Best Folk Horror Movies & Films Subgenre
Top 37 must-see best folk horror movies from folk horror movies, including Tumbbad, The Witch, Hereditary, When Evil Lurks, You Wont Be Alone, The Wailing, Impetigore, Huesera, The Ugly Stepsister, and Satan's Slaves ranked and rated by score.
Click any of the movies below to see that films' synopsis, plot, cast/actors, directors, full poster, movie trailer, and review.
Folk Horror Movies List
1). Tumbbad (2018) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: Tumbbad (2018)
Directors: Rahi Anil Barve, Anand Gandhi, Adesh Prasad
Stars: Sohum Shah, Jyoti Malshe, Anita Date, Ronjini Chakraborty, Deepak Damle
2). The Witch (2015) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of The Witch
Director: Robert Eggers
Stars: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie, Harvey Scrimshaw, Ellie Grainger
3). Hereditary (2018) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Hereditary – Full Review
Director: Ari Aster
Stars: Alex Wolff, Gabriel Byrne, Toni Collette, Milly Shapiro, Christy Summerhays
4). When Evil Lurks (2023) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Demián Rugna
Stars: Ezequiel Rodríguez, Luis Ziembrowski, Federico Liss, Demián Salomón, Emilio Vodanovich
5). You Wont Be Alone (2022) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Goran Stolevski
Stars: Noomi Rapace, Alice Englert, Anamaria Marinca, Sara Klimoska, Félix Maritaud
6). The Wailing (2016) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our The Wailing Review
Director: Hong-jin Na
Stars: Do-won Kwak, Jung-min Hwang, Jun Kunimura, Woo-hee Chun, Hwan-hee Kim
7). Impetigore (2019) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Impetigore (2019) Review
Director: Joko Anwar
Stars: Tara Basro, Ario Bayu, Marissa Anita, Marissa Anita, Christine Hakim
8). Huesera (2022) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Michelle Garza Cervera
Stars: Alfonso Dosal, Sonia Couoh, Mayra Batalla, Martha Claudia Moreno, Pablo Guisa Koestinger
9). The Ugly Stepsister (2025) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Emilie Blichfeldt
Stars: Lea Myren, Flo Fagerli, Isac Calmroth, Malte Gårdinger, Ralph Carlsson
10). Satan's Slaves (2017) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Joko Anwar
Stars: Tara Basro, Bront Palarae, Dimas Aditya, Endy Arfian, Nasar Annuz
11). Monstrum (2018) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Jong-ho Huh
Stars: Myung-Min Kim, In-kwon Kim, Hyeri Lee, Woo-sik Choi, Sung-woong Park
12). Sleepy Hollow (1999) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our Sleepy Hollow Review
Director: Tim Burton
Stars: Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, Miranda Richardson, Michael Gambon, Casper Van Dien
13). La Llorona (2019) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: La Llorona (2019)
Director: Jayro Bustamante
Stars: María Mercedes Coroy, Sabrina De La Hoz, Margarita Kenéfic, Julio Diaz, María Telón
14). The Shout (1978) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Jerzy Skolimowski
Stars: Alan Bates, Susannah York, John Hurt, Robert Stephens, Tim Curry
15). Hellbender (2021) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: John Adams, Zelda Adams, Toby Poser
Stars: Zelda Adams, Toby Poser, Lulu Adams, John Adams, Rinzin Thonden
Exploring the Best Folk Horror Movies
Are you a fan of spine-chilling tales that delve into the supernatural and the occult? If so, you're in for a treat! Get ready to embark on a hair-raising journey as we explore some of the best folk horror movies ever made. These films tap into the deep roots of folklore and mythology, immersing viewers in an atmosphere of dread and ancient terror.
From isolated villages plagued by sinister rituals to ancient curses that resurface in modern times, folk horror movies offer a unique blend of suspense, folklore, and visceral scares. Whether you're seeking an introduction to the genre or are a seasoned horror aficionado, this article is your ultimate guide to the most haunting and captivating folk horror films.
Featuring bone-chilling classics and contemporary favorites, we'll delve into the movies that have carved their own distinct niche in the horror genre. So grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare to be enthralled and terrified by the mesmerizing world of folk horror cinema.
