If you loved the gripping blend of action, horror, and folklore in 'Saloum' (2022), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similarly thrilling movies and shows that deliver the same intense atmosphere, supernatural elements, and edge-of-your-seat storytelling. Whether you're a fan of African cinema or just crave more genre-defying adventures, these picks will keep you hooked.

The Devil's Backbone (2001)
Description: A haunting blend of supernatural horror and historical drama, set against a backdrop of war and political turmoil, with a strong emphasis on atmosphere and psychological tension.
Fact: The film is often considered a spiritual precursor to 'Pan's Labyrinth', sharing similar themes of innocence amidst violence. It was shot in a real orphanage in Spain, adding to its eerie authenticity.


Pan's Labyrinth (2006)
Description: A dark fantasy that weaves together historical drama and fairy tale elements, with a young protagonist navigating a world of cruelty and magic.
Fact: The film's fantastical creatures were brought to life using practical effects and minimal CGI. It won three Academy Awards, including for its cinematography.


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: A chilling ghost story that balances horror with deep emotional resonance, focusing on a mother's desperate search for her missing son in a haunted setting.
Fact: The film was produced by Guillermo del Toro, who also produced 'The Devil's Backbone'. Its eerie atmosphere was achieved through meticulous set design and sound editing.


The Host (2006)
Description: A monster movie with a strong emotional core, blending horror, comedy, and family drama, set against a backdrop of societal and governmental failure.
Fact: The creature in the film was created using a mix of CGI and practical effects. It broke box office records in South Korea upon its release.


I Saw the Devil (2010)
Description: A brutal and intense revenge thriller that delves into the darkness of human nature, with visceral action and moral ambiguity at its core.
Fact: The film was initially banned in South Korea for its extreme violence but was later released with cuts. It's known for its unflinching portrayal of vengeance.


A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014)
Description: A stylish and atmospheric horror film with a strong sense of place, blending genres like noir and western, while exploring themes of loneliness and revenge.
Fact: Often dubbed as the 'first Iranian vampire western', the film was shot in California but set in a fictional Iranian town. Its black-and-white cinematography adds to its surreal vibe.


Bacurau (2019)
Description: A genre-defying film that combines elements of western, horror, and political thriller, set in a remote village under siege, with a strong sense of community resistance.
Fact: The film won the Jury Prize at Cannes in


Tigers Are Not Afraid (2017)
Description: A dark fairy tale that merges crime drama with supernatural elements, focusing on children navigating a world of violence and corruption, underscored by magical realism.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events of drug cartel violence in Mexico. It gained critical acclaim for its unique blend of horror and social commentary.


The Wailing (2016)
Description: A gripping mix of horror, mystery, and folklore, where supernatural forces and human fears intertwine in a rural setting, creating a tense and unpredictable narrative.
Fact: The film's title in Korean, 'Goksung', refers to the fictional village where the story takes place. It became a box office hit in South Korea despite its lengthy runtime.


Train to Busan (2016)
Description: A high-octane zombie thriller that combines relentless action with deep emotional stakes, exploring themes of survival and sacrifice.
Fact: The film was shot almost entirely on a moving train, adding to its claustrophobic tension. It became a global hit and spawned an animated sequel.
