30 Art-House Horror Films on Criterion Channel
29 titles
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SuspiriaMovie · 1977 · 99m · HorrorA promising American dancer joins a prestigious ballet academy in Germany, eager to advance her career and experience European culture. She soon realizes a dark secret hides beneath the academy’s polished surface as a series of murders rocks the city. Driven to uncover the truth, the dancer investigates, revealing layers of deception and corruption within the dance world. The film explores ambition, identity, and the sacrifices people make for their art amidst fear and uncertainty. As she navigates this dangerous environment, she confronts her own struggles while trying to expose the horrifying reality concealed by the academy’s glamorous image.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.5 - 2
The ShoutMovie · 1978 · 86m · Thriller, Mystery, HorrorIn a secluded part of Devon, a strange visitor named Crossley enters the lives of a local musician and his wife. Crossley has a deep understanding of ancient aboriginal magic and uses these powers to enter their home and slowly take over, making it hard to tell what's real. The story looks at ideas of who we are, who's in charge, and what happens when people have different beliefs. As the story progresses, the difference between the normal world and the magical world fades, pulling viewers into a place where the natural rules can be changed to fit Crossley's plans.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0 - 3
HäxanMovie · 1922 · 105m · Documentary, Horror, HistoryBenjamin Christensen’s innovative film examines medieval witchcraft through a series of dramatic scenes. It compares the accusations against witches in the Middle Ages to the mental illnesses of his own time, exploring the psychological roots of these frightening events.
The darkly comedic film combines horror, disturbing visuals, and unsettling humor for a memorable experience. The story features grave robbing, brutal torture, and a group of possessed nuns holding a satanic ritual.
Blending frightening sequences with macabre wit, the film takes viewers to another time while prompting reflection on superstition, belief, and the human mind's susceptibility to mass hysteria.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 4
CronosMovie · 1993 · 94m · Drama, Horror, ThrillerThis thrilling story centers on a driven alchemist from the past who relentlessly seeks the secret to immortality. His invention, the Cronos device, is unexpectedly found by an antique dealer hidden within a statue. Unknowingly, the dealer activates the device, which grants him youth with a terrible price each time it's used. The story unfolds as the legendary fountain of youth transforms into a frightening place where life and death become dangerously intertwined.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 5
Spirits of the DeadMovie · 1968 · 121m · Horror, Mystery, DramaThis film is an anthology of frightening stories, directed by three renowned European filmmakers, each based on the dark tales of Edgar Allan Poe. The first story features a cruel countess haunted by a ghostly horse, forced to confront her wickedness and guilt. The second follows a troubled young man tormented by a menacing double, as reality and nightmare become indistinguishable. Finally, an alcoholic actor is stalked by the Devil himself in a chilling tale about addiction, despair, and supernatural suffering. These gripping, dark stories explore themes of guilt, identity, and the unknown, adapting Poe's classics for today's viewers.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 6
AntichristMovie · 2009 · 104m · Drama, Horror, ThrillerA couple struggling with grief and marital problems seeks solace in their secluded cabin, "Eden," deep in the woods. Hoping to heal and reconnect, they find their situation escalating as nature unleashes unforeseen challenges.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6 - 7
VampyrMovie · 1932 · 74m · Horror, Fantasy, MysteryIn a village near Paris, a student fascinated by the occult discovers a world of dark secrets. Exploring the supernatural leads to strange occurrences and encounters with spirits haunting the area. The student uncovers a hidden community of criminals using ancient dark magic for evil. As reality and the supernatural intertwine, the protagonist must navigate deception and danger to reveal the truth behind the haunting and confront the forces corrupting the village.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.3 - 8
The Face of AnotherMovie · 1966 · 122m · Drama, Science FictionThe film tells the story of an ambitious businessman who, after a severe car accident leaves him with a disfiguring facial injury, seeks help from his doctor to regain normalcy. The doctor creates a remarkably realistic mask that allows the businessman to appear as he once did. As he grows accustomed to the disguise, however, a subtle but profound change takes hold within him, altering his behavior. The story explores themes of identity, self-perception, and the effects of deception, leaving audiences questioning which version of the man – the injured businessman or the person hidden behind the mask – will ultimately define him.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.8 - 9
RaptureMovie · 1980 · 110m · Drama, Fantasy, HorrorJosé Sirgado, an independent filmmaker, battles heroin addiction and struggles to maintain his grip on reality. He finds solace in the films of Pedro, a fellow film enthusiast, who offers a lifeline amidst his turbulent life.
The film explores the complexities of addiction and artistic passion through José's intimate journey. Drug-induced haze blurs the line between fantasy and reality as his life spirals. The allure of Pedro’s films provides a reprieve from his darkest days, offering a beacon of hope.
