Folk horror is a subgenre of horror that taps into ancient folklore, rural settings, and often pagan rituals to create an atmosphere of dread and unease. This curated list of 10 films delves into the eerie, the mystical, and the downright terrifying aspects of folklore from around the world. Whether you're a seasoned horror fan or new to the genre, these films promise to deliver chills, thrills, and a deep dive into cultural myths and legends.

The Wicker Man (1973)
Description: A police sergeant investigates the disappearance of a young girl on a remote Scottish island, only to uncover a community steeped in pagan rituals. The film's climax is one of the most iconic in horror cinema.
Fact: The film was initially a box office flop but has since gained a cult following and is now considered a classic of the genre.


The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Description: This found footage film follows three student filmmakers as they investigate the legend of the Blair Witch in Maryland's Black Hills Forest. Its innovative marketing and storytelling made it a cultural phenomenon.
Fact: The film was made with a budget of only $60,000 but grossed over $248 million worldwide.


Kill List (2011)
Description: A hitman takes on a new job that spirals into a descent into occult horror. The film's blend of crime and folk horror elements makes it a unique entry in the genre.
Fact: The film was inspired by director Ben Wheatley's fascination with paganism and the darker side of British folklore.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: A single mother and her son are haunted by a sinister children's book character. While not strictly folk horror, its themes of grief and the supernatural align it closely with the genre.
Fact: The film was initially banned in several countries due to its intense themes and scenes.


A Field in England (2013)
Description: During the English Civil War, a group of deserters encounter a mysterious alchemist in a field, leading to a psychedelic and horrifying journey. The film's unique visual style and storytelling make it a standout.
Fact: The entire film was shot in black and white, and it was the first feature film to be released simultaneously in cinemas, on DVD, and online.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: Two coroners uncover supernatural secrets while performing an autopsy on an unidentified woman. The film's setting in a morgue adds to the claustrophobic horror.
Fact: The film was shot in a real morgue, adding authenticity to the setting.


The Witch (2015)
Description: Set in 1630s New England, this film explores the paranoia and fear that grips a Puritan family when their youngest child goes missing, leading to accusations of witchcraft. It's a masterclass in slow-building tension and atmospheric horror.
Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to capture the natural progression of the actors' performances. The dialogue is heavily influenced by actual writings from the period.


The Wind (2018)
Description: Set in the 1800s American frontier, this film explores the isolation and madness of a woman living alone, with supernatural elements creeping into her reality. It's a slow-burn horror with a strong folkloric undertone.
Fact: The film was shot in Utah, using natural light to enhance the eerie atmosphere.


Midsommar (2019)
Description: This film follows a group of friends who travel to Sweden for a once-in-a-lifetime midsummer festival, only to find themselves ensnared in a sinister pagan cult. Its daylight horror scenes are both beautiful and terrifying.
Fact: Director Ari Aster has said that the film was inspired by his own experiences with breakups and the desire to explore grief and trauma in a horror setting.


The Ritual (2017)
Description: Four friends venture into the Swedish wilderness to honor a deceased friend, only to encounter a malevolent presence. The film blends psychological horror with elements of Norse mythology.
Fact: The film was adapted from Adam Nevill's novel of the same name, and much of the filming took place in the actual Swedish forests.
