerism and the fetishization of clothing.
What distinguishes “In Fabric” in the indie horror genre is its lush visual style and uniquely offbeat narrative. Strickland’s attention to detail and the film’s rich color palette create an entrancing, dreamlike atmosphere. By blending elements of Giallo with dark comedy, “In Fabric” emerges as an ode to vintage horror while commenting on the obsession with materialism in modern society.
12. ‘The Invitation‘ (2015)
Karyn Kusama’s “The Invitation” is a masterclass in tension-building. The plot centers around Will, who, with his girlfriend, attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife at their former home. As the evening progresses, Will becomes increasingly suspicious of the hosts’ intentions, leading to a shocking and intense climax.
The film’s strength as an indie horror lies in its restrained approach. Kusama expertly uses the confines of the setting to ratchet up tension, allowing characters and their dynamics to drive the story. By focusing on the subtle unease of social gatherings and the trauma of past events, “The Invitation” becomes a potent mix of psychological horror and drama, questioning the very nature of politeness and trust in society.
13. ‘It Follows‘ (2014)
“It Follows,” helmed by David Robert Mitchell, introduces a simple yet haunting premise: after a young woman, Jay, has a sexual encounter, she’s pursued by a relentless, shape-shifting entity. The only way to rid herself of this curse is to pass it on to someone else through intimacy. The film is an atmospheric journey characterized by its synth-heavy score and wide camera shots, creating a pervasive sense of dread.
What sets “It Follows” apart in indie horror is its allegorical exploration of sexuality, youth, and suburban ennui. Mitchell crafts a world where menace lurks in everyday settings, using the entity as a metaphor for the inescapable anxieties that come with growing up. Its innovative premise and distinctive style make “It Follows” a modern horror classic.
14. ‘Scare Me‘ (2020)
“Scare Me,” directed and starring Josh Ruben, is a unique take on the anthology format. During a power outage, two strangers, Fanny and Fred, decide to tell each other scary stories in a secluded cabin. The film primarily revolves around their narratives, their evolving dynamic, and the act of storytelling itself, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
The charm of “Scare Me” as an indie horror is its focus on the power of imagination and narrative. With minimal settings and special effects, Ruben effectively conveys terror through dialogues and character interactions. The film’s meta-commentary on the horror genre, combined with strong performances, especially from Aya Cash, celebrates the art of storytelling in its rawest form.
15. ‘Stake Land‘ (2010)
“Stake Land,” directed by Jim Mickle, is a post-apocalyptic horror set in a world devastated by vampiric creatures. The story follows a young boy, Martin, and a vampire hunter named Mister as they journey through the wastelands of America, searching for a sanctuary known as “New Eden.” Along the way, they face bloodthirsty vampires, cults, and other human threats.
What makes “Stake Land” a standout indie horror film is its blend of character-driven narrative with a grim depiction of a post-apocalyptic world. Mickle doesn’t just focus on the horror of vampiric creatures but delves deep into the human condition when faced with societal collapse. By merging elements of a road trip movie with classic horror, “Stake Land” delivers a fresh take on vampire lore, emphasizing survival, community, and hope amidst despair.
16. ‘One Cut of the Dead‘ (2017)
Directed by Shinichirou Ueda, “One Cut of the Dead” is a Japanese zombie comedy film that begins with an audacious 37-minute single-take sequence of a film crew being attacked by zombies. But, as the narrative unfolds, the story takes an unexpected turn, revealing layers of meta-commentary about filmmaking and creativity.
The genius of “One Cut of the Dead” in indie horror is its ability to subvert expectations. Ueda showcases passion, improvisation, and the chaotic beauty of creating art by blending a behind-the-scenes look at low-budget filmmaking with the zombie genre. The film celebrates the spirit of indie productions and the collaborative effort required to bring a vision to life, making it a heartfelt tribute to filmmakers everywhere.
17. ‘Tucker and Dale vs. Evil‘ (2010)
“Tucker and Dale vs. Evil,” directed by Eli Craig, is a horror-comedy that brilliantly flips the typical “hillbilly horror” trope. The story follows two kind-hearted country guys, Tucker and Dale, mistaken for murderous backwoods maniacs by a group of college students. As the misunderstandings pile up, so does the body count, but in hilariously unintended ways.
This film stands out in the indie horror for its clever subversion of genre clichés. Instead of relying on the familiar tropes, it delivers humor and heart by focusing on misunderstandings and prejudices. Alan Tudyk and Tyler Labine’s performances lend depth to their characters, making viewers root for the unlikely heroes. It’s a fresh, comedic horror perspective highlighting the dangers of jumping to conclusions.