This film examines addiction and artistic ambition, capturing the raw emotions of an individual grappling with personal demons and seeking solace in cinema's power. Through nuanced characters and evocative storytelling, José Sirgado delivers a meditation on the human condition and art’s redemptive qualities.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.8 - 10
The BroodMovie · 1979 · 92m · Horror, Science FictionA psychological thriller exploring troubled relationships and questionable therapy. A man investigates the methods of an unusual psychologist treating his wife in the hospital. As he delves into this unconventional therapy, a series of disturbing attacks plague the city, seemingly committed by mutant children. This unsettling parallel to the husband's investigation blurs the line between sanity and madness. The film examines obsession, guilt, and the dangerous consequences of medical professionals exceeding professional boundaries in search of a cure.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 11
Donnie DarkoMovie · 2001 · 114m · Fantasy, Drama, MysteryFollowing a close call in a strange accident, a troubled teenager begins experiencing vivid visions of a giant rabbit. The rabbit seems to control him, leading him to commit a series of crimes.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.8 - 12
Trouble Every DayMovie · 2001 · 101m · Drama, Horror, RomanceShane and June, recently married, travel to Paris for their honeymoon. While searching for a treatment for his unusual, violent illness, Shane discovers the story of a doctor and his wife who consumes human flesh.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.8 - 13
KuronekoMovie · 1968 · 100m · Drama, Fantasy, HorrorSet during Japan's warring Sengoku period, this story follows a young hero tasked with restoring peace to a land ravaged by civil war. A mother and daughter were brutally murdered by soldiers, and their vengeful spirits, known as Onryō, haunt the region. Samurai are found dead with strange wounds, fueling widespread fear.
While traveling through the haunted countryside, the hero encounters the ghostly figures of the murdered woman and child, trapped between worlds and seeking justice. Their ethereal presence reveals the supernatural forces at work. To appease these spirits, the hero must undergo a spiritual purification to prepare for a final confrontation.
He faces the wrath of the Onryō in an intense climax, battling to protect the living and deliver justice to the lost souls caught in the chaos of war. The confrontation tests him physically and emotionally as he confronts the vengeful ghosts.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 14
HouseMovie · 1977 · 88m · Comedy, Fantasy, HorrorTo learn more about her mother's history, Gorgeous travels with six friends to visit their aunt at a historic country estate. The large, mysterious house reveals hidden secrets and stories from the past. As Gorgeous and her friends explore, they uncover connections to their own lives and relationships.
This story combines personal reflection and close friendship as Gorgeous and her companions explore the old house. It's an engaging look at discovering oneself, family, and the impact of shared experiences. This captivating story of history, friendship, and self-discovery offers a memorable film experience.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 15
Blood for DraculaMovie · 1974 · 103m · Horror, ComedyA dying Count Dracula travels to Italy seeking the virgin blood he needs to survive. He takes refuge at the crumbling estate of Marchese Di Fiore, who hopes to marry off his daughters for financial gain. But Dracula finds no innocent young women, instead encountering complicated sisters with troubled pasts. Adding to the tension is Mario, the manservant, who distrusts the vampire. As secrets and desires unfold, Dracula's search for life support becomes a dangerous journey into moral uncertainty.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.8 - 16
EraserheadMovie · 1977 · 89m · Science Fiction, HorrorWacky Races is a lively animated series created by Hanna-Barbera and first shown in 1968. It humorously mocks classic car races with a group of odd characters and unusual vehicles racing across varied landscapes for victory.
The show features eleven racers, each with a unique vehicle and personality. Dick Dastardly and his dog Muttley are known for their sneaky plans to cheat, but they always fail. Other notable racers include Penelope Pitstop, a determined driver; Red Max, a brave adventurer; and the Slag Brothers, who race in a huge, rocky car. This chaotic competition is full of laughs as these eccentric racers compete for first place.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 17
Night of the Living DeadMovie · 1968 · 96m · Horror, ThrillerTodd McFarlane's Spawn was a compelling animated series that first aired on HBO from 1997 to 1999, later available on DVD as a film series. Based on the popular Image Comics, this highly regarded animation received an Emmy Award in 1999 for Outstanding Animation Program. A separate series, Spawn: The Animation, featuring Keith David as Spawn, has been in development since 2009. Staying faithful to the comic source material, the series features significant violence, explicit sexual content, and frequent profanity. Known for its strong storytelling and impressive animation, Todd McFarlane's Spawn was ranked fifth by IGN in a list of the greatest comic book cartoons ever made.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 18
Hour of the WolfMovie · 1968 · 88m · Drama, HorrorA struggling artist and his pregnant wife seek refuge on a secluded German island. Surrounded by peace, the artist's hidden desires resurface, leading to a breakdown that threatens their relationship.
The film explores the artist’s inner conflict as he confronts buried emotions amidst the island's beauty. It examines self-discovery and the challenges of balancing personal desires with the responsibilities of starting a family.
