Huge budget horror flicks are amazing and provide decent scares that leave large audiences satisfied. However, most of my all-time favorite horror movies are low-budgeted indie type movies that most people probably haven't seen. With that being said, I decided to create a list of some of my favorite overlooked horror movies. Let's dive right in!
"The Invitation" (2015)
Probably better pinned as a "Psychological Thriller" rather than a full-on "Horror" movie, "The Invitation" knows exactly how to build suspense and keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. The whole premise of the movie is built upon a mysterious dinner party that turns increasingly sinister and threatening as the movie progresses. We watch Will, the main character, slowly unravel into a stream of paranoia and suspicion. The acting is beautifully done by the whole cast, and the unsettling nature of the movie will stick with you for a few days afterward. "The Invitation" is available on Netflix and is one of the better-known entries on this list, you won't regret giving this one a chance.
"Grave Encounters" (2011)
GiphyAn interesting entry in the "found footage" horror genre, "Grave Encounters" offers a wide variety of scary moments and is just a fun horror movie all-around. The film follows a crew of reality TV ghost hunters, who are largely a parody of shows like "Ghost Adventures", and their unexpected encounter with real ghosts. Slowly, the crew begins to realize what is truly happening in the haunted mental hospital, but at that point, it is too late. There are many gory and disturbing moments throughout the film, and they stand out enough to make "Grave Encounters" one of the better movies available in the "found footage" genre.
"V/H/S" (2012)
One of the more compelling horror movies that have come out in a while, "V/H/S" is a "found footage/anthology" movie that cuts no corners when it comes to gore, disturbing stories, and nightmarish imagery. The film is unique and innovative in its storytelling, letting different directors each direct the six main stories in the movie. There are obviously some stories that fall short of others, as is the problem with most anthologies, but overall the movie is able to keep the viewer disgusted and intrigued. "V/H/S" is available on Hulu and is worth the watch if you are looking for something a bit experimental and purposely unpolished.
"Creep" (2014)
A strange psychological horror that leaves the viewer feeling unnerved and creeped out, hence the title "Creep". Mark Duplass does an incredible job as a deranged and psychotic man trying to "film" a documentary of himself. As the movie progresses, the seemingly innocent documentary begins to turn bizarre and sinister. The movie is hard to predict, which adds to the element of horror and suspense throughout the movie. Just some quick advice, don't take any jobs from Craigslist.
"The Devil's Rejects" (2005)
One of Rob Zombie's defining films, "The Devil's Rejects" exemplifies all the grittiness and nastiness that has come to define his style over the years. The film is demented, violent, and exposes the viewer to all the horrors people hide from in real life. This movie is not for the faint of heart, and some will find it too disturbing to enjoy. The plot is based around a sheriff trying to capture three demented family members who have committed upwards of 75 murders. For me; however, the plot is not as engrossing as the overall disturbing nature of the characters and setting. This movie is not for newcomers of the horror genre or anyone with a weak stomach, but hardcore horror fanatics who know what to expect with Rob Zombie movies. Trust me, I warned you.