18. ‘Let the Right One In‘ (2008)
Directed by Tomas Alfredson and based on the novel by John Ajvide Lindqvist, “Let the Right One In” is a Swedish romantic horror film that centers on the bond between Oskar, a bullied boy, and Eli, a mysterious child who happens to be a vampire. Set against the backdrop of a snowy suburb, the film delves deep into themes of loneliness, friendship, and the nature of evil.
This film distinguishes itself in the indie horror genre with its delicate balance of horror and tender human connection. By focusing on the relationship between Oskar and Eli, Alfredson crafts a poignant tale that challenges the traditional portrayal of vampires. The cold, stark cinematography mirrors the isolation felt by the protagonists, making “Let the Right One In” a haunting yet heartwarming exploration of love and otherness.
19. ‘Pontypool‘ (2008)
“Pontypool,” directed by Bruce McDonald and based on the novel by Tony Burgess, is a unique take on the zombie apocalypse. The story is set inside a radio station where shock jock Grant Mazzy and his crew begin to understand a strange virus that turns people into violent killers, with the infection spread through the English language.
Its innovative premise and claustrophobic setting elevate “Pontypool” in indie horror. McDonald uses the power of words and sounds to evoke dread, making the audience imagine the horrors outside. The film delves deep into the potency of language, making it both a tense thriller and a philosophical exploration of communication’s power and fragility.
20. ‘The House of the Devil‘ (2009)
Helmed by Ti West, “The House of the Devil” is a nod to 1980s horror, complete with a retro aesthetic and slow-burning tension. The plot follows college student Samantha Hughes as she takes a babysitting job in a remote mansion, only to discover that her employers have sinister intentions tied to a lunar eclipse.
This film’s strength in indie horror lies in its commitment to building atmosphere. West meticulously crafts a sense of unease, using long takes, a moody soundtrack, and deliberate pacing. Focusing on character and mood over jump scares, “The House of the Devil” pays homage to classic horror while delivering a fresh, dread-filled experience. The film’s climax, punctuated by moments of intense shock, is a testament to the effectiveness of suspense in horror cinema.
21. ‘Terrifier‘ (2016)
“Terrifier,” directed by Damien Leone, introduces audiences to Art the Clown, a nightmarish figure who becomes the central antagonist. Set on Halloween night, the story revolves around two women who cross paths with this sadistic clown, leading to a night of relentless terror. As the night unfolds, Art’s malevolent intentions become more apparent, subjecting his victims to unspeakable acts of violence.
In indie horror, “Terrifier” stands out for its visceral brutality and commitment to pure, unadulterated terror. With his silent demeanor and eerie grin, Art the Clown has quickly become an iconic figure in modern horror. Leone doesn’t shy away from graphic scenes, making it a film not for the faint of heart. However, its raw and unfiltered approach to horror gives “Terrifier” its intense impact, reminding viewers of the sheer unpredictability of evil.
22. ‘I Saw the Devil‘ (2010)
Directed by Kim Jee-woon, “I Saw the Devil” is a South Korean psychological horror-thriller that delves into the cat-and-mouse game between a secret agent and a psychopathic serial killer. After his fiancée becomes one of the killer’s victims, the agent embarks on a personal vendetta, blurring the lines between justice and revenge and, in the process, becoming a monster himself.
“I Saw the Devil” is a masterclass in tension, exploring the depths of human depravity and the cost of vengeance. Its brilliance as an indie horror film lies in exploring the thin line separating good from evil. With impeccable performances, especially from actors Lee Byung-hun and Choi Min-sik, the film becomes an intense, morally ambiguous journey into darkness. Its graphic scenes, combined with its profound philosophical musings, make it both harrowing and thought-provoking.
23. ‘Kill List‘ (2011)
Helmed by Ben Wheatley, “Kill List” is a British horror-thriller that follows Jay, a former soldier turned hitman, as he embarks on a new assignment with his old friend, Gal. As they carry out their tasks, things turn dark, leading them into a nightmarish world of cults and dark rituals.
Its seamless blend of crime drama with unsettling horror elements sets “Kill List” apart in indie horror. Wheatley crafts a narrative filled with increasing paranoia and dread, creating an atmosphere where anything can happen. The film’s slow-burn approach, combined with its shocking finale, leaves an indelible mark on viewers. By focusing on the consequences of one’s actions and the inexorable pull of fate, “Kill List” becomes a haunting meditation on destiny and morality.
24. ‘Dead Man’s Shoes‘ (2004)
“Dead Man’s Shoes,” directed by Shane Meadows, is a gritty British revenge thriller that centers around Richard, a soldier returning to his hometown to avenge the abuse his mentally challenged brother suffered at the hands of local thugs. As Richard embarks on his vengeful spree, the film delves deep into themes of redemption, guilt, and the cyclical nature of violence.