Characteristics of folk horror movies
Folk horror movies are a distinct subgenre of horror that tap into the rich tapestry of folklore, mythology, and the supernatural. These films are characterized by a sense of unease and dread that permeates the narrative, often rooted in the dark corners of rural or isolated settings.
One of the defining traits of folk horror is the way it blends the ancient with the modern, creating a unsettling juxtaposition that leaves the viewer unsettled. These movies frequently explore the tensions between traditional beliefs, superstitions, and the encroachment of the modern world, highlighting the persistent power of the occult and the lingering influence of the past.
The atmosphere of folk horror movies is often steeped in a sense of isolation, with remote villages, forests, or abandoned structures serving as the backdrop for the unfolding horrors. This geographical and cultural isolation heightens the sense of unease, as the characters find themselves cut off from the familiar comforts of the modern world and forced to confront the primal, supernatural forces that lurk in the shadows. The use of eerie, unsettling soundtracks and visuals further enhances the unsettling atmosphere, creating a sense of dread that permeates the entire viewing experience.
The history of folk horror movies
The roots of folk horror can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the emergence of writers and filmmakers who sought to explore the darker aspects of folklore and mythology. One of the earliest and most influential works in the genre is Bram Stoker's "Dracula," which drew heavily on Transylvanian folklore and superstitions to craft its iconic vampire tale.
In the 1960s and 1970s, the genre gained momentum with the release of several seminal films that would go on to become cornerstones of the folk horror canon. Movies like "Witchfinder General" (1968), "The Wicker Man" (1973), and "The Blood on Satan's Claw" (1971) captivated audiences with their eerie, atmospheric depictions of rural communities grappling with ancient, supernatural forces.
These films often drew inspiration from the rich folklore and pagan traditions of the British Isles, tapping into a deep well of superstition and mysticism that resonated with audiences. The use of unsettling imagery, unsettling rituals, and a sense of the uncanny created an immersive and unsettling viewing experience that set the stage for the genre's enduring popularity.
Popular folk horror movies
One of the most iconic and influential folk horror films is "The Wicker Man" (1973), directed by Robin Hardy. Set in a remote Scottish island, the film follows a devout Christian police officer who investigates the disappearance of a young girl, only to uncover a pagan cult that practices ancient, unsettling rituals. The film's blend of religious themes, occult practices, and a sense of unease has cemented its status as a horror classic.
Another seminal work in the folk horror genre is "Witchfinder General" (1968), directed by Michael Reeves. Set during the English Civil War, the film follows the exploits of a ruthless witch hunter who terrorizes a rural community, blending historical events with supernatural elements. The film's gritty, realistic approach and its exploration of the abuse of power and religious fanaticism have made it a touchstone for fans of the genre.
More recently, the 2015 film "The Witch" by Robert Eggers has emerged as a contemporary classic of folk horror. Set in 17th-century New England, the film follows a Puritan family who are banished from their settlement and forced to confront the dark forces that lurk in the surrounding wilderness. Eggers' meticulous attention to historical detail and his masterful use of atmosphere and symbolism have earned the film widespread critical acclaim and a devoted following among horror enthusiasts.
Underrated folk horror movies
While the genre has produced several iconic and widely recognized films, there are also many underappreciated gems that deserve more attention from horror fans. One such film is "The Descent" (2005), directed by Neil Marshall. Although primarily a survival horror film, "The Descent" also incorporates elements of folk horror, with its exploration of an ancient, primal evil that lurks in the dark, cavernous depths.
Another underrated folk horror film is "The Ritual" (2017), directed by David Bruckner. Based on the novel by Adam Nevill, the film follows a group of friends who venture into the Swedish wilderness, only to encounter a sinister, ancient entity that preys on their deepest fears and insecurities. The film's atmospheric storytelling and its blend of Scandinavian folklore with modern horror tropes have earned it a dedicated following among fans of the genre.
"A Field in England" (2013), directed by Ben Wheatley, is another underappreciated folk horror gem. Set during the English Civil War, the film follows a group of deserters who stumble upon a mysterious field and become entangled in a bizarre, hallucinogenic nightmare. Wheatley's experimental approach to storytelling and his use of striking, surreal imagery have made "A Field in England" a cult favorite among fans of the genre.
