If you were captivated by the eerie and unsettling atmosphere of 'The Ghoul' (2017), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its dark, psychological depth and surreal storytelling. Whether you're a fan of slow-burning horror or mind-bending mysteries, these recommendations will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The Babadook (2014)
Description: A psychological horror film that uses a monster as a metaphor for grief and mental illness, with a strong focus on maternal struggle and emotional horror.
Fact: The Babadook book featured in the film was actually created by the director and contains moving parts. The film's monster was inspired by early 20th-century horror icons like Nosferatu.
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The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: A claustrophobic supernatural horror film that unfolds like a mystery, blending forensic investigation with ancient witchcraft and psychological terror.
Fact: The titular corpse was played by a real actress who had to remain completely still for hours at a time. The autopsy scenes were so realistic that they made crew members faint during filming.
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The Endless (2017)
Description: A mind-bending sci-fi horror film that explores cults, time loops, and cosmic horror with a slow-burning, mysterious narrative structure.
Fact: The directors also star in the film as brothers. The movie connects to their previous film 'Resolution', creating a shared universe.
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Under the Shadow (2016)
Description: A politically charged supernatural horror film that uses a haunting to explore themes of war, motherhood, and cultural oppression.
Fact: The film was shot in Jordan because filming in Iran would have been impossible due to its horror content. It was the UK's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar.
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A Dark Song (2016)
Description: A slow-burning occult horror film that focuses on ritual magic, grief, and personal transformation with a grounded, realistic approach to the supernatural.
Fact: The film's magical rituals were based on actual occult practices from the Abramelin operation. The entire movie was shot in sequence over just 20 days.
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The Wailing (2016)
Description: A complex, atmospheric horror film that blends police procedural with supernatural folklore, creating a sense of creeping dread and cultural specificity.
Fact: The film's exorcism scene was performed by an actual shaman. Director Na Hong-jin didn't tell the actors the full plot to maintain genuine reactions.
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The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)
Description: A clinical, unsettling psychological horror film that explores themes of guilt, punishment, and moral dilemmas with a detached, eerie atmosphere.
Fact: The actors were instructed to deliver their lines without emotion or inflection. The film's title references the Greek myth of Iphigenia.
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Hereditary (2018)
Description: A deeply unsettling horror film that explores themes of grief, family dysfunction, and supernatural horror with a slow-burning, psychological approach.
Fact: The film's miniature models were created by the director's father, who is a professional artist. The movie was shot chronologically to help the actors maintain emotional continuity.
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The Lighthouse (2019)
Description: A surreal, atmospheric horror film shot in black and white that explores isolation, madness, and mythological themes with intense psychological tension.
Fact: The film was shot on 35mm black-and-white film stock using vintage lenses from the 1920s and 1930s. The actors had to learn authentic 1890s sailor lingo for their roles.
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Midsommar (2019)
Description: A visually striking horror film that blends folk horror with psychological trauma, featuring a cult-like community and disturbing rituals.
Fact: The film's daylight horror aesthetic was inspired by Swedish folk art and actual Midsommar celebrations. The flower dress worn by the lead character weighed over 40 pounds.
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