If You Loved Darlin’, Watch These 10 Dark Gems

Description: A poetic yet gruesome exploration of desire and carnality, blurring lines between love and violence. The film's slow pace and graphic content create a uniquely unsettling experience.

Fact: The film caused walkouts at its Cannes premiere due to its extreme content. It features a soundtrack by the Tindersticks, who frequently collaborate with the director.

Description: A clever allegory for female puberty using werewolf mythology, blending horror with dark humor. The film explores sisterhood, bodily changes, and the monstrous aspects of growing up female.

Fact: The film was shot in just 24 days. It spawned two sequels and has since become a cult classic in feminist horror circles.

Description: A disturbing character study of a woman's obsession with self-harm and bodily autonomy. The film's unflinching portrayal of addiction to pain creates a deeply uncomfortable yet fascinating narrative.

Fact: The director also starred in the lead role. Much of the film's most graphic content was achieved through clever practical effects rather than CGI.

Description: A subversive take on the demonic possession trope that explores female friendship and sexuality. The film's sharp dialogue and themes of power dynamics between women give it a unique edge in the horror genre.

Fact: The screenplay was written by the creator of a popular feminist TV comedy. Despite initial poor reception, it has gained significant cult status in recent years.

Description: A gothic family drama with psychological horror elements, focusing on a young woman's dark awakening. The film's meticulous framing and slow-burning tension create an unsettling atmosphere.

Fact: This was the English-language debut of a renowned South Korean director. The screenplay was written by the actor who played Wolverine in the X-Men films.

Description: A visceral exploration of female rage and societal oppression, blending horror with psychological depth. The film's raw portrayal of violence and its critique of patriarchal structures create a disturbing yet compelling narrative.

Fact: The film sparked controversy at Sundance, with one audience member reportedly fainting during a screening. It is part of a loose trilogy by the same director, though each film stands alone.

Description: A visually stunning descent into the dark side of beauty and obsession. The film's surreal atmosphere and themes of cannibalism, both literal and metaphorical, create a haunting experience.

Fact: The director originally intended the film to be in 3D. Several models and fashion industry insiders appear in cameo roles throughout the movie.

Description: A darkly comedic and grotesque coming-of-age story that delves into the mind of a disturbed young woman. Its unflinching portrayal of body horror and mental instability aligns with themes of transformation and societal rejection.

Fact: The lead actress also starred in a popular TV series about a high school chemistry teacher turned drug lord. The film's dream sequences were inspired by the works of David Lynch.

Description: A slow-burning family drama with horrific undertones, exploring tradition and survival at any cost. The film's focus on matriarchal power structures and secret rituals creates a tense atmosphere.

Fact: This is an American remake of a Mexican film with the same premise. The production used real animal bones for certain scenes to maintain authenticity.

Description: A chilling black-and-white psychological horror that examines isolation and twisted maternal bonds. The film's stark visuals and quiet brutality create an atmosphere of profound unease.

Fact: This was the director's debut feature film. It was shot in just three weeks on a minimal budget, using mostly natural lighting.