Shriekfest, one of the premier horror film festivals, has been a breeding ground for spine-chilling cinema since its inception. This curated list of 10 horror films from Shriekfest showcases the festival's knack for unearthing unique, terrifying, and often overlooked gems that push the boundaries of the genre. Whether you're a seasoned horror buff or a newcomer looking for a scare, these films promise to deliver an unforgettable experience with their innovative storytelling, eerie atmospheres, and unforgettable performances.

Session 9 (2001)
Description: This psychological horror film was screened at Shriekfest for its unsettling atmosphere and the slow descent into madness. It follows an asbestos cleanup crew in an abandoned mental hospital, where they encounter eerie recordings and supernatural occurrences.
Fact: The film uses the real-life Danvers State Hospital as its setting, known for its haunting history.


The Descent (2005)
Description: This film was a standout at Shriekfest for its claustrophobic setting and relentless tension. A group of women go on a spelunking trip, only to find themselves trapped with terrifying creatures in the cave system.
Fact: The film was shot in real caves, adding to the authenticity of the setting, and it has two different endings for different regions.


Absentia (2011)
Description: This film was a Shriekfest favorite for its unique blend of psychological horror and supernatural elements. It follows a woman dealing with her husband's mysterious disappearance and the eerie occurrences that follow.
Fact: The film was directed by Mike Flanagan, who has since become known for his work in horror television and film.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: A modern horror classic, this film was showcased at Shriekfest for its exploration of grief, motherhood, and the supernatural. The story of a widow and her son haunted by a sinister children's book is both terrifying and poignant.
Fact: The film was made with a relatively low budget but received widespread critical acclaim for its emotional depth and horror elements.


The Invitation (2015)
Description: This film was selected for Shriekfest due to its intense psychological tension and the unsettling premise of a dinner party gone wrong. It plays on themes of paranoia and grief, making for a deeply unsettling experience.
Fact: The film was shot in one location, enhancing the feeling of confinement and tension.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: A gripping horror film from Shriekfest, it explores the mysterious death of a woman whose body reveals supernatural secrets during an autopsy. The film's slow build-up to terror is masterfully done.
Fact: The film was directed by André Øvredal, known for his work in horror, and it was praised for its unique premise and execution.


The Witch (2015)
Description: A period piece that delves into folk horror, this film was showcased at Shriekfest for its meticulous attention to historical detail and the slow, creeping dread it instills in the viewer.
Fact: The film uses authentic 17th-century English dialect and was shot in natural light to enhance its eerie atmosphere.


The Dead Zone (2002)
Description: A chilling adaptation of Stephen King's novel, this film was showcased at Shriekfest for its haunting narrative about a man who wakes from a coma with psychic abilities, seeing the future through touch. It's a psychological horror that delves deep into the human psyche.
Fact: The film was directed by David Cronenberg, known for his body horror themes, and features a standout performance by Christopher Walken.


The Pact (2012)
Description: A chilling tale of a woman uncovering dark family secrets after her sister's disappearance, this film was highlighted at Shriekfest for its suspenseful narrative and effective use of supernatural horror.
Fact: The film was Caity Lotz's first lead role, and it was well-received for its atmospheric horror.


The Wailing (2016)
Description: A South Korean horror film that was a hit at Shriekfest for its complex narrative involving a mysterious illness, a shaman, and a detective's investigation into supernatural occurrences in a small village.
Fact: The film blends elements of horror, mystery, and dark comedy, making it a unique entry in the genre.
