14 Folk Horror Movies That Will Haunt You Forever—Ranked From Creepy To Terrifying!

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A rather specific genre, often referred to as Folk Horror, can be challenging to precisely define. Typically, it encompasses themes such as cults, witchcraft, demonic rituals, and the wilderness – particularly the British countryside, steeped in folklore and superstitions. In an article for The Guardian, author Andrew Michael Hurley described its motifs as “an integral part of rural Britain’s haunting legacy – perhaps a curse due to our deep burial of uncomfortable actions. Folk Horror serves a purpose by uncovering forgotten atrocities and injustices, compelling us to reevaluate ourselves anew.

A key aspect that folk horror appears to emphasize is the contrast between the collective and the individual. This genre seems to express an underlying unease about the balance between feeling connected and being isolated. In the movies mentioned, the main character often finds themselves as an outsider, clashing with a society they join or become a part of. The source of terror in these stories is usually not some monster or supernatural entity, but rather the people themselves.

There’s been a recent surge in popularity for folk horror, with films like “Midsommar” and “The Witch” getting rave reviews. The appeal of this style seems to resonate with our contemporary psyche, suggesting that we’ll likely see more of these kinds of movies in the future.

So what are the best folk horror movies, both old and new?

14
‘Apostle’ (2018)

In the first half of the 20th century, the story unfolds around Thomas Richardson, a man on a quest to save his abducted sister from a secretive religious sect residing on a secluded Welsh isle. Initially, this rescue operation appears straightforward; however, Thomas uncovers that the island conceals a sinister network of distorted rituals, eerie incantations, and mind-bending illusions as his mission progresses.

Mastering Cult Terror

Apostle” is a chilling folk horror film directed by Gareth Evans, renowned for his intense action in “The Raid”. This movie stands out due to its slow, deliberate pace and intricate world-building that highlights the eerie isolation of rural areas and the intensity of religious beliefs. The director’s vision is powerfully conveyed through Dan Stevens’ gripping portrayal of Thomas, and the dark, brutal conclusion is not to be missed.

13
‘La Llorona’ (2019)

The movie titled La Llorona is a Guatemalan production that draws inspiration from the well-known Latin American legend of La Llorona, or “The Weeping Woman.” This film is centered around General Enrique Monteverde, an aging dictator accused of genocide, who experiences hauntings in his opulent residence. A new housemaid named Alma arrives, and with her comes feelings of guilt related to terrible atrocities committed in the past.

Myth Meets Justice

Under the guidance of director Jayro Bustamante, this movie is a remarkable blend of haunting folklore and the harsh truths of historical atrocities. The film’s strength comes from its subtle storytelling, eschewing jump scares in favor of an oppressive atmosphere filled with dread, tension, and melancholy. María Mercedes Coroy brings both elegance and retribution to her portrayal of Alma, a role that significantly contributes to the film’s exploration of oppression, injustice, and intergenerational pain.

12
‘The Wailing’ (2016)

In “The Wailing,” a series of peculiar occurrences take place within a South Korean village, with a mysterious sickness spreading and tragically claiming the lives of innocent villagers. As local police officer Jong-goo delves into the mystery, he discovers a hidden truth about a Japanese traveler. Simultaneously, he grapples with the chilling revelation that the same malevolent force may have infiltrated his own family.

Captivating but Unsettling

Na Hong-jin’s 2016 film is a precious gem to behold as the director weaves a captivating cinematic masterpiece that’s both visually breathtaking and emotionally intense. The story, spanning wide territories, is raw and thought-provoking, blending an eerie ambiance and haunting music with themes delving into faith, wickedness, and the human perception of terror. Acclaimed critically and commercially worldwide, The Wailing has firmly established itself as a cornerstone in contemporary horror cinema.

11
‘Hereditary’ (2018)

The life of the Graham family takes an unexpected turn as the family matriarch passes away, leaving behind a mysterious inheritance that gradually unfolds from the perspective of Annie Graham, the eldest daughter who is also a skilled miniature artist. As they struggle with their sorrow, they find themselves pulled into a disturbing realm of occult practices, potential family curses, and hair-raising terrors.

A Dread Felt by an Entire Family

Ari Aster’s first film as director isn’t simply a movie; it’s a powerfully emotive, atmospheric terror that has significantly reshaped contemporary horror for the better. Toni Collette offers an exceptional performance as Annie, masterfully portraying every ounce of agony and fear her characters experience. The film’s gradual storytelling technique creates tension with an unsettling speed, while its incorporation of folk horror adds to its chilling and heart-wrenching qualities.

