Best Horror Movies Of 2016: Must-See Scary Films

Hey guys! Are you horror fanatics like me? Then you're in for a treat! Let’s take a terrifying trip back to 2016 and explore some of the best horror movies that had us all sleeping with the lights on. 2016 was an amazing year for horror, serving up a mix of jump scares, psychological thrillers, and downright disturbing tales that stuck with us long after the credits rolled. Get ready for a nostalgic and spine-chilling journey as we rank some of the top horror flicks from that year. Whether you're into ghosts, demons, or slashers, there's something here for every horror lover. Buckle up, because these movies are about to unleash a torrent of scares and suspense!

Lights Out

Lights Out is definitely one of those movies that made you think twice before turning off the lights. Based on the viral short film, this movie brought the nightmare of a creature that only exists in the dark to the big screen. The premise is simple but terrifying: a family is haunted by a supernatural entity that appears whenever the lights go out. What makes Lights Out so effective is its masterful use of suspense and its reliance on primal fears. The silence, the flickering lights, and the sudden appearances of the ghostly figure create an atmosphere of constant dread. Director David F. Sandberg expertly builds tension, making every shadow a potential threat. Teresa Palmer delivers a compelling performance as Rebecca, the older sister trying to protect her family from the darkness. Lights Out isn't just about jump scares; it delves into themes of mental health and family trauma, adding depth to the horror. The film’s success lies in its ability to tap into our innate fear of the dark, turning everyday moments into terrifying experiences. So, next time you’re home alone at night, remember Lights Out and maybe leave a nightlight on, just in case. Lights Out made a significant impact on the horror genre by proving that a simple concept, executed with skill and creativity, can deliver bone-chilling results. Its success paved the way for more short-film adaptations and cemented David F. Sandberg as a prominent name in horror. The movie’s enduring appeal is a testament to its ability to resonate with audiences on a fundamental level, tapping into our deepest fears and leaving a lasting impression.

Don't Breathe

Don't Breathe brought a fresh and innovative twist to the home invasion thriller, turning the genre on its head. Instead of the typical helpless victims, we have a group of young burglars who break into the house of a blind man, thinking it’ll be an easy score. Little do they know, this blind man is far from defenseless. The movie quickly transforms into a terrifying game of cat and mouse, with the intruders becoming the prey. Fede Álvarez directs with a masterful hand, creating a claustrophobic and suspenseful atmosphere that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Stephen Lang delivers a bone-chilling performance as the blind man, Norman Nordstrom, portraying him as both a victim and a terrifying predator. The sound design is particularly effective, using silence and subtle noises to amplify the tension. Don't Breathe excels in its ability to subvert expectations and keep you guessing. The moral ambiguity of the characters adds another layer of complexity, making you question who you're rooting for. The film is a masterclass in suspense, using tight spaces and limited visibility to create a sense of constant dread. Don't Breathe isn't just a horror movie; it’s a thrilling and intense ride that will leave you breathless. With its clever premise, excellent direction, and standout performances, it’s no wonder this movie became a critical and commercial success. If you're looking for a horror movie that will keep you guessing and leave you on the edge of your seat, Don't Breathe is a must-watch. Its unique approach to the home invasion genre and its unrelenting suspense make it a standout in the world of horror. The film's impact on the genre is undeniable, inspiring similar thrillers that play with perspective and challenge audience expectations.

