If you were captivated by the eerie atmosphere and unsettling mystery of 'The Wicker Man' (1973), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its haunting themes of folk horror, psychological tension, and shocking revelations. Whether you're a fan of slow-burning dread or cult-driven narratives, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Rosemary's Baby (1968)
Description: A psychological horror classic that explores themes of paranoia, gaslighting, and satanic cults, with a slow-building sense of unease.
Fact: The film's iconic apartment building was a real location in New York City, and it became a tourist attraction after the movie's release.


The Ninth Gate (1999)
Description: A mystery-thriller that delves into the occult, rare books, and satanic rituals, with a protagonist who becomes entangled in a dangerous supernatural quest.
Fact: The film's director is known for his meticulous attention to detail, and many of the antique books featured were real, rare editions.


The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Description: A found-footage horror film that plays on themes of folklore, unseen terror, and the psychological breakdown of its characters in an isolated setting.
Fact: The film's marketing campaign famously blurred the lines between fiction and reality, leading many to believe it was a true story.


The Wicker Tree (2011)
Description: A folk horror film that revisits themes of pagan rituals and outsider naivety, with a modern twist on cult behavior and sacrificial practices.
Fact: The film is based on a novel by the same director, serving as a spiritual successor to his earlier work in the genre.


The Village (2004)
Description: A period horror-thriller that explores themes of isolation, fear of the unknown, and the dark secrets of a secluded community.
Fact: The film's score was composed by James Newton Howard and features a haunting violin solo performed by Hilary Hahn.


Kill List (2011)
Description: A gritty, unsettling thriller that blends crime and folk horror, featuring a descent into madness and violent pagan rituals.
Fact: The film's abrupt and shocking ending was deliberately left ambiguous to provoke discussion and interpretation among viewers.


A Field in England (2013)
Description: A surreal, black-and-white period piece that mixes historical drama with psychological horror and occult themes, creating a disorienting and eerie experience.
Fact: The entire film was shot in just 12 days, and the actors were encouraged to improvise much of their dialogue.


The Wailing (2016)
Description: A supernatural horror film that blends mystery, folklore, and psychological terror, with a slow-building sense of dread and an ambiguous ending.
Fact: The film's title in Korean translates to 'The Strangers,' reflecting its themes of unknown and malevolent forces.


Hereditary (2018)
Description: A slow-burning horror film that delves into family trauma, grief, and the occult, with a pervasive sense of dread and shocking imagery.
Fact: The miniature models seen throughout the film were all created by the protagonist actress herself, adding a personal touch to the eerie atmosphere.


Midsommar (2019)
Description: A folk horror film that explores themes of isolation, pagan rituals, and psychological terror set against a bright, daylight backdrop, creating an unsettling contrast.
Fact: The film's intricate flower costumes were handmade, and the script was partially inspired by the director's own breakup.
