25 Best Horror Films of 2016

Description: A psychological thriller that builds tension through a dinner party where past traumas and paranoia come to a head. Its slow reveal and character dynamics create an unsettling atmosphere.

Fact: The film was shot in a single location to maintain the claustrophobic feel. It also uses a dinner party setting to explore themes of grief and suspicion.

Description: Continuing the story of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, this sequel focuses on the Enfield Poltergeist case in England. Its blend of jump scares and emotional depth makes it a standout in the horror franchise.

Fact: The film was based on real events, with the real Lorraine Warren making a cameo appearance. It also features a memorable scene with a demonic nun, which inspired a spin-off film.

Description: This film delves into the mysterious death of an unidentified woman, whose body holds secrets that defy explanation. Its blend of medical horror and supernatural elements creates an intense, claustrophobic experience.

Fact: The film was shot in a real morgue to give an authentic feel to the setting. It also features a unique twist on the traditional autopsy narrative.

Description: A home invasion thriller with a twist, 'Don't Breathe' follows three thieves who break into a blind man's house, only to find themselves trapped with a formidable adversary. Its innovative use of sound and silence heightens the tension.

Fact: The film was shot in Detroit, Michigan, to take advantage of the city's abandoned houses for authenticity. It also features a scene where the blind man uses his heightened senses to navigate his home, which was praised for its realism.

Description: A chilling tale set in 1630s New England, 'The Witch' explores the psychological and supernatural horror of a family's descent into paranoia and witchcraft. Its slow-burn tension and atmospheric dread make it a standout in modern horror cinema.

Fact: The film was shot in natural light to enhance its eerie authenticity. It also received widespread critical acclaim, including a nomination for Best Screenplay at the Independent Spirit Awards.

Description: Set during the Iran-Iraq war, this film combines supernatural horror with political tension, focusing on a mother and daughter haunted by a malevolent spirit. Its cultural context and atmospheric horror make it unique.

Fact: The film was Iran's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Oscars. It also blends elements of folklore with real historical events.

Description: This film blends elements of horror, science fiction, and drama, focusing on a unique take on the zombie apocalypse through the eyes of a special child. Its narrative depth and character-driven plot make it a compelling watch.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by M.R. Carey, who also wrote the screenplay. It explores themes of humanity and survival in a post-apocalyptic world.

Description: Based on a short film, 'Lights Out' explores the fear of darkness with a supernatural twist. Its simple yet effective premise of a creature that only appears in the dark has made it a modern horror classic.

Fact: The film was developed from a three-minute short film that went viral. It also uses light and shadow in a way that enhances the horror experience.

Description: A French-Belgian coming-of-age horror film, 'Raw' follows a vegetarian student who develops a taste for human flesh. Its visceral imagery and exploration of identity make it a provocative entry in horror cinema.

Fact: The film was banned in Russia due to its graphic content. It also received the FIPRESCI Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

Description: This South Korean zombie thriller combines intense action with emotional storytelling, as passengers on a train fight for survival during a zombie apocalypse. Its fast-paced narrative and character development set it apart.

Fact: The film was a massive box office success in South Korea, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of the year. It also received international acclaim for its genre-blending approach.