Folk horror films have surged in popularity in recent years it seems, with their themes of folklore, witches, cults, dark magic, rural life, and clashes between insiders and outsiders.
With the appeal of folk horror going strong, here are eight of the best folk horror movies I think you should watch.
Impetigore
In rural Indonesia, a woman returns to her ancestral village, only to uncover a cursed community where every newborn is born skinless.
As she unravels her past, she confronts terrifying rituals and vengeful spirits in a quest for survival. [Impetigore on IMDB]
La Llorona
Based on Latin American folklore, this Guatemalan film explores themes of genocide and retribution, as an indigenous spirit seeks justice against a former dictator and his family amid political turmoil. [La Llorona on IMDB]
Midsommar
Hereditary was a big success for Ari Aster, and he followed that up with Midsommar.
After a personal tragedy, a young woman joins her boyfriend and friends at a remote Swedish festival, only to discover it is orchestrated by a cult practicing disturbing rituals.
As tensions escalate, the festival's idyllic façade gives way to horrors beyond imagination. [Midsommar on IMDB]
The Wicker Man
A devout policeman investigates a missing girl on a Scottish island inhabited by a pagan cult, led by the charismatic Lord Summerisle.
As he clashes with the islanders' beliefs and practices, the investigation takes a sinister turn towards a shocking and nihilistic conclusion. It is also one of the best British horror movies ever, too.
Just make sure you watch the original, andnot the god awful remake. [The Wicker Man on IMDB]
The Witch
Set in 17th century New England, this film follows a Puritan family tormented by supernatural forces lurking in the nearby woods.
As paranoia and mistrust consume the family, their isolation drives them towards dark and tragic ends. [The Witch on IMDB]
Witchfinder General
During England’s civil war era, a corrupt witch hunter terrorizes villages by exploiting fears of witchcraft.
When he targets the niece of a soldier seeking revenge, their confrontation exposes the destructive power of superstition and cruelty. [Witchfinder General on IMDB]
The Medium
The medium unfolds in a documentary style that immerses you into the life of Nim, a shaman devoted to the goddess Ba Yan in a village nestled in Northern Thailand.
Nim's journey is one of devotion and duty, as she undertakes pilgrimages to the sacred mountains, seeking guidance to heal her community.
One of the best horror films from recent years, full stop. [The Medium on IMDB]
The Blair Witch Project
Yeah, I know many people hate this movie, but I like it.
I am sure you have all seen this one, so no need to say too much about it.
You either really like it, or really dislike it.
And if you did not know, a remake of the original is being released in 2025, though I am not sure why. [The Blair Witch Project on IMDB]
What's your favorite folk horror movie?
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