5 Under-The-Radar Horror Movies You Need to See

The horror genre has seen quite the resurgence as of late with some truly captivating fright-fests hitting our screens in recent times. Aside from the big-name franchise horror entries that keep fans quivering with each release, there have been some smaller, more overlooked horror gems that have quietly slipped out and, very rightly, deserve your attention.

Dark Harvest

After being delayed a few years, Dark Harvest got its time to shine in 2023. The film is a chilling tale set in a cursed town, where every Halloween becomes a brutal battle for survival, because a supernatural creature, Sawtooth Jack, rises from the cornfields and makes its way toward town. The town’s ritual requires 18-year-old boys to try and kill the murderous scarecrow before midnight. The film has that slicked-back, 1950s horror aesthetic going for it, along with some social commentary around who the real monsters in this story are. It also has some great practical effects and tons of gore to boot, so if that’s your cup of tea, be sure to check out Dark Harvest.

When Evil Lurks

Argentinan horror film When Evil Lurks came out of nowhere and shocked a lot of people with its unique take on demonic possession that is a whole lot more tangible and grotesque than other movies in the genre. The acting is superb, the demonic lore that you uncover throughout the film is captivating, and the practical effects are haunting enough to sit with you for quite some time.

The Boogeyman

We’ve seen a few Stephen King projects being adapted into films over the years, but one of his most terrifying properties, The Boogeyman, made a great transition to the big screen in 2023 with little hype. Directed by Rob Savage, the film is adapted from the famed horror writer’s short story from 1973, and stars Sophie Thatcher and Chris Messina. There are some truly terrifying sequences in this modern horror classic, with some clever lighting tricks and subverting of expectations. The third act does throw caution to the wind, but it’s a great take on a horror story that’s been long overdue for a revisit.

Significant Other

Significant Other is an interesting mystery/horror that follows a couple on a hike in a secluded forest, although there is something else present on their romantic getaway. It’s hard to talk too much about it without going into spoiler territory, but this atmospheric horror is well worth a watch, with some interesting twists and turns that’ll keep you guessing until the end.

The Tank

A smaller lower-budget creature feature, but one with checking out. The Tank follows a young family who mysteriously inherits an abandoned coastal property. What they don’t know is that it’s housing an ancient, long-dormant creature in the water tank below the house. The film follows a Jaws-like approach where less is more, and some solid practical effects are used sparingly to create a lot of tension in its spooky, memorable setting.

Which are some of your favourite horror movies from 2023? Let us know by tweeting @MenStuffZA, posting on our Facebook page, or commenting below.