Hidden gem folk horror movies
While the more popular and acclaimed folk horror films have garnered significant attention, there are also a number of lesser-known gems that deserve to be discovered by horror enthusiasts. One such film is "Hagazussa" (2017), directed by Lukas Feigelfeld. Set in 15th-century Austria, the film follows a young woman who is ostracized by her community and forced to confront the dark forces that lurk within the surrounding wilderness.
Another hidden gem is "Gwen" (2018), directed by William McGregor. Set in 19th-century Wales, the film follows a young girl who must contend with the supernatural forces that threaten her family's isolated farm. McGregor's atmospheric storytelling and his focus on the psychological and emotional toll of the characters' experiences have made "Gwen" a standout in the genre.
"The Wind" (2018), directed by Emma Tammi, is a folk horror gem that blends elements of the Western genre with the supernatural. Set in the American frontier, the film follows a young woman who is haunted by a mysterious, unseen force that seems to be connected to the harsh, unforgiving landscape. Tammi's masterful use of sound and her exploration of the themes of isolation and the fragility of the human psyche have made "The Wind" a must-see for fans of the genre.
The resurgence of folk horror movies in recent years
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in the folk horror genre, with a new generation of filmmakers and storytellers exploring the rich potential of this subgenre. This renewed attention has led to the emergence of several contemporary classics that have captivated audiences and critics alike.
One of the key drivers of this resurgence has been the critical and commercial success of films like "The Witch" and "Midsommar" (2019), both of which have pushed the boundaries of the genre and introduced a new generation of viewers to the unsettling world of folk horror. These films have demonstrated the enduring appeal of the genre, with their ability to tap into deep-seated fears and anxieties that resonate with modern audiences.
The resurgence of folk horror has also been fueled by the growing popularity of streaming platforms, which have made it easier for audiences to discover and engage with a wider range of genre films. This has allowed lesser-known and underappreciated folk horror movies to find new audiences and gain the recognition they deserve. As a result, the genre has continued to evolve and diversify, with filmmakers exploring new themes, settings, and storytelling approaches that push the boundaries of the genre.
Folk horror movies vs. other horror subgenres
While folk horror shares certain thematic and stylistic elements with other horror subgenres, it also possesses a distinct identity that sets it apart. Unlike the more visceral and graphic depictions of horror found in slasher films or the supernatural terrors of ghost stories, folk horror movies tend to rely on a more subtle and atmospheric approach to create a sense of unease and dread.
One of the key differences between folk horror and other horror subgenres is the way it engages with the supernatural and the occult. Rather than relying on jump scares or overt displays of supernatural power, folk horror films often explore the tension between the modern world and the lingering influence of ancient, pagan beliefs and practices. This creates a sense of unease and uncertainty, as the characters struggle to reconcile their own rational, scientific worldviews with the unsettling realities they are forced to confront.
Another distinguishing feature of folk horror is its emphasis on the importance of place and the ways in which the natural world can be imbued with supernatural significance. Many folk horror movies are set in remote, isolated locations, such as rural villages, forests, or abandoned structures, where the characters are cut off from the comforts and familiarity of the modern world. This setting serves to heighten the sense of unease and vulnerability, as the characters are forced to confront the primal, ancient forces that lurk within the landscape.
Conclusion and recommendations for watching folk horror movies
In conclusion, the world of folk horror movies offers a unique and captivating cinematic experience for horror enthusiasts. These films tap into the rich tapestry of folklore, mythology, and the supernatural, creating an atmosphere of unease and dread that lingers long after the credits have rolled.
Whether you're a seasoned horror fan or a newcomer to the genre, there's a wealth of folk horror films to discover and explore. From the iconic classics like "The Wicker Man" and "Witchfinder General" to the contemporary gems like "The Witch" and "Midsommar," the genre has a rich and diverse range of offerings that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
For those looking to delve deeper into the world of folk horror, I would recommend starting with some of the more well-known and acclaimed films, such as those mentioned above. From there, you can explore the underrated and hidden gem movies that offer a fresh and unique take on the genre. By immersing yourself in the unsettling and captivating world of folk horror, you'll discover a genre that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying, and one that will leave an indelible mark on your cinematic experience.
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