In the landscape of indie horror, “Dead Man’s Shoes” stands out for its raw emotion and uncompromising portrayal of vengeance. Meadows doesn’t sugarcoat the brutal realities of small-town life, offering a tragic and cathartic narrative. Paddy Considine’s performance as Richard is both chilling and poignant, capturing the complexities of a man torn between love for his brother and the darkness consuming him. It’s a stark reminder of the lengths one might go to protect loved ones.
25. ‘The Dark and the Wicked‘ (2020)
Directed by Bryan Bertino, “The Dark and the Wicked” is a chilling tale set on a secluded farm where adult siblings Louise and Michael return to their family home due to their ailing father’s worsening condition. However, they quickly realize that an insidious presence has taken hold of their mother and possibly the entire homestead, plunging them into darkness and despair.
What makes “The Dark and the Wicked” a standout indie horror is its oppressive atmosphere and commitment to psychological terror. Bertino masterfully creates a sense of isolation and growing dread, making the farm a character that exudes malevolence. The film delves deep into the themes of family, grief, and the weight of generational sins. Its slow-burning narrative, punctuated by moments of sheer terror, is a harrowing exploration of the lengths to which evil can permeate and corrupt.
26. ‘Southbound‘ (2015)
“Southbound” is an anthology horror film composed of intertwined tales, all set along a desolate stretch of desert highway. Directed by multiple filmmakers, including Roxanne Benjamin and David Bruckner, each story introduces viewers to many tormented souls — from desperate runaways to a distressed rock band. The eerie highway acts as a purgatorial backdrop, where past sins catch up with the travelers in nightmarish ways.
What sets “Southbound” apart in indie horror is its inventive narrative structure and seamless transition between tales. Using the desolate highway as both a setting and a metaphor allows for a haunting exploration of guilt, regret, and fate. While diverse in its horror elements, each story maintains a consistent tone of impending doom, making “Southbound” an unsettling journey from start to finish.
27. ‘Hush‘ (2016)
Directed by Mike Flanagan, “Hush” is a home invasion thriller with a unique twist. Maddie, the protagonist, is a deaf-mute author who lives in isolation in the woods. Her serene life is disrupted when a masked intruder decides to terrorize her, leading to a tense game of cat and mouse. With her inability to hear, Maddie must rely on her other senses and wit to survive.
“Hush” stands out in the indie horror scene for its innovative premise and tension-filled execution. Flanagan masterfully utilizes the silence to amplify the suspense, making viewers acutely aware of every visual cue. The film is not just a conventional thriller but also an exploration of resilience and empowerment. Maddie’s resourcefulness, despite her disability, challenges the norms of a “helpless” horror movie victim.
28. ‘Raw‘ (2016)
Helmed by Julia Ducournau, “Raw” is a French-Belgian horror drama that delves into the life of Justine, a vegetarian veterinary student who develops an insatiable craving for flesh after being forced to eat raw meat during a hazing ritual. This newfound appetite leads her down a dark path, testing familial bonds and her sense of identity.
“Raw” is a remarkable entry in indie horror for its visceral portrayal of carnal desires and the loss of innocence. Ducournau crafts a narrative that is as much about the horrors of growing up and societal expectations as it is about cannibalism. The film’s graphic content juxtaposes moments of vulnerability, making “Raw” a deeply emotional and unsettling coming-of-age tale.
29. ‘Under the Shadow‘ (2016)
Set in war-torn Tehran during the 1980s, “Under the Shadow,” directed by Babak Anvari, follows Shideh and her daughter, Dorsa, as they grapple with the terrors of both the Iran-Iraq war and a malevolent spirit haunting their home. As missiles rain down and tensions rise, the lines between reality and nightmares blur.
Its poignant blend of historical context with supernatural horror elevates “Under the Shadow” in indie horror. Anvari’s film is about unseen entities tormenting a mother and daughter and the real horrors of living in a conflict zone. The film challenges the traditional boundaries of the horror genre, offering a culturally specific and universally relatable narrative.
30. ‘The Witch‘ (2016)
Directed by Robert Eggers, “The Witch” is set in 1630s New England and follows a devout Christian family confronting supernatural forces in the isolated wilderness. When their newborn son disappears and their crops fail, the family members turn on one another, suspecting the eldest daughter, Thomasin, of witchcraft.
“The Witch” distinguishes itself in the indie horror with its meticulous attention to period detail and atmospheric tension. Eggers creates a slow-burning narrative that delves deep into themes of religious fanaticism, societal expectations, and the nature of evil. Focusing on the family’s unraveling and the menacing wilderness surrounding them, “The Witch” becomes a chilling exploration of paranoia and the corrosive power of fear.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments below!