10
‘The Medium’ (2021)

Set in rural Thailand, “The Medium” is a mockumentary that blends supernatural elements with folk horror. This unique film focuses on a shaman named Nim, who confronts what seems to be the possession of her niece, Mink, by a malevolent spirit. Initially, the story follows a traditional path of investigating the dark forces at play through ritual. However, as Mink’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic and violent, the tale takes an unexpected turn into startling darkness.

Pure Terror of Possession

This film, a captivating portrayal of folk horror, presents its narrative via a documentary-like perspective and delves profoundly into Thai folklore. As apprehension mounts, the plot progressively moves towards an incredibly chilling finale that leaves viewers shaken for extended periods. Directed by Banjong Pisanthanakun and co-produced by Na Hong-jin, The Medium prioritizes authenticity, immersing viewers in a realm where supernatural occurrences aren’t merely ideas but palpable forces to confront. This sets it apart within the genre.

9
‘The Ritual’ (2017)

The Ritual” is a chilling British movie that follows four companions embarking on a hike through the Swedish wilderness, commemorating their lost friend who met an unfortunate end. They decide to cut through a foreboding forest and seek refuge from a storm in a deserted wooden cabin deep within the woods (not usually a wise choice). Upon closer inspection, they discover enigmatic runes etched on the walls and a disquieting effigy, hinting at something sinister. As they flee in terror, they struggle to evade becoming unwilling participants in a macabre ritual that seems to be closing in around them.

Primal Fears and Mythology

According to the title, the novel that inspired this film was written by Adam Nevill. This marks David Bruckner’s initial solo directorial venture, and it looks promising as an introduction to the horror genre for him. The movie garnered mostly favorable reviews, though some may find its plot a bit foreseeable until the end. However, it is skillfully executed with a strong resonance of the folk horror genre.

8
‘The Blood on Satan’s Claw’ (1971)

Among the notable British folk horror films from the 1970s, “The Blood on Satan’s Claw” stands out as a chilling examination of the core elements that make viewers feel uneasy. The movie takes place in the 18th century and begins with a string of peculiar occurrences – a landowner stumbles upon a deformed skull, a bride descends into madness, and her groom witnesses her hand transforming into a grotesque claw, with events escalating dramatically from there, ultimately leading to a truly frightening conclusion.

Terror That Lurks Beneath Tranquility

The movie effectively captures the chilling feeling of something emerging from the ground itself to scare us, which is a hallmark of folk horror. Director Peter Haggard aimed to create a unique atmosphere for the film that would shape the genre itself. He explained, “I tried to bring into the picture the hidden corners of woods, fields’ edges, farming, labor, the earth itself. The camera was often placed low, so we dug many holes to position it in, to give you the sensation that we were somehow within the earth, and what might rise from the earth could happen.

7
‘Kill List’ (2011)

Kill List” revolves around a professional assassin who receives a contract for three killings in exchange for a substantial sum of money. Although the mission initially appears straightforward, the movie gradually becomes increasingly unsettling with each successive murder. As the story unfolds and delves deeper into a nightmarish sequence of events, it ultimately reaches its shockingly grim finale.

Disturbing Mashup of Genres

At first glance, “Kill List” might appear to be a typical example of folk horror, but upon closer inspection, it deviates in some ways. For instance, the settings are contemporary until the climax. However, the film still conveys a struggle between the collective and the individual, as well as a palpable tension between modern society and an ancient, chilling ritual. In many respects, the movie could be considered a spiritual heir to the renowned folk horror classic, “The Wicker Man.” As director Ben Wheatley himself acknowledged, “There are certainly aspects of ‘Wicker Man’ in ‘Kill List,’ but I believe the primary thing we drew from that film was the concept of being trapped.” Indeed, it is a trap – approach this movie only if you have great courage.

6
‘Witchfinder General’ (1968)

In simpler terms, “Witchfinder General” is believed to be one of the initial films in the folk horror category, starring the iconic Vincent Price as Matthew Hopkins, the main character. This movie takes place during the 1600s, amidst the English Civil War. Hopkins, a detestable villain, pretends to find and execute witches, exploiting the tumultuous era for his personal gain by accusing women of being witches and ridding villages of them. However, he eventually oversteps boundaries, triggering a plot for revenge against him.

Known for its Grim Realism

This film delves into the unsettling aspects of Britain’s past, a horror that appears to echo in the country’s collective memory. Price’s portrayal in this movie remains chilling and is regarded as one of his most impactful performances. The film was also deemed extremely disturbing for its era, with several gruesome scenes initially omitted before release. Nevertheless, it has been acclaimed as a groundbreaking work within the genre.