The Witch

The Witch is a historical horror film that plunges you into the dark and superstitious world of 17th-century New England. Directed by Robert Eggers, this movie tells the story of a Puritan family who are banished from their settlement and forced to make a life on the edge of a foreboding forest. As strange and unsettling events begin to occur, the family descends into paranoia and suspicion, convinced that a malevolent force is at work. What sets The Witch apart is its commitment to historical accuracy and its slow-burn approach to horror. The dialogue is authentic to the period, and the film is steeped in the folklore and superstitions of the time. Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a breakout performance as Thomasin, the eldest daughter, who becomes the focus of the family's growing fears. The movie's atmosphere is thick with dread, creating a sense of unease that permeates every scene. The Witch isn't about jump scares or cheap thrills; it's about psychological horror and the disintegration of a family under the weight of their own beliefs. The film’s unsettling score and haunting visuals add to the sense of dread, creating a truly immersive and disturbing experience. The Witch is a thought-provoking and unsettling film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Its exploration of religious extremism, family dynamics, and the power of superstition makes it a standout in the horror genre. The film's impact on the horror landscape is significant, paving the way for more sophisticated and atmospheric horror films that prioritize psychological depth over cheap scares. If you're looking for a horror movie that will challenge and disturb you, The Witch is a must-see.

Ouija: Origin of Evil

Ouija: Origin of Evil might sound like just another sequel, but trust me, it’s a genuinely creepy and well-crafted prequel that surpasses its predecessor in every way. Set in 1967 Los Angeles, the story revolves around a widowed mother and her two daughters who run a phony séance scam. When they add a Ouija board to their act, they unwittingly invite a real and malevolent spirit into their home. Director Mike Flanagan, known for his talent in crafting atmospheric horror, delivers a suspenseful and genuinely scary film that builds upon the mythology of the Ouija board. What makes Ouija: Origin of Evil so effective is its strong characters and its ability to create a sense of dread that permeates every scene. Elizabeth Reaser shines as the mother, Alice, who desperately wants to provide for her family but ends up putting them in grave danger. The young actresses, Annalise Basso and Lulu Wilson, also deliver standout performances, bringing depth and vulnerability to their roles. The movie's period setting adds to its eerie atmosphere, creating a sense of nostalgia and unease. Ouija: Origin of Evil isn't just about jump scares; it delves into themes of grief, family, and the dangers of playing with the supernatural. The film’s practical effects and creative visuals enhance the scares, making it a truly terrifying experience. Ouija: Origin of Evil is a surprisingly effective and genuinely scary horror movie that will leave you looking at Ouija boards in a whole new light. Its strong characters, suspenseful plot, and atmospheric setting make it a standout in the world of horror prequels. The film's success lies in its ability to take a familiar concept and elevate it with strong storytelling and genuine scares. If you're a fan of supernatural horror, Ouija: Origin of Evil is a must-watch. The movie's impact on the horror genre is notable, demonstrating that prequels can be just as good, if not better, than the original films.

Hush

Hush brings a unique and terrifying spin to the slasher genre by focusing on a deaf writer who must fight for her life when a masked killer targets her remote home. Directed by Mike Flanagan, this movie is a masterclass in suspense, relying on sound design and visual storytelling to create a truly terrifying experience. Kate Siegel delivers a tour-de-force performance as Maddie, the deaf writer, who uses her resourcefulness and intelligence to outwit her attacker. What makes Hush so effective is its simplicity and its ability to put you in the shoes of the protagonist. The lack of sound adds to the tension, making you feel as vulnerable and isolated as Maddie. The movie's minimalist setting and tight focus on the cat-and-mouse game between Maddie and the killer create a sense of claustrophobia and dread. Hush isn't just about jump scares; it's about psychological horror and the resilience of the human spirit. The film’s clever use of sign language and visual cues adds another layer of depth to the story. Hush is a thrilling and suspenseful horror movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Its unique premise, excellent performances, and masterful direction make it a standout in the slasher genre. If you're looking for a horror movie that will challenge and thrill you, Hush is a must-watch. The film's impact on the horror landscape is significant, proving that innovative concepts and strong storytelling can elevate even the most familiar genres. The movie's enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with audiences on a visceral level, tapping into our deepest fears and celebrating the strength of the human spirit.

So there you have it, horror fans! These 2016 horror movies are guaranteed to give you the chills and thrills you crave. Whether you're into supernatural scares, psychological thrillers, or good old-fashioned slashers, there's something here for everyone. Grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare for a night of frights with these must-see horror flicks! Don't forget to share your favorite scary moments from these movies in the comments below. Happy watching, and sweet nightmares!