Best Horror Movies Of 2022: Must-See Scary Films

Hey horror fans! Looking for the best horror movies of 2022? You've come to the right place. 2022 was a fantastic year for horror, offering a diverse range of scares, from slashers and supernatural thrillers to psychological horrors and creature features. In this article, we'll dive into some of the must-see scary films that made 2022 a memorable year for horror aficionados. Get ready to update your watch list and prepare for some sleepless nights!

Terrifying Titles: A Look Back at 2022's Horror Highlights

"Smile"

"Smile" is a psychological horror film that will mess with your head, guys. The movie centers around a therapist, Dr. Rose Cotter, who experiences a traumatic incident involving a patient. Following this, she begins to see people smiling in a disturbing and unsettling way. The smiles are not joyful; instead, they are sinister and seem to foreshadow terrible events. As Rose investigates the phenomenon, she discovers a pattern of suicides linked to these ominous smiles. Driven by fear and desperation, she races against time to break the curse before it consumes her. What makes "Smile" so effective is its exploration of trauma and mental health. The film uses horror elements to visualize the internal struggles of its protagonist, making it a deeply disturbing and thought-provoking watch. The unsettling imagery and suspenseful plot create an atmosphere of constant dread, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. If you're a fan of movies that delve into the darker aspects of the human psyche, "Smile" is a must-see. The creepy smiles will stay with you long after the credits roll, making it one of the standout horror films of 2022. It's a blend of jump scares and psychological tension, making it a well-rounded horror experience that will appeal to a broad audience.

"Barbarian"

"Barbarian" is a horror film that takes unexpected turns, blending elements of thriller and dark comedy. The story begins with a young woman, Tess, traveling to Detroit for a job interview. She arrives late at night at her Airbnb rental only to discover that it's already occupied by a man named Keith. Despite their initial reservations, they decide to share the house for the night. As Tess explores the house, she uncovers a series of increasingly disturbing secrets hidden within the basement. The film cleverly subverts expectations, leading the audience down one path before abruptly changing direction. "Barbarian" keeps you guessing with its unpredictable plot twists and shocking revelations. The performances are strong, particularly Georgina Campbell as Tess, who portrays a believable mix of fear and determination. The film also tackles themes of female intuition and the dangers women face in everyday situations. Its commentary on societal issues adds depth to the horror, making it more than just a simple scare-fest. For those who enjoy horror movies that break the mold and offer something different, "Barbarian" is a refreshing and thrilling choice. The blend of humor and horror creates a unique viewing experience that will leave you surprised and entertained. It's a film that's sure to spark conversation and debate among horror fans.

"X"

Ti West's "X" is a stylish and gory slasher film that pays homage to the horror films of the 1970s. Set in rural Texas in 1979, the film follows a group of young filmmakers who set out to make an adult film. They rent a remote farmhouse owned by an elderly couple, Pearl and Howard, unaware of the horror that awaits them. As the night progresses, the elderly couple becomes increasingly fixated on the young filmmakers, leading to a series of violent and bloody encounters. "X" is a visually striking film, with its retro aesthetic and vibrant cinematography. The performances are excellent, especially Mia Goth, who plays both Maxine, one of the young actresses, and the elderly Pearl. The film explores themes of aging, sexuality, and the exploitation of youth, adding depth to the slasher genre. "X" is not for the faint of heart, with its graphic violence and disturbing imagery. However, it's a well-crafted and entertaining horror film that will appeal to fans of classic slashers. Its blend of style and substance makes it a standout entry in the genre. Ti West's direction brings a fresh perspective to the slasher formula, making "X" a must-see for horror enthusiasts. The film's success led to a prequel, "Pearl," further expanding the story and exploring the origins of one of its most memorable characters.

"The Black Phone"

"The Black Phone" is a supernatural horror film that combines elements of suspense and psychological thriller. The film is set in the 1970s and centers on Finney Shaw, a shy and intelligent 13-year-old boy who is abducted by a child killer known as The Grabber. Imprisoned in a soundproof basement, Finney discovers a disconnected black phone that allows him to communicate with the Grabber's previous victims. With their help, Finney tries to escape his captor and survive. "The Black Phone" is a suspenseful and gripping film, with strong performances from its cast, including Ethan Hawke as The Grabber and Mason Thames as Finney. The film effectively creates a sense of dread and claustrophobia, immersing the audience in Finney's terrifying situation. It also explores themes of resilience, courage, and the power of community. What makes "The Black Phone" so effective is its blend of supernatural elements with real-world horror. The Grabber is a truly terrifying villain, and Finney's struggle to survive is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The film's use of sound and visual effects enhances the suspense, making it a truly immersive horror experience. If you're a fan of movies that combine scares with emotional depth, "The Black Phone" is a must-see. It's a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on the darkness that exists in the world and the strength it takes to overcome it.

"Prey"

"Prey" is a science fiction action horror film that serves as a prequel to the "Predator" franchise. Set in the early 18th century, the film follows Naru, a young Comanche woman who dreams of becoming a warrior. When a Predator arrives in her tribe's territory, Naru sees it as an opportunity to prove herself. She sets out to hunt the creature, facing numerous challenges and dangers along the way. "Prey" is a thrilling and action-packed film that offers a fresh take on the Predator mythology. The film's setting and Native American characters bring a unique cultural perspective to the franchise. Amber Midthunder delivers a strong performance as Naru, portraying her as a skilled and resourceful warrior. The film also features stunning visuals and impressive special effects, bringing the Predator to life in a terrifying way. What makes "Prey" so successful is its focus on character development and its exploration of themes of survival and determination. Naru is a compelling protagonist, and her journey from aspiring hunter to formidable warrior is both inspiring and exciting. The film's action sequences are well-choreographed and intense, providing plenty of thrills for fans of the franchise. If you're a fan of action, science fiction, and horror, "Prey" is a must-see. It's a worthy addition to the "Predator" franchise that offers something new and exciting. The film's success has revitalized the series, paving the way for future installments.

More 2022 Horror Gems Worth Checking Out

While the films mentioned above are some of the most popular and critically acclaimed horror movies of 2022, there are many other hidden gems that deserve your attention. Here are a few more titles to add to your watch list:

• "Resurrection": A psychological thriller starring Rebecca Hall as a woman haunted by a figure from her past.
• "Speak No Evil": A disturbing Danish horror film about a family who befriends a strange couple while on vacation.
• "Watcher": A suspenseful thriller set in Bucharest, following a young woman who suspects she is being stalked.
• "Fresh": A dark comedy horror film about a woman who discovers her new boyfriend has a disturbing secret.

Conclusion: 2022 - A Great Year for Horror

2022 was a banner year for horror, offering a wide range of scares and thrills for fans of the genre. From psychological horrors like "Smile" to action-packed adventures like "Prey," there was something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a seasoned horror aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, these films are sure to entertain and terrify. So grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and get ready for a night of unforgettable scares. Happy watching, horror junkies!