As Halloween approaches, people are looking for new and exciting ways to enjoy the spooky season. While classic horror films like Scream and The Shining remain popular, 2026 has brought a variety of fresh horror movies to theaters and streaming platforms. These films span a range of subgenres, from monster movies and vampire tales to psychological thrillers and body horror. Here are 10 recent films to consider for your Halloween viewing.
Kraken follows five young people who enter a mysterious abandoned tower in a city, only to find themselves trapped in a nightmare. Directed by Mohamed Chabane and Theo Jourdain Rhodes, the film blends elements of a closed-room thriller, monster movie, and horror. Released on September 30, it is still playing in theaters and offers a tense and atmospheric experience.
Resident Evil, directed by Zach Cregger, brings the popular video game series to the big screen. After his previous film The Invisible Man, Cregger shifts gears to tackle this survival horror adaptation. The story follows Bryan, a medical courier, as he races against chaos. The film has been in theaters since September 16.
Obsession is a low-budget horror film that has become a surprise hit. It follows an introverted young man who discovers a mysterious object that grants his wishes, leading to a toxic and bloody relationship. Curry Barker's film, released on May 13, is now available on VOD platforms like Canal+.
Verity is a psychological thriller based on Colleen Hoover's novel. A writer takes over the work of a reclusive novelist, only to uncover dark family secrets. Starring Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Hartnett, the film plays more as a manipulation game than a pure horror film. Directed by Michael Showalter, it was released on September 30, 2026, and is currently in theaters.
The Substance explores the obsession with youth and beauty through the story of a former television star who discovers a mysterious substance that creates a younger version of herself. Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley star in this ultra-gory body horror film, which was released in France in November 2024. It is now available for streaming on Canal+.
Sinners is a bold mix of vampire horror and cultural commentary. Directed by Ryan Coogler, the film follows twin brothers who open a blues club in 1930s Mississippi, only to face a supernatural threat. Michael B. Jordan plays both brothers in a dual role. The film, which won four Oscars, is available on Canal+ and Prime Video.
Englouti is a claustrophobic thriller about a man who ends up inside a whale after diving for his father's remains. With limited oxygen, he must find a way to escape. Directed by Brian Duffield, the film will be released in theaters on October 14, 2026.
Malfaisante is a horror film that explores the fear of a mother figure turning evil. Based on Josh Malerman's novel Incidents Around the House, the film stars Jessica Chastain as both the mother and the malevolent entity. It will be released in theaters on October 14, 2026.
Clayface is a body horror film that transforms a character from the Batman universe into a monstrous figure. Directed by James Watkins and written by Mike Flanagan, it follows a man who undergoes an experimental treatment that changes him. The film will be released in theaters on October 21, 2026.
Frankenstein is a new adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic novel, directed by Guillermo del Toro. Featuring Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, and Mia Goth, the film explores themes of loneliness, rejection, and the relationship between creator and creation. Available on Netflix, it offers a fresh take on the timeless story.
10 Recent Horror Films to Watch Before Halloween
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