As the couple struggles through this emotional journey, their bond is tested. They must face the question of whether love can overcome their difficulties. The film’s thoughtful story invites viewers to connect with the artist as he tries to reconcile his past and present in pursuit of personal growth.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 19
Carnival of SoulsMovie · 1962 · 78m · Horror, Mystery, FantasyAfter surviving a devastating car accident, Mary Henry seeks peace in Utah, taking a job as a church organist and trying to leave her trauma behind. But she's plagued by unsettling visions of a mysterious man that grow stronger each day.
These visions draw Mary to an abandoned carnival on the edge of town. The deserted amusement park holds a strange allure, pulling her deeper into its secrets. As she explores, Mary begins to suspect her past is connected to the carnival’s forgotten history.
Her investigation reveals a series of baffling events and disturbing truths that challenge her understanding of her own survival. This journey into her history forces Mary to confront not only her haunting visions but also her deepest fears. The tranquility of the town and the church offer no protection from the sinister forces at work, as she discovers the past is harder to escape than she thought.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 20
SistersMovie · 1973 · 93m · Thriller, Horror, MysteryJournalist Grace Collier witnesses her glamorous neighbor, model Danielle Breton, commit a brutal murder. When Grace reports the crime to the police, she's met with disbelief. Determined to find answers, Grace partners with private investigator Joseph Larch. Together, they delve into Danielle's past, uncovering disturbing secrets that challenge their perceptions of morality and the deceptive nature of appearances.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 21
The VanishingMovie · 1988 · 106m · Thriller, MysteryRex and Saskia take a break from their busy lives for a relaxing vacation. Their peaceful trip is interrupted when Saskia disappears during a stop at a service station. Years later, with no news of her, Rex begins receiving unsettling letters from her abductor.
This psychological thriller explores themes of love, loss, and resilience as Rex tries to understand why Saskia was taken. The letters keep coming, forcing him to confront his own fears while searching for clues to find her. It's a powerful story about the depths of human emotion and the power of love to drive someone to extreme measures.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 22
Flesh for FrankensteinMovie · 1973 · 95m · HorrorIn a grand but crumbling mansion, the eccentric Baron and his assistant Otto pursue a disturbing goal: creating life in their laboratory. As body parts are sewn together and brought to life, the house becomes a place of wild indulgence and chaos, where pleasure and violence collide. The Baroness becomes involved in a secret affair with a charming new servant, adding to the escalating darkness. This film is a darkly funny and unusual look at life and death, set against the backdrop of morbid scientific experiments and unrestrained pleasure.IMDb 5.8TMDB 5.8 - 23
CureMovie · 1997 · 112m · Crime, Thriller, HorrorA seasoned but jaded detective in modern Tokyo investigates a series of brutal murders that have terrified the city. The killings share unsettling similarities, and as the detective investigates, he becomes increasingly consumed by guilt and paranoia. He navigates the city's dark side, confronting a disturbing blurring of predator and prey. This psychological thriller explores human depravity and the toll it takes on a man pushed to his limits. Racing against time to stop more deaths, the film blends suspense with intense emotion, delivering a chilling story that will captivate audiences.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 24
Suicide by SunlightMovie · 2019 · 17mValentina, a Black vampire who can survive daylight thanks to her skin tone, struggles to control her hunger when her estranged twin daughters meet a new woman.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.2 - 25
OnibabaMovie · 1964 · 105mDuring the war, a mother and daughter-in-law live in a swamp, surviving by killing samurai who wander into their territory and selling their belongings. They are heartbroken by news of their son Kichi's death. Soon after, Kichi’s wife begins an affair with Hachi, a neighbor who also survived the war. The mother disapproves of the relationship and, unable to have Hachi for herself, attempts to frighten her daughter-in-law with a strange mask taken from a deceased samurai.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.7 - 26
Eyes Without a FaceMovie · 1960 · 84mHaunted by guilt over an accident that disfigured his daughter, Christiane, Dr. Génessier is convinced she is dead. He and his assistant, Louise, begin kidnapping young women, bringing them to his mansion. After drugging their victims, Dr. Génessier surgically removes their faces, hoping to transplant them onto Christiane.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.6 - 27
JigokuMovie · 1960 · 99m · Horror, DramaThis drama follows a group of people connected by secrets and wrongdoing – murder, betrayal, and infidelity – as they face the consequences of their actions. Their stories intertwine, revealing how their past haunts them and leads them toward a final reckoning. The film explores themes of guilt, redemption, and fate as these characters confront the brutal price of sin.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 28
The LureMovie · 2015 · 93m · Horror, Music, FantasyTwo mermaid sisters working at a nightclub are forced to make difficult and violent decisions when one of them develops feelings for a handsome human.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.2 - 29
Wolf's HoleMovie · 1987 · 95mAt a secluded winter ski resort, eleven teenagers on a skiing trip become targets. Their three enigmatic instructors manipulate the group, turning them against each other.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.7