5
‘The Blair Witch Project’ (1999)

In a documentary-like approach similar to found-footage films, The Blair Witch Project recounts the story of three student filmmakers – Heather, Josh, and Mike – who embark on an expedition into the ominous Black Hills forest, seeking to document the legendary Blair Witch. As anticipated, the forest disorients them and escalates their apprehension, eventually pushing them to battle for their lives.

Pioneer of Found-Footage Dread

The Blair Witch Project serves as a timeless case study of an affordable yet chilling adventure deep into the forest. When it debuted in 1999, its innovative marketing strategy presented it as a genuine documentary, enhancing its capacity to unnerve audiences back then. With talks of a remake surfacing, the movie remains one of the most terrifying experiences to date, especially for its shocking and unexpected finale.

4
‘A Field in England’ (2013)

Among all the films listed, “A Field in England” stands out as the most unconventional. It’s challenging to summarize this film due to its unique nature. Similar to “Witchfinder General,” it is set during England’s Civil War and focuses on a band of four men under the guidance of an alchemist. Their quest for hidden riches in a field takes a turn when they consume hallucinogenic mushrooms, leading the film into a twisted, dreamlike reality that twists and contorts in unexpected ways.

An Experimental Folk Horror

In an intriguing blend of artistic brilliance and unsettling intensity, this movie garnered praise from critics. The Independent described it as “Apocalypse Now-like within the hedgerows,” while Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian noted that the film is “raw and gritty, akin to shivering in the cold with fever and discomfort.” He also commended director Wheatley for skillfully choosing a period that complements his minimalistic visuals and subversive ideas. This movie resists simple explanation and seamlessly straddles both the horror and experimental film genres, making it one of Wheatley’s most impressive works to date in his career.

3
‘The Wicker Man’ (1973)

In this movie, Edward Woodward portrays a brave police detective on the hunt for a missing girl, while Christopher Lee, known as the lord of horror, plays the cult leader. Initially, the film maintains an eerie stillness, but it quickly escalates into a crescendo of pagan terror. Throughout the story, Woodward’s character Howie confronts the island’s peculiar traditions and gradually unravels a bone-chilling secret that ultimately reveals a shocking twist in horror movie history.

Confrontation Between Nature and Beliefs

The Wicker Man, from the 1970s, stands out as a notable representative of the folk horror genre due to the unconventional remake featuring Nicolas Cage. The original’s chilling atmosphere builds subtly until its shocking finale. As Wheatley noted about Kill List, it is a trap that becomes apparent only when escape is no longer an option. Both critics and audiences have held this film in high regard, and its impact can be felt in numerous subsequent works of the genre.

2
‘Midsommar’ (2019)

Midsommar was among the top films of 2019 and the second production by director Aster, following the huge success of his chilling horror film Hereditary. With a hint of folk horror in its presentation, it tells the story of Dani, a tormented woman dealing with her personal struggles, who travels to Sweden for a rural festival marking the rare 24-hour daylight event that occurs every ninety years. Florence Pugh delivers an impressive and eerie performance, leaving a lasting impression on viewers at the movie’s end.

Nuanced and Horrifying

In his own words, director Air Aster declared that the critically acclaimed film Midsommar pays tribute to the folk horror genre and specifically echoes the classic The Wicker Man. Like its predecessor, Midsommar presents chilling horror in broad daylight, which might seem unusual for the genre. However, it effectively creates an atmosphere of discomfort by illuminating the grim unfolding events with unrelenting, harsh light.

1
‘The VVitch’ (2015)

In the realm of cinema, I found myself captivated by “The VVitch,” a chilling tale set in New England’s wilderness during the 1630s, predating the establishment of the United States. As Thomasin, the eldest child of an ostracized family, I played the protagonist. Life on our isolated farm was already tough, but it became unbearable when our newborn disappeared while I kept watch. Suspicion fell upon me, and whispers of witchcraft echoed through our camp.

The story spirals into a web of paranoia, heartbreak, and an eerie ambiance that grips you tightly. The events unfold at a slow but relentless pace, building to a climax that takes place deep within the woods – a scene as hauntingly real as it is unsettling.

Faith and Fear in the Unknown

Under an alternate title “The VVitch: A New-England Folktale,” “The Witch” stands out as a remarkable contemporary entry in the folk horror genre. In fact, Rotten Tomatoes hails it as the top-rated horror film of 2016. Given that this was Robert Eggers’ debut directorial venture and he also penned the script, the film’s success is even more noteworthy. Eggers further elevated his craft with subsequent movies like “The Lighthouse” and “The Northman,” which garnered high praise. Time Magazine went as far as to describe it as a “masterclass in tone.” The movie is subtly powerful, making it a standout horror film within the folk horror genre.

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2025-04-20 02:36