Horror enthusiasts have a thrilling week ahead, as a slew of spine-tingling films hit various platforms. From classic characters turned sinister to supernatural entities wreaking havoc, these movies promise an adrenaline rush like no other.
Leading the charge is a chilling reimagining of a beloved comic strip character. A film that premiered exclusively on Amazon via ITN Distribution, this indie horror transforms a cherished figure into a vengeful specter. The story unfolds at a summer camp where counselors are haunted by dark legends surrounding their iconic host. Directed by William Stead and penned by Harry Boxley, this film features a cast including Steven Murphy, who brings the haunting character to life alongside Kelly Rian Sanson, Danielle Scott, Danielle Ronald, and Amanda Jane York. Created by E.C. Segar in 1929, this character’s transition into the public domain has sparked several adaptations, with more on the horizon.
Another highlight is a psychological thriller from Warner Bros., New Line Cinema, and producer Zach Cregger. Titled Companion, this film follows a group of friends during a weekend getaway to a lakeside estate after a billionaire’s untimely demise. Directed by Drew Hancock, it stars Sophie Thatcher, Rupert Friend, Harvey Guillén, Lukas Gage, Megan Suri, and Jack Quaid. Critics praise Thatcher’s performance and Hancock’s confident direction, making this film a must-watch for fans of intense, unpredictable narratives.
In addition, director Osgood Perkins returns with NEON’s adaptation of Stephen King’s short story, The Monkey. This horror-comedy, rated R for its graphic content, revolves around a cursed wind-up toy that brings about a series of gruesome deaths. Twenty-five years later, the toy resurfaces, forcing two estranged brothers to confront their shared nightmare. Starring Theo James, Tatiana Maslany, Elijah Wood, Christian Convery, Colin O’Brien, Rohan Campbell, and Sarah Levy, this film promises both humor and terror in equal measure.
Fresh off its Academy Award nominations, Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu now streams exclusively on Peacock. Both the theatrical and extended cuts, along with behind-the-scenes footage, are available. This gothic tale of obsession between a young woman and a terrifying vampire, starring Bill Skarsgård as Count Orlok, offers a visually stunning and emotionally charged experience. Critics laud its impeccable craftsmanship and powerful final shot, making it a standout in the genre.
Rounding out the week is a home invasion thriller directed by Craig Tuohy. In Everyone Is Going to Die, a father’s birthday dinner takes a deadly turn when masked intruders invade his luxurious home. What follows is a tense game of cat and mouse, leading to a shocking revelation. Meanwhile, Tubi Original’s Tarot Curse introduces a group of students whose fates are ominously predicted by a tarot reading, setting the stage for a series of gruesome events.
This week’s horror releases remind us of the enduring power of storytelling to captivate and terrify. These films not only entertain but also challenge our perceptions of fear, offering a glimpse into the darker corners of human imagination. They encourage us to explore the unknown, face our fears, and ultimately emerge stronger for it.