Psychological horrors are the ones that mess with me the most, and it’s usually because they play on very natural fears.
That said, there aren’t as many out there as there should be. If Hollywood could make some more, that would be great.
Here are my recommendations: I’m not going for unknown films. These are my favourites, including a couple of popular ones.
1408 (2007)
John Cusack and Samuel L Jackson deserve some time off from Stephen King films. But they keep returning for more, and they’re a great pairing.
This film centres around a character who visits haunted hotels and reviews them. And he finally found the one to drive him mad. If you’re claustrophobic, this film will do things for you.
Honourable Mention: Cell (2016)
This is my favourite Stephen King film with the same duo and while it should’ve been listed on the Zombies recommended list, I saved it for here specifically. It has aspects of a psychological horror film in the sense of being controlled and killing the undead in god-awful ways.
If you’re into apocalypse films and want something that’s a little more psychological, this is your film.
The Babadook (2014)
This film is weird, to say the least. It perfectly demonstrates the exhaustion of Autistic Children’s parents, but also the isolation of Autistic kids themselves.
If you want a monster film full of isolation, sleep deprivation, and psychosis – this is a good choice.
A Cure for Wellness (2016)
If you want to cringe with your horror, this is it. It’s not the typical embarrassment cringe we get when watching some content; it’s the “cheese grater as a weapon” level cringe – and if you don’t think it can be used as a weapon, Evil Dead Rise proves you wrong.
It’s horrific in ways I can’t explain, and it’s uncomfortable to watch… Yet I’ve watched it multiple times… Just be cautious.
As Above So Below (2014)
One of my favourite films of all time, it pairs psychological horror perfectly with the story’s supernatural elements. Based in the Catacombs of Paris, you will feel claustrophobic – even if you don’t have claustrophobia.
US (2019)
My favourite psychological horror out of this list, Jordan Peele created another masterpiece. The idea that we all have a duplicate puppet created by the government to control us is… phenomenal.
There are some severe moments of imposter syndrome in this film.
Honourable Mention: Get Out (2017)
It was the first Jordan Peele film I ever watched, and it stuck with me. To say Jordan Peele is now one of my favourite Horror creators is an understatement.
Another film based around people being replaced or used against their will. Of course, also looking closely at casual and systemic racism in the world – I can’t recommend this film enough.
And that’s the list! If you’ve got some recommendations for me, please let me know. I’m always looking for new films to watch.
I’ll see you tomorrow for some more spooky season content.
Take care!
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